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The Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitley calls upon the young officers of Indian Revenue Service (Customs & Central Excise) to maintain absolute standards of ethics and 100% integrity; asks them to emulate the Gandhian principle that even in moments of stru

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Category: Naval News
Published: Saturday, 02 January 2016 13:41
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Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
02-January-2016 16:34 IST

The Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitley calls upon the young officers of Indian Revenue Service (Customs & Central Excise) to maintain absolute standards of ethics and 100% integrity; asks them to emulate the Gandhian principle that even in moments of struggle, they should be in a position to maintain the position of ethics and morality on their side
The Union Minister of Finance Corporate Affairs and Information Broadcasting Shri Arun Jaitley asked the young Officer Trainees (OTs) of the 67th Batch of Officer Trainees (OTs) of the Indian Revenue Service (Customs & Central Excise) to emulate the Gandhian principle that even in moments of struggle, they should be in a position to maintain the position of ethics and morality on their side. He said that even when facing pulls and pressures, they must never forget to go straight. The Finance Minister told the Officer Trainees that if they maintain absolute standards of ethics and 100% integrity, they would definitely go a long way. All this was to be accompanied with professional competence and a judicious and fair approach in tax collection, he added. The Finance Minister Shri Jaitley was addressing the 67th Batch of Officer Trainees (OTs) of the Indian Revenue Service (Customs & Central Excise) here today. The function was attended among others by the Chairman, CBEC Shri Najib Shah, Shri Ram Tirath, Shri P.K.Bansal,and Ms Ananya Ray, all Members, CBEC and other senior officers of the Ministry of Finance and CBEC.

The Union Minister of Finance Corporate Affairs and Information Broadcasting Shri Arun Jaitley further that the taxation should not be a painful process for the people. Ideally, the Minister said that the Government should collection taxes like a honeybee, which sucks just the right amount of honey from the flower so that both can survive,. Shri Jaitley also mentioned that the starting point of any activity is investment and the purpose of investment is to yield profitability. And in this process, he said that the investors work out the element of taxability and this tax content which is generated as revenue is used for infrastructure and for fulfilling the social responsibilities of the State as well as to yield more economic activity. And for this, the Finance Minister in his address to the OTs indicated the road map for the future. He wanted them to retain the idealism which they inculcated at the time of joining the service to be retained with the same enthusiasm at the time when they are retiring from Service. For this, the Finance Minister said that they need to have the basic cardinal principle of striving for excellence. Earlier, the Officer Trainees (OTs) of 67th Batch qualified the Civil Service Exam 2014 have joined the Indian Revenue Service (Customs & Central Excise Service) on 28th Dec 2015. 190 officer trainees have reported for training including 25 officers of the earlier batch who had availed of extra ordinary leave. There are also five customs officers from the Royal Govt. of Bhutan who are training with this Batch. The educational qualifications of the OTs varies from engineering degrees to doctors to post graduate degree holders and graduates in the field of humanities science and commerce besides management and law graduates and a Ph D. The batch is truly representative of the States of India covering Jammu and Kashmir to Tamil Nadu and Gujarat to Manipur and Nagaland. The largest representation come from the state of Rajasthan followed by Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Maharashtra. Their age profile varies from 24 years to 35 years.

Their training includes class room training in Customs, Central Excise, Service Tax and Narcotics besides Public Finance and Policy, Foreign Trade Policy, International Conventions, Administrative Law and other related laws including those relating to protection of the environment, heritage of India, national security etc. Besides they are exposed to on the job training in the various field formations of Customs, Excise and Service Tax and also training with para military forces, like BSF, ITBP, Coast Guard, Indian Navy to learn the finer aspects of Border Management and National Security. They are also sent to a leading university abroad for a week’s training on leadership and public policy and to acquaint with international best practices.

********

DSM

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Maiden Sea Trial of Kalvari - First Scorpene Class Submarine

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Category: Naval News
Published: Monday, 02 May 2016 01:45
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 ‘Kalvari’, the first of the Scorpene class submarines, being built at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd Mumbai (MDL), went to sea for the first time today. The submarine sailed out at about 1000 hrs under her own propulsion for the first sea trial, off the Mumbai coast and during the sortie. A number of number of preliminary tests on the propulsion system, Auxiliary Equipment and Systems, Navigation Aids, Communication Equipment and Steering gear. Various Standard Operating Procedures were also validated for this new class of submarines. The submarine then returned to harbor in the evening.

*****

 

RS

MB/37/16

 

The background brief of the project and development is attached.

 


 

 

MAIDEN SEA TRIAL OF FIRST SCORPENE SUBMARINE – 01 MAY 2016

 

‘Kalvari’, the first of the Scorpene class submarines, built at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd Mumbai (MDL), went to sea for the first time today. The submarine sailed out at about 1000 hrs under her own propulsion for the first sea trial, off the Mumbai coast and during the sortie, completed a number of preliminary tests on the propulsion system, Auxiliary Equipment and Systems, Navigation Aids, Communication Equipment and Steering gear. Various Standard Operating Procedures were also validated for this new class of submarines. The submarine then returned to harbor in the evening.

 

This important milestone was achieved by MDL after overcoming a number of challenges faced since launching of the submarine last year in October. During the next few months, the submarine will undergo a barrage of sea trials, including surface trials, diving trials, weapon trials, Noise trials etc. which would test the submarine to the extremes of its intended operating envelop. Thereafter she would be commissioned into the Indian Navy as INS Kalvari later this year. Commissioning of Kalvari will be a re-affirmation of India’s capability to build submarines and a major boost for the ‘Make in India’ programme of the government.

           

            In April last year, the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri had visited MDL and directed that all out effort be made to complete the project in time. Accordingly, the teams from MDL, Indian Navy and DCNS have been working round the clock. Today, with the first sea sortie of Kalvari,  MDL has achieved a major project milestone.

 

Leveraging on the experience and the transfer-of-technology of the Scorpene project, and with the enhanced and upgraded infrastructure, MDL is ready for undertaking future submarine and shipbuilding projects, in order to meet the growing requirements of National Security.

 

Background

           

India joined the exclusive group of submarine constructing nations on                 07 February 1992, with the commissioning of the first Indian built submarine, INS Shalki. That was indeed a proud day for Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd, who had built this submarine. Mazagon Dock then went on to commission another submarine, INS Shankul, on 28 May 1994. These submarines are still in service today, after more than 20 years; testimony to the skills and capability of Mazagon Dock.

 

The ongoing project for the construction of six Scorpene class submarines, has M/s DCNS of France, as Collaborator and includes ‘Transfer of Technology’, with M/s MDL as the ‘Builder’.

 

Operational Features

 

            The state-of-art features of the Scorpene include superior stealth and the ability to launch a crippling attack on the enemy using precision guided weapons. The attack can be launched with torpedoes, as well as tube launched anti-ship missiles, whilst underwater or on surface. The Stealth features give it invulnerability, unmatched by many submarines.

 

The Scorpene Submarine is designed to operate in all theatres including the Tropics. All means and communications are provided to ensure interoperability with other components of a Naval Task Force. It can undertake multifarious types of missions typically undertaken by any modern submarine i.e  Anti-Surface warfare, Anti-Submarine warfare, Intelligence gathering, Mine Laying, Area Surveillance etc.

 

Construction Features

 

Submarines are built from special steel, capable of withstanding high yield stress and having high tensile strength, thereby allowing them to withstand high hydrostatic force and enabling them to dive deeper to further enhance stealth.

 

            The Submarine is built according to the principle of Modular Construction, which involves dividing the submarine into a number of sections and building them parallelly. The equipment is mounted onto Cradles and then embarked into the sections. The complexity of the task increases exponentially as it involves laying of around 60 kms of cabling and 11 kms of piping in extremely congested and limited space inside the submarine. Further, the stringent tolerances laid down for the construction of the Scorpene were indeed a challenge, but have been successfully achieved.

 

Other Features

 

The Scorpene is equipped with Weapons Launching Tubes (WLT), and can carry weapons on board which can be easily reloaded at sea, through special handling and loading equipment. The array of weapons and complex sensors fitted on board the Scorpene are managed by a high technology Combat Management System, which integrates various diverse systems fitted onboard into One Formidable Whole.

 

Status of Submarine

 

            The submarine was undocked on pontoon on 06 April 2015 in the presence of Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Manohar Parrikar. After completing the important milestones of vacuum test and battery loading, the submarine was launched at the Naval Dockyard on 28 Oct 15 and thereafter brought back to MDL for completion of the Basin trials and Harbour Acceptance trials phase.

 

             After conquering numerous challenges faced during the ‘Setting to Work’ phase and undergoing rigorous harbour tests & trials to the complete satisfaction of the customer, the submarine is now fully ready to undergo for sea trials. 

 

‘Kalvari’ : The Tiger Shark

 

Kalvari is the dreaded Tiger Shark, a deadly deep sea predator. As is the tradition, ships and submarines of the Navy, are brought alive after decommissioning. The first Kalvari, which was also the first Indian submarine, was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 08 December 1967. She was decommissioned on 31 May 1996 after almost 30 years of yeoman service to the nation. In true nautical traditions, she will now be re-incarnated, by Mazagon Dock, once again a powerful predator of the deep, guarding the vast maritime interests and areas of our nation.

 

            The commissioning of Yard 11875 (Kalvari),  will not only mark a generational shift in technology, insofar as submarine construction in India is concerned, but also for submarine operations by the Indian Navy.

 

Contribution to National Security and Nation Building

 

With it’s history of constructing the Leander and Godavari class Frigates, Khukri class Corvettes, Delhi and Kolkata class Destroyers, Shivalik class Stealth Frigates,  1241 RE Missile Boats and the Shalki class submarines, there is now no doubt that MDL has deservedly earned the soubriquet ‘Warship and Submarine Builders to the Nation’.  

 

            MDL’s contribution to national security and nation building will continue with the P-15B class destroyers, the first of which was launched in April 2015, and the P-17A class stealth frigates, the follow-on of the P-17 Stealth Frigates.

 

                                                                                               

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PM presents innovation trophies to 4 awardees on Navy Day

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Category: Naval News
Published: Friday, 04 December 2015 13:41
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Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Prime Minister's Office
04-December-2015 18:43 IST

PM presents innovation trophies to 4 awardees on Navy Day

On the occasion of Navy Day today, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, presented four innovation trophies to recognize innovations by personnel of the Navy.

The Prime Minister was also given a demonstration of salient innovations and indigenisation initiatives by young personnel of the Indian Navy, during the Navy Day reception.

***

AKT/SH/HS

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Shri Suresh Prabhu Flags Off Andaman Express Through Remote Control From Jammu Tawi to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

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Category: Naval News
Published: Friday, 04 September 2015 13:40
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Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu, flagged off 16031 Chennai Central Jammu Tawi Andaman Express Train from Jammu Tawi to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK). This is the extension of the existing train from Jammu Tawi to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra(SVDK). The flagging off was done through remote control by organising a video conferencing by Rail Bhawan(New Delhi) and Jammu Tawi Railway Station. The other Dignitaries present at the function at New Delhi end included  Dr. Jitender Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Development of North Eastern Region, and MOS in Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, Shri Manoj Sinha, Union Minister of State for Railways, Dr. Nirmal Kumar Singh, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Power Development and Housing & Urban Development, Govt. of Jammu and Kashmir,  Shri A.K. Puthia General Manager, Northern Railway. At Jammu end, Member of Parliament Rajya Sabha Shri Shamsher Singh Manhas, Shri Sat Sharma, Member of Legislative Assembly, Jammu and Kashmir were among those present on the occasion.

