CSIR Young Scientist Awards, 2011 were instituted in 1987. CSIR Young Scientist Awards seek to promote in- house excellence in various fields of science and technology. CSIR scientist, below 35 years of age, as reckoned on 26 September (CSIR Fondation Day) of the preceding year, is eligible for the Award.
These awards are given annually in the fields of Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Earth, Atmosphere, Ocean and Planetary Sciences and Engineering Sciences Physical Sciences (including instrumentation).
Each award consist of a citation, a cash prize of Rs. 50,000/- (Rupees fifty thousand only) and a plaque. CSIR Young Scientist Awardees are also entitled to a research grant of Rs. 5.0 Lakhs (Rupees five lakh only) per annum for a period of five years and an honorarium of Rs. 7,5000/- (Rupees seven thousand and five hundred only) per month till the age of 45 years.
Till 2010, 140 scientists (including 17 women scientists) have received the CSIR Yound Scientist Award and out of these 15 scientists have been conferred with the prestigious Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize. For the year 2011, Advisory Committee consisting of eminent scientists recommended the following seven scientists for the CSIR Young Scientist Awards. This year, none was found suitable in Biological Sciences and Physical Sciences (including instrumentation).
In Chemical Sciences, Dr Bikash Kumar Jena was given the CSIR Young Scientist Award for the year 2011 in Chemical Sciences. Dr Bikash Kumar Jena is from CSIR Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar . It is given for his outstanding contribution in the area of materials chemistry particularly in developing methods for synthesizing shapes control structures useful for sensing , electrocatalysis and surface enhanced Raman scattering studies.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Railways to march on the fourth generation development model: Dinesh Trivedi
One day international rail conference-2011 concludes
Three day international railway equipment exhibition inaugurated
The Union Railway Minister, Shri Dinesh Trivedi has called upon all the stakeholders concerned to work towards the growth and development of Indian Railway System with emphasis on modernization, safety, security, infrastructure development and passenger amenities. Shri Dinesh Trivedi was speaking at the International Rail Conference-2011 organised jointly by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in association with the Ministry of Railways, Government of India. The theme of the Conference was “Rail Transportation in India: Moving to the Next Orbit”. The Railway Minister said that India has to move to the fourth generation development model in order to move to the next orbit as envisaged in the theme of this momentous conference.
Elaborating on the huge network of Indian Railways, Shri Trivedi pointed out that Indian Railways are running 19,000 trains everyday and its human resource consisting of close to 15 lakh employees from gangman to Railway Board member represent an amazing dedicated force working around the clock for running this huge system which also boast of the best industrial relations for decades together. He said that challenges before Indian Railways are great and hence the opportunities are greater. He emphasized that the four areas namely track, rolling stock, signal, station and freight terminal require closer attention to ensure effective rail growth and operation.
Describing safety as the top priority area for the Railways, the Minister said that there has to be a zero tolerance as far as the accidents are concerned. He said that technology again plays the most vital role to eliminate human errors and enhance safety. Shri Trivedi said that he has constituted a high level committee to suggest measures for further enhancing the safety standards in Indian Railways. The Railway Minister pointed out that nuclear scientists and space scientists and other experts have been included in the committee so as to get the significant suggestions for the best safety protocols. He informed that noted nuclear expert, Shri Anil Kakodkar is heading this Committee.
Shri Trivedi said that the dreams of the entire nation regarding development of Indian Railways have indeed effectively been captured into the Vision 2020 document presented by my leader Mamata Bannerji. This document, he pointed out, is a tangible action plan to transform Indian Railways into an efficient world class system and a commercially vibrant organization with a social conscience. We have to roll out a road map to implement that vision. This implementation envisages fourth generation level modernization of Indian Railways system.
Shri Trivedi said that the Railway Ministry has constituted a committee on Modernization under the Chairmanship of noted personality Shri Sam Pitroda which will draw a strategy to deploy technology in the key areas of rolling stock, track and signaling. He hoped that the recommendations of the committee will guide Indian Railways to leapfrog in its efforts to rapid modernization. The Minister also called upon to have a relook at the financial model of Indian Railways where most of the earnings are from the freight sector. He said that Railways have to focus on areas like finance and marketing also besides its focus on operations. Referring to the development of stations as a multi-purpose hub, the Minister said that it could be a good idea to consider setting up a Station Authority of India on the lines of Airport Authority of India for the optimal utilization of stations where there could be libraries, office complexes etc. in addition to the activities pertaining to Railway Operation.
Referring to the forthcoming 12th Five Year Plan, the Railway Minister pointed out that the approach paper of this Plan has indicated an investment to the tune of US $ 1 trillion in the infrastructure sector in the country and half of this investment has to come from the private sector. He said that it is a very promising objective in taking India forward in the development of its crucial infrastructure and provides a great opportunity to the private sector.
Shri Trivedi said that Railways too have envisaged ambitious plans for the coming 12th Five Year Plan which will require huge investments in the Railway sector. He pointed out that several new project areas are being envisaged to be executed in partnership with industry both in public as well as private sectors through JV/PPP mode. The Minister said that Indian Railways for decade have shared a symbiotic relationship with trade & industries who are stakeholders and partners with Railways in developing and maintaining infrastructure and sustaining services.
Speaking on the occasion, Member Mechanical, Railway Board, Shri Sanjiv Handa said that the time has come when there is a need to develop an effective delivery mechanism for the Railway users. He said it is necessary to provide best services to the Railway customers. Shri Handa said that industries should not talk merely of products but focus on addressing complete range of issues thereby offering “solutions” and CII should work as a watchdog to ensure that the industry delivers ‘solutions’.
The International Rail Conference 2011 is highlighting the large scale business opportunities in India’s Railway and Urban development sector and provides a platform for exchange of views, ideas and business opportunities among the global/domestic industry and Indian Railways. The focus areas include rail transportation in India, rolling stock, rail infrastructure, finance and urban transportation. Over 300 industry leaders including policy makers and key stakeholders from the Railways and urban transport sector are participating in the Conference which is an International Leadership Forum to share their views and jointly taken action towards the upliftment of Railway sector in India.
Coinciding with the conference, an International Railway Equipment Exhibition (IREE) 2011 was also organized on the sidelines of the Conference. The Railway Minister inaugurated the exhibition and released IREE Exhibitor Catalogue. The exhibition is the only international event in India for the Railway industry and its allied sectors. Over 200 exhibitors from 22 countries namely Australia, Austria, Brazil, Czech Republic, China, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Netherlands, Nigeria, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Poland, Ukraine, U.A.E., United Kingdom and U.S.A. are participating in India’s largest railway show. The Indian Railways pavilion at the IREE 2011 includes display and active participation from all production units, regional Railways, PSUs, National Rail Museum and Railway Board. The Railway Board stall showcased freight, safety, passenger amenities, history & heritage. Some of the leading participants are Bombardier, Texmaco, Siemens, Daulat Ram Group, BEML, Titagarh, EMD, VaeVkn, Faively,. Fedders Lloyd, and China (CSR & CNR) among others.Skewed Child Sex Ratio – A National Concern: Azad
Opening the meeting Shri Azad said that today’s meeting has important bearings for the future of the nation as the declining child sex ratio in most of the States is a matter of grave national concern. Shri Azad said there is urgent need to arrest the gender imbalance. “Proper implementation of the PC & PNDT Act and deliberation on the steps are required to be taken to address this grave challenge by the States”, he said. “The 2011 Provisional Census figures have served as a wake-up call for all of us. The misuse of medical technology for pre birth sex selection is evidently increasing” he noted as the number of girls in the age group of 0-6 years now stands at a mere 914 for every 1000 boys. The Minister said all necessary steps; political, social, economic and scientific, need to be taken to end negative discrimination against the girl child. The role that Information, Education and Communication (IEC) can play in building a positive environment for valuing the girl child can hardly be over-emphasized. “Though the PC & PNDT Act is a central legislation, it’s implementation lies entirely with the States who are expected to enforce it through District Appropriate Authorities at the State, District and Sub-district levels”. Shri Azad asked all States to appoint the Appropriate Authorities and also monitor their functioning as also conduct systematic inspections and overall monitoring of doctors and clinics registered under the Act. Shri Azad urged the States to ensure proper utilization of the funding under NRHM for setting up dedicated PNDT cells at the State and district levels to strengthen capacity to enforce the PC & PNDT Act.
