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Union Agriculture Minister Reviews Drought-Affected Districts in Andhra Pradesh: Emphasis on Integrated Action Plan: July 2025

Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh: In a significant move to address the ongoing agrarian distress in drought-hit regions of Southern Andhra Pradesh, Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan convened a high-level review meeting with the Andhra Pradesh state leadership, including ministers and senior officials. Held at the PGRS Hall in the District Collectorate, Puttaparthi, Sri Sathya Sai district, the meeting focused on drought mitigation strategies, the promotion of organic farming, and boosting cultivation under the National Palm Oil Mission.

The Union Minister emphasized the need for a sustainable and collaborative approach to address the acute water scarcity and recurring droughts faced by farmers in the Rayalaseema region, one of the most drought-prone zones in India.


Collaborative Framework for Drought Mitigation

Addressing the media after the review meeting, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated:

“This region faces specific challenges — low rainfall and frequent droughts, which put farming and farmers in distress. The current Andhra Pradesh government under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Chandrababu Naidu has taken commendable steps to promote drip irrigation, horticulture, and farmer-centric governance.”

He added that an Integrated Action Plan will be developed jointly by the Centre and State, focused on short- and long-term solutions for agriculture sustainability, water conservation, and infrastructure development in the drought-hit districts.




Central Team of Experts to Visit Andhra Pradesh

In a key announcement, the Union Minister shared that a special multidisciplinary team will be sent by the Centre, including:

  • Scientists from Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

  • Officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

  • Experts from Rural Development, Watershed Management, and Land Resources

The team will undertake a comprehensive assessment of ground conditions and design actionable strategies to enhance climate-resilient agriculture, especially in areas suffering from rainfall deficit.


Integrated Farming and Climate-Resilient Practices

As part of a holistic approach, Shri Chouhan highlighted the promotion of Integrated Farming Systems, which include:

  • Fruit and vegetable cultivation

  • Agroforestry

  • Beekeeping

  • Animal husbandry

The minister also underlined the importance of developing and distributing drought-resistant seed varieties and diversifying crop patterns to reduce farmer vulnerability.

In addition, he assured that efforts will be made to enhance rainwater harvesting, undertake afforestation drives, and explore possibilities with the Ministry of Jal Shakti to divert water from the Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers to water-deficient zones of Rayalaseema.


Focus on Organic Farming and Palm Oil Mission

The review meeting also covered ways to scale up organic farming practices in Andhra Pradesh. The Minister emphasized that adopting organic and sustainable agricultural methods not only reduces input costs but also opens up export opportunities and health-conscious domestic markets.

Additionally, discussions were held on strengthening the National Edible Oil Mission – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP). The Union Government and the State are exploring suitable regions within Andhra Pradesh for expansion of palm oil plantations, including setting up processing infrastructure to ensure farmer profitability.


Political and Administrative Cooperation

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan took a moment to praise Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, stating:

“The development work done under the leadership of CM Naidu is commendable. Unlike the previous regime which diverted central funds and failed to support farmers adequately, the present administration is working in true federal spirit.”

The Minister affirmed that the Centre will continue to provide financial and technical support, and any bottlenecks in project execution will be jointly resolved.


Conclusion: Hope for the Rayalaseema Farmer

The Union Minister closed the session on an optimistic note:

“We have agreed to prepare an Integrated Action Plan, and both the State and Central governments will implement it together. I am confident that this cooperative strategy will help uplift farmers, ensure water security, and introduce a sustainable model of development in the affected districts.”

This engagement marks a pivotal step in India’s broader strategy to tackle climate-induced agricultural stress, align with sustainable development goals, and empower marginal farmers with modern technologies, scientific research, and infrastructural support.


Source: PIB

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

Ambassador of Japan Leads High-Level Delegation to Dholera SIR: Pushing the Frontier of India–Japan Strategic and Technological Collaboration: July 2025

Dholera, Gujarat: In a significant boost to India–Japan industrial relations, His Excellency Mr. Keiichi Ono, Ambassador of Japan to India, led a high-powered business delegation to the Dholera Special Investment Region (Dholera SIR)—India’s premier greenfield smart industrial city under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC). The visit signifies growing alignment between the two nations in the fields of advanced manufacturing, semiconductor technology, smart infrastructure, and sustainable urban development.

