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Department of Higher Education Hosts National Workshop on ‘Higher Education: Knowledge Economy’ to Empower Human Capital for Viksit Bharat: July 2025

Manan Malhotra
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Department of Higher Education Hosts National Workshop on ‘Higher Education: Knowledge Economy’ to Empower Human Capital for Viksit Bharat: July 2025

New Delhi: As part of the preparatory activities for the upcoming 5th National Conference of Chief Secretaries, the Department of Higher Education, in collaboration with the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), organised a National Workshop for States and Union Territories on the sub-theme “Higher Education: Knowledge Economy.” The workshop was held at Pragyan Auditorium, AICTE Headquarters, New Delhi, in alignment with the larger theme of the Conference — “Human Capital for Viksit Bharat.”

Workshop Objective and Context

The workshop aimed to engage States and UTs in shaping education systems aligned with India’s long-term developmental goals. A Concept Note prepared by the Department of Higher Education and DARE had earlier been circulated to States/UTs outlining the key areas of reform and expectations. The event focused on enhancing cooperation across the centre and state levels to build a knowledge-driven economy powered by a future-ready workforce.

Inaugural Address and Key Messages

Dr. Vineet Joshi, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, opened the workshop by underlining the critical role of States/UTs in India’s transformation. Urging States to contextualize policies based on local needs and to share replicable best practices, he remarked:

“If States improve, Bharat improves.”

He also encouraged grassroot consultations and advocated for treating the Concept Note as a transformative policy guide rather than a mere compliance document.

Dr. Mangi Lal Jat, Secretary, DARE, stressed on the urgent need to reimagine agricultural education by incorporating emerging domains like AI, ML, and behavioural sciences into curriculum design. He called for synergistic partnerships between Agricultural Universities, IITs, and other HEIs to tackle the agri-value chain challenges.



Thought Leaders Call for Education Reforms

Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, Former UGC Chairman, highlighted NEP 2020’s paradigm shift towards interdisciplinary learning and flexibility. He lauded initiatives such as NCrF (National Credit Framework) and NHEQF (National Higher Education Qualifications Framework) for their ability to promote academic curiosity and innovation.

Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE, emphasized the goal of transforming India into a product-developing economy, rooted in technological education and innovation. He spotlighted initiatives like:

  • Smart India Hackathon

  • AICTE Internship Portal

  • E-Kumbh Portal (providing multi-language textbooks)

Thematic Sessions: Bridging Policy to Practice

1. Internationalisation & Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS)
Shri B. Venugopal Reddy, Addl. Chief Secretary, Maharashtra, elaborated on the EduCity project in Navi Mumbai and plans for offshore campuses. Prof. R.D. Kulkarni (VC, Mumbai University) stressed IKS integration into curricula.

2. Reversing Brain Drain
Dr. Sunil Pareek (NIFTEM, Haryana) proposed ‘Brain Gain Sabbaticals’ as a way to reconnect global Indian talent with domestic institutions.

3. Upgrading State Public Universities
Prof. Sangeeta Shukla (VC, CCS University, UP) advocated equitable funding, infrastructure expansion, and bridging faculty gaps to elevate State Public Universities (SPUs) to global standards.

4. Tech-Ready Human Resources
Dr. Shobha G (Director, Dept. of Collegiate Education, Karnataka) presented Nipuna Karnataka, a Learning Management System supporting over 4 lakh students, as a model for scaling tech-based education.

Next Steps for States/UTs

States and UTs are required to:

  • Upload officer-level feedback on the designated portal by 20 August 2025

  • Submit state-specific position papers by 31 August 2025

These will serve as vital inputs for the Background Note on “Higher Education: Knowledge Economy”, to be presented at the 5th National Chief Secretaries’ Conference, shaping national strategies and aligning with the goals of Viksit Bharat@2047.

Conclusion

The workshop served as a collaborative think-tank platform, uniting central ministries, higher education institutions, and state governments in envisioning a knowledge-based, future-ready India. The insights and outcomes of this workshop will form a crucial cornerstone in the broader policy discourse aimed at strengthening human capital for India’s long-term transformation.