. The Union Minister also urged the States to implement the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram in true letter and spirit so that the poor, needy and vulnerable sections of our society are brought into the institutional fold and their out of pocket expenses are eliminated.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
AP Tourism launch new services
The AP Tourism launched new tour services, including helicopter rides, city tour for air transit passengers and open top city bus rides.For helicopter ride each passenger has to pay Rs.2950 per person for 15 minutes ride.Under open city bus service,passengers will be taken to places like Birla Mandir ,Salarjung Museum, Purani Haveli, Charminar, Golconda Fort Quli Qutub Shahi tombs etc, tour commences at 7.30am, from Tank Bund and terminates at Lumbini Park around 6pm.NonAC bus fare per person is Rs.300 and Rs.240 per child.Three hour tour from shahmshabad airport for transit passengers,facilitates flight passenger to utilize their waiting time at the airport to visit Charminar, Mecca Masjid, Purani Haveli and Golconda Fort on payment of Rs. 475 per person.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Stop to unwanted calls and SMS's
Mobile subscribers will get much needed relief from unsolicited tele marketing calls and SMS from Tuesday (27.9.11)The TRAI impose strict regulation to check pesky calls.Under new regulations subscribers can opt for fully blocked category where all commercial calls /SMS will be blocked , while there is 'partially blocked' category to receive various promotional SMS. If a customer wants to exercise the option of the 'fully blocked' he may send SMS 'START0 'and if he wants to exercise the option of 'partially blocked' he may send SMS' SART and give option of his choice. for example START 1 for receiving SMS relating to banking /insurance/financial products/credit cards or START 2 for real estate and son on. There are seven categories to choose from.Telecom Regulatory authority of India allows only 100 SMS per SIM per day to ensure that people engaged in various businesses cannot send promotional SMS from unregistered phone numbers.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Rice Acreage up by 33.54 Lakh Hectare and Oilseeds up by 5.58 Lakh Hectare
As per Govt data received from States, rice has been sown in 381.32 lakh hectare as on today. It represents an increase of 33.54 lakh hectare over last year’s acreage on this date. Higher area coverage has been reported from West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
Oilseeds have been sown in 178.60 lakh hectare, 5.58 lakh hectare more than last year. Higher area coverage has been reported in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
Coarse cereals have been sown in 200.19 lakh hectare. Higher area coverage has been reported from Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and Jammu & Kashmir.
Cotton has been sown in 120.03 lakh hectare. Higher area coverage has been reported from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Haryana , Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh.
8th International Abilympics to be held in Seoul
The organizers expect approximately 1500 participants from 50 nations. An exhibition and demonstration of assistive devices/technology, handmade crafts and demonstrations of culture etc. of each participation will be held during this period. The International Abilympics like Olympics is held every four years in different parts of the world. It started in 1981 to celebrate the United Nations’ “International year of the disabled persons” in order to improve their economic conditions and to increase their rate of employment.
The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India has been supporting the Abilympics movement in the country for over a decade. This has helped empower persons with disability and enabled them to lead a life of dignity and equality.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Promotion Of Monuments
The detailed list of 285 centrally protected monuments, archaeological sites and remains in Maharashtra and 133 in West Bengal under the jurisdiction of Archaeological Survey of India is at Annexure-I and II respectively. No comprehensive survey of unprotected monuments in the country has been undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India.
The funds allocated and spent on conservation, preservation, maintenance and development of environs of these centrally protected monuments during the last three years and for the current year is as under:
Rupees in lakhs
| Maharashtra | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | 2010-11 | 2011-12 (upto Aug.’11) |
| Allocation | 750.15 | 785.00 | 705.00 | 655.00 |
| Expenditure | 750.14 | 784.99 | 704.98 | 377.46 |
| West Bengal | 2008-09 | 2009-10 | 2010-11 | 2011-12 (upto July’11) |
| Allocation | 382.00 | 338.00 | 417.00 | 380.00 |
| Expenditure | 373.15 | 329.50 | 416.31 | 89.18 |
The ASI maintains all the centrally protected monuments and sites, including Adilabad Fort in Delhi and Buddhist sites in Odisha, on regular basis, depending upon their special needs, within the available manpower and financial resources. The centrally protected monuments/sites are in a fairly good state of preservation. At present, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has no plan/proposal to undertake more excavation particularly in the State of Tamil Nadu.
All world heritage sites are in a good state of conservation and are being regularly maintained by Archaeological Survey of India as per existing international charters and guidelines. In addition to the conservation, preservation, maintenance and development of environs of the world heritage sites, creation of tourist-related amenities (e.g. drinking water, toilet blocks, facilities for physically challenged, pathways, cultural notice boards/signage, vehicle parking, cloak rooms, etc are also among the regular activities which the ASI undertakes as per needs and availability of resources.
India Calls upon US Investors to Invest in Indian Power Sector
Union Minister of Power Shri Sushilkumar Shinde has called upon the US investors to invest in the growing power sector in India. He was speaking at the US-India Economic Opportunities and Synergies Summit in Chicago organised by FICCI in association with The Executive Club of Chicago. Shri Shinde said while the present installed generation capacity in India is more than 1,81,000 MW, over 80,000 MW of new power capacity is under construction. He added that during 2007-2012, the funding requirement in Indian Power Sector has been estimated at USD 230 billion. Stating that the 12th Plan aims at capacity addition of nearly 100 thousand MW with the similar investment requirement, the Minister emphasised that such a gigantic task can be successful only with the strong support from the private sector.
Highlighting the reforms in power sector in India, Shri Shinde said the Electricity Act 2003 allows the sector to align itself with market dynamics and clears the roadblocks in the way of greater participation by the private sector. He said an independent regulatory framework in India now provides business confidence to power companies and a fairly lucrative rate of return on equity of 15.5 per cent per annum. Underlining that the share of the private sector in capacity expansion has gone up substantially in the Eleventh Plan with 33 per cent of the total incremental capacity expected to come from the private sector, the Minister said that in the Twelfth Plan this share is expected to further increase to about 50 per cent. He said 100% FDI is permitted to facilitate private investment on automatic route for the projects of power generation, transmission and distribution.
Giving an outline of power projects in India with successful ingredients of public private partnership, Shri Shinde said that 16 Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPPs) and 14 Inter State Transmission schemes have been identified for development by the private sector on competitive bidding route. He said while the bidding of 4 Ultra Mega Power Projects and 6 transmission project have been completed, more than 5 UMPPs are in the pipeline and offer unique opportunities for investment. Each UMPP is of 4000 MW capacity and requires USD 4.5 billion investment.
Regarding Hydro power Shri Shinde said that estimated potential in hydro sector in India is 1,50,000 MW out of which only 30,000 MW has been harnessed . The remaining capacity needs to be developed which provides the investors an opportunity. He said the new Hydro Policy 2008 goes a long way in balancing the developers concerns and the need of the people. The Minister added that to enable the project developer in the Hydro Sector a reasonable and quick return on investment merchant sale of up to 40% of the saleable energy has been allowed making the investments in hydropower projects more attractive.
Stating that India is actively pursuing a low carbon growth strategy, Shri Shinde highlighted India’s focus on Super Critical Technology in Thermal Plants, the rapid induction of Clean Coal Technologies and a sharper focus on renewables. He said that international majors like Mitsubishi, Toshiba, Hitachi, Alstom and Ansaldo have already started the process of partnering with Indian manufacturers to set up Super Critical Manufacturing facilities. The Minister said that bulk tenders for 660/ 800 MW have been floated to set up Super Critical units to help the investors to stabilize and sustain.