The two-day program (9–10 July) combined a strategic conference in Ahmedabad with an intensive on-ground inspection of Dholera’s cutting-edge infrastructure. Officials from Dholera Industrial City Development Ltd. (DICDL) and National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) accompanied the Japanese representatives, offering insights into the planning, execution, and vision for the future-ready city.


Spotlight on Semiconductor Investment: Tata–PSMC Fab in Focus

At the core of this industrial collaboration lies the landmark Tata Electronics semiconductor fabrication plant, currently under construction in Dholera. Developed in collaboration with Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC) of Taiwan, the plant is a key initiative under the Semicon India Programme and part of the ₹1.54 lakh crore semiconductor investment ecosystem being built in Gujarat.

During the visit, the delegation received a detailed briefing on the fab’s design, production capacity, and expected role in creating a globally competitive semiconductor supply chain. The facility symbolizes India’s ambition to emerge as a trusted semiconductor manufacturing hub and reduce import dependency in critical tech components.




Comprehensive Infrastructure Tour: Building a Global Investment Magnet

The Japanese delegation visited several landmark sites within Dholera SIR, including:

  • Water Treatment Plant: Demonstrating sustainable water management.

  • Canal Front Development: A blend of aesthetics, ecology, and urban design.

  • Power Substation: Showcasing 24×7 reliable industrial power supply.

  • ABCD Building (Administrative and Command Centre): Housing the Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC), which governs real-time utilities and urban systems across the city.

  • Experience Centre: Offering a digital and immersive preview of Dholera’s blueprint for the future.

Officials also presented plans for robust social infrastructure, such as a multi-specialty hospital, fire and safety systems, educational institutions, high-quality residences, commercial centers, and hospitality zones—making Dholera not only a business magnet but also a livable smart city.


Strategic Engagement: A Vision Shared by India and Japan

A special session was held on 9 July in Ahmedabad featuring:

  • Ms. Kazuko Sakuma, Resident Executive Officer (JBIC – Asia Pacific)

  • Mr. Yu Yoshida, Chief Representative, JETRO Ahmedabad

  • Mrs. Mona K. Khandhar, Principal Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Government of Gujarat

  • Shri Rajat Kumar Saini, CEO & MD, NICDC

Delivering the keynote address, Shri Saini emphasized that Dholera, inspired by Japan’s Tokyo–Osaka Corridor, is a symbol of next-generation bilateral industrial cooperation. He lauded Japan’s historical role in shaping the DMIC and expressed confidence in continued collaboration to shape India’s industrial transformation.

Presentations outlined India’s evolving Make in India ecosystem, and how Dholera fits within the broader Vision 2047 framework — India’s roadmap to becoming a self-reliant, innovation-led developed economy.


Ambassador Keiichi Ono: Reaffirming Japan’s Commitment

Ambassador Mr. Keiichi Ono, in his concluding remarks, expressed admiration for India’s scale and ambition, particularly in semiconductors and smart cities. He noted:

“Japan recognizes the transformational potential of India’s semiconductor strategy. We are encouraged by the scale of planning at Dholera SIR and will continue to support India’s economic rise through deeper investment and collaboration.”

He also highlighted the cultural and technological synergy between the two nations, underlining shared values of discipline, innovation, and sustainable growth.

The day concluded with a networking dinner, facilitating meaningful dialogue between Indian industry leaders and Japanese delegates, setting the stage for potential collaborations across electronics, automotive components, robotics, and clean-tech sectors.


Dholera SIR: India’s Gateway to Future Manufacturing

Strategically located with multimodal connectivity—via the Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway and a Greenfield International Airport under development—Dholera is fast emerging as a hub of global investment and a template for smart cities across the country.

Its plug-and-play industrial zones, AI-enabled real-time governance, robust power and water systems, and investor-friendly regulatory frameworks are tailored to attract high-tech and high-value industries, especially from Japan and Southeast Asia.

The presence of the Japanese Ambassador and key business stakeholders at Dholera underscores India’s rising global stature in futuristic industrial development and signals continued strengthening of the India–Japan economic corridor.


Source: PIB

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

India Accelerates Toward 6G Leadership: Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Reviews Bharat 6G Alliance Progress

New Delhi: Union Minister of Communications Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia conducted a detailed review of the Bharat 6G Leadership(Alliance) (B6GA), reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to establishing India as a global leader in next-generation communication technologies. Joined by Telecom Secretary Dr. Neeraj Mittal, the Minister presided over a comprehensive progress review meeting where B6GA’s strategic vision, technology initiatives, and collaborative framework were brought into sharp focus.