In his address the Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu said that it is necessary to provide good transportation facilities to the places of pilgrimage from every part of the country. Indian Railway is making sincere efforts in providing best connectivity to the places of pilgrimage. He said that Ministry of Railway is committed to the development of Railway infrastructure in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. He said that a meeting of consultative committee attached with Ministry of Railway was organised at Srinagar recently. Shri Suresh Prabhu said that he will soon hold a meeting at Jammu to review the progress of various Railway Projects. Shri Suresh Prabhu reiterated that Hon’ble Prime Minister has always been emphasizing the need to give priority to the development activities in Jammu and Kashmir.  

In his address, Dr. Jitender Singh said that it is heartening to see that Indian Railways is paying a lot of attention to the development of the Railway Infrastructure in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. He complemented Indian Railways for meeting the demand of people of Katra for increased connectivity with rest of the Nation. He pointed out that Railway represents the culture of the country. He said that when the train services reached Katra, many people of the region saw a train for the first time in the life.

In his address Dr. Nirmal Singh appreciated the steps taken by Indian Railways to provide better connectivity to Katra from different parts of the country. He said that Hon’ble Prime Minister has been personally concerned about the Railway Projects in the Jammu and  Kashmir. He praised the Railway Minister Shri Suresh Prabhu for his dynamism and initiatives in improving the Railway services.

Shri A.K.Puthia in his welcome address outlined the progress of various Railway Projects being undertaken in Jammu and Kashmir.

Brief Backgrounder about trains services in Jammu and Kashmir and Katra :

 

·         It has been planned to extend 13 pairs of train services originating from various parts of the country upto Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK)/Udhampur.  Out of these, 05 pairs have already been extended upto SVDK w.e.f. 01.09.2015 and 02.09.2015.

 

·         Extension of 16031/16032 Chennai-Jammu Tawi Andaman Express upto SVDK has been  flagged off today on 04.09.2015 by Minister of Railways from Rail Bhawan,

 

·         The schedule of this train is as follows:-

 

 

 

16031 Chennai-Jammu Tawi Andaman Express (Tri-weekly)

Station

16032 Jammu Tawi-Chennai Andaman Express (Tri-weekly)

Arrival

Departure

Arrival

Departure

--

05:15 (W, Th, Su)

Chennai

10:10 (Th, Su, M)

--

13:10

13:20

Jammu Tawi

23:35

23:45

15:20 (F, Sa, Tu)

--

SVDK

--

21:55 (Tu, F, Sa)

*Commercial stoppage at Udhampur

 

·         In the Railway Budget 2014-15, introduction of 07 pair of Mail/Express trains, 03 pair of Premium trains and 02 pair of DEMU trains have been announced out of which 09 pair of train services have already been introduced.  Remaining 03 pair of train services will be introduced as and when Rolling stocks are available.   

 

·         List of the trains announced in the Railway Budget 2014-15 which would serve the State of Jammu & Kashmir and status of implementation are as under:-

 

S.  No.

Train no

From

To

Frequency

Type

Status

1.

19805/19806

Kota

Udhampur

Weekly

Express

Introduced w.e.f. 12.11.2014

2.

14713/14714

Sriganganagar

Jammu Tawi

Weekly

Express

Introduced w.e.f. 24.09.2014

3.

22941/22942

Indore

Jammu Tawi

Weekly

Express

Introduced w.e.f. 29.12.2014

4.

14155/14156

Kanpur

Jammu Tawi

Bi-weekly

Express

Introduced w.e.f. 09.06.2015

5.

22461/22462

New Delhi

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

Daily

Superfast

Introduced w.e.f. 14.07.2014

6.

22679/22680

Yashwantpur

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

Weekly

Premium

Introduced w.e.f. 29.01.2015

7.

19415/19416

Ahmadabad

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

Weekly

Express

Introduced w.e.f. 25.01.2015

8.

74615/74616

Baramula

Banihal

6 days a week

DEMU

Introduced w.e.f. 09.07.2015

9.

74613/74614

Baramula

Budgam

6 days a week

DEMU

10.

15655/15656

Kamyakhya

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

Weekly

Express

Will be introduced as and when Rolling stocks are available

11.

22923/22934

Bandra

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

Weekly*

Premium

12.

22313/22314

Sealdah

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

Weekly*

Premium

 

·         The 04 pairs of train services which were running as special trains on Baramulla-Banihal, Baramulla-Badgam and Badgam-Banihal section has been made run as regular service.  Now, Baramulla-Budgam-Banihal section is presently being served by 13 pairs of train services (Baramulla-Banihal section is being served by 04 pairs of train services, Baramulla-Badgam section is presently being served by 07 pairs of train services and Badgam-Banihal section is being served by 10 pairs of train services).

 

·         Apart from this, 24 pair of mail/express trains serving the state of Jammu & Kashmir have been permanently augmented by utilising 24 coaches during 2015-16. 

 

·         Presently, Jammu Tawi station is being served by 51 pairs of train services while Udhampur station is being served by 13 pairs of train services.

 

·         Besides, to clear extra rush of passengers during summer, festive seasons or in connection with various religious congregations, special trains are made run serving the state of Jammu & Kashmir from various destinations as per the volume of traffic as and when required.

 

  • The list of 13 pairs of trains planned for extension upto SVDK/Udhampur and their status is as under:-

Sl.No.

Train No. and Name

Approved for extention upto

Status

1.

16031/16032 Chennai-Jammu Tawi Andaman Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

Will extend from 04.09.2015

2.

12477/12478 Jamnagar-Jammu Tawi Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

01.09.2015 from Jamnagar

06.09.2015 from SVDK

3.

11449/11450 Jabalpur-Jammu Tawi Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

01.09.2015 from Jabalpur

02.09.2015 from SVDK

4.

12445/12446 New Delhi-Udhampur Uttar Samark Kranti Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

01.09.2015 from New Delhi

02.09.2015 from SVDK

5.

14033/14034 Delhi Udhampur Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

01.09.2015 from New Delhi

02.09.2015 from SVDK

6.

14155/14156 Kanpur-Jammu Tawi Express

Udhampur

01.09.2015 from Kanpur

02.09.2015 from SVDK

7.

12471/12472 Bandra (T)-Jammu Tawi Swaraj Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

03.09.2015 from Bandra T

01.09.2015 from SVDK

8.

12473/12474 Ahmedabad-Jammu Tawi Sarvodaya Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

05.09.2015 from Ahmedabad

03.09.2015 from SVDK

9.

12475/12476 Hapa-Jammu Tawi Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

02.09.2015 from Hapa

07.09.2015 from SVDK

10.

14609/14610 Rishikesh-Jammu Tawi Hemkunth Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

09.09.2015 from Rishikesh and 10.09.2015 from SVDK

 

11.

16317/16318 Kanyakumari-Jammu  Tawi Himsagar Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

04.09.2015 from Kanyakumari 07.09.2015 from SVDK

12.

16687/16688 Mangalore Central-Jammu Tawi Navyug Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

31.08.2015 from Manglore Central From SVDK-03.09.2015

13.

19803/19804 Kota-Jammu Tawi Express

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

05.09.2015 from Kota

06.09.2015 from SVDK

 

 

AKS/MKV/MN/rv

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

 

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English Rendering of Prime Minister’s ‘Mann ki Baat’ address on All India Radio

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Category: Naval News
Published: Tuesday, 04 August 2015 13:40
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Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Prime Minister's Office
28-June-2015 16:39 IST

English Rendering of Prime Minister’s ‘Mann ki Baat’ address on All India Radio


Namaskar, My Dear Countrymen!

Last time in Mann ki Baat I had requested you to send me memorable pictures if you go out on a vacation anywhere in India and if you happen to find them, kindly post them under the ‘Incredible India’ hashtag. When Isaid that, I had never imagined that it would get such an immense response. Lakhs of people have posted photos on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. I can say that India is full of diversities and I was able to witness so many magnificent scenes in those pictures; be it of architecture, art, nature, waterfalls, mountains, rivers or seas. Government of India had never thought that in terms of tourism you all could contribute in such a massive way. I liked some pictures so much that I re-tweeted them. And as I understand, if some one would not have posted the picture of Belum caves in Andhra Pradesh many people would have never come to know that something like that exists in our country. Madhya Pradesh’s Orcha Fort is another example of that. We assume Rajasthan to be a state with scarcity of water, but when someone sends a photo of Menal waterfall, it is a matter of great surprise. Really, a tremendous work has been done. We will promote and also continue doing such work and the entire world will watch it, entire nation will watch it and our new generation will also watch it.

My beloved countrymen, though you have elected me as the Prime Minister of the country but at times, the human in me shuns all posts and prestige associated with it and submerges oneself within it. I can say that 21st June, the International Yoga Day affected me in the same manner. At that time, when I proposed the International Yoga Day, it was just an idea. But the scene that was witnessed on 21st June was such that wherever the sun dawned, wherever its rays reached, there was not a single landmass wherein it was not welcomed by way of Yoga. We can say with conviction that the sun never sets in the world of Yoga practitioners.

The way Yoga was received and was welcomed with open arms around the world, there would not be any Indian who would not be proud of it. I too got delighted. And when the people of France chose River Seine and Eiffel Tower in which they take pride to do Yoga, they gave an equal status to it as River Siene and Eifel Tower. In New York people did yoga at Times Square. If we think about Sydney, Australia then the picture of Opera House comes to our mind. The citizens of Australia gave equal respect to yoga and did yoga at the Opera House. Whether it is North America, Silicon Valley or Milan’s Duomo Cathedral it is a matter of great pride for us. On 21st June when I saw Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, UN Secretary General doing yoga at UN Headquarters, I was really delighted. Similarly, UN Peace Keeping Force did a spectacular display of Yoga. In India, our soldiers too were doing yoga in Siachen on white sheet of snow and on sea too, wherever our naval ships are posted, the yoga program was being carried out by Indian Navy. Delhi made it to the Guinness Book of World Records . Rajpath turned into the Yogpath that day. I am thankful to India and the rest of the world and can say that the International Yoga Day was not for namesake. It seemed as if that from every corner of the world, there was a new inquisitiveness, new joy, new hope and new connection.

Few days back, when I tweeted a photo of a Vietnamese child doing yoga, it was such a sweet photo that it got a lot of attention from the entire world. Everybody, be it men-women, old-young, village-city, developed or developing countries, everybody got connected with it. Yoga in true terms, became the core reason to connect the entire world. I do not know how the intellectual class, elites of the world would analyze this event. But I can feel and every Indian can experience that the whole world is very curious to know more about India. Curiosity towards India has increased. The world wants to know about the values, the rituals and the heritage of India. It is our responsibility that without any artificiality we share our legacy and introduce ourselves to the world. We can only do this when we ourselves are proud of our traditions.