On the front of renewable energy, Shri Shinde said that India has launched Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission and is committed to add 20,000 MW of solar power by 2022. He said that the State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) are mandating a minimum Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) to Discoms and a mechanism of trading of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) through power exchanges has started working in India. Addressing the concerns of investors towards the financial health of distribution companies, the Minister said that “Accelerated Power Distribution and Reforms Programme (APDRP)” was launched in urban areas, the main objective of which is to bring down the Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT & C) losses in the range of 15%. He said the programme size of R-APDRP during 2007-2012 is about USD 11 billion.
As regards energy efficiency, Shri Shinde said the Indian Government has given due emphasis on this issue. Stating that 37 Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) have been accredited by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), he said tremendous opportunities exist for Foreign ESCOs operating either independently or in JV for taking up energy efficiency projects in ESCO mode under the Performance Contracting Mode. He said it is estimated that investment amount of US$ 15 billion will be required to be made for energy efficiency initiative in India. Shri Shinde said that in order to improve confidence among the Financial Institutions, robust energy audit system has been created. He added that the Partial Risk Guarantee Fund and Venture Capital Fund are being created for boosting investments in the area of energy efficiency and a National Mission on Enhanced Energy Efficiency has been approved.
Shri Shinde is on a five day visit to the USA which aims at enhancing cooperation between the two countries in the power sector. He will also go to New York where besides addressing the Press Conference organised by Counsel General of India, he will meet Chief Executive Officers of various organisations organised by United States India Business Council (USIBC). He will also deliver closing keynote address at the 8th Annual India Investment Forum organised by Institutional Investor, FICCI and IIFL Institutional Equities.
Highlighting the reforms in power sector in India, Shri Shinde said the Electricity Act 2003 allows the sector to align itself with market dynamics and clears the roadblocks in the way of greater participation by the private sector. He said an independent regulatory framework in India now provides business confidence to power companies and a fairly lucrative rate of return on equity of 15.5 per cent per annum. Underlining that the share of the private sector in capacity expansion has gone up substantially in the Eleventh Plan with 33 per cent of the total incremental capacity expected to come from the private sector, the Minister said that in the Twelfth Plan this share is expected to further increase to about 50 per cent. He said 100% FDI is permitted to facilitate private investment on automatic route for the projects of power generation, transmission and distribution.
Giving an outline of power projects in India with successful ingredients of public private partnership, Shri Shinde said that 16 Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPPs) and 14 Inter State Transmission schemes have been identified for development by the private sector on competitive bidding route. He said while the bidding of 4 Ultra Mega Power Projects and 6 transmission project have been completed, more than 5 UMPPs are in the pipeline and offer unique opportunities for investment. Each UMPP is of 4000 MW capacity and requires USD 4.5 billion investment.
Regarding Hydro power Shri Shinde said that estimated potential in hydro sector in India is 1,50,000 MW out of which only 30,000 MW has been harnessed . The remaining capacity needs to be developed which provides the investors an opportunity. He said the new Hydro Policy 2008 goes a long way in balancing the developers concerns and the need of the people. The Minister added that to enable the project developer in the Hydro Sector a reasonable and quick return on investment merchant sale of up to 40% of the saleable energy has been allowed making the investments in hydropower projects more attractive.
Stating that India is actively pursuing a low carbon growth strategy, Shri Shinde highlighted India’s focus on Super Critical Technology in Thermal Plants, the rapid induction of Clean Coal Technologies and a sharper focus on renewables. He said that international majors like Mitsubishi, Toshiba, Hitachi, Alstom and Ansaldo have already started the process of partnering with Indian manufacturers to set up Super Critical Manufacturing facilities. The Minister said that bulk tenders for 660/ 800 MW have been floated to set up Super Critical units to help the investors to stabilize and sustain.
On the front of renewable energy, Shri Shinde said that India has launched Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission and is committed to add 20,000 MW of solar power by 2022. He said that the State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) are mandating a minimum Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) to Discoms and a mechanism of trading of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) through power exchanges has started working in India. Addressing the concerns of investors towards the financial health of distribution companies, the Minister said that “Accelerated Power Distribution and Reforms Programme (APDRP)” was launched in urban areas, the main objective of which is to bring down the Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT & C) losses in the range of 15%. He said the programme size of R-APDRP during 2007-2012 is about USD 11 billion.
As regards energy efficiency, Shri Shinde said the Indian Government has given due emphasis on this issue. Stating that 37 Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) have been accredited by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), he said tremendous opportunities exist for Foreign ESCOs operating either independently or in JV for taking up energy efficiency projects in ESCO mode under the Performance Contracting Mode. He said it is estimated that investment amount of US$ 15 billion will be required to be made for energy efficiency initiative in India. Shri Shinde said that in order to improve confidence among the Financial Institutions, robust energy audit system has been created. He added that the Partial Risk Guarantee Fund and Venture Capital Fund are being created for boosting investments in the area of energy efficiency and a National Mission on Enhanced Energy Efficiency has been approved.
Shri Shinde is on a five day visit to the USA which aims at enhancing cooperation between the two countries in the power sector. He will also go to New York where besides addressing the Press Conference organised by Counsel General of India, he will meet Chief Executive Officers of various organisations organised by United States India Business Council (USIBC). He will also deliver closing keynote address at the 8th Annual India Investment Forum organised by Institutional Investor, FICCI and IIFL Institutional Equities.
India Reaffirms Strong Commitment to Prevent and Combat NCDs
NPCDCSto Cover Entire Country by April 2012 “The scourge of Diabetes, Cardio-Vascular Diseases (CVDs), Cancer and Chronic Respiratory Diseases, the four major Non-Communicable Diseases is posing a mounting challenge to health care practitioners, administrators and policy makers alike in terms of both the increasing complexity of treatment and management and rising demand for more resources”. The Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad said this while addressing the High-level Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases which began on 19th September 2011 at New York. Heads of State and Government and representatives of States and Governments are meeting at the United Nations from 19 to 20 September 2011 to address the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases worldwide, with a particular focus on developmental and other challenges and social and economic impacts, particularly for developing countries. The Indian team is led by the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad. The other members of the delegation include Syeda Saiyidain Hameed, Member, Planning Commission, Government of India, Prof. K. Srinath Reddy, President, Public Health Foundation of India, Dr. Rajendra A Badwe, Director Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Shri. Keshav Desiraju, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
Shri Azad said that “As far as India is concerned, we are faced with the triple burden of communicable diseases, new and re-emerging infections and the increasing incidence of non-communicable diseases. More than half of all deaths are now attributed to Non-Communicable Diseases. However, we must recognize that conditions such as mental and neurological disorders also require special attention”. The Minister said that this UN meeting provides “a historic opportunity in reaffirming our commitments, both financial and human resources, for combating the NCDs. We need to make concrete commitments on sharing global resources, technical expertise and best practices to build capacity to combat NCDs”. He reaffirmed India’s strong commitment to the outcome document and firm resolve to prevent and combat NCDs by improving accessibility and affordability of health care in a concerted and more collaborative manner.
Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad informed that alarmed by the rising incidence of the non-communicable diseases and its impact on the health care delivery, a national summit was held in India subsequent to the Global Health Ministerial Conference on Healthy Lifestyles and Non-communicable Disease Control in Moscow in April 2011. “Besides the Delhi Call for Action from the national meet, we now also have 10 key messages from the recently held WHO South-East Asia Regional meeting at Jaipur in India”, he added. The Union Health Minister emphasized that Non Communicable Diseases are not only a health issue but also a development issue as they impact productivity and also impoverish the society due to high health expenditures. Therefore, the Government of India has launched a “National Programme for Prevention & Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardio Vascular Diseases (CVDs) and Stroke (NPCDCS)” and the “National Programme for Health Care of Elderly (NPHCE)”. This has been taken up for implementation as a pilot project covering 150 million population in 100 inaccessible and most backward districts during the current financial year (2011-2012) at a cost of 275 million USD. The program includes several components such as: - Establishment of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) clinics at 100 district hospitals and 700 Community Health Centers (CHCs) for diagnosis and management of Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD), Diabetes & Stroke and Cardiac Care Unit in district hospitals; ensuring availability of life saving drugs – wherein an additional 1,250 USD will be provided to each district hospital in 100 districts; For early detection of cancer common diagnostic services are being provided at these 100 district hospitals. Provision is also being made for basic surgery, chemotherapy and palliative care at these hospitals; For supporting Chemotherapy, drugs will be provided in these 100 district hospitals for 10,000 patients at the cost of 25 million USD; In addition, 65 centres are being strengthened as Tertiary Cancer Centres (TCCs) to provide comprehensive cancer care services at a cost of 1.5 million USD each.
As of now screening of diabetics and hypertension is being carried out in these 100 identified Districts in 21 States and urban slums of 33 cities with more than 1 million population, where all adult males above 30 years of age and pregnant women of all age groups are being screened. “Our target is to screen about 150 million people by March 2012 under this pilot project. This national programme will be rolled out in the entire country in April, 2012” he informed.
Shri Azad also said that India’s technology innovations have led to affordable health care not only for our population but also for many other countries in the world. Prominent among these are re-combinant human insulin, poly-pill for prevention of cardio-vascular and stroke events, clot buster to enhance efficiency and a heart valve for rheumatic heart disease. He asked the august gathering to thus also address the issue of trade barriers which restrict access to affordable and newly developed medicines. “It is vital to ensure universal access to medicines, including through the full use of the flexibilities contained in the TRIPS Agreement and the Doha Declaration on TRIPS and Public Health” Shri Azad reiterated.
Non-Communicable Diseases are emerging as the leading cause of disease, disability and death worldwide. The WHO 2004 report on Mortality and Burden of Disease Estimates for WHO Member States estimated that NCDs contributed half (50%) of the total mortality in the country and were the major causes of death. With the cumulative increase in losses from premature deaths due to heart diseases, stroke and diabetes, India stands to lose 237 billion US dollars during the decade 2004-2015 (WHO Report on Preventing Chronic Diseases: a vital investment, 2005).Tobacco use has emerged as the single common risk factor for four of the major NCDs. World Bank in its recent report “Capitalizing on the Demographic Transition: Tackling Non-communicable Diseases in South Asia” warns that NCDs can hold back development and poverty reduction efforts in low-income countries.
The UN General Assembly has adopted the political declaration on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke, chronic respiratory disease and cancer which together kill some 36 million people each year. For the first time, global leaders have reached consensus in the General Assembly on concrete actions to tackle these diseases. The UN Political Declaration paints a grim picture that will unfold in coming decade if we do not show urgent commitments to tackle it. The declaration identifies 4 NCDs as the major killers such as Cancer, cardiovascular illness, chronic respiratory diseases and Diabetes and 4 strategies to prevent vast majority of these NCDs – Tobacco, Alcohol, unhealthy food and lack of exercise. The WHO is charged with working with Member States to establish global targets on NCDs by the end of 2012. The draft declaration as it stands means NCDs will stay on the UN agenda for years to come. It agrees the UN Secretary-General must report back on progress achieved in the Declaration's commitments to the General Assembly in 2013/2014 in preparation for a comprehensive review in 2014.
Shri Azad said that “As far as India is concerned, we are faced with the triple burden of communicable diseases, new and re-emerging infections and the increasing incidence of non-communicable diseases. More than half of all deaths are now attributed to Non-Communicable Diseases. However, we must recognize that conditions such as mental and neurological disorders also require special attention”. The Minister said that this UN meeting provides “a historic opportunity in reaffirming our commitments, both financial and human resources, for combating the NCDs. We need to make concrete commitments on sharing global resources, technical expertise and best practices to build capacity to combat NCDs”. He reaffirmed India’s strong commitment to the outcome document and firm resolve to prevent and combat NCDs by improving accessibility and affordability of health care in a concerted and more collaborative manner.
Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad informed that alarmed by the rising incidence of the non-communicable diseases and its impact on the health care delivery, a national summit was held in India subsequent to the Global Health Ministerial Conference on Healthy Lifestyles and Non-communicable Disease Control in Moscow in April 2011. “Besides the Delhi Call for Action from the national meet, we now also have 10 key messages from the recently held WHO South-East Asia Regional meeting at Jaipur in India”, he added. The Union Health Minister emphasized that Non Communicable Diseases are not only a health issue but also a development issue as they impact productivity and also impoverish the society due to high health expenditures. Therefore, the Government of India has launched a “National Programme for Prevention & Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardio Vascular Diseases (CVDs) and Stroke (NPCDCS)” and the “National Programme for Health Care of Elderly (NPHCE)”. This has been taken up for implementation as a pilot project covering 150 million population in 100 inaccessible and most backward districts during the current financial year (2011-2012) at a cost of 275 million USD. The program includes several components such as: - Establishment of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) clinics at 100 district hospitals and 700 Community Health Centers (CHCs) for diagnosis and management of Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD), Diabetes & Stroke and Cardiac Care Unit in district hospitals; ensuring availability of life saving drugs – wherein an additional 1,250 USD will be provided to each district hospital in 100 districts; For early detection of cancer common diagnostic services are being provided at these 100 district hospitals. Provision is also being made for basic surgery, chemotherapy and palliative care at these hospitals; For supporting Chemotherapy, drugs will be provided in these 100 district hospitals for 10,000 patients at the cost of 25 million USD; In addition, 65 centres are being strengthened as Tertiary Cancer Centres (TCCs) to provide comprehensive cancer care services at a cost of 1.5 million USD each.
As of now screening of diabetics and hypertension is being carried out in these 100 identified Districts in 21 States and urban slums of 33 cities with more than 1 million population, where all adult males above 30 years of age and pregnant women of all age groups are being screened. “Our target is to screen about 150 million people by March 2012 under this pilot project. This national programme will be rolled out in the entire country in April, 2012” he informed.
Shri Azad also said that India’s technology innovations have led to affordable health care not only for our population but also for many other countries in the world. Prominent among these are re-combinant human insulin, poly-pill for prevention of cardio-vascular and stroke events, clot buster to enhance efficiency and a heart valve for rheumatic heart disease. He asked the august gathering to thus also address the issue of trade barriers which restrict access to affordable and newly developed medicines. “It is vital to ensure universal access to medicines, including through the full use of the flexibilities contained in the TRIPS Agreement and the Doha Declaration on TRIPS and Public Health” Shri Azad reiterated.
Non-Communicable Diseases are emerging as the leading cause of disease, disability and death worldwide. The WHO 2004 report on Mortality and Burden of Disease Estimates for WHO Member States estimated that NCDs contributed half (50%) of the total mortality in the country and were the major causes of death. With the cumulative increase in losses from premature deaths due to heart diseases, stroke and diabetes, India stands to lose 237 billion US dollars during the decade 2004-2015 (WHO Report on Preventing Chronic Diseases: a vital investment, 2005).Tobacco use has emerged as the single common risk factor for four of the major NCDs. World Bank in its recent report “Capitalizing on the Demographic Transition: Tackling Non-communicable Diseases in South Asia” warns that NCDs can hold back development and poverty reduction efforts in low-income countries.
The UN General Assembly has adopted the political declaration on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke, chronic respiratory disease and cancer which together kill some 36 million people each year. For the first time, global leaders have reached consensus in the General Assembly on concrete actions to tackle these diseases. The UN Political Declaration paints a grim picture that will unfold in coming decade if we do not show urgent commitments to tackle it. The declaration identifies 4 NCDs as the major killers such as Cancer, cardiovascular illness, chronic respiratory diseases and Diabetes and 4 strategies to prevent vast majority of these NCDs – Tobacco, Alcohol, unhealthy food and lack of exercise. The WHO is charged with working with Member States to establish global targets on NCDs by the end of 2012. The draft declaration as it stands means NCDs will stay on the UN agenda for years to come. It agrees the UN Secretary-General must report back on progress achieved in the Declaration's commitments to the General Assembly in 2013/2014 in preparation for a comprehensive review in 2014.