Bharat 6G Leadership: Collaborative Momentum

The Bharat 6G Alliance, set up following the unveiling of the Bharat 6G Vision Document in March 2023, has grown into a vibrant multi-stakeholder platform. It now comprises over 80 organizations, including 30+ deep-tech startups, research institutions, telecom providers, and public sector partners. This alliance represents a unified national drive to build a robust, indigenous 6G ecosystem that aligns with India’s digital transformation agenda.

The alliance’s strategic focus spans research and development (R&D), standardization, intellectual property generation, and inclusive deployment strategies. In the recent meeting, workgroup Chairpersons and Vice-Chairpersons showcased substantial progress across key domains, marking India’s assertive push toward next-generation connectivity.




Key Highlights from the Review Meeting

  • Technological Breakthroughs: The alliance reported notable progress in Indigenous Radio Access Network (RAN) development, AI-driven network intelligence, and sustainable architecture aimed at lowering energy consumption while boosting performance.

  • Inclusive Rural Connectivity: B6GA working groups presented forward-looking strategies to leverage 6G technologies for enhancing rural and remote connectivity. The focus is on intelligent, inclusive networks that bridge the digital divide through scalable and low-cost solutions.

  • Cross-Sectoral Applications: Presentations outlined real-world pilots and design frameworks for 6G-enabled innovations across agriculture, healthcare, disaster management, smart mobility, and sustainable urban planning.

  • Collaboration and Policy Support: Minister Scindia acknowledged the alliance’s multi-pronged efforts and urged for continued collaboration among stakeholders. He emphasized that the government is committed to strengthening the ecosystem with conducive policies, spectrum availability, and increased R&D funding.


Ministerial Address: Vision for 6G Leadership

In his keynote address, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia reiterated the government’s vision of building a future-ready network infrastructure, backed by indigenous innovation and global partnerships. He called upon the Alliance to develop a clear, time-bound strategic roadmap with periodic workgroup-level reviews, ensuring measurable outcomes aligned with national objectives.

He emphasized a bold target:

“Our ambition is to achieve 10% of global IPRs in 6G technology. This requires collaborative excellence, strategic investments, and relentless focus on research and standardization.”

The Minister also highlighted the vital role of academia and startups in driving the frontier of innovation and emphasized the need for global engagement to shape future telecom standards.


India’s 6G Mission: A Global Outlook

India’s 6G mission is not only a domestic technological endeavor but also a strategic move to secure a seat at the global standardization table. With the world transitioning toward AI-powered networks, ultra-low latency communication, and satellite-backed connectivity, India aims to lead through:

  • Open RAN Development

  • Next-Gen Semiconductor Research

  • Quantum Communication Integration

  • 6G-enabled IoT and Smart Device Networks

  • Indigenous Standards and Protocols


Looking Ahead: From Vision to Implementation

The Bharat 6G Alliance, supported by the Ministry of Communications and other national agencies, is now poised to enter its execution-intensive phase. The focus areas for 2025–2026 include:

  • Finalizing pilot deployment strategies in urban and rural test beds.

  • Building open and interoperable labs across top IITs and research centers.

  • Creating a centralized IP and Standards Repository to track India’s global standing.

  • Strengthening startups and MSMEs through incentive schemes and grants.

The Union Minister concluded the session by inviting all stakeholders to participate in upcoming 6G Innovation Challenges and announced that an international 6G symposium will be hosted in early 2026 to foster global collaboration.


Source: PIB

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

10 July 2025 :Indian Stock Markets Close Lower; Broader Indices in Red Amid Profit Booking

Mumbai: Benchmark indices ended in negative territory on 10 July 2025, as investors resorted to profit booking across sectors. The Nifty 50 closed at 25,355.25, falling by 120.85 points or 0.47%, as market sentiment turned cautious amidst global cues and sectoral rotation.

Also Read: July 9, 2025- Nifty Ends Lower Amid Volatility; Small-Caps Shine

Other key indices also witnessed similar declines:

  • Nifty Next 50 dropped to 68,523.45, down 154.70 points (-0.23%)

  • Nifty Financial Services closed at 26,984.35, shedding 74.10 points (-0.27%)

  • Nifty Bank fell sharply by 257.55 points (-0.45%) to settle at 56,956.00

The market opened on a soft note at 25,511.65, hit an intraday high of 25,524.05, but selling pressure dragged it down to a low of 25,340.45 before closing marginally higher than the day’s bottom.