At times, we are so familiar with our values that we don’t feel there is anything new in them but we ourselves do not know that our family values are considered to be a big thing in the entire world. Why don’t we familiarize the outside world with our family values? The world would be very surprised to know about them. I am sure, they would be intrigued. There are many things that our forefathers have given to us which are the best and the entire world also has the right on those things. The success of International Yoga day has brought in a new responsibility along with it. It is our responsibility that we gift supreme Yoga teachers to the world. It is our responsibility that we can see the entire tradition of Yoga on one platform from the Universe.

I request the youngsters, especially the IT professionals, that all of you should come together to create an Online Yoga Activity program. We all should come to know about all the Yoga organizations, Yoga teachers and all the necessary information about the Yoga from this online program. One database must be prepared and I believe you can do it. One must start from somewhere and it would surely turn out to be a great power. I have seen and learnt from the perspective of recent occurrences that a government that works and the government that is action-oriented can bring in results if the targets are set. We should not forget that the only voice that could be heard one year ago was that nothing happens, nothing happens, nothing happens.

Can you imagine that there is a department under Government named Ayush. Nobody has paid attention towards this department. The only mention Ayush in some corner of the newspaper being a small department is once in 2 to 5 years. But it led on the International Yoga Day. It was this small department that organized this event in the entire world. Therefore, this is an example that if there is an aim then even a small department can do a supreme job.

In the last few days, the world saw how we saved people from Yemen to Afghanistan. In a few hours-, we reached Nepal and helped people over there. When people wanted to open an bank account under the Government’s new scheme of Jan Dhan Yojana, how the people working in bank helped them to do so and connected millions of Indians to the bank.

On 15th August last year, when I appealed from the Red Fort for toilets in schools, I had said that by next 15th August we have to complete this task. The work which could not be completed in last 60 years was promised to be completed by the end of one year. The promise was really daring. Almost four and half lakh toilets were to be built but I can say it with satisfaction that though 15th August is still far off, the work of constructing toilets by the people is on the verge of completion.

This means that the Government, people and Government workers, all want to work for the country. If we pledge to work in an unselfish manner “Welfare for All, Happiness for All” then the Government will also work efficiently. The people who are a part of the government will also work efficiently and the people of the nation will welcome them with open arms.

I have experienced this. This is the true strength that drives a nation forward. Last month, we had launched three Insurance schemes. I had launched them from Kolkata and it has received such a commendable response in such a short span of time. There have been very few steps which have been taken from the perspective of social security but by way of these three schemes we are taking a big leap. In such a short time span more than 10 crore people have become a part of these schemes but we have to take it further. I have a thought which I want to put forth before you. Rakshabandhan comes in the month of August. Can’t we start a massive movement before this festival and make every women, be it our mother or sister, a part of this, thereby giving benefit to them under this Insurance program. Be it a sister who is a domestic help in your home or your own sister why can’t we gift them a Rs. 12 or Rs. 330 scheme on Rakshabandhan for their entire life. This can be a big gift for a sister from their brother. Why can’t we set the eve of rakshabandhan as a target and in a number of 2 crore, 5 crore, 7 crore and 10 crore … try to reach the sisters so that they can reap the benefit of this scheme. Let’s come together and try to work together towards the completion of this pledge.

Whenever I hold a Mann ki Baat session, many people send me suggestions. This time many people have suggested that I say something about the monsoons. Yogesh Dandekar from Nagpur, Harshvardhan ji from Mysore, Praveen Nadkarni ji, Divyanshu Gupta ji have all asked me to say something about the monsoon in this session of Mann ki Baat. They have sent in some really good suggestions. And this is a season of happiness. And each one of us, whatever the age is… definitely tempted to enjoy the first showers of the monsoon. I am sure, you too might be enjoying the rains with bhajiyas, pakoras, corn and a hot cup of tea. Just as the rays of the sun give us life, similarly rainfall provide us life and sustenance. Every drop of water is precious. As a responsible citizen and as a member of the society, we will have to cultivate the habit of conserving every drop of water. It should be our pledge that water from the villages stays in the villages and water for the cities remains available for them. If the rain water does not flow away, it goes into the earth , then the aquifers get recharged and the year long water woes get resolved. Rain water harvesting is not a new concept. It is being practiced over the centuries. Be it check dams, watershed development, small lakes or the small ponds in fields, we need to save the precious waters everywhere. I always tell people, that if you go to Porbander, the birth place of Mahatma Gandhi, you will be able to see a two hundred year old underground water tank which got directly recharged with the rain water. You can still see it. If you ever go there, do visit the place. And you will find that even after two hundred years it is still functional, brimming with water and the water does not even stagnate. Porbander is a coastal city, so potable water was collected through the rains for the entire year. Even in those times such a lot of care was taken. We can too do the same. This should in fact become a mass movement. Each and every village should have the facilities for rain water harvesting.

Similarly, we find greenery so pleasing to our eyes. We all like greener surroundings. Gardens and trees bring in an element of freshness in our lives. This monsoon season, there should be mass plant sowing campaigns conducted by youth and social organizations. And I can take a leaf from my personal experience and offer you a suggestion which has been very successful. This is an intensely rural technology. Whenever you sow a plant, place an earthen pot near it. You just need to fill it once or twice in a month. You will see how fast the plant grows into a lush green tree. I have even been telling the farmers to plant trees on the boundaries of their fields instead of putting barricades. These will become your biggest asset in the long run.

It is true that rains are enjoyable and bring in a lot of fun at the same time. It is also true that rains also bring in many diseases. Doctors get to see so many patients that they hardly get the time to breathe. We all know that rains cause many water borne diseases. Increased moisture in the environment leads to bacterial growth and so, keeping the environment clean becomes important. Cleanliness is very important in monsoons. It is often requested to consume safe drinking water. Most of the people boil and drink water during this season. It has its own benefits. And this is true that the more care we take, healthier we would be. We need monsoons and we need water but we also need to stay healthy.

Dear citizens, we have recently launched three schemes for the people in the cities. We have around 500 small cities. Our policy is ‘Waste to Wealth’. We can earn from waste too. Garbage can be recycled to make fertilizers, bricks and even electricity. Contaminated water can be recycled to make it clent and be used for irrigation in the fields. We have to take this movement forward.

In the Amrut scheme, we have launched a massive campaign and taken up initiatives to improve the quality of life in our cities. We should become a country which is able to match the living standards of the world. We should have smart cities, comparable to world standards. And yet at the same time, the poorest of poor person should have an accommodation of his own and that too complete with water, electricity, sanitation and access to a school. In 2022 when India celebrates its 75 years of Independence, we wish that every Indian has a house of his own. Keeping all this in mind, we have launched three major schemes. I am positive that these schemes will bring about a qualitative difference in the lives of the urban people.

I am myself connected to you via the social media. I keep getting many new suggestions and new ideas and also good and bad information about our government. And sometimes it so happens that a small comment from an individual in some remote village in India conveys something that just touches our hearts. You are aware that the government has launched “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” programme. But you can’t imagine the force that is lent to the programme when a village or a society adopts it. A few days back a Sarpanch in a small remote village of Haryana, Sri Sunil Jaglan ji launched ‘Selfie with Daughter’ campaign. Such an environment was created that every father wished to click a selfie of himself with his daughter and post it on the social media.

I liked this idea, and that too for a special reason. In Haryana, the number of girls in comparison to boys is dismally low. Around another 100 districts in the country have a similar dismal situation of skewed sex ratio. But it is the worst in Haryana. In that very same Haryana, if a Sarpanch of a small indistinct village lends this meaning to the “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” programme, then I certainly get overwhelmed. It makes me so happy and it gives me a new hope and I do express my happiness. I request you all to take a selfie with your daughter and post it on #selfie with daughter. And do not forget to post a tagline around the theme of “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” with it, whatever be the language it can be in Hindi, English, your mother tongue or your native language. And I promise to re-tweet the most inspirational tagline with you and your daughter’s selfie. We can turn “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” into a mass movement. I urge you all to take forward the programme launched by Sri Sunil in Bibipur village of Haryana. I request you all to post on #selfie with daughter. Lets us all enjoy the rising honour and prestige of our daughters and see how joyful this entire experience of “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” becomes. Let us all rid ourselves of this bad name that we have for not respecting our daughters.

So my best wishes to you for the coming monsoon season. May all of you enjoy the rains. Make our country clean and green. And remember, the International Yoga day was not a single day initiative. Continue practicing Yoga, then see what difference it makes to you and your life. And I say this from my experience. Please take this forward. Make Yoga a part of your life. And that initiative regarding Incredible India, do keep posting a picture of whichever part of the country you go to. The country and the world will awaken to our diversity. I felt that the handicrafts did not receive due attention. Do make it a point to post the handicrafts of the local region you visit. There are so many things that people around you might be making, the poor as well as the skilled might be creating. Do keep posting their pictures regularly. We have to expand our reach to the world and make India known to the world. We have an easy medium at our disposal and so we will all do it.

My dear countrymen, that is all for today. I shall meet you again in the next edition of Mann ki Baat. Many people expect me to announce some huge schemes during this programme. But I am working day and night towards those. This is my time for some light conversation with you all. This gives me immense pleasure.

Thank You Very Much!

***


AKT

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Text of PM’s closing remarks at Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) Summit, Jaipur

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Published: Saturday, 22 August 2015 01:40
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21-August-2015 20:45 IST

Text of PM’s closing remarks at Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) Summit, Jaipur

Excellencies,

Thank you very much for your thoughts and recommendations on our global challenges and our bilateral cooperation. Your perspectives are very important to us.

Let me reassure you that we will remain very sensitive to your concerns in international forums. We would also like to shape our bilateral cooperation in accordance with your needs and priorities.

Let me share my thoughts with you on a few global issues and propose a few initiatives for our cooperation.

Climate change is clearly a pressing concern for all. Combating it is India’s national priority. We make this choice with the natural instinct of our heritage and culture. But, we also do this in our enlightened self-interest and with a commitment to the future of our planet.

That is why we have set a target of additional capacity of 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022. National action will succeed only through a strong international partnership. As much as we speak of goals and emission reductions, we should focus equally on access to affordable technology and adequate finance that makes transition to clean energy natural and easy. Otherwise, experience shows that targets will remain difficult dreams. We must equally seek a global commitment to support adaptation to the growing impact of climate change on our lives and economy.

India will work with you and others for a comprehensive, balanced and fair outcome at COP 21 in Paris.

Your interests will have the strength of our voice.

Excellencies,

As I mentioned in my opening remarks, reforms of the UN Security Council is in global interest and vital for a more inclusive and equitable world.

As I said before, we should quickly adopt the draft presented by the President of the General Assembly as the negotiating text and conclude negotiations during the 70th Session of the General Assembly. Excellencies,

As I said, you are large ocean states. We look forward to working with you to realise the full potential of our oceans in a sustainable manner.