Union Minister of Steel Discusses Various Steel Projects with Kerala Chief Minister
The Chief Minister of Kerala Shri Oommen Chandy called on the Union Minister of Steel Shri Beni Prasad Verma here today. Shri Verma discussed present status and future roadmap for the Joint Venture (JV) of SAIL and Steel Complex Limited, i.e. SAIL Steel Complex Limited with Shri Verma. The setting up of a Titanium Sponge Plant and setting up of Rare Earth Mineral Benificiation Project in joint venture with NMDC/KIOCL were also discussed in the meeting.
SAIL Steel Complex Limited (SCL) is a Joint Venture (JV) of SAIL and Steel Complex Limited, a Government of Kerala Enterprise, having equal share holdings of SAIL and Kerala Government of 43.8% each. Rest 12.4% shares of this JV are with the public. The management of this company is with SAIL. It is a 50,000 tonne per annum capacity mill for producing continuous cast billets. There is a proposal for setting up a 65,000 tonne per annum Rolling Mill for TMT Bars at Kozikode involving a capex of Rs. 50.00 crore. The billets from the JV Company would be used for conversion into TMT Bars and the same would be sold by SAIL for enabling better revenue realization. Salem Steel Plant of SAIL has been appointed as the central procurement agency for procurement of scrap for SCL.
SAIL is preparing a techno-economic feasibility report for setting up a Titanium based plant in Kollam, Kerala and the work is in its final stage. A decision regarding the business model would be taken on receipt of the feasibility report.
Government of Kerala had earlier proposed to NMDC to have Joint Venture project with Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation Ltd (KEMDEL) or Kerala Minerals & Metals Limited (KMML) for mining of Illmenite and other associated rare earth minerals and setting up a mineral beneficiation plant, in which KEMDEL/ KMML may have minority partnership with equity up to 26% and the rest of the equity with JV partner. The final product of the mineral beneficiation plant was proposed to be used in 10,000 Tonne per annum (TPA) Titanium Sponge plant and Titanium Alloy plant, which Kerala Government had proposed to set up in Joint Venture with SAIL.
Government of Kerala is now proposing to expand the mineral beneficiation and extraction activities by setting up on site beneficiation projects in Sri Lanka and Vietnam, as these countries have enough mineral resources and have shown interest in setting up such facilities there. Government of Kerala has proposed a Joint Venture between NMDC and Government of Kerala for setting up such projects, which would help in expanding plant capacities in Kerala to produce 10000-20000 TPA Titanium Sponge.
Considering high value realization of the final product, NMDC proposes to participate in value addition project of Titanium Sponge rather than restricting its activities up to mineral beneficiation only.
KIOCL has signed an MoU with Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation in presence of the Steel Minister and the Chief Minister to explore the possibility of iron ore mining, along with beneficiation and pelletisation facilities in the state of Kerala. The MoU will also look into the possibility of taking up other allied activities.
Earthquake Update
The Number of deaths as reported by the State Government of Sikkim is 71. This may increase further as rescue and release teams reach further into interior areas. The break-up of death toll is as follows- East District- 12, North District-54, West District -4 and South District-1. 58 persons are injured.
Ø Ten teams of NDRF consisting of 403 personnel along with necessary equipment have been deployed for search and rescue operations. Three teams of NDRF which were located at Gangtok have moved to Mangan and two teams already located at Mangan have been deployed for search and rescue operations in villages Ramam, Lingzya and Dzongu.
Ø Two teams of NDRF comprising 14 personnel and 16 personnel each have been deployed at Chungthan and Lachung respectively.
Ø The doctors of the NDRF team deployed at Mangan with medical detachment have set up a medial relief camp at Manul Mangan.
Ø 827 ITBP personnel are engaged in rescue operations and have also set up relief camps where rescued villagers have been given shelter.
Ø The State Govt. has opened relief camps in each district. 2700 and 550 people have been provided shelter into Army camps and ITBP camp (Pengong) respectively.
Ø A total of 5500 Army personnel located in Sikkim have been pressed into relief and rescue operations. Out of this, 94 Army columns (strength of columns varies from 15-40 personnel each) have been deployed for rescue operation. Rescue columns comprising 281 personnel deployed at Mangan have set up Integrated Command Centre.
Ø 94 villages have been physically covered by the team of Army jawans in their search and rescue operations.
Ø 21 Engineer columns have been deployed for restoration of communication on national highways in conjunction with BRO.
Ø A medical team comprising 19 doctors (Surgeon – 4, Orthopedician – 6, Anaesthesian – 5, Neuro Surgeon – 2, and medicine – 2) was deployed by the Ministry of Health, Government of India from Delhi on 19th September, 2011. A team of 10 doctors have reached Chungthan on 20th September 2011 and remaining 9 doctors have been deployed at STNM Hospital, Gangtok.
Ø 940 civilians have been treated at Military hospitals. 28 civilians evacuated by Army helicopters are currently under treatment at Military Hospitals.
Ø About 8000 food packets have been air-dropped in the northern part of North District.
Ø 15 helicopters of Army and Air Force have been pressed into relief work. For airdropping and reconnaissance, 100 sorties have been carried out so far.
Ø 2800 people have been provided shelter in 8 relief camps established at Darjeeling (01), Gangtok (04), Chungthan (02) and Pagong (01).
Ø In Chungthan ,about 2000 people have taken shelter at Gurudwara. Other temporary shelters are at Lingzya (20), Sakyong (30), Pentong (25), Ramam (30), Shipgyel (50), and Jongu/Saffo (30) in North District.
Ø One Joint Secretary from MHA has been deputed to Sikkim to coordinate the relief operations.
Ø The following roads have also been opened for traffic :
(i) National Highway 31-A from Siliguri to Gangtok
(ii) National Highway 55 - Darjeeling to Siliguri
(iii) Gangtok – Rangrang and Mangan
(iv) Mangan – Chugthan (upto 12 kms)
(v) Gangtok – Natu La. (56 km – 15 km open)
(vi) Damdim – Alagarh – Rishi – Pedong,
(vii) Kupup – Natu La
Ø The following roads are still blocked :
(i) Chungthang – Lachen (22 kns.)
(ii) Chungthan – Lachung (24 kms)
(iii) Pedong – Kupup (49 kms)
(iv) Rangpo – Rorathang.(10 kms.)
Ø Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and Army Engineers are working for restoration of different roads.
Ø Power supply is normal except in the northern part of North district.
Ø Landline and microwave links are operational. The present status of the operational mobile towers/BTS vis-à -vis total number is as follows, Vodafone-147(167), Reliance-41(54), Idea-42(42), Aircell-45(55), Airtel-65(69), BSNL-102(122).
Ø 3000 nos. of blankets, 400 nos. of tents, 200 stoves, 500 tarpaulin and 0 water purifier have been dispatched to the affected areas.
Ø The Union Home Minister visited Sikkim today to review the arrangements of rescue and relief post-earthquake. On behalf of the Prime Minister, the Home Minister announced a grant of Rs.50 crore for the purpose.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
India Calls upon US Investors to Invest in Indian Power Sector
Union Minister of Power Shri Sushilkumar Shinde has called upon the US investors to invest in the growing power sector in India. He was speaking at the US-India Economic Opportunities and Synergies Summit in Chicago organised by FICCI in association with The Executive Club of Chicago. Shri Shinde said while the present installed generation capacity in India is more than 1,81,000 MW, over 80,000 MW of new power capacity is under construction. He added that during 2007-2012, the funding requirement in Indian Power Sector has been estimated at USD 230 billion. Stating that the 12th Plan aims at capacity addition of nearly 100 thousand MW with the similar investment requirement, the Minister emphasised that such a gigantic task can be successful only with the strong support from the private sector.
