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Bengaluru Reports 78 New Covid Cases and One Fatality in the Last 24 Hours; Karnataka Government Forms Committee to Monitor Covid Measures

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Corona virus

In the latest developments from Bengaluru, Karnataka reported 78 fresh Covid-19 cases and one related death in the past 24 hours. As of today, December 22, the total number of active cases in the state stands at 175, with four Covid-19 deaths reported since December 15.

Responding to the escalating situation, the Karnataka government, on Friday, established a four-member cabinet sub-committee to oversee measures aimed at containing the spread of Covid-19. Led by state Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, the committee includes Social Welfare Minister Dr H C Mahadevappa, Medical Education Minister Dr Sharan Prakash Patil, and Higher Education Minister Dr M C Sudhakar.

In a significant announcement, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declared that restrictions on wearing hijab (head scarf) in educational institutions within the state will be lifted from December 23 onwards. Addressing the public during the inauguration of three police stations in Nanjangud, Mysuru district, the Chief Minister emphasized the personal nature of choices regarding dress and food. He underscored the importance of avoiding external interference in such matters.

However, the decision sparked a reaction from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), expressing concerns about the “secular nature” of educational institutions. BJP state president BY Vijayendra voiced his apprehensions on social media, stating, “CM Siddaramaiah’s decision to withdraw the Hijab ban in educational institutions raises concerns about the secular nature of our educational spaces.” He further expressed concerns about potentially dividing young minds along religious lines, hindering the inclusive learning environment.

As Bengaluru navigates the challenges posed by the ongoing Covid-19 situation, the government’s proactive measures and policy decisions continue to shape the trajectory of the state’s response to the pandemic.

source: The Indian EXPRESS

India Achieves Striking Progress Towards Self-Reliance in Coal Sector: Domestic Coal-Based Power Generation Surges by 8.38%

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Towards Self-reliance in Coal Sector ; Domestic Coal Based Power Generation Increases by 8.38 % during April - November 2023

India Achieves Striking Progress Towards Self-Reliance in Coal Sector: Domestic Coal-Based Power Generation Surges by 8.38%

In a significant stride towards self-reliance in the coal sector, India has witnessed a commendable surge in domestic coal-based power generation, marking an 8.38% increase during the period of April to November 2023.

As the world’s third-largest consumer of energy, India’s annual electricity demand has seen a notable rise of approximately 4.7%. The country experienced a remarkable 7.71% increase in power generation from April to November 2023 compared to the same period in the previous year. This surge in power generation, particularly from coal-based sources, can be attributed to various factors, including an unprecedented rise in temperature, delayed monsoons in the Northern region, and the resumption of full commercial activities post-Covid.

During the specified period, coal-based power generation registered a substantial growth of 11.19%, underscoring the resilience of the sector in meeting the escalating power demand.

The domestic coal-based power generation, reaching a total of 779.1 Billion Units (BU) up to November 2023, reflects an impressive 8.38% increase from the 718.83 Billion Units (BU) generated in the corresponding period of the previous year.

Notably, the nation’s commitment to self-reliance is evident in the substantial reduction of coal imports for blending. The coal import for blending has decreased by a significant 44.28%, reaching 15.16 Million Tonnes (MT) up to November 2023, compared to 27.21 MT in the corresponding period of the previous year. This reduction aligns with the government’s steadfast efforts to boost domestic coal production, ensuring increased availability and reducing dependence on imported coal. These initiatives play a crucial role in safeguarding foreign reserves and reinforcing India’s commitment to self-sufficiency in the coal sector.

As the nation continues its efforts to enhance coal production further, the focus remains on reducing reliance on imported coal, fostering self-sufficiency, and fortifying the foundations of the country’s energy security. This achievement signifies a crucial step towards securing a robust and self-reliant future in the realm of coal-based power generation.

Posted On: 23 DEC 2023 11:12AM by PIB Delhi

 

Ministry of Ayush Achieves Unprecedented Global Recognition and Success in 2023

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In a groundbreaking year for the Ministry of Ayush, 2023 stands out as a period of immense achievement and global acknowledgment. The vision and objectives set by the Ministry reached new heights on both national and international fronts, solidifying its position as a leader in traditional medicine culture.