We would be pleased to establish an Institute for Sustainable Coastal and Ocean Research in the region and a network of marine biology research stations in various island nations. We could begin immediately with research collaboration and capacity building with institutions in India.

We also propose to hold an International Conference on “Ocean economy and Pacific Island Countries” in New Delhi in 2016. We will be delighted to host officials and independent experts of all 14 Pacific Island Countries.

Indian Navy has provided direct support and capacity building to island states in Indian Ocean, especially for coastal surveillance and hydrographic surveys. This has helped them get a better understanding of their maritime zone and strengthen security of their EEZs. We would be prepared to extend this assistance to our Pacific Island partners.

We also look forward to goodwill visits by Indian Navy to Pacific Islands. The ships could also extend support in areas like healthcare through medical camps on the islands.

Not only is our future closely linked to Space and Oceans, there is also a close relationship between the two.

Space assets and technology can help us in inventory of land and water resources; fish zoning; forest resources management; coastal and ocean studies; weather and climate change; and, disaster management support.

We can assist in establishing a ‘Space Technology Applications Centre’ in any one of the Pacific Island Countries for the entire region and enhance our support for training in space applications, including through customized courses.

Fiji’s support was invaluable for our Mars Mission. We hope to continue receiving support from Pacific Islands for Telemetry, Tracking and Command for our missions in the future.

We are all increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters, but we can reduce their human impact.

India will be pleased to create capacity in Island States to deal with natural disasters, including through human resource development and application of space technology for early warning system and incident response.

Human resource development has been a key area of cooperation. There is no other form of cooperation that is as effective in building a nation’s future.

For the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation training programme, Fiji will get 110 slots, and the number of slots for the other 13 countries will be doubled from 119 to 238.

In addition, we will offer two scholarships for college education in India to each of the 13 countries that do not receive them yet, while continuing with the 33 scholarships presently offered to Fiji.

We will expand our training courses for Pacific Island diplomats and, in addition, offer a two-week business management course at the globally renowned Indian Institute of Management in Bengaluru.

During the last three years, India has trained 43 rural women from 8 island countries as solar engineers. We now commit to train 70 women solar engineers and to provide solar electrification to 2,800 houses - 200 houses in each Pacific Island Country. This will save kerosene worth about a million US dollars and provide livelihood to women.

I am pleased to announce that we will establish at least one information technology laboratory in each Pacific Island country. This will not only improve local IT infrastructure, it will enable us to fulfill our commitment to provide tele-medicine and tele-education to the people.

We are prepared to do more to strengthen our trade. In addition to the FIPIC Trade Office in New Delhi, we can support the development of micro, small and medium enterprises and will extend support for purchase of machinery for coconut processing and enhancing rice and sugarcane yields.

We will also improve market access for Small Islands Developing States. We will focus on developing capacity for health services in your countries.

Supply of generic drugs from India is presently routed through third countries and are, therefore, very expensive. We are ready to set up a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant and distribution centre in the Pacific Island region and are pleased to offer a Line of Credit for this project.

Human bonds are the strongest foundation for enduring relations between nations.

Last year, we had announced electronic visas for Pacific Island countries. I am pleased to announce that we have decided to provide gratis visa to the nationals of Pacific Island countries.

Prasar Bharti, India’s national broadcaster is happy to gift television and radio programmes on culture, entertainment, news, education, etc., in English and Hindi to your countries. Prasar Bharati also proposes to organise a specialised training programme over the next few months for broadcasters from the Pacific Island Countries.

We will also support creation of India Centres through e-libraries and supply books to libraries at universities in your countries.

Excellencies,

In the short time together, we have made concrete progress. Together, we are highlighting the value of relationships, based on goodwill, respect and concern for each other. This partnership demonstrates that geography is no barrier to productive partnerships of convergent interests and shared challenges. This partnership will be of great relevance to all of us in the 21st century.

Your support to this partnership means a lot to India. We see this as a partnership of equals, driven by similar aspirations, in which we will all be more successful by being together.

It stems from our belief in VasudhaivaKutumbakam – the world is one– and from the conviction that in sharing what we have, we enrich each other and make this world a better place.

It is a great honour to have you with us. I hope you have had an enjoyable visit to India. We hope that this would inspire you to visit us more often.

Thank you.

***

AKT/AK

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Indian Naval Ships Enter Sihanoukville, Cambodia & Sattahip, Thailand

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Published: Tuesday, 23 June 2015 13:39
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            In pursuit of India’s ‘Look East’ and ‘Act East’ policy, the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet ships under the command of Rear Admiral Ajendra Bahadur Singh, VSM, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEF), are on a two month long operational deployment to South East Asia and Southern Indian Ocean. 

           

            As part of the deployment, two of the Indian warships, INS Ranvir (a Guided Missile Destroyer) and INS Kamorta (an indigenously built Anti Submarine Corvette) entered Sihanoukville, Cambodia and the other two warships including INS Satpura, an indigenously built guided missile stealth frigate and INS Shakti, a sophisticated fleet tanker and support ship, entered Sattahip, Thailand today on a four day visit respectively. The previous visit by an Indian Naval ship to Thailand was in Jun 10.       

            The visit is aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries as well as fostering inter-operability between the navies of these two friendly nations.

           

            These ships are on the return leg after a 45 day deployment. During the stay in harbour, various activities such as official calls, professional interaction between personnel of both the navies, reception onboard and ship visits have been planned. On departure from Sihanoukville, INS Ranvir & INS Kamorta will exercise with the Cambodian Navy for enhancing interoperability in Maritime Operations including Search and Rescue. These ships have visited Singapore, Jakarta (Indonesia), Freemantle (Australia) and Kuantan (Malaysia) during deployment. During this deployment two warships also participated in the bilateral exercise SIMBEX-15 with the Royal Singapore Navy from 20-26 May 15. 

 

Click here to see Photos:

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DKS/AK                                                                                                                     40/15

 

   

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Some achievements of the Ministry of Earth Sciences during 2014-15

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Published: Wednesday, 30 December 2015 13:41
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Cyclone Forecast:  There has been a remarkable improvement in the prediction of cyclone, and extreme events as demonstrated in the recent   events    such as landslides in Uttarakhand and floods in Jammu-Kashmir, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat due to intense precipitations and cyclones Ashobaa & Komen (2015). Two very severe cyclones, HudHud and Nilopher, were predicted well in advance and sufficient time was available to respond. All aspects of cyclone genesis, intensity, track, landfall as well as associated rainfall, gale wind and storm surge were predicted accurately. The forecast for the HudHud was appreciated by the Prime Minister. The cyclone track, landfall point and intensity forecast errors have improved to 107 km, 60 km and 11 knots during 2010-14 against 140 km, 110 km and 13 knots during 2005-09 respectively for 24 hours lead period. Extreme heavy precipitations in the Kashmir valley were predicted 3 days in advance and state administration was alerted. This has been accomplished by virtue of augmentation of observation system networks, enhancement of the computing capability and increase of data availability and implementation of high-resolution global models. Probabilistic forecasts of rainfall/snowfall and the strike probability of tropical cyclone have been introduced in the operational forecast products of NCMRWF.

Monsoon Prediction: For the first time, dynamic models were employed on real-time basis to predict quantitative precipitation during the southwest monsoon season.  The long range forecast revised in August 2014 for the season (June-September) rainfall for the country as a whole was 87% against forecasted rainfall of (88 ±4) % of LPA for the year 2014 and 86% against the forecasted rainfall in June 2015 of (88 ±4) % of LPA for the year 2015 .  The onset of Monsoon over Kerala as well All India Monthly forecast for July and August was predicted accurately.

 

Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa:   Agromet Advisory Services Programme of the Ministry has a direct impact on agricultural production. Weather information based advisories before various stages of farming provided to 11.34 million farmers in the country covering 633 Districts of 23 States through Kisan Portal and PPP mode. Farmers’Awareness Programmes conducted to popularize the service also benefit from the advisories. In addition, in collaboration with Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR), around 25 Panchayats have also been identified to distribute agromet advisories and rain gauges for rainfall monitoring on pilot basis.

 

Infrastructure Facilities: A High Altitude Cloud Physics Lab (HACPL) at Mahabaleshwar to study micro physical characteristics of aerosols and clouds and associated environmental conditions. A large scale Campaign including aircraft and ground based measurements was organized over the Ganga Basin and Maharashtra to study cloud-aerosol interactions . Towards this, high performance computation facilities have been substantially augmented by upgrading the existing 170 Teraflop to storage archival capacity of 1000 Teraflop, which is ranked at 36th position in the world’s top 500 and first in the country.  350 TF Bhaskara HPC was dedicated to the nation by Minister for Earth Sciences on 2nd June, 2015. For the first time in India an indigenous climate model has been developed for studying variability and predictability of monsoon on seasonal, inter-annual and decadal time scale.

A first version of the IITM Earth System Model was developed indigenously for studies on climate change and making regional climate change scenarios. Additional research work to further improve fidelity of the model is going on.   A paradigm shift in numerical modelling activity for operational weather forecast has been achieved. The atmospheric Model of Global Forecasting System (GFS) with a special resolution of 18 km was set up which is considerable improvement from 50 km to 18 km resolution. The resolution of global unified model was increased to 17 km and the regional model to 4 km, which have resulted in forecast improvements. An advanced Ensemble Prediction System (~33 km/L70; 44 members) for quantitatively assessing the uncertainty in the deterministic forecasts and generating probabilistic forecasts was also implemented. The upgraded data assimilation scheme using the flow-dependent statistics calculated from an ensemble of short-range forecasts and ingestion of new Indian satellite data have shown forecast improvements.

 

A Seafront Facility of 150 acres along the Nellore Coast has been acquired for carrying out Ocean Technology testing and demonstration activities which include establishment of an offshore numerical tank, ballast water treatment facility etc.

Capacity Development:  A set of four international and four national workshops/training programs were organized by International Training Centre for Operational Oceanography established at INCOIS, Hyderabad   for promotion of capacity building in the countries of the Indian Ocean region.Two Similar regional workshops were conducted in the field of atmospheric science and services for BIMSTEC countries. IITM, Pune in collaboration with ICTP, Trieste, Italy has organized a Targeted Training Activity on Monsoon Modelling during February 2015 at Pune. The third batch of CAT Students has completed the 18-month training program and became eligible for appointment as Scientist-B/C at different MoES Institutions.

Polar Research: -   The 34th Expedition to Maitri and Bharati, Antarctica and 8th expedition to the Himadri, Svalbard were launched for glaciological and atmospheric investigations.  The President of India interacted with the Indian Scientists based in Himandri through video-conferencing. First Ocean moored observatory IndArc for time series measurement of ocean parameters in the Kongsforden, Svalbard, Norway, deployed in July 2014 was successfully retrieved on 15th July 2015. This data recorded continuously for one year is a major achievement in the area of in-situ observation. New Arctic Observatory (IndArc II) with additional biogeochemical sensors & acoustic sensors was deployed successfully on 19th July, 2015 in Arctic. India successfully commenced operations at 3rd Indian Permanent Station Bharati, in the Larsemann Hills, East Antarctica which would give a major thrust to study in the field of glaciology, atmosphere, paleoclimate and Polar biology.  India has been accorded observed status in the Arctic Council in recognition of India’s scientific contribution and endeavour in Polar research. Polar ROV “PROve” was deployed on 10th of February 2015 at Priyadarshini Lake, Antarctica. System functionality was successfully tested and it recorded the lake bed videography which shows the abundance of algal mats clearly. Also PROve was successfully tested at site near ice shelf in Antarctica. The Ice Shelf is clearly seen from the Scanning SONAR and scientific data is collected using the sensors.