Highlighting the reforms in power sector in India, Shri Shinde said the Electricity Act 2003 allows the sector to align itself with market dynamics and clears the roadblocks in the way of greater participation by the private sector. He said an independent regulatory framework in India now provides business confidence to power companies and a fairly lucrative rate of return on equity of 15.5 per cent per annum. Underlining that the share of the private sector in capacity expansion has gone up substantially in the Eleventh Plan with 33 per cent of the total incremental capacity expected to come from the private sector, the Minister said that in the Twelfth Plan this share is expected to further increase to about 50 per cent. He said 100% FDI is permitted to facilitate private investment on automatic route for the projects of power generation, transmission and distribution.
Giving an outline of power projects in India with successful ingredients of public private partnership, Shri Shinde said that 16 Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPPs) and 14 Inter State Transmission schemes have been identified for development by the private sector on competitive bidding route. He said while the bidding of 4 Ultra Mega Power Projects and 6 transmission project have been completed, more than 5 UMPPs are in the pipeline and offer unique opportunities for investment. Each UMPP is of 4000 MW capacity and requires USD 4.5 billion investment.
Regarding Hydro power Shri Shinde said that estimated potential in hydro sector in India is 1,50,000 MW out of which only 30,000 MW has been harnessed . The remaining capacity needs to be developed which provides the investors an opportunity. He said the new Hydro Policy 2008 goes a long way in balancing the developers concerns and the need of the people. The Minister added that to enable the project developer in the Hydro Sector a reasonable and quick return on investment merchant sale of up to 40% of the saleable energy has been allowed making the investments in hydropower projects more attractive.
Stating that India is actively pursuing a low carbon growth strategy, Shri Shinde highlighted India’s focus on Super Critical Technology in Thermal Plants, the rapid induction of Clean Coal Technologies and a sharper focus on renewables. He said that international majors like Mitsubishi, Toshiba, Hitachi, Alstom and Ansaldo have already started the process of partnering with Indian manufacturers to set up Super Critical Manufacturing facilities. The Minister said that bulk tenders for 660/ 800 MW have been floated to set up Super Critical units to help the investors to stabilize and sustain.
On the front of renewable energy, Shri Shinde said that India has launched Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission and is committed to add 20,000 MW of solar power by 2022. He said that the State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) are mandating a minimum Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) to Discoms and a mechanism of trading of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) through power exchanges has started working in India. Addressing the concerns of investors towards the financial health of distribution companies, the Minister said that “Accelerated Power Distribution and Reforms Programme (APDRP)” was launched in urban areas, the main objective of which is to bring down the Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT & C) losses in the range of 15%. He said the programme size of R-APDRP during 2007-2012 is about USD 11 billion.
As regards energy efficiency, Shri Shinde said the Indian Government has given due emphasis on this issue. Stating that 37 Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) have been accredited by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), he said tremendous opportunities exist for Foreign ESCOs operating either independently or in JV for taking up energy efficiency projects in ESCO mode under the Performance Contracting Mode. He said it is estimated that investment amount of US$ 15 billion will be required to be made for energy efficiency initiative in India. Shri Shinde said that in order to improve confidence among the Financial Institutions, robust energy audit system has been created. He added that the Partial Risk Guarantee Fund and Venture Capital Fund are being created for boosting investments in the area of energy efficiency and a National Mission on Enhanced Energy Efficiency has been approved.
Shri Shinde is on a five day visit to the USA which aims at enhancing cooperation between the two countries in the power sector. He will also go to New York where besides addressing the Press Conference organised by Counsel General of India, he will meet Chief Executive Officers of various organisations organised by United States India Business Council (USIBC). He will also deliver closing keynote address at the 8th Annual India Investment Forum organised by Institutional Investor, FICCI and IIFL Institutional Equities.
Highlighting the reforms in power sector in India, Shri Shinde said the Electricity Act 2003 allows the sector to align itself with market dynamics and clears the roadblocks in the way of greater participation by the private sector. He said an independent regulatory framework in India now provides business confidence to power companies and a fairly lucrative rate of return on equity of 15.5 per cent per annum. Underlining that the share of the private sector in capacity expansion has gone up substantially in the Eleventh Plan with 33 per cent of the total incremental capacity expected to come from the private sector, the Minister said that in the Twelfth Plan this share is expected to further increase to about 50 per cent. He said 100% FDI is permitted to facilitate private investment on automatic route for the projects of power generation, transmission and distribution.
Giving an outline of power projects in India with successful ingredients of public private partnership, Shri Shinde said that 16 Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPPs) and 14 Inter State Transmission schemes have been identified for development by the private sector on competitive bidding route. He said while the bidding of 4 Ultra Mega Power Projects and 6 transmission project have been completed, more than 5 UMPPs are in the pipeline and offer unique opportunities for investment. Each UMPP is of 4000 MW capacity and requires USD 4.5 billion investment.
Regarding Hydro power Shri Shinde said that estimated potential in hydro sector in India is 1,50,000 MW out of which only 30,000 MW has been harnessed . The remaining capacity needs to be developed which provides the investors an opportunity. He said the new Hydro Policy 2008 goes a long way in balancing the developers concerns and the need of the people. The Minister added that to enable the project developer in the Hydro Sector a reasonable and quick return on investment merchant sale of up to 40% of the saleable energy has been allowed making the investments in hydropower projects more attractive.
Stating that India is actively pursuing a low carbon growth strategy, Shri Shinde highlighted India’s focus on Super Critical Technology in Thermal Plants, the rapid induction of Clean Coal Technologies and a sharper focus on renewables. He said that international majors like Mitsubishi, Toshiba, Hitachi, Alstom and Ansaldo have already started the process of partnering with Indian manufacturers to set up Super Critical Manufacturing facilities. The Minister said that bulk tenders for 660/ 800 MW have been floated to set up Super Critical units to help the investors to stabilize and sustain.
On the front of renewable energy, Shri Shinde said that India has launched Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission and is committed to add 20,000 MW of solar power by 2022. He said that the State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) are mandating a minimum Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) to Discoms and a mechanism of trading of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) through power exchanges has started working in India. Addressing the concerns of investors towards the financial health of distribution companies, the Minister said that “Accelerated Power Distribution and Reforms Programme (APDRP)” was launched in urban areas, the main objective of which is to bring down the Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT & C) losses in the range of 15%. He said the programme size of R-APDRP during 2007-2012 is about USD 11 billion.
As regards energy efficiency, Shri Shinde said the Indian Government has given due emphasis on this issue. Stating that 37 Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) have been accredited by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), he said tremendous opportunities exist for Foreign ESCOs operating either independently or in JV for taking up energy efficiency projects in ESCO mode under the Performance Contracting Mode. He said it is estimated that investment amount of US$ 15 billion will be required to be made for energy efficiency initiative in India. Shri Shinde said that in order to improve confidence among the Financial Institutions, robust energy audit system has been created. He added that the Partial Risk Guarantee Fund and Venture Capital Fund are being created for boosting investments in the area of energy efficiency and a National Mission on Enhanced Energy Efficiency has been approved.
Shri Shinde is on a five day visit to the USA which aims at enhancing cooperation between the two countries in the power sector. He will also go to New York where besides addressing the Press Conference organised by Counsel General of India, he will meet Chief Executive Officers of various organisations organised by United States India Business Council (USIBC). He will also deliver closing keynote address at the 8th Annual India Investment Forum organised by Institutional Investor, FICCI and IIFL Institutional Equities.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Promulgation of “The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Marine Fishing (Amendment) Regulation, 2011 by the President under article 240 of the Constitution
The approval will strengthen the coastal security in the coastline of the Union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands in an effective manner by having a streamlined system of registration of all fishing vessels under a single law namely the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958.