Top Gainers: Penny Stocks and Mid-Caps Shine Bright

Despite the bearish undertone in the market, several small and mid-cap stocks posted stellar gains, primarily from sectors like packaging, infrastructure, and specialty manufacturing. These five stocks stood out on the leaderboards:

Stock LTP (₹) Change (₹) % Change Volume (Lakhs) Value (₹ Cr)
SOMATEX 53.89 +8.98 +20.00% 1.31 0.71
PENINLAND 43.32 +7.22 +20.00% 70.92 29.42
MAMATA 495.50 +82.55 +19.99% 153.80 729.11
DCM 126.70 +21.11 +19.99% 13.29 16.21
NECLIFE 19.76 +3.29 +19.98% 263.82 48.10
  • MAMATA led the turnover chart among gainers with over ₹729 crore in traded value, showing strong institutional interest.

  • NECLIFE, with a volume of 263.82 lakh shares, indicated robust retail participation.

  • SOMATEX and PENINLAND hit the upper circuit at +20%, reflecting bullish sentiment in specific sectors despite broader weakness.




Top Losers: Selective Sell-Off in High-Beta and Micro-Cap Stocks

On the downside, several niche counters saw sharp declines, especially in small and micro-cap stocks. These were the top 5 losers:

Stock LTP (₹) Change (₹) % Change Volume (Lakhs) Value (₹ Cr)
INDSWFTLAB 105.25 -11.48 -9.83% 8.33 9.06
EIMCOELECO 2,485.10 -267.80 -9.73% 1.59 40.63
GODHA 0.70 -0.04 -5.41% 896.31 6.36
SHANTI 11.88 -0.63 -5.04% 0.63 0.08
VISASTEEL 34.33 -1.81 -5.01% 0.05 0.02
  • EIMCOELECO, a high-value engineering stock, corrected by ₹267.80, a sharp fall likely on weak quarterly earnings or sectoral outlook.

  • GODHA, despite a small absolute fall of ₹0.04, saw heavy volumes exceeding 896 lakh shares, suggesting speculative activity or exit by large retail investors.

  • INDSWFTLAB’s near 10% fall indicates possible adverse news flow or institutional profit booking.


Market Sentiment and Broader View on 10 July 2025

The markets reflected broad-based consolidation, with sector indices and major players booking profits after a prolonged rally. Despite economic optimism and robust fundamentals such as a stable inflation outlook and resilient earnings forecasts, the following factors seemed to weigh on investor confidence:

  • Anticipation of US Fed policy signals

  • Concerns over monsoon shortfall

  • Rising commodity prices, especially crude oil

  • Global geopolitical tensions impacting FIIs’ flows

The Banking, Financial Services, and Realty sectors showed relative weakness, while selective stocks in mid-caps and thematic sectors like waste management, infrastructure, and specialty manufacturing saw sharp rallies.


Looking Ahead: What to Watch

As the market enters the earnings season, investors and analysts will closely track:

  • Q1FY26 corporate results, especially from large-cap banks, IT majors, and consumer goods companies

  • Macroeconomic data including CPI inflation and IIP figures

  • Movement in global bond yields and foreign exchange markets

  • Sector-specific policy updates ahead of the monsoon session of Parliament

Investors are advised to adopt a stock-specific approach, focusing on fundamentals, earnings resilience, and management commentary, especially in volatile times like these.


Conclusion

The Indian stock market closed in the red on 10 July 2025, reflecting mixed global cues, profit booking, and prevailing caution among domestic investors ahead of key economic data. Despite the overall subdued sentiment dragging down benchmark indices like the NIFTY 50 and NIFTY BANK, the day revealed a more nuanced picture beneath the surface. Small-cap and mid-cap counters showed sharp upward momentum, indicating selective accumulation by institutional and savvy retail investors.

This trend highlights a growing appetite for theme-based and value-driven bets, particularly in sectors benefiting from structural reforms or cyclical tailwinds. The divergence between broader indices and stock-specific performances suggests that while headline indices may face short-term headwinds, the underlying tone remains constructive, especially in micro and niche segments poised for long-term growth.


For real time stock Updates, visit NSE website.