Ocean Survey and Exploration:  India’s application for site allotment of about 10000 sq.km in the Indian Ocean with exclusive rights for exploration was approved in the 20th Session of the International Seabed Authority (ISBA) held during 14-25 July, 2014 at Kingston, Jamaica. ISBA is a body established under the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea responsible for exploration and exploitation of resources in the seabed lying in international water. Polymetallic Sulphides in the Ocean Ridges containing Copper, Zinc, Silver, Gold, Platinum and rare earth elements, constitute significant and important future mineral resources. The Indian Site located near the Rodriguez Triple Junction of the Indian Ocean Ridge in the South West Indian Ocean was identified based on earlier investigations and research work.

 

Geoscience:    Completion of the Preparatory phase of scientific deep drilling in Koyna and identified sites for pilot boreholes, 4.5 km deep. Finalization of Science Plan and team selection for deep drilling in the Arabian Sea to study evolution of Himalayas and origin of monsoon was done. Action was initiated for setting up of National Centre for Seismology for addressing all the seismological aspect in an integrated way.  Operationalized the Integrated Seismic and GNSS Network and Data Centre for online access to data from 200 remote seismic and GNNS stations.

International Cooperation: Five agreements have been signed with international agencies and agencies of countries such as Japan, USA, Kuwait, Norway, and UNESCO for cooperation in various fields of earth sciences. A LoI was signed between Ministry of Earth Sciences and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, USA for cooperation in research.

Initiation of New Programs:

Himalayan Meteorology program will be launched to improve observations, both meteorological as well as snow and ice related, in the region including on glaciers and snow-clad regions. The capabilities for nowcasting for expeditions, pilgrimage, tourism, etc. also to be developed. 

Severe Weather Warning System: Severe weather such as dust storms, extremely heavy rainfall, cloud burst, fog, cyclones, etc. affect different parts of the country regularly. A high resolution (1.5 km) convective scale regional model has set up for generating forecasts of severe/extreme weather events and trial runs are being carried out. (iii) Offshore numerical tank will be established with a hydrodynamic simulation facility with virtual reality for testing of offshore structures/systems.

 

Marine Living Resources:  Annual trawl-ban being implemented as part of sustainable management of fishery resources available in the Indian Coasts has been observed to have significant effect on the recovery of macro benthic organisms particularly polychaetes and crustaceans in the inner shelf region where demersal trawling is intense. The observed values of biomass during the pre and post-ban period indicate an increase of total biomass almost double as that of initial values in the depth range between 30 to 50 m. The study exemplifies the importance of the trawl ban imposed during the monsoon to maintain resilience of coastal ecosystems and its socio-economic services. A new biodiversity hot spot “Terrace off Trivandrum” has been identified along the depth contours of 1200 m at South West Coast of India with an unusually high abundance of deep sea fishery resources as high as 1.2 tonne catch per unit effort.

Ocean Science Technology and Services:Two Indo-US joint expeditions were accomplished in the Bay of Bengal for studying ocean mixing and Monsoon experiments. Forecast on potential fishing zones and ocean state for India and Indian Ocean countries. Maps for long-term shoreline changes for Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu were also accomplished.  Ocean Information and Advisory services are now extended for Tuna Fisheries (daily) and Coral Bleach Alerts (once in 3 days). Online Oil Spill Advisories, Ocean State Forecasts along shipping routes as well as for Maldives, Seychelles and Sri Lanka are now provided on regular basis. Indigenously designed and developed Polar Research Vehicle was deployed at Antarctica successfully for scientific observations. Completed (i) preparation of Atlas for the Indian Coast and development (ii) deployment of indigenous drifters to measure sea surface temperature, pressure and currents having INSAT communication and (iii) design of the Offshore Reef with beach nourishment for coastal protection at Puducherry. (iv)  teams of scientists retrieved a lost heavy weight torpedo “Varunastra” of Indian Navy from the sea bed at a depth of 168 metres with the support of ORV Sagar Nidhi. This is the first time in the country that the torpedo is recovered from such depths. (v)  Autonomous Coring System (ACS) qualified at 1000m water depth in the KG Basin and drilling done upto ~24m below the sea floor.  (vi) Open sea cage culturing was successfully demonstrated at Olaikuda and fishermen self-help group successfully cultured and harvested 7.0 tonnes of cobia in the open sea cage. A societal training programme on open sea cage culture was conducted on 4th November 2014 at Rameshwaram and 85 participants including fishermen, self-help group and entrepreneurs participated.

A National Centre for Seismology (NCS) has been established as an attached office of the Ministry by consolidating all seismological related activities of IMD and MoES and reorganizing them under NCS.

NCS has since been disseminating earthquake information to various designated authorities associated with disaster management, relief and rescue operations including media. At present the network is upgraded and augmented and information is provided within 10 minutes of occurrence of the earthquake. Work is on for establishing early warning system for the same.  Seismic microzonation of NCT Delhi on 1:10K scale has been completed.

 

*****

RDS/SS

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English rendering of text of Prime Minister’s ‘Mann ki Baat’ on All India Radio

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Published: Friday, 01 January 2016 01:41
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26-April-2015 00:37 IST

English rendering of text of Prime Minister’s ‘Mann ki Baat’ on All India Radio

My Dear Countrymen,

Namaskar!

I was not feeling like doing Mann ki Baat today. I am feeling heavy and burdened and little distressed. There were news of hailstorm, unseasonal rains and damages to farmer’s crop when I was talking to all of you last month. Suddenly, out of nowhere strong winds blew in Bihar, causing death of so many people and inflicted lot of damages there. And the earthquake has shaken the entire world on Saturday. It seems the trend of natural disasters has continued. Be it the Nepal earthquake and in India as well the earthquake took lives across various states of India. There has been loss of property because of the earthquake. However, the loss to Nepal is frightening.

I have seen Kutch earthquake very closely on Jan 26, 2001. I can clearly imagine how devastating these disasters are. I can imagine what Nepal and the victimized families there must be going through. But my dear brothers and sisters of Nepal, India is with you in your hour of grief. Work has begun to provide assistance to people facing crisis across several locations in India and Nepal. First and foremost work is rescue operation to save people. Some people must still be alive under the debris and should get evacuated safely from there. A team of experts which has been sent is specifically trained for this task. Sniffer dogs have been sent as they possess the ability to trace any individual staying alive under the debris. Our whole endeavour would be to save maximum number of people alive. Post rescue operation, there is a need to undertake relief work as well. Rehabilitation work will also continue for long. However, humanity has a power of its own. Nepal is a dear to 125 crore people of India. Their grief is our grief. India will make sure to wipe the tears of every Nepali, hold their hands and provide support to them.

Thousands of our Indian brothers and sisters were left stranded in Yemen a few days ago. It was a very tough task to evacuate the Indians alive amidst horrific situation, amidst the tension of bombs and guns, amidst firing but we managed to do so. Not only this, when we safely rescued a new born girl who was just a week old, we felt how much power humanity has. It brings a sense of satisfaction to the mind by rescuing a week old girl alive amidst raining bombs, guns and shadow of death.

Wherever I went overseas in the last few days, I received compliments for one thing and that was for saving citizens of 48 countries of the world in Yemen. Be it the citizen of the US, the UK, France, Russia, Germany, Japan, we helped the citizen of every country. And due to this, the world has experienced the old saying of India, “सेवा परमो धर्मः”, meaning the greatest service to humanity is to serve others. Our Ministry of External Affairs, our Air Force and our Navy have done this work with such courage and responsibility that it will have indelible imprint over the world in the coming days. This is what I believe in. And I am happy that all the people were evacuated safely without any damage and it should be noted that India's special quality is that our culture is quite old.

Recently when I visited France, I went to a memorial of the First World War there. The reason for visiting the place was that it is the centenary year of the First World War, but at the same time it is the centenary year of India's valour. This is the centenary year of the sacrifices made by the Indian heroes and “सेवा परमो धर्मः”, meaning the greatest service to humanity is to serve others and how this phrase has been lived by our country, this year is a centenary year for this reason also. I am saying this because very few people would know that about 15 lakh Indian soldiers had put their life at stake during the First World War from 1914 to 1918. And the Indian soldiers did not die for India’s cause. India neither wanted to capture any country, nor did it want to take away anyone’s land. But the Indians had shown amazing strength. Very few people would know that about 74000 of our soldiers sacrificed their life in the First World War. And this is also a matter of pride that about 9200 soldiers, who lost their life, were bestowed with Gallantry Award. Not only this, there were eleven such individuals who received the highest honour of Victoria Cross. About 4700 Indians had sacrificed their life especially during the World War in March 2015 in France, which has made a memorial as a mark of respect for them. I went there to commemorate and express my gratitude to the strength displayed by our ancestors.

If we see all these incidents, then we can say to the world that our country thinks in the direction of peace, happiness and welfare of the world. The country keeps doing something in this direction and if needed put its life at stake. India finds itself in the first row among the highest contributors in the peacekeeping force of the United Nation. That is the matter of pride for us.

In the last few days, I got the opportunity to accomplish two important tasks. We are to celebrate the 125th birth anniversary of respected Babasaheb Ambedkar. There has been a controversy regarding the land where his memorial was to be built for many years. I am satisfied that the Government of India decided to allot the land for building the memorial of Babasaheb Ambedkar. Similarly, there must be an International Centre in the name of Babasaheb Ambedkar in Delhi so that the entire world knows this sage, his thoughts and his work. This was also a matter, which was pending for years. I completed and laid the foundation stone of the memorial. I pledged to complete the work in 20 months, which did not happen for 20 years. And at the same time a thought has also come into my mind and we are working on it. Even today there are many families in our country that are forced to carry dirt on their head. Is it a matter of grace for us that even today some families in our country have to carry the burden of dirt on their head? With all earnest, I said in the government forum to get us free from this blur in the year when we commemorating Babasaheb Ambedkar on his 125th birth anniversary. Now, we will not tolerate a situation where any poor will have to take load of dirt on his head in our country. For this we need the support of the society, government must also shoulder its responsibility. I need cooperation of people as we have to do this work.