The Union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands has proposed for promulgation of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Marine Fishing (Amendment) Regulation, 2011, with a view to amend the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Marine Fishing Regulation, 2003 (principal Regulation) to prohibit the use of fishing vessels for fishing purpose unless such fishing vessels are registered under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958. The aforesaid proposal has been initiated by the Union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands keeping in view of the decision taken by the Government of India to have a streamlined system of registration of all fishing vessels under a single law, namely, the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 for strengthening the Coastal Security.
Background :
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Marine Fishing Regulation, 2003 regulates the fishing by fishing vessels in the sea along with the coastline of the Union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Keeping in view of the decision taken by the Government of India to have a streamlined system of registration of all fishing vessels under a single law namely the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 for strengthening the Coastal Security, the Union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands has proposed for promulgation of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Marine Fishing (Amendment) Regulation, 2011, to prohibit the use of fishing vessels for fishing purpose unless such fishing vessels are registered under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958.
Release of additional instalment of Dearness Allowance to Central Government employees
The Union Cabinet today approved release of additional instalment of Dearness Allowance to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief to pensioners as due from 01.07.2011 at the rate of 7 per cent over the existing rate of 51 per cent
Chidambaram address at DGP/IGPs Conference
P. Chidambaram Inaugurates DGPs/IGPs Conference
The Union Home Minister Shri P. Chidambaram inaugurated the DGPs/IGPs Conference in New Delhi 15h September. In his address Shri Chidambaram exhorted the Intelligence Bureau and the intelligence wings of State police forces to continue to do their silent and solid work. The Minister said that we have taken up the task of capacity build since the Mumbai terror attacks, but more needs to be done.Ministers of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Shri Mullappally Ramachandran and Shri Jitendra Singh; Director, IB, Shri Nehchal Sandhu; National Security Adviser Shri Shivshankar Menon,; Union Home Secretary Shri R.K. Singh; Secretary, Internal Security, Shri U.K. Bansal,; Directors General and Inspectors General of Police of the States and the Union Territories; Chiefs of Central Police Organisations and other other delegates were present. President’s Police medals for meritorious service and Police Medals for Distinguished service were also conferred on 37 police officers on the occasion.
Following is the text of Home Minister’s speech:
“This is the third occasion when I have the opportunity to address the annual conference of DGPs/IGPs. I thank Shri Nehchal Sandhu, DIB and Chairman of the Conference, for inviting me to inaugurate the Conference.
We meet this year under the shadow of two terrorist attacks that took place in Mumbai on July 13, 2011 and Delhi on September 7, 2011. Innocent lives were lost; many were injured and, in Delhi, many are still in hospitals. We share the shock and grief of the affected families and offer them our deepest condolences and sympathies. We also owe a duty to remember the members of the security forces who have laid down their lives in the last 12 months. Between September 1, 2010 and August 31, 2011, 29 personnel were killed in the North East; 41 in Jammu & Kashmir; and 163 in Left Wing Extremism affected States. We pay homage to these brave men and promise their families that we will stand by them through their period of difficulty.
Under normal circumstances, I would have devoted the better part of my speech to take stock of what has been achieved and what remains to be done. However, I think the circumstances are unusual and difficult. Questions have been raised about the capacity, competence and commitment of our security forces and, especially, of the intelligence community. Doubts have been expressed about the investigations that are underway and, especially, of the cases that remain ‘unsolved’. There is concern about the long time taken for completion of trials and conviction of the accused. Comparisons have been made between India and other countries, particularly the United States.
While I shall deal with these issues presently, I think the leaders of the police forces – and especially the intelligence community – need to communicate more openly and more often to the people. I think it is necessary to tell the people what the police force in each State has been able to achieve in terms of capacity building, recruitment, procurement, training, induction of technology, intelligence gathering, solving cases and overall improvement in the level of violence and in maintenance of law and order. At the same time, the police forces must also convey that years of neglect had left the security forces under-prepared to confront the multi-dimensional challenges that are before the country.
For many years, communal violence was the biggest blot on the record of governments. The eight years since 2003 witnessed, on an average, about 750 incidents a year, but the number of casualties was low and on the decline. In the first six months of 2011, there has been a sharp decline in the number of incidents (271) and in the number of casualties. However, as long as there are forces that will attempt to communalise issues, there will be the danger of outbreak of communal violence. Hence, there is no room for complacency and I urge you to remain vigilant.
Another recurring challenge is how to deal with civil disturbances. The right to dissent and the right to protest are basic rights in an open society. However, we find that more often than not such protests turn violent. We saw indiscriminate stone pelting in Jammu and Kashmir in the summer of 2010. We have seen bandhs and rasta rokos in several States that caused widespread damage to property. There is also the new phenomenon of ‘blockade’ of national highways that cuts the lifelines to many parts of the country. Even as I speak, NH 2 and NH 37 in Manipur are subjected to blockades. The question that arises is how much force may be used by the security forces to deal with such civil disturbances? Following the turbulent summer of 2010 in Jammu & Kashmir, we advised the security forces to re-write the standard operating procedures (SOPs) and use only non-lethal methods to control civil disturbances, including stone pelting. I compliment the J&K police and the Central Armed Police Forces for adopting a completely new strategy and successfully dealing with the incidents of stone pelting. This summer has, by and large, been peaceful in Jammu & Kashmir. Three sets of numbers tell the story most vividly: the Amarnath Yatra attracted 635,000 yatris and concluded peacefully; over 630,000 tourists have visited the State so far; and the Vaishnodevi Shrine has been visited so far by 73,22,470 pilgrims. I urge all State police forces to revise their standard operating procedures to deal with civil disturbances. The use of non-lethal methods to control unarmed civilian protestors must become the new standard operating procedure.
The remarkable improvement in the North Eastern States has not attracted the attention that it deserves. Last year, I referred to the appointment of two interlocutors to talk to various groups in Assam, Manipur and Nagaland. I am happy to report further progress. We have ceasefire agreements with both NSCN(IM) and NSCN(K). We have Suspension of Operation agreements with NDFB, UPDS, DHD, ANVC, KNO, UPF and, more recently, with ULFA. The commencement of formal talks with NSCN(IM) and ULFA has been enthusiastically welcomed by the people. Some splinter groups and some smaller groups are still holding out and refusing to accept the offer of talks. In Manipur, a united front of seven Meiti underground groups has been formed. Therefore, a large presence of security forces in the North Eastern States is a necessity to deal with both the threat of violence and the cases of extortion. While we are happy with the decline in the level of violence, we can be satisfied only if the ongoing talks with different groups lead to the disbanding of armed cadres and honourable political agreements.
Left Wing Extremism is the most violent movement in the country. The CPI (Maoist) is the most violent organisation in the country. I have always maintained that dealing with Left Wing Extremism is a shared responsibility of the Centre and the States. Although the number of incidents and the number of casualties seem to indicate a decrease in the level of violence, this is largely attributable to the changed situation in West Bengal. I regret to point out that there is no significant decline in violence in Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and Orissa. Even in West Bengal, there are reports that the State unit has been instructed by the CPI (Maoist) to develop guerrilla bases in Jangalmahal and to intensify the conflict. The CPI (Maoist) has added at least four companies to the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army and its goal remains seizure of power through an armed liberation struggle.
The Central Government has shouldered its share of responsibility in dealing with the Left Wing Extremism. We have deployed 71 battalions of CAPFs as against 37 in 2009. The Budget allocation under SRE Scheme has been increased to Rs.337 crore in 2011-12 as against only Rs.80 crore in 2008-09. Likewise, the Budget allocation under SIS Scheme has been increased to Rs.140 crore in 2011-12 as against only Rs.30 crore in 2009-10. We have offered to fund 400 fortified police stations at a cost of Rs.2 crore per police station. We have sanctioned the raising of 13 Special IR Battalions that will have security and engineering components to support and implement development works. More helicopters are being inducted and other technological support is also being provided. The Integrated Action Plan has placed Rs.3,300 crore with the District Administration of 60 districts and 67,175 works are under implementation. 18 more districts will be added in 2012-13 and I am told that the Ministry of Rural Development will implement the scheme next year with the changes suggested by the Conference of District Collectors held two days ago. In addition, more funds will be provided under the flagship schemes.