Agra Transforms Kuberpur Landfill into Integrated Waste Management City under Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban: July 2025

Agra: In a groundbreaking achievement under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U), the Agra Municipal Corporation has successfully transformed the Kuberpur dumpsite, once a symbol of urban waste accumulation, into a national model of sustainability — now recognized as the Integrated Waste Management City of Agra. This transformation marks a historic milestone in India’s journey toward clean, green, and resilient urban development.


From Landfill Legacy to Environmental Landmark

Established in 2007 as a conventional landfill, Kuberpur gradually grew into a site of environmental concern, accumulating over 1.9 million metric tons of waste over the years. In 2019, inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat vision and supported by Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath, the Agra Municipal Corporation launched an ambitious clean-up initiative.

Backed by technical collaboration with SPAAK Super Infra Pvt. Ltd., the legacy waste removal process began using bioremediation and biomining technologies, initiating the largest land reclamation effort in the city’s history.




A Multi-Pronged Approach to Urban Waste Management

By the end of December 2024, the massive clean-up effort had removed the entire 1.9 million metric tons of waste, reclaiming 47 acres of land at an estimated cost of ₹320 crores. The reclaimed land has since been repurposed:

  • 10 acres developed as green zones using the Miyawaki afforestation technique

  • 5 acres converted into a modern sanitary landfill for inert waste

  • The remainder earmarked for an urban forest and eco-friendly infrastructure

Simultaneously, several high-capacity waste management facilities were operationalized to ensure no fresh dumping occurs:

  • A Waste-to-Compost Plant, launched in 2019 with an initial 300 TPD capacity, expanded to 500 TPD

  • Four Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) with a total capacity of 405 TPD

  • 100% source-level segregation and door-to-door collection made mandatory across the city

  • A 65 TPD MRF-cum-Plastic Waste Processing Plant, inaugurated in January 2025, that recycles plastic into affordable agricultural water pipes


Model for Urban Sustainability and Education

Beyond waste management, the Kuberpur site now serves as an educational and awareness center for:

  • Students from schools, colleges, and IITs

  • Researchers from public and private universities

  • Urban planners and environmental scientists

The site embodies an experiential learning hub where sustainable waste management practices are demonstrated in real time, reinforcing the 3Rs – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.


A National Template for Smart, Sustainable Cities

With the Integrated Waste Management City of Agra, the Agra Municipal Corporation has set a national precedent in:

  • Land reclamation and reuse

  • Circular economy in waste management

  • Ecological restoration and urban afforestation

  • People-centered governance and awareness

This model aligns with the core vision of SBM-U 2.0, emphasizing zero-landfill, decentralised processing, and green infrastructure, positioning Agra as a leader in urban environmental governance.


Conclusion:

Agra’s transformation of Kuberpur from a polluted landfill into a green, functional, and educational epicenter is a landmark achievement in sustainable urban development. It reflects the power of visionary municipal leadership, inter-agency collaboration, and community engagement—paving the way for cities across India to replicate and scale such efforts toward a Swachh, Sundar, and Sustainable Bharat.

Source: PIB

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

India Maritime Investment Meet in London Showcases Vision 2047 and Global Partnership Opportunities

London: In a strategic effort to position India as a global maritime leader, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Government of India, successfully hosted the India Maritime Investment Meet at India House, London. The event brought together top international maritime investors, industry leaders, and stakeholders to explore collaborative opportunities aligned with Maritime India Vision 2047.


Strengthening Global Maritime Cooperation

The investment meet was inaugurated by H.E. Vikram K. Doraiswami, High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom, who reaffirmed the historical and strategic maritime ties between India and the UK. He emphasized India’s commitment to developing resilient blue economy corridors and integrating sustainability, clean energy, and inclusive growth into maritime partnerships.

Delivering the keynote address, Shri T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW, articulated India’s ambitious maritime roadmap, grounded in digital transformation, infrastructure modernization, and global alliances. He stated, “Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji’s visionary leadership, India is scripting a new era of maritime resurgence anchored in sustainability and partnerships.”




Maritime Vision 2047: A Blueprint for Transformation

India’s Maritime Vision 2047 targets a dramatic expansion of cargo capacity from the current 2,760 MTPA to over 10,000 MTPA by 2047, with strategic focus on:

  • Green Hydrogen Hub Ports at Deendayal, Chidambaranar, and Paradip.

  • The Green Tug Transition Programme for low-emission port operations.

  • Enhancing cruise tourism through the Cruise Bharat Mission, with world-class terminals and cultural circuits.