For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Engages with Postal and Sorting Assistants to Propel India Post into a Digital Future: July 2025

Manan Malhotra
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Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Engages with Postal and Sorting Assistants to Propel India Post into a Digital Future: July 2025

New Delhi: In a significant step towards revitalising India’s postal ecosystem, Union Minister for Communications and Development of the North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, held an in-depth interaction with Postal and Sorting Assistants representing all 23 postal circles of the Department of Posts (DoP) across the country. The session, held on July 2, 2025, reflected the government’s commitment to strengthening the backbone of the postal network and driving a modern, customer-first transformation.

Frontline Workers at the Heart of Postal Reform

The session offered a platform for the Postal and Sorting Assistants—the frontline force of India Post—to directly share their ground-level experiences, feedback, and innovative ideas. These employees serve as vital conduits of communication and delivery in urban and rural regions alike. While Postal Assistants manage customer interfaces in post offices, Sorting Assistants play an essential role behind the scenes in Railway Mail Services, Air Mail Sorting Units, and Transit Mail Offices.

Acknowledging their role in ensuring timely service delivery, financial inclusion, and execution of social security schemes, Shri Scindia expressed deep appreciation for their relentless service and dedication.



India Post: From Service Provider to Profit Centre

Reiterating his strategic vision, the Union Minister highlighted the roadmap to transform India Post into a profit-oriented, digitally driven logistics organisation. He underscored the need for seamless integration across operational verticals—Mails, Parcels, International Mails, Savings Bank, Insurance, and Citizen-Centric Services—to emerge as a one-stop solution for Indian consumers.

“We are committed to making India Post a cutting-edge organisation. But this transformation is only possible if we all move forward together,” stated Shri Scindia, pledging his full support to the workforce.

Digital Innovations: IT 2.0 and Digital Address Code

The Minister discussed the IT 2.0 project, a flagship initiative aimed at digitising the entire postal network to enhance speed, accuracy, and transparency. The project is aligned with the latest industry standards to modernise operations and customer experience.

He also detailed the Digital Address Code (DAC) project, a transformative initiative that will introduce standardised, geo-coded addresses to revolutionise logistics, e-commerce, and last-mile delivery services across the country.

 Jyotiraditya Scindia Encourages Adaptability and Teamwork

Shri Scindia urged all employees to embrace technological change and actively contribute to the Department’s digital transition. He stressed that the adaptability of staff, their willingness to upskill, and their cooperation will be pivotal in the successful implementation of digital tools and real-time services.

“Let us become a source of strength for one another. If someone is lacking, let us lend our strength with unity, positivity, and purpose,” he said, invoking a spirit of teamwork and collective growth.

Path Ahead: Learning, Innovation and Citizen-Centric Growth

Looking ahead, the Union Minister reaffirmed the government’s ambition to make India Post a leader in public logistics and a dependable arm of governance. He encouraged the assistants to continuously seek learning, stay customer-focused, and play a key role in achieving financial sustainability for the Department.

The session concluded with Shri Scindia thanking all participants for their service, urging them to uphold the Department’s timeless motto—Dak Sewa, Jan Sewa—as they work towards building a future-ready India Post.

For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri Strengthens India-Mauritius Strategic Partnership; Delivers Anti-Drug Support: July 2025

Manan Malhotra
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Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri Strengthens India-Mauritius Strategic Partnership; Delivers Anti-Drug Support: July 2025

Port Louis / New Delhi: India’s Foreign Secretary Shri Vikram Misri paid an official visit to the Republic of Mauritius on July 1, 2025, marking his second visit to the island nation since assuming the role. The visit comes close on the heels of a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Mauritius Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam on June 24, 2025, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further enhancing the Enhanced Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

Strengthening High-Level Diplomatic Engagement

During his day-long visit to Port Louis, Foreign Secretary Misri held wide-ranging talks with the top leadership of Mauritius, including:

  • President H.E. Mr. Dharambeer Gokhool

  • Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam

  • Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Mr. Paul Berenger

  • Foreign Minister H.E. Mr. Dhananjay Ramful

These meetings covered the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, with a particular focus on development cooperation, regional security, capacity building, and people-to-people ties.