Babasaheb Ambedkar used to say ‘Stay Educated’ throughout life. Even today, education has not reached many dalits, exploited, and deprived ones in the society, especially girls. We must also pledge on the occasion of 125th birth anniversary of Babasaheb Ambedkar. There must not be any son or daughter of the poor remaining illiterate in our villages, cities and locality. Government must do its duty. And if it gets the support of the society, then we will definitely feel a sense of satisfaction. I want to share a matter of happiness and share another matter of discomfort as well. I take pride of the fact that two daughters of India have made the country proud. One daughter -Saina Nehwal became the world’s no. 1 in Badminton, and the second daughter Sania Mirza became the world’s top player in Tennis Doubles tournament. Congratulations to both and all the daughters of our country. I feel proud seeing the effort and strength of our own. But sometimes, we lose cool. When the Cricket World Cup was on and we lost to Australia in the semi-finals, the kind of words used and the treatment meted out to the players was not good my countrymen. How can be a game with no defeat? Victory and defeat are part and parcel of life. If the players of our country have been beaten in a match, then we must encourage them in the times of crisis. There must be an effort to create an environment to generate new confidence. I am sure that we will learn from the defeats going forward and we will not lose control in few moments by indulging in action-reaction. And I am getting worried. Whenever I see that anything happens all of a sudden, a mob surrounds and burns the truck, burns the vehicle. And we see these things on TV as well. Accident must not happen. Even the government must make full effort. But my dear countrymen tell me if we should burn the vehicles? Dead ones do not come back. Can’t we ensure law to take its due course keeping our emotion in check?

Well, today my mind has been very grief-stricken due to these incidents, especially due to natural disasters. But amidst this also, we will move forward with courage and confidence. Be it individual of this country - dalit, oppressed, exploited, tribe, villager, poor, farmer, small businessman, we will move forward on the path of welfare for everyone. Examinations of students are over. Especially, the students of 10th and 12th standard must have made a program of celebrating the holidays. I wish all of you a very good vacation, get the opportunity to learn something new. And since you have worked hard the whole year, then I wish that you spend some time with your family with joy and happiness.

Namaskar to Everyone.

Thank You!

***

AKT/AK/NT

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NDRF conducts Tsunami Mock Drill

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Published: Saturday, 26 September 2015 13:40
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As part of an exercise to check and review the preparedness of the States on the East Coast of India to meet the Tsunami threat, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India issued directions to National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to conduct a Tsunami Mock Exercise on September 26, 2015 in the States of  Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and West Bengal. NDRF was designated as the lead agency to conduct the mock drill and Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad was given the responsibility to conduct a preparatory workshop on the Tsunami Exercise to be followed by similar preparatory workshop at State levels. The preparatory workshop was conducted by INCOIS on August 26, 2015 in Hyderabad in which NDRF officials and officials from participating States who are dealing with Disaster Management in the respective States and officials from Indian Navy and Coast Guard participated. All the participating States conducted preparatory meetings at State levels for officials of those districts where the Tsunami Mock Drill will take place. As a culmination of deliberations at such meetings, 09 places in Andhra Pradesh, 06 in Odisha, one in Puducherry, one in Tamil Nadu and three in West Bengal were selected to hold the Tsunami Mock Exercise on September 26, 2015 by the participating States.

 

NDRF as a lead agency, actively participated in the deliberations held at INCOIS, Hyderabad  and at the State level and promised to extend all help and expertise to make the Tsunami Mock Exercise a grand success.

 

All the Commandants, 2nd In Commands of the Battalions were asked to participate in the exercise along with their teams. NDRF also nominated one Officer each at State Emergency Control Centre (SECC) and District Emergency Control Centre (DECC) during the exercise. One Emergency Operation Control Centre (EOCC) for NDRF was established at the Office of the DIG, SZ, NDRF, Chennai during the exercise.

 

            The objectives of the Tsunami Mock Exercise :

 

Ø  To check and review the preparedness of the agencies, departments involved in Disaster Management(DM) at State and District levels.

Ø  To check and review the channel and flow of Tsunami WARNING/ALERT/WATCH Bulletins issued by INCOIS, Hyderabad to various Govt. agencies.

Ø  To check and review the response of various agencies and departments to the impending disaster.

 

Timeline of Events during the Mock Exercise :-

 

0930 hrs- ITEWC (Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre), INCOIS (Indian National              Centre for Ocean Information Services), Hyderabad issued Tsunami Mock Drill Test Stand up Message to all agencies/Departments involved in the incident.

 

0935 hrs- ITEWC  Test Bulletein-1 Issued

 

    0940 hrs- ITEWC  Test Bulletein-2 Issued

 

    0950 hrs- ITEWC  Test Bulletein-3 Issued

 

    1045 hrs- ITEWC  Test Bulletein-4 Issued

 

    1145 hrs- ITEWC  Test Bulletein-5 Issued

 

    1245 hrs- ITEWC  Test Bulletein-6 Issued

 

    1330 hrs- Final Bulletin issued.

 

All the concerned agencies received the Bulletins issued by ITEWC, INCOIS Hyderabad and action was taken as per SOP at all the designated places. The objectives of Tsunami Mock Exercise were met satisfactorily.

 

List of places where tsunami mock drill conducted today

 

Sl.No.

State

Place

 

1

Tamil Nadu

Poombuhar, District: Nagapattinam

2

Puducherry

Pattinasery, District: Karaikal

3

Andhra Pradesh

a)      Patha,Megavaram, Bandaruvani & Peta,    Dist:Srikakulam

b)      Pathivada, Dist: Vizianagaram

c)      Vadapalem, Dist Visakhapatnam

d)     Pallipalam, Dist: East Godavari

e)      Turputallu, Dist: West Godavari

f)       Kanuru,Tallepalem,Machilipatnam,

District: Krishna

g)      Suryalanka, dist: Guntur

h)      Chinnapattapupalem, Dist: Prakasam

i)        Mypadu, Dist: Nellore

4

Odhissa

a)      Chandipur, Dist: Balasore

b)      Paidalpur, Dist:Bhadrak

c)      Tikayatnagar, Dist Kendrapara

d)     Nuadaon, Dist: Jagadsingpur

e)      Delada, Dist: Puri

f)       Kanamana, Dist: Kanjiam

5

West Bengal

i) Kakdwip, South 24 Parganas

 

 

ii)Digha, Purba Medinipur,

 

 

iii)Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parkanas

 

***

KSD/BK

 

 

 

 

 

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Operational Effectiveness and Readiness should be the Touchstone of all the Efforts – ADM RK Dhowan

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Published: Saturday, 23 April 2016 13:45
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The first edition of this years’ bi-annual Naval Commanders' Conference which commenced on 21 Apr 16, concluded today after three days of fruitful deliberation. The Hon’ble RM addressed the Naval Commanders on 21 Apr 16 and complimented all personnel of the Indian Navy for ensuring the maritime security of the country through a high tempo of operations. He especially commended the Navy for the outstanding conduct of Combined Commanders’ Conference on board Vikramaditya off Kochi last December and the successful conduct of the International Fleet Review at Visakhapatnam in February this year. He also appreciated the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief efforts of the Indian Navy in the aftermath of the floods in Chennai as well as the recent fire tragedy at Puttingal temple near Kollam in Kerala. He assured the Commanders of the government’s commitment to the modernisation and development plans of the Navy. He further appreciated the efforts of the Navy in the recent initiative to grant permanent commission to the first batch of women officers and also induction of women as pilots in the Maritime Reconnaissance stream of Naval Aviation and Naval Armament Inspectorate cadre. The conference also provided an opportunity to the Naval Commanders’ to interact with MoD officials on important ongoing issues.

 

Chairing the conference, the Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral RK Dhowan addressed the Navy’s top leadership on myriad issues including enhancing the operational readiness of the Commands, infrastructure development, human resource management, coastal security, cyber security and foreign cooperation initiatives.

 

Addressing the Naval Commanders, the CNS revisited the thrust areas as also the importance of the C3I model – i.e. Commitment, Compassion, Credibility and Integrity – to keep focus on defined goals and maintain the Navy on the correct track, which he had stressed on taking over the command of the Indian Navy. The CNS was very satisfied with the progress made over the last two years and complimented the

 

 

rank and file of the Indian Navy for successfully overcoming several challenges and navigating steadily through the way points which were set.

 

The CNS said that the Navy has contributed significantly to the nation’s geopolitical and developmental aspirations and that has been accepted and acknowledged at the highest level of our government.

 

Emphasising that combat readiness of the fleet and other operational formations is of prime importance, the Admiral said focused efforts, as hitherto, are required at all levels to ensure sustained growth of the Navy into a formidable multi-dimensional force. The CNS complimented all ranks of the Navy in maintaining a high tempo of operations during the last six months including the very successful International Fleet review (IFR) held by the Navy at Visakhapatnam in Feb 2016, apart from a number of other notable operational activities such as the first Combined Commanders’ Conference on board Vikramaditya in Dec 15.

 

Among the focus areas discussed during the conference were aspects pertaining to training, skill development and welfare of retiring personnel who constitute a vital resource for the nation. He also reviewed the progress of housing infrastructure projects for naval personnel. e aso Consequent to 2016 being observed as the ‘Year of Civilian Personnel’ in the Indian Navy, the service conditions of civilian personnel and their quality of life were deliberated extensively. The CNS stated that our men and women are our greatest assets and their morale and well-being should always remain the primary concern. He also highlighted the grant of permanent commission to women officers as a major milestone in the Indian Navy’s history.

 

The indigenisation programme of the Navy was discussed and the CNS stressed that indigenisation of platforms, weapons, sensors and equipment, through DRDO, public and private sectors as also through in-house efforts, should remain an area of focus. In this regard he highlighted the successful conduct of the IN-FICCI joint seminar on ‘The Make in India Paradigm - Roadmap for a Future Ready Naval Force’ where we had a very healthy participation from the various stake holders and Indian industry.

 

During the course of the conference, the Chief of the Naval Staff reviewed the progress of airfield infrastructure, security of Naval Air Stations, dockyards and naval establishments. In addition metrological and oceanographic initiatives being undertaken in support of naval operations were also discussed.  

 

The CNS also reviewed the improvements being made to the logistics delivery chain and the implementation of e-procurement in the Indian Navy. He emphasized the need for constant review and refinement of the Navy’s logistics support structures to ensure that its combat units and formations receive quality logistics support while maintaining a high operational tempo.

 

One of the highlights of the conference was the opportunity Naval Commanders had to interact with the MoD officials, wherein issues pertaining to joint operations and military synergy were discussed.

 

In his closing address the CNS complimented all personnel of the Indian Navy for their professionalism and patriotism, and exhorted them to prepare the Navy to meet the future maritime security challenges before the country. “We must continue to pull on the oars together, to propel the navy forward, and contribute to a strong and prosperous maritime nation” he stated. He expressed confidence that the Navy would continue to grow from strength to strength in the coming years and emphasized that operational effectiveness and readiness should be the touchstone of all the efforts. He concluded by stating that the Navy’s role is not only vital for national security, but also for national prosperity and development.

____________________________________________________________________________

DKS/CKP                                                                                                                               26/16

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Rear Admiral Sanjay Mahindru Takes Over as Flag Officer Submarines

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Published: Friday, 25 September 2015 13:40
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Rear Admiral Sanjay Mahindru, NM has assumed the duties of Flag Officer Submarines from Rear Admiral SV Bokhare, today, 25 September 2015. Rear Admiral Mahindru was commissioned on  01 January 85, and has served 27 years in the Submarine Arm.  He has commanded a conventional submarine, frigate and a destroyer prior assuming Command of nuclear submarine Arihant. Whilst serving ashore, the officer commanded the Navy's Submarine Training Establishment and been a Director at Naval Headquarters.  He is an alumnus of prestigious College of Naval Warfare and has also completed the Staff Course in the United Kingdom.