Year-End Milestones

The Ministry, under the visionary guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, achieved significant progress in healthcare infrastructure development, research collaborations, export promotion mechanisms, educational reforms, and the global expansion of Indian traditional medicine. The year showcased a surge in international recognition, leaving indelible footprints of success.

Chintan Shivir Sets the Course

A pivotal moment for the Ministry unfolded during the first-ever “Chintan Shivir” held on February 27-28, 2023, at Kaziranga National Park, Assam. Attended by Ayush fraternity, experts, and stakeholders, the event delved into digital health, technology in Ayush, future initiatives, challenges, and the way forward. The two-day deliberation provided a roadmap for actionable points, emphasizing collaboration for research and fostering Ayush infrastructure.

G20 Summit Acknowledges Traditional Medicines

Under India’s Presidency of G20, the Ministry actively participated, leading to the inclusion of Traditional Medicine in the “Delhi Declaration.” This recognition highlighted the potential of evidence-based Traditional Medicine Systems in achieving universal health coverage across G20 Nations.

SCO Conference Sparks Trade Interest

The first Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Conference & Expo in Guwahati, Assam, witnessed a remarkable trade interest generation of over ₹590 crores. B2B meetings facilitated by Invest India, under the Ministry of Ayush, brought together exhibitors and buyers from 19 countries, paving the way for fruitful collaborations.

International Day of Yoga Garners Global Enthusiasm

The 9th edition of International Day of Yoga in 2023 reached unprecedented heights, with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participating in a session at the UN Headquarters in New York. Two Guinness World Records were set, including the largest gathering of people in Surat, Gujarat. The unique Ocean Ring of Yoga, involving Indian naval ships globally, showcased the widespread embrace of yoga.

Gujarat Declaration at Global Summit

The first-ever Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, co-hosted by the Ministry of Ayush and WHO, led to the Gujarat Declaration. This emphasized the growing importance of Traditional Medicine for universal health coverage, aligning with the global theme of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.’

Ayush Sectors Thrive with Prime Minister’s Mention

A research study by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences highlighted the significant impact of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s mention of ‘Ayush’ in ‘Mann ki Baat.’ The increased awareness led to the growth of Ayush sectors.

Ayurveda Day Celebrations Reverberate Globally

Ayurveda Day on November 10, 2023, witnessed celebrations in over 100 countries. The launch of the Ayush Grid Project further strengthened service delivery, with events reaching 102 countries and ‘Run for Ayurveda’ organized at 424 locations.

WHO Collaboration Aims for Global Traditional Medicine Strategy

The Ministry of Ayush signed a Project Collaboration Agreement with WHO, aiming to formulate a global strategy to elevate the standards, quality, safety, and effectiveness of traditional and complementary medicines worldwide.

Ayush Visa Boosts Medical Value Travel

The introduction of Ayush Visa for foreign nationals seeking treatment under Indian System of Medicines is poised to boost medical value travel. The ‘Heal in India’ portal is in development to promote India as a global medical tourism destination.

National Ayush Mission Impacts 6.91 Crore Health Seekers

The National Ayush Mission witnessed remarkable success, benefiting 6.91 crore people through Ayush Health and Wellness Centres. The mission’s impact led to a 50% increase in the NAM budget.

Focus on North-East Development

The Ministry of Ayush significantly contributed to the socio-economic development of the North-east region through schemes, infrastructure development, and various summits. Measures included the construction of Ayush Health & Wellness Centres, Ayush pharmacies, and sanctioned Ayush hospitals.

Unani Day and World Homoeopathy Day Celebrations

Unani Day, celebrated on February 11, 2023, saw the launch of a Mobile App and an international conference. World Homoeopathy Day, observed on April 10, emphasized evidence-based homoeopathic treatment and capacity building for practitioners.

In conclusion, the Ministry of Ayush’s achievements in 2023 reflect a paradigm shift in global perceptions of traditional medicine, marking a transformative year for the sector. The Ministry’s initiatives have not only garnered international recognition but have also laid the foundation for a healthier and more holistic future.