Invitation to Visit India & Shared Development Priorities- Vikram Misri

In his meeting with PM Ramgoolam, the Foreign Secretary reiterated Prime Minister Modi’s invitation for the Mauritian Prime Minister to visit India. The two sides discussed opportunities to enhance mutual cooperation in key sectors, including:

  • Maritime security

  • Education & skill development

  • Blue economy

  • Renewable energy

  • Healthcare and social welfare

Foreign Secretary Misri emphasized India’s unwavering commitment to Mauritius’ progress and prosperity, acknowledging its importance as a close maritime neighbour and valued partner in the Indian Ocean Region.

Support Against Drug Menace: India Hands Over Anti-Drug Equipment

In a gesture underscoring India’s support for social stability and community resilience in Mauritius, Foreign Secretary Misri handed over specialized anti-drug equipment to Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful. This assistance aligns with the shared commitment to addressing the rising threat of drug addiction and associated societal challenges in Mauritius.

A Testament to India’s Vision MAHASAGAR & Neighbourhood First Policy

The visit reaffirms India’s focus on cultivating strong, multidimensional partnerships with its Indian Ocean neighbours, especially under:

  • Vision MAHASAGAR – India’s Indian Ocean maritime cooperation framework

  • Neighbourhood First Policy – India’s priority to engage with regional partners

  • Commitment to the Global South – Promoting equitable development and solidarity

India and Mauritius continue to share deep-rooted civilizational ties, robust political trust, and a history of close developmental collaboration.

Conclusion: Towards a Resilient and Shared Future

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit further deepens the already strong bilateral relations between India and Mauritius, highlighting mutual respect, shared values, and a joint desire to work towards a stable, secure, and prosperous Indian Ocean Region.

With strategic dialogues, targeted development support, and high-level diplomatic interactions, both nations are charting a path toward a future of shared growth, security, and regional leadership.

For more details, check press release on MEA website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Coal Production & Dispatch from Captive and Commercial Mines Rises in June 2025, Q1 FY26 Sees Strong Year-on-Year Growth

Manan Malhotra
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0
Coal Production & Dispatch from Captive and Commercial Mines Rises in June 2025, Q1 FY26 Sees Strong Year-on-Year Growth

New Delhi: India’s coal sector continues to demonstrate robust performance, with coal production from captive and commercial mines reaching 15.57 million tonnes (MT) and dispatches touching 17.31 MT in the month of June 2025, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Coal.

This steady growth in production and dispatch reinforces India’s progress toward energy self-reliance and reflects the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing domestic coal availability for key industries.

Q1 FY 2025–26: Strong Performance Across the Board

For the first quarter (April–June 2025) of the fiscal year 2025–26, both coal production and dispatches showed substantial growth:

  • Production increased by 16.39%

  • Dispatches rose by 13.03%

This marks a continued improvement over the previous two financial years. As illustrated in the accompanying chart, the production has grown from 29.07 MT in Q1 FY23-24 to 46.61 MT in Q1 FY25-26, while dispatches have increased from 33.91 MT to 51.63 MT over the same period.

This indicates not only enhanced mining output but also better logistical coordination and infrastructure readiness to move coal to consuming sectors efficiently.



Key Developments in June 2025

June 2025 witnessed several critical steps aimed at further strengthening India’s coal ecosystem:

  • Mine Opening Permission granted for Utkal A Mine

    • This mine has a Peak Rated Capacity (PRC) of 25 MT, which will significantly augment domestic supply in the coming years.

  • Vesting Orders Issued for Three Coal Blocks

    • The Ministry of Coal has now allocated over 200 coal blocks, underlining the increasing participation of private and public entities in India’s coal mining sector.

These actions are aligned with the broader strategic vision of ensuring a steady, reliable, and cost-effective coal supply to vital industries such as:

  • Power Generation

  • Steel Manufacturing

  • Cement Production

Toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat: A Resilient Coal Production Sector

The latest production and dispatch figures signal the operational efficiency and infrastructure advancement in India’s coal sector. By enhancing the productivity of captive and commercial coal mines, the Ministry is actively contributing to the national goal of energy independence and industrial resilience.

These milestones also reiterate the government’s push for “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, with the coal sector playing a pivotal role in achieving a self-sufficient energy economy.