 

 

*********

DKS

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Empowering Women Officers: Progressive initiatives by Indian Navy

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Published: Wednesday, 20 April 2016 13:45
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Several progressive and first-time initiatives have been taken by the Indian Navy in the last few months towards empowering women officers.

Recognising the importance of providing equal opportunities to women officers, seven women officers from the batch of Short Service Commission officers of the Education branch and Naval Constructor cadre, who joined in 2008-09, have been granted Permanent Commission.

Additional avenues for employment of women officers have also been opened up. Starting in 2017, women officers can choose to join as Pilots of Maritime Reconnaissance planes viz. Boeing P8I, Dornier, etc, as also in the Naval Armament Inspectorate cadre. Thus, a total of eight branches/cadres will be opened for women officers in the Navy.

The Navy is also finalising the policy for women officers to serve on select warships that have appropriate facilities for women.

In order to demonstrate that women are second to none in tough adventure activities, a crew of six Naval women officers including the skipper, is meticulously preparing for the first, all-women, circumnavigation of the world in 2017 by an Indian team, in an indigenously built ocean sailing vessel, Mhadei II.

DKS/CKP

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Mormugao - Second Ship of Project 15b Launched at Mazagaon Docks Mumbai

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Published: Saturday, 17 September 2016 13:54
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Another significant milestone in the annals of the Indigenous Warship design and construction programme of India was achieved with the launch of Guided Missile Destroyer, Mormugao, second ship of Project 15B, on 17 Sep 16, at Mazagaon Dock Ship Builders Limited (MDL), Mumbai. With a launch weight of 2844 tonnes, the vessel made its first contact with water at 11:58 AM with full fanfare during the launching ceremony graced by Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba as the Chief Guest. In keeping with maritime traditions, Smt Reena Lanba, President, Navy Wives Welfare Association (NWWA), broke a coconut on the ship’s bow and launched the ship, as invocation from the Atharva Veda was being rendered.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Guest, Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of the Naval Staff said that “this event is yet another moment of truth for the Indian Navy and India’s quest for self-reliance and indigenisation. The Indian Navy stands fully committed to the call of ‘Make in India’ and we are extremely proud of the fact that all of our warships and submarines on order today are being constructed within the country”. He further added that this also is “an affirmation of our resolve that the Indian Navy should attain a size and capability that is commensurate with India’s growing stature in the world, our national maritime interests, and our commitment to cooperation and collaboration towards ensuring secure seas for shaping a favourable and positive maritime environment.

The Admiral also commended the synergic partnership of MDL, Indian Navy, DRDO, OFB, BEL, other public sector enterprises and the private industry in ensuring that force levels are made available to meet India’s National strategic objectives. He also congratulated DGND and his team at Directorate of Naval Design for designing state of the art warships and contributing towards achieving Indian Navy’s dream of transforming from a “Buyers” to a “Builders” Navy.

Project 15B ships feature cutting edge advanced technology and are comparable to the best ships of similar class anywhere in the world. These ships have been designed indigenously by the Directorate of Naval Design, New Delhi. Each ship spans 163 metres in length and 17.4 metres at beam and displaces 7300 tonnes. These ships will be propelled by four gas turbines to achieve speeds in excess of 30 knots. The P15B destroyers incorporate new design concepts for improved survivability, sea keeping, stealth and ship manoeuvrability. Enhanced stealth features have been achieved through shaping of hull and use of radar transparent deck fittings which make these ships difficult to detect. P 15B ships will be equipped to carry and operate two multiple role helicopters.

These ships are packed with an array of state of the art weapons and sensors, including vertically launched missile system for long distance engagement of shore, sea-based and air targets. With significant indigenous content, these ships are a true hall-mark of self reliance attained by our country in warship design and ship building.

BRIEF ON PROJECT 15B – SUPPLEMENTARY INFO

Four Guided missile Destroyers of Project 15B (P 15B) are under construction at M/s Mazagaon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai. The contract for construction of these four ships was signed on 28 Jan 11. These ships are amongst the most technologically advanced Guided Missile Destroyers of the world, with state-of-the-art weapon/sensor package, advanced stealth features and a high degree of automation. The design of P15B ships has been developed in house by the Directorate of Naval Design.

With a displacement of 7300 tons, each ship will span 163 meters in length and 17.4 meters at the beam. These ships will be propelled by four gas turbines in Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) configuration and are capable of achieving speeds in excess of 30 knots with a maximum endurance of 4000 nm.

The P15B destroyers incorporate new design concepts for improved survivability, sea keeping, stealth and ship maneuverability. These ships will be equipped to carry and operate two multi-role helicopters. State of art rail less helo traversing system is being introduced on these ships for efficient helicopter handling onboard.

These ships can truly be classified as possessing a Network of Networks, as they are equipped with Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS), Ship Data Network (SDN), Automatic Power Management System (APMS) and Combat Management System (CMS). While control and monitoring of machinery and auxiliaries is achieved through the IPMS, power management is done using the APMS. The CMS performs threat evaluation and resource allocation based on the tactical picture compiled and ammunition available onboard. The SDN is the information highway on which data from all the sensors and weapons ride.

Stealth has been a major thrust area in P15B design. Enhanced stealth features have been achieved through shaping of hull and use of radar transparent deck fittings which make these ships difficult to detect. The ship embodies features such as Multiple Fire Zones, Total Atmospheric Control System (TACS) for Air Conditioning, Battle Damage Control Systems (BDCS), Distributional Power Systems and Emergency DA to enhance survivability and reliability in emergent scenarios.

These ships have been designed for a complement of 50 officers and 250 sailors. The accommodation and working spaces have been designed with special emphasis on ergonomics and habitability.

The ship’s “fire power” consists of sophisticated weapons-sensor suite including vertically launched Surface to Air Missiles (SAM) and Surface-to-Surface Missiles (SSM) for long distance engagement of shore and sea based targets. It is also noteworthy that this ship has significantly high indigenous content, in the form of weapons, machinery and material. These ships therefore showcase the Nation’s growing capability in developing and delivering complex warships, which serves as a true hall mark of self reliance attained by our country in warship design and construction. This high level of indigenization has been achieved through participation of both public and private sector.

The second ship of P15B Yard 12705, christened, Mormugao, is planned to be launched on 17 Sep 16 at MDL, Mumbai, and will be the fifth frontline warship, including the indigenous aircraft carrier, being launched in last six years, in addition to the delivery of three frigates, three destroyers and two corvettes during the same period.

DKS/RS

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President of India condoles the passing away of Admiral R.H. Tahiliani

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Published: Friday, 16 October 2015 13:44
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Press Information Bureau
Government of India
President's Secretariat
16-October-2015 18:07 IST

President of India condoles the passing away of Admiral R.H. Tahiliani
The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the passing away of Admiral R.H. Tahiliani, former Chief of Naval Staff.

In a condolence message to his wife, Smt. Meera Tahiliani, the President has said, “I am sad to learn about the passing away of your husband Admiral R.H. Tahiliani, former Chief of Naval Staff.

Admiral Tahiliani led the Indian Navy with distinction for more than three decades. He was the first to land on the deck of INS Vikrant on a Hawker Sea Hawk Fighter in 1961, ushering carrier based aviation into the Indian Navy. During his distinguished career, Admiral Tahiliani commanded the carrier borne Squadron INAS 300 during the Indo-Pak war in 1971 as also the INS Trishul and the Aircraft Carrier INS Vikrant. For his outstanding services to the nation and the Indian Navy, he was honoured with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM). Admiral Tahiliani’s services to the State and the people of Sikkim as Governor of the State of Sikkim between February 1990 to September 1994 shall always be remembered with respect and honour.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences and convey them to the rest of your family members. I pray to the Almighty to give you and the other members of your family, the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss”.

***

AKT/VK

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27th IND - INDO Coordinated Patrol

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Published: Friday, 29 April 2016 01:45
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The Indonesian Navy and the Indian Navy have been participating in coordinated patrol (CORPAT) twice a year since 2002 to keep this vital part of the Indian Ocean Region safe and secure for commercial shipping and international trade.

The 27thseries of India – Indonesia Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) is being conducted from 28 Apr to 19May 16. Opening Ceremony of the CORPAT is being held at Port Blair from 28 – 30 Apr 16. Closing Ceremony will be held at Belawan, Indonesia from 16 – 19 May 16. The Indonesian Navy is being represented by the ship KRI Imam Bonjol and Maritime Patrol Aircraft CN 235 whilst INS Karmuk and one Naval Dornier aircraft are representing the Indian Navy.

A high level Indonesian delegation for the 27thCORPAT arrived at Port Blair on 28 Apr 2016. Later in the day, senior officers of the delegation led by First Admiral Muhammad Ali, called on Vice Admiral Bimal Verma AVSM at his office, wherein the two discussed issues of mutual interest and cooperation.

Apart from securing the trade sea route, the coordinated patrolalso serves to enhance mutual understanding and inter-operability between the two navies.The CORPAT thus reflects the shared concern between the two countries for a peaceful Indian ocean for the benefit of international community.

DKS/CKP

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Greenfields Public School wins Youth Parliament Contest for Delhi schools

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Published: Thursday, 21 January 2016 13:41
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Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
21-January-2016 18:21 IST

Greenfields Public School wins Youth Parliament Contest for Delhi schools
Greenfields Public School, Dilshad Garden, Delhi has won the 50th Youth Parliament Competition, 2015-16 for Delhi Schools and was presented with Pandit Motilal Nehru Running Parliamentary Shield today. Shri Bratin Sen Gupta, former Member of Parliament felicitated the winning team with the Shield at a function organized in the Parliament Library Building.

Delhi Tamil Education Association Senior Secondary School, Sector-4, R.K.Puram, New Delhi stood first among the new entrants in the Youth Parliament Competition, organized by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.

Air Force Senior Secondary School, Race Course, Government Co-education Senior Secondary School, Dwarka, Happy School, Darya Ganj, St.Giri Senior Secondary School, Rohini, Navyug School, Lodhi Road, Nab Bharat Senior Secondary School, Shree Nagar Colony and St.Paul School, Hauz Khas were also felicitated for meritorious performance in the competition.

The number of schools under the Directorate of Education, Government of NCT of Delhi and New Delhi Municipal Council, participating in the Youth Parliament Competition has increased to 1,200 from just 16 when the competition was started in 1966.

The Youth Parliament Scheme aims at familiarizing the students with practice and procedures of Parliament, techniques of discussion and debate and develop in them leadership qualities, the spirit of self discipline and tolerance of diverse opinions and healthy competition which are all the hallmarks of democracy.

