PM Modi chairs high level meeting on the drought and water scarcity situation with Chhattisgarh CM
Centre's additional funds restarts Piped Water Schemes in Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh CM lays out strategy for doubling farm income by 2022 to PM Modi
PM Modi appreciates Chhattisgarh State for implementation of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today chaired a high level meeting on the drought and water scarcity situation in parts of Chhattisgarh. The Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Dr. Raman Singh, was present in the meeting. Senior officials from the Government of India, and the State of Chhattisgarh, were also present.
An amount of Rs. 835.695 crore has been released to the State under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), after adjustments of the State balances. This is in addition to Rs 249.725 crore released as central share of State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for 2015-16 to the State. A further amount of Rs. 94.875 crore has been released as first instalment of SDRF for 2016-17.
The Chief Minister mentioned the water conservation measures initiated by the State. These include desilting of 8055 water bodies and farm ponds, construction of 44,181 new farm ponds, and construction of 9851 ground water recharge structures. The drought relief measures initiated in the State include provision of drinking water and foodgrains in each village. The Chief Minister said that one quintal of rice has been kept with each Panchayat, to ensure that no one starves in the villages. The State has used Remote Sensing Technology to identify watersheds and plan irrigation strategies.
The Chief Minister thanked the Prime Minister for implementing the recommendations of the fourteenth Finance Commission. He said the additional funds that have been made available to local bodies, have made it possible to restart Piped Water Schemes that had stalled due to lack of funds. Now all Piped Water Schemes in the State are functional.
The Chief Minister also spoke about the State’s programme to construct anicuts, and the State Government’s afforestation efforts. He presented the State’s strategy for doubling farm income by 2022.
The Prime Minister appreciated the preparatory work done by the State for Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. He said other States can also study this as a model.
The meeting ended with a resolve on the part of the Centre and State to work together.
India has once again captured global attention this week with significant advancements across technology, defence, and cultural milestones. From space exploration to AI-driven safety innovations in the world's largest religious gathering, India's influence continues to grow on the international stage.
Growing Indo-US Collaboration and Technological Innovations
This week, Elon Musk, who met with key Indian business leaders to discuss future ventures, has expressed his support for lowering trade barriers to enhance commerce between the two nations. His remarks reflect a trend of increasing collaboration between the two countries, particularly in the tech and space sectors.
India's growing technological footprint is also visible in its space achievements. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted its first-ever space docking test, marking a major milestone for the country's space program. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present during the test with scientists at the ISRO office in Bangalore.
In the defence and space sector, Indian startups are taking bold steps in collaboration with the United States. Seven private Indian companies have been selected for a pioneering Indo-U.S. space and defence initiative, signalling a deepening of the strategic partnership between the two nations.
AI Innovations and Crowd Safety at the Kumbh Mela
India is also harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to enhance safety at large-scale events. As preparations for the Maha Kumbh Mela ramp up, AI is being deployed to prevent stampedes at what is set to be the world's largest human gathering, with up to 400 million pilgrims expected. The AI system, developed to estimate crowd sizes and analyse real-time data from railways and buses, is a remarkable fusion of technology and tradition, ensuring safety at this massive event.
India Leads Asia in IPOs
India's capital markets have also seen significant developments. For the first time, India has surpassed China to lead Asia in initial public offerings (IPOs), driven by a surge in domestic investment. With Indian households increasingly investing in local equity markets, India's financial markets are experiencing a transformation, underscoring the nation's economic resilience and growing confidence of investors.
Defence Diplomacy and Growing Exports
India's defence diplomacy is gaining traction, with the Philippines moving forward with discussions to purchase more BrahMos missiles from India. Already an operator of the missile, the Philippines is looking to bolster its military capabilities with a larger order, reaffirming the strength of the BrahMos system. This deal is part of India's broader efforts to expand its defence exports, positioning itself as a key player in global defence markets.
Cultural Milestones: Global Artists Choosing India
India's cultural influence is also growing as international artists increasingly perform in the country. World-renowned musicians like Coldplay and Ed Sheeran are now choosing India as a destination for their tours, signalling a shift in the global entertainment landscape. India's growing demand for live music reflects the country's vibrant and evolving cultural scene.
Climate-Friendly Innovations in Rural India
In a remarkable step toward sustainability, climate-friendly waterwheels are making a comeback in rural Kashmir. Installed as part of a renewable energy initiative, these waterwheels offer energy independence to local villagers. This initiative is part of India's ongoing efforts to embrace green technologies while preserving traditional practices, contributing to both local development and environmental sustainability.
India, the Next Growth Frontier
Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast announced its entry into the Indian market this week with its premium electric SUV. VinFast's arrival highlights India's importance as a key destination for global automotive innovation. With a rapidly expanding market for sustainable transport solutions, India is cementing its role as the next frontier for EV growth.
From technological advancements and AI innovations to significant defence deals and cultural milestones, India's role on the world stage continues to strengthen. India's ability to combine modern progress with deep-rooted traditions while expanding its influence positions it as a global leader in making.