For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Kia Carens Clavis EV Set to Debut on July 15 with 490 km Range, to Rival BYD eMax 7

Manan Malhotra
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0
Kia Carens Clavis EV Set to Debut on July 15 with 490 km Range, to Rival BYD eMax 7

New Delhi: The South Korean automobile giant Kia India is gearing up to unveil its first mass-market electric vehicle — the Carens Clavis EV — on July 15, 2025. Ahead of its official launch, the company has teased key specifications of this highly anticipated 7-seater electric MPV across its official social media platforms, confirming a segment-leading driving range of 490 km on a single full charge (as per ARAI estimates).

Kia’s First Mass-Market Electric Vehicle in India

The Carens Clavis EV marks Kia’s serious entry into India’s mainstream EV segment. The electric version is based on the same platform as the ICE-powered Carens MPV but features a series of EV-specific modifications to support its new powertrain configuration.

In what will be a significant milestone for Kia India, the Carens Clavis EV is expected to broaden the EV adoption base, especially among larger Indian families seeking practical, spacious electric mobility.



Design Language and Key Exterior Updates

While largely identical in profile to its ICE counterpart, the Carens Clavis EV will feature several EV-specific design cues, including:

  • Restyled front and rear bumpers

  • Aerodynamically optimized new alloy wheels

  • Discreet yet functional front-positioned charging port

  • Revised grille with smoother edges and possible closed-off fascia

The suspension setup has reportedly been tweaked to accommodate the added weight of the battery pack and electric motor, thus ensuring better ride quality and balance.

Interior Layout & Tech: Premium Yet Familiar

The interior of the Carens Clavis EV is expected to mirror the ICE variant in layout, but will likely receive:

  • New dual-tone dashboard color themes

  • EV-specific interface elements on the digital display

  • Retained 12.3-inch twin-screen layout, combining:

    • Touchscreen infotainment system

    • Full-digital instrument cluster

Kia is also expected to equip the Clavis EV with a host of safety features, ADAS elements, and connectivity upgrades in line with its latest EV6 and Seltos offerings.

Performance, Battery, and Charging

Although Kia has not yet disclosed battery size or charging times, the 490 km claimed range places the Carens Clavis EV among the top contenders in the Indian EV MPV segment.

Fast-charging compatibility is likely to be included, along with regenerative braking and drive mode selectors for better energy optimization. It is expected to feature front-wheel drive setup for now, and future variants might explore dual-motor configurations depending on market response.

Direct Rival: BYD eMax 7

The BYD eMax 7, currently priced between ₹26.90 – ₹29.90 lakh (ex-showroom), will be the primary rival of the Carens Clavis EV. With comparable size and seating capacity, the two models will compete directly in:

  • Range capability

  • Tech and comfort features

  • After-sales and service ecosystem

  • Price-value proposition

Kia is expected to undercut BYD’s pricing slightly, making the Clavis EV more competitive and accessible to Indian EV buyers.

Conclusion: Kia Aims to Electrify the MPV Segment

The Kia Carens Clavis EV, with its blend of affordable pricing, long range, seven-seat practicality, and robust brand support, is poised to disrupt the electric MPV market in India. With the official launch scheduled for July 15, 2025, and strong anticipation across urban and semi-urban segments, the Carens Clavis EV could become a benchmark for family-friendly electric mobility.

Kia’s move aligns with its global commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and electrified mobility in developing markets, and India remains central to that roadmap.

Follow: Kia

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Image source: Car wale

Mahindra Reports 18% YoY Growth in June 2025 Sales, Crosses 47K Mark in Utility Vehicles

Manan Malhotra
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Mahindra Reports 18% YoY Growth in June 2025 Sales, Crosses 47K Mark in Utility Vehicles

New Delhi: Mahindra & Mahindra, one of India’s leading automobile manufacturers, has reported robust growth in June 2025, selling 47,306 utility vehicles (UVs), marking an impressive 18% year-on-year (YoY) growth. This continued momentum reinforces Mahindra’s strong position in the utility vehicle segment and highlights consumer confidence in its flagship models such as Scorpio-N, Thar, XUV700, and Bolero.

Utility Vehicle Sales Power Overall Growth

In the month of June 2025, Mahindra’s total passenger vehicle (PV) sales stood at 48,329 units, including exports. This reflects the brand’s growing appeal across domestic and international markets.