AAR

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Navy Cup Race 2016

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Published: Friday, 29 April 2016 13:45
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The 2016 edition of the Indian Navy Cup Race was raced at the race course at 1545 hours on 29 Apr 2016 amidst a full house. Fourteen participants raced for the coveted trophy. Gucci Water owned by Mrs Kumud Sharma was the winner and Miss Duncan belonging to Bharat Prabhakar and Ravi Pathak was the runners up.

The chief of the Naval Staff Admiral RK Dhowan, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, ADC was the Chief Guest and give away the prizes.

The Indian Navy Cup Race was introduced in 1965 and was presented by the then Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral BS Soman. Over the years, the race has become a very popular annual feature at the Delhi Race Club.

DKS/CKP

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Gallantry Awards to Navy on 26 January 2017

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Published: Thursday, 26 January 2017 01:55
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SHAURYA CHAKRA

ASHU SINGH, CHIEF MECHANICAL ENGINEER (131980 – F)

(POSTHUMOUSLY)

 

 

On 06 Mar 16, at about 1600 hrs, an incident of deck head lagging fire accompanied with heavy smouldering occurred in the ‘B’ Boiler Room of INS Viraat. The sailor showed exemplary courage and presence of mind in safeguarding machinery by taking correct procedural step in crash stopping B1 boiler which was last in use and securing other machinery in the vicinity. He took lead role in successfully fighting the fire relentlessly for 35 min with all other watch keepers and Standing Sea Fire Party (SSFP) in the extreme harsh conditions with intense heat and heavy smoke without thinking about his own safety thereby averting a major disaster. He also safeguarded the life of other fire fighters by guiding them to evacuate boiler room in time.

 

In the process the sailor, undeterred and unmindful of his own life, safeguarded the life of men and propulsion machinery of the aircraft carrier, displaying conspicuous gallantry, exemplary leadership and presented an example of "Service before Self". The sailor displayed dauntless courage, most conspicuous gallantry, selfless service, outstanding professionalism and exemplary leadership disregarding the pain and suffocation and had sacrificed his own life while ensuring safety of fellow ship mates and the aircraft carrier.

 

This feat of courage by the sailor, in saving both, personnel and the equipment at the cost of his own life is an act worthy of recognition and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Service, and therefore, (Late) Ashu Singh, Chief Mechanical Engineer is awarded Shaurya Chakra (Posthumously).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAO SENA MEDAL (GALLANTRY)

RAKESH KUMAR, HULL ARTIFICER 4, (502230-H)

(POSTHUMOUSLY)

 

 

 

On  10 Jun 16, Rakesh Kumar, Hull Artificer 4, 502230-H of INS Vikramaditya, was part of the team assigned the task of overseeing fitment of a newly fabricated 1.2 m piece of Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) pipe by two civilian contract-workers in Cofferdam 9K6, whose horizontal dimensions measure 2.1m X 0.76m. The sailor was assigned the task of connecting and supervising the operation of a submersible pump and was positioned in the Power Generation Room (PGR), one deck above the compartment containing the Cofferdam, with access to the Cofferdam being only through a long vertical ladder that led down from a narrow hatch.  During the pipe-replacement process, the sailor heard someone shouting from the compartment below and saw a civilian emerging from it in a semi-conscious state. The sailor went down the ladder, picked up the civilian on his shoulder and climbed up the vertical ladder to the PGR, laying him down under an AC vent. He then learnt that the other civilian was also unconscious in the Cofferdam. Without any thought to his own safety, the sailor clambered down the vertical ladder again and with no hesitation entered the Cofferdam where he saw his team leader wearing an Emergency Life saving Apparatus (ELSA) set and trying to pick up the civilian worker, who was lying prone in the well of the Cofferdam, partly covered with water. Rakesh, with all his strength, tried to lift the second civilian, but was unable to do so as his clothes were slippery and entangled with deck fittings in the narrow space. Despite knowing the dangers of the probable presence in the space of toxic gas and its consequences, Rakesh did not relent in his efforts and continued trying to bodily lift the civilian out of the Cofferdam in the hope of saving his life. He, however, lost track of time, and whilst continuing his vain but valiant efforts, also succumbed to the toxic gas inhalation and collapsed inside the Cofferdam. He was extricated from the compartment by a rescue team a few minutes later, but was unfortunately declared dead in the hospital.

 

It is evident from the act of the sailor that he with scant regard to his personal safety ventured into the congested cofferdam seeing a civilian worker shouting in semi-conscious state. The sailor was completely aware that the presence of dangerous and poisonous gases in the congested enclosed space will endanger the lives of the civilians working there. Even a moment’s delay would cause the civilians to lose their lives. Realising this, sailor rushed to the space and lifted the first civilian on his shoulder and climbed up the ladder and saved him. Thereafter, though the sailor was exhausted, showing rare grit of courage and valour he ventured into the congested space infested with the poisonous gases to save the second civilian. Whilst continuing his vain but valiant efforts, Rakesh Kumar, Hull Artificer 4 succumbed to the toxic gas inhalation. This feat of exemplary courage by the sailor, in saving the civilians working in the enclosed and congested space infested with the deadly poisonous gases of H2S with scant regard to the safety of his own life is an act worthy of recognition and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Service, and therefore, (Late) Rakesh Kumar, Hull Artificer 4 is awarded Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) (Posthumously).


NAO SENA MEDAL (GALLANTRY)

LT CDR NEERAJ KUMAR (06143-K)

 

 

 

Lt Cdr Neeraj Kumar (06143-K) is the NBCD Officer onboard INS Trikand. At about 1820h on 08 June 2016, whilst transiting off Goa in heavy weather, INS Trikand was contacted on radio by Merchant Vessel MV Infinity One anchored off Grandi Island. MV Infinity One reported crack in starboard ship’s side with ingress of water causing ten degrees list being aggravated by heavy weather and swell, and requested de-flooding assistance in emergency. Immediately, INS Trikand closed MV Infinity to render assistance. Weather was extremely unfavourable, with heavy rain, low visibility, winds gusting to 25-29 KN, pitch dark night conditions and sea state 3-4. Undeterred by the challenging weather conditions, Lt Cdr Neeraj Kumar sprang into action and quickly mustered a four man Damage Control (DC) team along with dewatering pumps and leak stopping gears. During embarkation of the DC team and stores into the ship’s boat, the boat and ship were rolling excessively in the heavy seas and the scramble net swayed precariously throughout the descent into the boat. Keeping his cool and displaying unflinching courage, Lt Cdr Neeraj Kumar led from the front and ensured all men and stores were loaded into the boat in record time. Motivating his team all along the way and closely monitoring their movements, he led the team personally on an extremely demanding transit across the choppy seas to the marooned Merchant Vessel. Upon embarkation onboard the Merchant Vessel at 2020h on 08 June 2016, the MV crew were assessed to be poorly trained and motivated, with many seemingly in shock. The forward hold of MV Infinity was half flooded and the ship was listed excessively to starboard with sea/ swell breaking over the weather deck. The only access to the forward hold was via a catwalk that was on the starboard edge of the weather deck, which was constantly awash with sea and spray. Catwalk and upper decks were caked with bitumen dust from the ship’s cargo, which along with the heel to starboard, aggravated by the pitch black night and falling rain created treacherous underfoot conditions. The Forward Hold itself was in complete darkness and was accessible only via a narrow lobby above. All onboard pumps of the MV had burned out or suctions were choked by bitumen cargo in the hold. Displaying tremendous professional poise and composure in such trying conditions, Lt Cdr Neeraj Kumar marshalled his team expertly and swiftly rigged up portable submersible pumps in the forward hold of the MV. When MV crew were unable to provide power supply for the pumps, Lt Cdr Neeraj Kumar and his team proactively took matters into their own hands, searched all nearby compartments, identified compatible supply breakers and rigged up direct electrical tapping from those points to energise the pumps. After two hours of sustained de-flooding of the forward hold using the pumps operationalised by Lt Cdr Neeraj and his crew, the list of the MV was observed to gradually reduce and by 0315h on 09 June 2016, the list had reduced to five degrees and the MV was declared out of the danger by the Master.

 

 

 

 

Military leadership, courage in adversity and ability to overcome all odds displayed by Lt Cdr Neeraj Kumar are in the best traditions of the naval service. Technical and seamanship skills as well as sheer guts displayed by the officer ensured successful rescue of a Merchant Vessel in distress at sea and saved the lives of all 14 MV seamen of Indian nationality. For his intrepid leadership and bravery, Lt Cdr Neeraj Kumar is awarded Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry).

 

 

DKS/AC                                

 

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Indian Navy Sailing Vessel Mhadei Sailing with an All-Women Crew Enters Chennai

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Category: Naval News
Published: Saturday, 13 February 2016 13:44
Written by News Aggregator
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        The Navy’s famous sailing vessel Mhadei, skippered and crewed by an all-women crew of naval officers for the very first time, entered Chennai Port today, after participating in the International Fleet Review 2016. The sail boat had left Visakhapatnam on 09 Feb and is scheduled to make stops at Chennai and Kochi ports enroute before reaching her home port at Goa.

Lieutenant Commander Vartika Joshi, a Naval Architect, was appointed as the first woman Skipper of Mhadei on 08 Feb just prior to her return voyage. The boat is crewed by Lieutenants P Swathi, Pratibha Jamwal (Air Traffic Control specialists), Vijaya Devi and Sub Lieutenant Payal Gupta (both Education officers). The sixth member of the crew, Lieutenant B Aishwarya is an Engineer and is expected to join the boat next month.

The women officers are training to form an all-women crew that would attempt to circumnavigate the Globe next year. Mhadei will remain at the Ports of Chennai (13-16 Feb) and Kochi (23-26 Feb) on her return journey. She will eventually return to Goa on 02 Mar. This is the first all-women crew to man any ocean-going sailing boat of the Navy. All the crew members are volunteers and are driven by their passion for adventure and a love for sailing and the seas.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DKS/CKP                                                                                                                             08/16

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SC refuses request made by Ms. Sujatha Ravi Kiran, wife of a naval officer to transfer investigation from Kerala Police to CBI

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Category: Naval News
Published: Friday, 13 May 2016 13:45
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As has been reported in certain sections of the media, it is clarified that transfer petitions (Criminal) filed by the petitioner Ms Sujatha Ravi Kiran @ Sujatasahu wife of Lt Cdr Ravi Kiran, have been dismissed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court. Further the prayer made by the petitioner to transfer the investigation carried out by Kerala Police to the CBI on the misconceived grounds of alleged bias/ connivance with the Indian Navy has also been disbelieved and thereby dismissed by a bench comprising Hon’ble Chief Justice of India, Hon’ble Mr Justice UU Lalit and Hon’ble Justice Ms. R Banumathi vide order dated 12 May 16.

To facilitate expeditious investigation in the matter, the Apex court has directed Kerala Police to continue with the investigation by constituting a special investigating team comprising officials of Kerala Police headed by a DIG level officer and to complete the investigations preferably within three months.

The Indian Navy strongly denies the allegations made by Ms. Sujatha Ravi Kiran. The Kerala Police has also denied any influence by the Indian Navy in the investigation.

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DKS/CKP 35/16

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