I wish to appeal to the Directors General of Police that they must take ownership of counter insurgency measures and devise short and medium term strategies against Left Wing Extremism. The cooperation between the Centre and the States has yielded good results but there is still a long distance to travel and more years of hard work.
I shall now speak on the threat of terror. Two terrorist attacks in the space of two months are indeed blots on our record. Naturally, the Central Government and the security forces have been severely criticised. While we accept the responsibility for the incidents and the legitimate criticism, it is our duty to set out the context in which such terrorist attacks take place. No country in the world appears to be entirely immune to the threat of terror, the United States included. In 2011, up to August, there have been 279 major terrorist incidents in 22 countries. The worst affected are Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan. The epicentre of terror is Afghanistan-Pakistan. Four out of five major terrorist groups are based in Pakistan and three of them – LeT, JeM and HM – continue to target India.
There is no let up in attempts to infiltrate from across the line of control in Jammu & Kashmir. Besides, there are attempts to infiltrate terrorists via Nepal and Bangladesh into India as well as find a safe transit route from Sri Lanka to Tamil Nadu.
There are Indian modules too. They seem to have the capacity to attract radicalised youth to their fold. Some modules are loosely knit under an organisation called Indian Mujahideen. Many old cadres of the banned Students Islamic Movement of India have morphed into IM cadres. There are other Indian modules that espouse the cause of right wing religious fundamentalism or separatism. Many of these modules have acquired the capacity to make bombs.
The challenge of terrorism is a formidable challenge and requires a comprehensive strategy of counter terrorism. Following the September 11, 2001 attacks, the United States identified the Al Qa’ida as its pre-eminent security threat and declared war on Al Qa’ida and its affiliates and adherents. Over a period of 10 years, the US created the Department of Homeland Security; brought together 22 agencies and bodies under that department; fought two wars; and sent its agents and troops into other countries. 6,000 soldiers died; 137,000 civilians lost their lives and 7.8 millions became refugees. The cost was USD 4 trillion. And in a document put out in June 2011 the US admitted that the job is not yet done. During the last 10 years, there were three terrorist attacks on US soil (with 16 dead and 34 injured) and three nearly successful terrorist attempts that providentially failed.
We do not have just one pre-eminent threat; we have several. We must build the capacity to deal with these multiple threats. Capacity building is work in progress. It requires time, money, human resources, technology and harnessing the capacity of every agency and organisation in the country.
Have we done enough to build capacity since the Mumbai terror attacks? The answer is yes and no. 36 Battalions comprising over 36,000 personnel have been raised after November 2008 and 21 more Battalions are being raised. Since 1971, States have raised 132 IR Battalions and the Central Government has reimbursed Rs.1,002 crore for this purpose. 13 training institutions are being upgraded and 17 new institutions are being set up. 16 out of 21 new CIAT schools are functional. The CAPFs recruited 91,761 constables in 2009-10 and 2010-11. On their part, State police forces have reported that they have recruited 1,07,238 constables in 2009 and 90,359 in 2010. In 2011-12, CAPFs will recruit 92,168 constables and 29,370 officers and other ranks. I am confident that State police forces will recruit another nearly 1,00,000 personnel in 2011. In addition, huge quantities of rifles, carbines, pistols, BP jackets, night vision devices and vehicles have been procured for CAPFs and State police forces.
Yet, we have not done enough. There are still over 5,00,000 vacancies in State police forces. After the cadre review, the authorised strength of the IPS was increased to 4,720. On 1.1.2011 there were 3,393 officers in position and it will take seven years to reach the optimum level. Not all States have enacted the new Police Act nor set up the State Police Establishment Board. Not all States have adopted the Transparent Recruitment Process. Money is a big constraint. While the expenditure on internal security by the Ministry of Home Affairs has increased from Rs.25,302 crore in 2008-09 to a budgeted amount of Rs.40,834 crore in 2011-12, all the States and UTs put together have provided to their police forces only Rs.61,024 crore in 2011-12. Thus, we will spend Rs.101,858 crore this year on policing the whole country. This figure must be compared with Rs.164,415 crore that has been budgeted for the Defence services. It is obvious that the Centre and States must provide more money to their police forces.
There are other works in progress too. For example, Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS). From time to time there have been slippages but we have taken corrective steps and I am hopeful that the nationwide network will be in place by March, 2013. Some States have not yet selected the system integrator; some have not yet set up State Data Centre. These are matters that require the personal attention of the DGP of the State. The other ambitious project is NATGRID. Government approved the project on June 6, 2011 and I believe that it is proceeding according to schedule and the phases that have been approved will be completed in 18 months. The most important unfinished agenda is the National Counter Terrorism Centre. It was an idea that I had unveiled in my Intelligence Bureau Centenary Endowment Lecture delivered in December, 2009. The underlying premise is that there is a subtle difference between anti-terrorism and counter terrorism. To borrow a phrase from the National Strategy for Counter Terrorism published by the US Government in June, 2011, the goal must be “to disrupt, dismantle and eventually defeat” the terrorist groups. Today, we do not have an organisation devoting its whole time and energy to that task. I hope to secure a Government decision on setting up the NCTC. Once there is a decision, I am confident that the core team of NCTC can be installed within 60 days and the full structure can be put together within 12-18 months.
Meanwhile, the Intelligence Bureau and the intelligence wings of State police forces must continue to do their silent and solid work. Because they are silent and largely invisible, little appreciation will come their way. Given the size of our population and the territory, the size of our intelligence agencies is modest. They are engaged in intelligence gathering not only in respect of terrorists. They are required to gather intelligence about infiltrators, insurgents, Left Wing Extremists and peddlers of fake Indian currency. Yet, the intelligence agencies have achieved significant successes in the battle against terrorism. Since 26/11, security forces and intelligence agencies have neutralised 51 terror modules. To illustrate, Abdul Latif and Riyaz who were planning to attack ONGC installations were arrested in Mumbai in March, 2010. Zia ul Haque was arrested in Hyderabad in May, 2010 and a major terrorist action against a multinational company was disrupted. A 10 member SIMI module was busted in Madhya Pradesh in June, 2011 and their plan to assassinate three Judges was foiled.
I have also compiled a list of 48 terrorist cases since 2000. Of these, 37 cases have been charge sheeted and these include some cases taken over by the NIA where it has become necessary to further investigate the case. Out of the 37 cases, convictions have been obtained in 8 cases from Courts in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Chandigarh. That leaves 11 yet-unsolved cases. This is not a record to be scoffed at, although I agree that we ought to do better and I am sure that the State police forces will do better to investigate, charge sheet and obtain convictions of the terrorists.
I have dwelt at some length on the counter terrorist work of the agencies both at the Centre and in the States because this is an opportunity for me to speak to the people of the country and ask them to reflect on the work done by you in the face of formidable challenges. Of course, there are weaknesses in the system; there are delays in the processes; there is slackness on the part of individuals; but no one should doubt your commitment and your determination to fight terrorism and insurgency. As leaders of State police forces and Central Police Organisations, it is your duty to assure, by your words and deeds, that you will secure the life, liberty and property of the people of India.
On behalf of the Government of India I promise you our fullest cooperation. As I said at the beginning, the security of India is a shared responsibility of the Centre and the States. In return, I ask the State Governments to look upon the Central Government as a friend and collaborator. Let us work together to make India a country that is safe and secure for all those who live on this land.
I have great pleasure in inaugurating the Conference of Directors General and Inspectors General of Police and wish your deliberations success.”(15th September)
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