The rise in UV sales comes at a time when other major players in the Indian automobile industry have reported moderate to declining sales figures, underscoring Mahindra’s resilience and market strength.

Year-To-Date (YTD) Growth Momentum Maintained

The cumulative UV sales from April to June 2025 reached 1,52,067 units, representing a 22% growth over the same period last year (April–June 2024). The company’s sustained demand trajectory across quarters indicates long-term customer retention and steady supply chain efficiency.



Commercial and Export Segment Highlights

Exports for June 2025 stood at 2,634 vehicles, a modest YoY increase, but the cumulative FY26 Q1 (April–June) exports showed strong growth at 9,667 units, up 36% compared to the same period last year. These figures reflects the company’s growing global footprint and acceptance of its rugged, durable vehicles in international markets.

In the commercial vehicle segment, the company sold:

  • 16,772 units of LCVs (2T–3.5T) – up 4% YoY

  • 2,576 units of LCVs (<2T) – down 20% YoY

  • 1,227 units of MHCVs and LCVs (>3.5T) – steady performance

  • 8,454 three-wheelers (including electric) – up 37% YoY

Farm Equipment Sector Also Registers Double-Digit Growth

Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES) recorded domestic tractor sales of 51,769 units, a 13% increase YoY. Including exports (1,623 units), total tractor sales reached 53,392 units in June 2025, supported by favourable monsoon patterns and robust agricultural sentiment.

Strong Commentary from Leadership

Commenting on the performance, Mahindra’s Automotive Division CEO Nalinikanth Gollagunta stated:

“We are pleased to close Q1 FY26 with record SUV volumes, driven by continued strong demand for our key brands and the successful ramp-up of production capacities. Exports and EV three-wheeler sales are additional bright spots.”

Conclusion: Mahindra’s Growth Defies Industry Trends

While the overall Indian auto market is showing signs of moderation, it continues to outperform competitors, led by high rural demand, reliable product portfolio, and operational excellence. With aggressive expansion in EVs, rural mobility, and exports, Mahindra’s June 2025 performance affirms its growing stature as a major player both domestically and globally.

Follow: Mahindra

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Secretary Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani Inaugurates National Workshop on Emerging Technologies in PACS; Emphasizes Digital Transformation, Inclusivity, and Grassroots Empowerment: July 2025

Manan Malhotra
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Secretary Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani Inaugurates National Workshop on Emerging Technologies in PACS; Emphasizes Digital Transformation, Inclusivity, and Grassroots Empowerment: July 2025

New Delhi, July 1, 2025 — In a major push towards modernization and inclusion in India’s cooperative banking ecosystem, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, inaugurated the National Workshop on “Emerging Technologies in PACS” held at PHD House, New Delhi. The event brought together key stakeholders from across 12 states including 122 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) members, senior officers, representatives from NABARD, NCDC, NFDB, NCCT, NCCF, IFFCO, KRIBHCO, and others.

The workshop focused on digitization, AI, IoT integration, precision agriculture tools, and policy innovation to transform PACS into dynamic economic engines aligned with the goals of Digital India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

A Historic Step Towards Cooperative Empowerment by Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani

Dr. Bhutani recalled the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation on July 6, 2021, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, as a historic step to reform and revitalize India’s century-old cooperative ecosystem. With over 1 lakh PACS and 13 crore members, cooperative institutions remain a crucial pillar of rural economic support.

Digital India Meets Rural Credit: From Tradition to Transformation

Despite a decrease in the share of cooperative credit institutions in short-term lending to 15%, beneficiary outreach of PACS has risen to 42%, underlining their impact among small and marginal farmers. Dr. Bhutani emphasized that technology adoption is now indispensable:

“The cooperative banking structure must embrace emerging technologies, enhance transparency, and resolve HR issues to remain competitive and viable.”

He highlighted that out of nearly 2,000 banking licenses in India, 1,900 belong to the cooperative sector, yet their limited product offerings and slow tech adoption had once led to regulatory restrictions.

Three Major Pillars of PACS Revamp

  1. Model Bye-Laws for PACS Diversification

    • Enable PACS to function beyond credit and agri-inputs into 26 activities including storage, retail, dairy, LPG distribution, CSCs, etc.

    • Aimed at making PACS self-sustaining social and economic hubs.