Posted On: 23 DEC 2023 12:22PM by PIB Delhi

Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra Achieves Monumental Milestone in Healthcare Accessibility

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Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra
Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra

India Surpasses 1 Crore Ayushman Cards and Records Over 1.3 Crore Footfall in Health Camps

In a groundbreaking achievement aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility for all citizens, the ongoing Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra has successfully created over 1 crore Ayushman Cards. This milestone reflects a significant stride towards the goal of providing quality healthcare to every individual in the country.

Record-Breaking Participation and Health Screenings

The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra has witnessed an extraordinary response, with a total footfall exceeding 1,31,66,365 in more than 79,487 health camps conducted across 3,462 Gram Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies. This widespread participation underscores the success of the initiative in reaching diverse communities.

Key Achievements in Health Screenings

  • Tuberculosis (TB): Over 49 lakh individuals have undergone screening for TB, resulting in more than 3.4 lakh referrals to higher Public Health Facilities. The Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan has contributed to the identification and support of TB patients, with over 1,17,734 patients giving consent for assistance.
  • Sickle Cell Disease (SCD): In regions with a predominant tribal population, over 5 lakh people have been screened for SCD, leading to the identification of 21,793 positive cases referred to higher public health facilities.
  • Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): A comprehensive screening for Hypertension and Diabetes among the eligible population (30 years and above) has resulted in the identification of potential cases. Over 10 million people have been screened, with more than 7.5 lakh referrals to higher public health facilities.

Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)

Under this flagship scheme, Ayushman cards are being created through the Ayushman app, with more than 23,83,473 physical cards already distributed. A total of 6,34,168 Ayushman cards were generated during the latest health camps.

Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra Background

Launched by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on November 15 from Khunti, Jharkhand, the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra aims to disseminate the benefits of central government schemes across the nation. As part of this initiative, on-spot health camps are organized at the halting points of the IEC Van in Gram Panchayats, providing essential services to the local communities.

 

World Bank and Department of Economic Affairs Launch PPP Beginner’s e-Course for Infrastructure Collaboration

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World Bank and Department of Economic Affairs launch PPP Beginner’s e-course to foster collaboration between public and private sectors in infrastructure capacity-building

In a collaborative effort to enhance cooperation between the public and private sectors in infrastructure capacity-building, the World Bank Group, in conjunction with the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance, Government of India, unveiled the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Beginner’s e-Course. The launch ceremony, presided over by Shri Ajay Banga, President, World Bank Group, took place in the esteemed presence of key dignitaries, including Shri Ajay Seth, Secretary, DEA; Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran, Chief Economic Advisor, Ministry of Finance; and Shri Parameswaran Iyer, Executive Director, World Bank Group, on December 20, 2023, in New Delhi.

Fostering Infrastructure Capacity: The PPP e-course, a collaborative initiative by the Infrastructure Finance Secretariat, DEA, and the World Bank, is a comprehensive capacity-building program aimed at equipping individuals with foundational knowledge to contribute effectively to the dynamic landscape of PPPs in India. Comprising five modules, the course covers crucial elements throughout the lifecycle of PPP projects, including introduction to PPPs, project identification, structuring, tendering and implementation, and monitoring aspects. This initiative is envisioned to facilitate the successful execution of PPP projects across diverse infrastructure sectors in the country.

Catalyzing Economic Growth: Recognizing infrastructure as a key catalyst for economic growth, the government emphasizes the necessity for both public and private sectors to collaborate in meeting development requirements. The successful delivery of PPP infrastructure projects demands robust capacity building to ensure effective planning, execution, and maintenance. The course’s self-paced design, with a duration of 7 hours and 15 minutes, accommodates diverse learning preferences and schedules, allowing participants without prior PPP experience to engage and benefit.