India’s advancement in shipbuilding was also highlighted—its global rank has improved from 23rd to 16th, bolstered by shipbuilding clusters and fiscal incentives like:

  • 10-year tax holiday

  • Zero GST on ship imports

  • No withholding tax on maritime transactions


Enabling a Pro-Business Ecosystem

With 100% FDI permitted under the automatic route in key maritime sectors, India offers:

  • Fiscal benefits at IFSC (GIFT City)

  • Liberalized ship flagging regime

  • Blended financing options under the Maritime Development Fund

The Secretary also emphasized India’s role in shaping global supply chains through corridors like:

  • India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC)

  • Eastern Maritime Corridor

  • International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)


Presentations and Global Dialogue

The event featured a forward-looking presentation by Shri R. Lakshmanan, Joint Secretary (Ports), outlining India’s maritime policy framework and inviting global participation in India Maritime Week 2025, to be held from 27–31 October 2025 in Mumbai.

Throughout the day, discussions were held on:

  • Port infrastructure and PPP models

  • Shipbuilding and recycling

  • Maritime financing and tonnage tax

  • Coastal logistics and digital innovations

Participants included industry leaders from Lloyd’s Register, DNV, DP World, APM Terminals, ArcelorMittal, and Standard Chartered Bank, who praised India’s progressive regulatory environment and strong macroeconomic fundamentals.


Shared Vision for a Sustainable Maritime Investment Future

Shri Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping, concluded the event by appreciating the global maritime community’s engagement and reaffirmed India’s commitment to a transparent, sustainable, and investment-ready maritime ecosystem.

The event culminated with a networking reception, fostering valuable connections between Indian and international stakeholders, and opening pathways for joint ventures, capacity expansion, and maritime innovation.


Conclusion:
The India Maritime Investment Meet in London underscored India’s emergence as a maritime powerhouse, committed to global collaboration, sustainable practices, and investor-friendly reforms. As the country charts its journey toward Maritime Vision 2047, the meet marked a defining moment in building cross-border synergies and unlocking the full potential of India’s blue economy.


Source: PIB

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

India Charts Roadmap to Modernize Animal Husbandry Sector through National Stakeholder Workshop: July 2025

New Delhi: To advance India’s journey toward resilient and quality-driven livestock development, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, convened a National Stakeholder Workshop on Modernizing India’s Animal Husbandry Sector at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on July 9, 2025. The event, themed “Transforming India’s Agriculture, Horticulture, Dairy, Fisheries and Processing through Technology and Innovation,” was held as part of the 4th Conference of Chief Secretaries’ departmental summits.


Focus on Quality, Innovation, and Global Alignment

The workshop was chaired by Smt. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary, DAHD, who emphasized the importance of innovation and collaboration in building a globally competitive animal husbandry sector. In her keynote address, she highlighted that Animal Husbandry contributes 30.7% to India’s total agricultural Gross Value Added (GVA) and stands as a critical cash-generating sector.

Smt. Upadhyaya stressed the need for:

  • Widespread formation of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)

  • Enhanced coordination across national and state levels

  • Investment in quality fodder, breeding innovation, and disease control

She also reaffirmed DAHD’s commitment to aligning India’s animal husbandry practices with global standards for sustainability and resilience.




Welcoming Address and Departmental Vision

Ms. Varsha Joshi, Additional Secretary (C&DD), DAHD, welcomed participants and articulated the department’s strategic vision. She reiterated the importance of ensuring quality production, particularly through the availability of nutritious fodder, and reflected on DAHD’s achievements in milk, egg, and meat production.

She underlined the imperative to modernize operations in:

  • Breeding technology

  • Disease surveillance and diagnostics

  • Skilling and capacity building


Regional Consultations: Addressing Local Challenges

The workshop featured four regional breakout sessions focusing on distinct geographic needs and challenges. States and Union Territories were grouped into the following zones:

  • Northern Region: J&K, Ladakh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh

  • Western Region: Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Goa, Rajasthan

  • Southern Region: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Puducherry

  • Eastern & North-Eastern Region: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Bihar

Each session engaged state representatives in region-specific dialogues on:

  • Productivity enhancement strategies

  • Disease control and vaccination mechanisms

  • Fodder and feed security

  • Sustainable livestock practices


Toward an Actionable Roadmap

The concluding plenary session synthesized feedback from States/UTs and outlined a collaborative roadmap for implementation. The strategy aims to promote technology adoption, strengthen veterinary infrastructure, and ensure farmer-centric development models in the animal husbandry sector. The dialogue reaffirmed India’s intent to build a modern, self-reliant livestock economy, aligned with both national goals and global benchmarks.