  2. National Database of Cooperatives

    • Allows real-time gap analysis, decentralized planning, and policy targeting by states and the Centre.

  3. Massive PACS Computerisation Drive

    • ₹3,000 crore invested so far under the scheme.

    • Target: Digitise 80,000 PACS and integrate them with all Government of India schemes.

    • Compared PACS computerisation to the Indian Railways ticketing revolution, projecting enhanced transparency, accountability, and service delivery.

Tech-Driven Future: From Advisory Services to Financial Inclusion

Dr. Bhutani stressed the need to embed emerging technologies into rural frameworks. He outlined possibilities such as:

  • Weather, disaster, and pest advisories integrated into PACS systems

  • Use of AI, IoT, AgriTech tools for smarter agricultural interventions

  • Cooperative fintech innovations for easier access to credit and insurance

  • Making PACS a “One-Stop Shop” for all rural development and welfare schemes

Symbolic and Practical Support

As a part of PM Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign and to mark the International Year of Cooperatives, Dr. Bhutani planted a sapling, emphasizing environmental responsibility alongside institutional growth.

Stalls showcasing innovation by cooperatives, start-ups, and success stories from Jammu & Kashmir, Tamil Nadu, and Mizoram offered insight into practical progress on the ground.

Voices from the Ground & Collaborative Dialogue

The workshop featured three technical sessions covering:

  • PACS in the age of Digital India

  • Cooperative Fintech and Policy Innovations

  • Leveraging Emerging Tools in Precision Agriculture

In addition, experience sharing by state RCSs and Secretaries, and concerns raised by PACS members, enriched the participatory tone of the event. The workshop concluded with certificate distribution to participating PACS members, affirming their central role in shaping India’s cooperative transformation.

Conclusion: Cooperatives as Engines of Rural Prosperity

The workshop, led by Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, marks a vital step in digitally empowering grassroots cooperatives. As India modernizes its credit systems and integrates new technologies, PACS are being re-envisioned not just as financial institutions, but as dynamic agents of rural development, innovation, and inclusive growth.

For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Union Minister Satish Chandra Dubey Visits SECL Mines, Inaugurates Projects, and Champions Role of Coal in Aatmanirbhar Bharat:July @025

Manan Malhotra
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Union Minister Satish Chandra Dubey Visits SECL Mines, Inaugurates Projects, and Champions Role of Coal in Aatmanirbhar Bharat:July @025

Raipur/Baikunthpur, July 1, 2025 — Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, concluded a two-day official visit to South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL Mines), covering its major operational sites including Dipka, Chirimiri, and Churcha. The visit underscored the government’s commitment to sustainable coal mining, safety innovation, and the crucial role of coal in realizing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Cutting-Edge Technology for Safer, Smarter Mining

On July 1, the Minister virtually inaugurated a low-height Continuous Miner machine at the NCPH underground mine in SECL’s Chirimiri Area. This state-of-the-art mining equipment is designed to increase underground coal production while enhancing worker safety and operational efficiency.

Reaffirming coal’s centrality to India’s self-reliance mission, Shri Dubey stated:

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, coal shortages are a thing of the past. With advanced technologies like the Continuous Miner, our target is to produce 100 million tonnes from underground mines by 2030.”

He commended SECL for embracing innovation and modern mining tools to promote safe, sustainable extraction of coal.



Strengthening Safety and Inclusivity

During his visit to the Churcha underground mine in the Baikunthpur Area, the Minister inaugurated a Main Mechanical Ventilator (MMV) — a critical safety infrastructure designed to provide clean and fresh airflow to underground workers. He also inaugurated bio-toilets to support the inclusion and welfare of women employees in the mining workforce.

In a strong gesture toward environmental responsibility, Shri Dubey planted a tree under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, symbolizing coal sector’s growing commitment to ecological sustainability.

Employee Recognition and Social Outreach in SECL Mines

The Minister took time to felicitate SECL employees, including contractual workers and women staff, for their exceptional service and dedication. He interacted with workers at their camps to personally assess their welfare conditions, highlighting the importance of inclusive growth and labor dignity in the coal sector.