Key Features of the PPP Beginner’s e-Course:

  1. Accessible Learning:
    • Online accessibility ensures a wide reach across the country.
    • Self-paced modules cater to diverse learning preferences and schedules.
  2. Expert-Driven Content:
    • Industry experts and policymakers curate the course content, reflecting current trends and best practices.
    • Real-world case studies provide practical insights into successful PPP models.
  3. Interactive Learning:
    • Engaging multimedia elements, quizzes, and discussions foster interactive learning experiences.
  4. Certification:
    • Upon completion, learners receive a certificate recognizing their proficiency in PPP fundamentals.

The PPP Beginner’s e-Course stands as a testament to the commitment to continuous learning and adaptation, addressing the dynamic challenges within infrastructure development.

This PPP Beginner’s e-Course is available at the website: https://dea.lms.gov.in/default_new.aspx?clientid=270

REC Foundation Celebrates 10 Years of Impactful CSR Initiatives

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REC Foundation completes 10 years of Corporate Social Responsibility Activities

In a jubilant gathering at REC Corporate Headquarters in Gurugram, REC Limited, a Maharatna CPSE under the Ministry of Power, marked a decade of remarkable Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) endeavors through its dedicated arm, REC Foundation. The CSR Symposium, held on December 21, 2023, brought together leaders, stakeholders, and influencers to reflect on a decade of positive societal impact.

REC Foundation completes 10 years of Corporate Social Responsibility Activities
REC Foundation completes 10 years of Corporate Social Responsibility Activities

Commitment to Social Impact: REC Foundation, with its unwavering commitment to CSR, has been a driving force behind over 400 projects spanning Health, Sanitation, Safe Drinking Water, Education, Skill Development, Women Empowerment, and Environmental Sustainability. More than Rs. 1,300 Crore has been disbursed, and over Rs. 2,000 Crore sanctioned, emphasizing REC’s commitment to national priorities and sustainable development goals.

Symposium Highlights: The event was graced by the presence of CMD, REC Ltd., Shri Vivek Kumar Dewangan, along with directors, independent directors, and senior officers from REC’s Regional Offices. The symposium provided a platform to showcase the achievements of CSR activities, discuss renewed focus areas, address challenges in project implementation, and outline strategies to accelerate CSR programs.

Words from the Leadership: Expressing gratitude, Shri Dewangan acknowledged the pivotal role played by independent director Shri Manoj Pandey, heading the CSR committee, along with other directors and officers. The symposium aimed to identify key focus areas and foster partnerships to advance CSR initiatives. Shri Dewangan stated, “The event would help in identifying and implementing projects that benefit all segments of society.”

About REC Limited: Established in 1969, REC Limited, a Maharatna CPSE under the Ministry of Power, has been a stalwart in providing long-term loans and financial products for the Power-Infrastructure sector. Expanding its horizons, REC has diversified into the Non-Power Infrastructure sector, covering various domains like Roads & Expressways, Metro Rail, Airports, IT Communication, Social & Commercial Infrastructure, Ports, and Electro-Mechanical works. The organization’s loan book exceeds an impressive Rs 4.74 Lakh Crore, showcasing its robust financial standing.

Strict Measures in Place: Penalties for Speeding on Highways Under Motor Vehicle Act.

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Website of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Ensuring road safety and adherence to speed limits, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has instituted penalties for violators driving at excessive speeds on Indian highways. These measures, detailed under Section 183 of the Motor Vehicle Act 1988, emphasize the importance of responsible driving to curb accidents and ensure public safety.

Penalty Structure: In accordance with Section 183, the Motor Vehicle Act 1988 prescribes fines for different classes of motor vehicles found driving above the stipulated speed limits. The penalty structure is as follows:

  • Light Motor Vehicle:
    • Fine: Not less than one thousand rupees but may extend to two thousand rupees.
  • Medium Goods Vehicle or Medium Passenger Vehicle or Heavy Goods Vehicle or Heavy Passenger Vehicle:
    • Fine: Not less than two thousand rupees but may extend to four thousand rupees.
  • Subsequent Offence:
    • For the second or any subsequent offence under Sub-section (1) of Section 183, the driving license of the offender shall be impounded as per the provisions of Sub-section (4) of Section 206.