Conclusion:
The Stakeholder Workshop reaffirmed the centrality of the animal husbandry sector in India’s rural economy and development strategy. With an emphasis on technology, quality, and collaboration, the event marks a significant step in the Government of India’s mission to transform the sector into a globally competitive, sustainable, and inclusive pillar of growth.

Source: PIB

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

Indian Navy Inducts ‘Nistar’ — First Indigenous Diving Support Vessel to Enhance Undersea Rescue Capabilities: July 2025

Visakhapatnam: In a significant milestone for India’s indigenous defence manufacturing, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) successfully delivered ‘Nistar’, the first indigenously designed and constructed Diving Support Vessel (DSV), to the Indian Navy on July 8, 2025, at Visakhapatnam. The vessel marks a major step forward in strengthening India’s deep-sea diving and submarine rescue capabilities, aligning with the Government of India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the Make in India initiative.


Technological Breakthrough in Underwater Rescue

Designed and built under the classification standards of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), Nistar is a highly specialized vessel that enhances the Indian Navy’s operational readiness for deep-sea saturation diving and submarine rescue missions—capabilities possessed by only a handful of advanced navies globally.

The name ‘Nistar’, derived from Sanskrit, symbolizes liberation, rescue, and salvation, aptly reflecting the ship’s core mission. With a length of 118 meters and displacement of nearly 10,000 tons, the ship is equipped with:

  • Deep Sea Saturation Diving capability up to 300 meters

  • Side Diving Stage operations up to 75 meters

  • Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) capable of operations and diver monitoring up to 1,000 meters depth




Dedicated Role as Submarine Rescue ‘Mother Ship’

Nistar is specifically designed to serve as the ‘Mother Ship’ for the Indian Navy’s Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV). This enables the Indian Navy to conduct emergency rescue and evacuation missions for submariners trapped underwater, ensuring swift and efficient response during submarine accidents or crises.

The integration of advanced remotely operated systems, diver monitoring tools, and underwater salvage mechanisms allows Nistar to perform highly complex operations with enhanced safety, precision, and coordination.


Boost to Indigenous Defence Manufacturing

With approximately 75% indigenous content, Nistar stands as a proud symbol of India’s defence self-reliance. The vessel’s delivery reinforces the Indian Navy’s longstanding commitment to indigenisation in shipbuilding and maritime operations.

This achievement follows the Navy’s strategic direction to reduce dependence on foreign technology by supporting domestic shipyards, engineering firms, and naval design bureaus, thereby contributing significantly to India’s blue economy and maritime defence ecosystem.


Conclusion- INS Nistar :

The induction of INS Nistar into the Indian Navy not only augments the nation’s undersea rescue and diving operations but also underscores India’s engineering prowess and self-reliant defence vision. As the Navy continues its indigenisation journey, vessels like Nistar exemplify the seamless integration of technology, capability, and national pride in India’s maritime domain.


Source: PIB

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

Keel Laid for Third Fleet Support Ship at L&T Shipyard, Marking Milestone in Indian Navy’s Blue Water Expansion: July 2025

In a major stride towards enhancing India’s maritime logistics and strategic sea-based capabilities, the keel laying ceremony for the third Fleet Support Ship (FSS) of the Indian Navy was held on 9th July 2025 at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli. The ceremony was graced by Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition, along with senior officials from the Indian Navy, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), and L&T.


Public-Private Collaboration for Naval Indigenisation

The keel laying marks a key milestone in the execution of the five-ship FSS project, a strategic partnership signed between HSL and the Indian Navy in August 2023. To optimize India’s shipbuilding capacity and adhere to stringent delivery timelines, HSL has sub-contracted the construction of two ships to L&T Shipyard under the public-private partnership model.

This collaboration not only accelerates project execution but also showcases the effective utilisation of India’s defence industrial infrastructure for high-value maritime defence programs.




Boosting Blue Water Capabilities

Once inducted, the Fleet Support Ships—each with a displacement of over 40,000 tons—will significantly enhance the Blue Water operational range of the Indian Navy. Designed for at-sea replenishment, these ships will be capable of supplying:

  • Fuel

  • Water

  • Ammunition

  • Critical supplies

This will enable extended and sustained naval operations across vast maritime regions, thereby amplifying the Navy’s strategic reach, endurance, and mobility.