At SECL’s Dipka Area, the Minister:

  • Participated in a plantation drive at Pragati House

  • Laid the foundation stone for a new entrance gate and security complex

  • Reviewed mine performance and productivity at the Dipka View Point

  • Commended SECL’s impactful CSR initiatives, including the “SECL Ki Dhadkan” program that funds life-saving heart surgeries for children

Government-Industry Synergy for Faster Progress

On the first day of his tour (June 30), Shri Dubey paid a courtesy visit to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai in Raipur. The two leaders held key discussions to expedite land acquisition and rehabilitation processes critical to coal mining expansion and infrastructure development in the state.

Conclusion: A Vision for Coal-Led Development

Minister Satish Chandra Dubey’s visit to SECL highlighted a broader vision — that of making coal mining not just productive and self-reliant, but also inclusive, modern, and sustainable. With renewed emphasis on technology, safety, environmental protection, and social responsibility, SECL continues to be a key player in India’s energy ecosystem and its journey towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

For more details, check press release on PIB website.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Cabinet Approves Rs 1,853 Cr 4-Lane Highway Project Between Paramakudi and Ramanathapuram: Boost to Connectivity, Economy & Tourism in Southern Tamil Nadu

Manan Malhotra
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Cabinet Approves Rs 1,853 Cr 4-Lane Highway Project Between Paramakudi and Ramanathapuram: Boost to Connectivity, Economy & Tourism in Southern Tamil Nadu

New Delhi, July 1, 2025 — In a landmark infrastructure decision, the Union Cabinet has approved the construction of a 4-lane highway between Paramakudi and Ramanathapuram, under the Madurai–Dhanushkodi Corridor (NH-87), at a total capital cost of ₹1,853.16 crore. The 46.7 km stretch will be developed using the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) and is set to significantly improve road connectivity across key districts of southern Tamil Nadu.

Decongesting a Critical Corridor

At present, National Highway 87 (NH-87) serves as the primary arterial road connecting important cities such as Madurai, Paramakudi, Ramanathapuram, Mandapam, Rameshwaram, and Dhanushkodi. However, the existing 2-lane route is heavily congested due to rising traffic volumes — especially through dense habitations and rapidly expanding towns like Sathirakudi and Achundanvayal.

The upgraded 4-lane section from Paramakudi to Ramanathapuram will act as a vital decongestion measure, greatly improving travel efficiency, reducing accident risk, and ensuring safe, faster mobility for both passengers and freight.



Strategic Multimodal Integration

The proposed highway will seamlessly integrate with 5 major National Highways — NH-38, NH-85, NH-36, NH-536, and NH-32, and 3 State Highways — SH-47, SH-29, and SH-34. This integrated network will boost multimodal connectivity with key economic and transport hubs, such as:

  • Airports: Madurai Airport

  • Railway Stations: Madurai and Rameshwaram

  • Minor Ports: Pamban and Rameshwaram

The improved corridor is expected to facilitate smoother movement of goods and pilgrims, especially to the religious destinations of Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi, while also enabling faster access to regional markets and logistic hubs.

Driving Economic and Regional Development

The ₹1,853 crore investment — including ₹997.63 crore in civil costs and ₹340.94 crore in land acquisition — will be a catalyst for regional economic development, tourism growth, and local industry expansion.

With an estimated daily traffic of 12,700 Passenger Car Units (PCU) in FY-25, the new highway will relieve logistical bottlenecks and contribute to:

  • Improved tourism access to spiritual and heritage destinations like Rameshwaram

  • Better trade routes for agricultural and marine products in coastal districts

  • Stronger economic linkages between urban and rural centers across the corridor

Employment and Social Impact

The project will also have a strong employment generation potential, creating:

  • 8.4 lakh man-days of direct employment

  • 10.5 lakh man-days of indirect employment

Additionally, it will improve socio-economic indicators in connected towns such as Madurai, Paramakudi, Ramanathapuram, Sathirakudi, and Achundanvayal, encouraging local entrepreneurship, services, and skill development.

Conclusion

The Cabinet’s approval for the Paramakudi–Ramanathapuram 4-lane highway under NH-87 marks a major push toward sustainable, inclusive, and high-impact infrastructure in southern Tamil Nadu. As a transformative project, it is poised to strengthen mobility, boost regional prosperity, and support India’s vision for robust multimodal connectivity and economic integration.

For more details, check press release on PIB website.

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