Implementation and Authority: The implementation of these provisions falls under the jurisdiction of the respective State Government and Union Territory administration. It underscores the collaborative effort needed between authorities and motorists to ensure a safer and more responsible driving culture on the nation’s highways.

Posted On: 21 DEC 2023 2:56PM by PIB Delhi

Revolutionizing Meteorology: Ministry of Earth Sciences Leverages AI and ML for Precision Forecasting

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ai generated

In a groundbreaking move, the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) is spearheading the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques to elevate the accuracy of weather, climate, and ocean forecasts. Various institutes operating under the ministry are at the forefront of this transformative initiative, ushering in a new era of meteorological research.

MoES has taken a significant step by establishing a dedicated AI and ML virtual center, entrusted with the crucial task of developing, testing, and refining various AI and ML techniques. This center also focuses on capacity building through workshops and conferences, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration. To support the training and deployment of AI models, a robust computing environment and virtual workspace have been set up on a Graphical processor-based server at the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Achievements and Outcomes:

  1. Enhanced Short-Range Precipitation Forecast:
    • Improved forecast accuracy in 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day lead times with a notable reduction in bias.
  2. High-Resolution Urban Gridded Meteorological Data Sets:
    • Developed high-resolution (300m) urban gridded datasets for temperature and precipitation.
  3. Time-Varying Normalized Difference Urbanization Index:
    • Introduced a time-varying index with a spatial resolution of 30 meters, spanning the years 1992-2023.
  4. Very High-Resolution Precipitation Data Sets:
    • Created very high-resolution precipitation datasets, crucial for verification purposes.
  5. Deep Learning for Precipitation Nowcasting:
    • Exploring a Deep Learning approach for precipitation nowcasting using data from Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs).

MoES envisions a future where weather and climate forecasts will be driven by a hybrid technology that combines AI/ML models with traditional numerical weather prediction models. The encouragement for institutes under MoES to leverage AI and ML technological advancements is an ongoing commitment. In line with this, MoES is dedicated to enhancing High-Performance Computing (HPC) infrastructure. The implementation of AI and ML-based data-driven modeling is deemed essential for generating species-specific Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories for fishermen across coastal states.

The Union Minister of Earth Sciences, Shri Kiren Rijiju, highlighted these developments in a written reply presented in the Rajya Sabha today. The strides made in the realm of meteorological research through the infusion of AI and ML stand testament to the commitment towards precision forecasting and technological advancement in Earth Sciences.

Posted On: 21 DEC 2023 4:11PM by PIB Delhi

Sahitya Akademi Unveils Literary Triumphs: Annual Awards Across 24 Languages

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In a celebration of literary excellence, the Sahitya Akademi has declared the recipients of the Annual Sahitya Akademi Awards for the year 2023, spanning 24 diverse languages. The announcement, featuring accolades in categories such as Poetry, Novels, Short Stories, Essays, and Literary Studies, marks a profound acknowledgment of outstanding contributions to the world of literature.

The distinguished panel of jurors, representing various linguistic domains, meticulously recommended the works that caught their discerning eyes. The Executive Board of the Sahitya Akademi, convened under the leadership of Sri Madhav Kaushik, President of Sahitya Akademi, gave its nod to the selections during a meeting held on 20th December 2023.

Category-wise List of Awardees:

Poetry:

  • Vijay Verma (Dogri)
  • Vinod Joshi (Gujarati)
  • Manshoor Banihali (Kashmiri)
  • Sorokkhaibam Gambhini (Manipuri)
  • Ashutosh Parida (Odia)
  • Swarnjit Savi (Punjabi)
  • Gaje Singh Rajpurohit (Rajasthani)
  • Arun Ranjan Mishra (Sanskrit)
  • Vinod Asudani (Sindhi)

Novel:

  • Swapnamay Chakrabarti (Bengali)
  • Neelum Saran Gour (English)
  • Sanjeev (Hindi)
  • Krushnat Khot (Marathi)
  • Rajasekaran (Devibharathi) (Tamil)
  • Sadiqua Nawab Saher (Urdu)

Short Stories:

  • Pranavjyoti Deka (Assamese)
  • Nandeswar Daimari (Bodo)
  • Prakash S. Parienkar (Konkani)
  • Taraceen Baskey (Turia Chand Baskey) (Santali)
  • T. Patanjali Sastry (Telugu)

Essays:

  • Lakshmisha Tolpadi (Kannada)
  • Basukinath Jha (Maithili)
  • Judhabir Rana (Nepali)

Literary Study:

  • E.V. Ramakrishnan (Malayalam)

The selection process adhered to a meticulous procedure, with the Executive Board bestowing the awards based on unanimous selections or majority votes by the jurors. The recognized works encompass books published in the five years preceding the award year, spanning from 1st January 2017 to 31st December 2021.

The prestigious award, symbolized by a casket housing an engraved copper plaque, a shawl, and a cash prize of Rs. 1,00,000/- for each recipient, will be officially presented at a grand ceremony on 12th March 2024. The Kamani Auditorium, situated on Copernicus Marg, New Delhi, will set the stage for honoring the literary luminaries whose contributions have enriched the diverse tapestry of Indian literature.

Posted On: 21 DEC 2023 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

National Initiative Unveiled: Union WCD Minister Smriti Irani Launches Anganwadi-cum-Crèche (Palna) Programme

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National Programme on Anganwadi-cum-Crèche (Palna)
National Programme on Anganwadi-cum-Crèche (Palna)_PIB

In a significant stride towards enhancing childcare facilities and bolstering women’s participation in the workforce, the Union Minister of Women and Child Development and Minority Affairs, Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani, spearheaded the National Programme on Anganwadi-Cum-Crèche under the Palna Scheme. The ceremonious event took place at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on December 21st, 2023, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Anganwadi initiative.

National Programme on Anganwadi-cum-Crèche (Palna)
Union WCD Minister Smt. Smriti Irani urges States and UTs to identify areas with a higher number of women working in unorganised sector to connect them with the Centre’s Anganwadi-cum-creche scheme

The comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Anganwadi-Cum-Crèche under Palna was unveiled during the event, providing a structured framework for the efficient administration and implementation of the scheme. Underlining the importance of this initiative, the central aim remains to fulfill the demand for quality childcare facilities and empower women to actively engage in the workforce.


The inaugural session, presided over by Union Minister Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani and attended by various dignitaries, set the tone for the day. Shri Indevar Pandey, Secretary, Ministry of Women & Child Development, highlighted the scheme’s focus on urban areas where familial childcare support may be lacking. He announced the deployment of two additional Crèche workers and helpers alongside existing Anganwadi personnel under the Palna scheme.

Addressing the gathering, Ms. Aarti Ahuja, Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment, emphasized the increased participation of women in the workforce, underlining the collective responsibility to facilitate and encourage such contributions. Shri Inder Deep Singh Dhariwal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, underscored the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in promoting positive societal change.

A short film capturing the essence of the scheme was screened, offering insights into its features and impact. The SOP release by Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani further solidified the commitment to operational excellence in Anganwadi-Cum-Crèches.

Dr. Munjpara Mahendrabhai, Minister of State for Ministry of Women and Child Development and AYUSH, shared details about the government’s ambitious plan to establish 17,000 Crèches, with 5,222 already approved. Union Minister Smriti Zubin Irani reiterated the scheme’s potential to enhance women’s workforce participation, contributing significantly to Bharat’s economic development.

The second part of the program featured insightful panel discussions. The first, titled ‘Care Economy: Care to Empowerment,’ shed light on transformative care policies that can positively impact health, economics, and gender equality. The second discussion delved into ‘Interventions in implementing day care centres/ crèches,’ emphasizing the importance of formalizing employment opportunities and creating supportive infrastructure.

In her closing remarks, Union Minister Smriti Zubin Irani stressed the need for quality childcare for women engaged in various sectors and appealed to state officials to identify more locations for crèche construction. She highlighted the role of childcare in providing economic opportunities for women and emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to eradicate unregistered institutions exploiting children.

The National Programme on Anganwadi-Cum-Crèche (Palna) stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering women’s economic empowerment and providing holistic childcare solutions for working women across the nation.