Dual Role: Combat Support and Humanitarian Response

Beyond their primary role as logistics enablers, the Fleet Support Ships are also configured to support Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. They are capable of:

  • Evacuating personnel during emergencies

  • Delivering relief materials swiftly in disaster-hit areas

  • Providing onboard medical and logistic support

This dual-purpose capability aligns with the Indian Navy’s commitment to being a force for regional stability and humanitarian outreach in the Indian Ocean Region and beyond.


Indigenous Design and Industry Impact

The Fleet Support Ships are being indigenously designed and built using equipment sourced from Indian Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). This project is a clear reflection of the Government’s flagship initiatives:

  • Aatmanirbhar Bharat

  • Make in India

  • Make for the World

The program is expected to provide a significant boost to the Indian shipbuilding ecosystem, generate skilled employment, and increase capacity utilization across public and private sectors.


Conclusion:

The keel laying of the third Fleet Support Ship reinforces India’s resolve to develop a self-reliant, modern, and agile naval force. It marks yet another milestone in the country’s maritime transformation journey, ensuring the Indian Navy remains prepared for future challenges while strengthening domestic shipbuilding capabilities for a secure and resilient India.

Source: PIB

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Ministry of Mines Launches ‘Aspirational DMF Programme’ to Empower Mining-Affected Regions: July 2025

New Delhi: In a significant move toward grassroots transformation and inclusive growth, the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, launched the ‘Aspirational DMF Programme’ on July 9, 2025, aligning District Mineral Foundation (DMF) efforts with the Aspirational District and Aspirational Block Programmes. The initiative was unveiled during the National DMF Workshop held in New Delhi by Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G Kishan Reddy, alongside the release of the programme’s operational guidelines and the inauguration of a national DMF exhibition.


Convergence for Impact: Operational Guidelines Unveiled

The operational guidelines for the Aspirational DMF Programme are designed to ensure strategic convergence of DMF planning with the development goals outlined in the Aspirational District Programme (ADP) and Aspirational Block Programme (ABP). These guidelines aim to optimize the use of DMF funds by targeting key socio-economic indicators such as health, education, nutrition, and infrastructure in India’s most underserved and mining-affected areas.




National DMF Workshop: A Collaborative Platform

The workshop brought together more than 150 DMF representatives, including 62 District Collectors, State DMF Nodal Officers, and officials from key line Ministries. Addressing the gathering, Shri G Kishan Reddy emphasized the transformative power of DMF in India’s mining regions over the past decade, calling it a model of cooperative federalism and urging stakeholders to approach DMF as a mission-oriented tool for community-centric, inclusive development.

Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, reiterated DMF’s significance, stating that it is more than a fund—it is a mechanism to ensure last-mile delivery of benefits from India’s mineral wealth. He highlighted DMF’s contributions to sectors like healthcare, skilling, and education, particularly in marginalized areas.


Showcasing Progress: Presentations, Awards, and a Coffee Table Book

The workshop featured impactful presentations by thematic groups of District Magistrates, focusing on transparency, innovative best practices, implementation challenges, and capacity building. Representatives from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) also addressed the gathering, sharing insights into audit mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability.

A key highlight was the launch of Coffee Table Book 2.0, documenting transformative DMF projects across India, offering a visual and narrative snapshot of development efforts in mining-affected communities.

Several states were felicitated for their achievements:

  • Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Odisha, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Goa for adopting the PMKKKY 2024 guidelines into their DMF Rules.

  • Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh for timely closure of annual audit reports, reflecting enhanced transparency and financial discipline.

The event concluded with the rollout of a district-level action plan for focused implementation of the revised Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) Guidelines 2024.


DMF Exhibition Inaugurated at Handloom Haat

Earlier in the day, Shri G Kishan Reddy inaugurated the DMF Exhibition at Handloom Haat (Janpath). Accompanied by MoS Shri Satish Chandra Dubey and Secretary Shri V L Kantha Rao, he visited stalls showcasing Self-Help Groups (SHGs) supported by DMF funds. The exhibition, running until July 15, 2025, provides a platform for SHGs from mining-affected districts to present their products and interact with a broader audience, highlighting the economic empowerment facilitated by DMF schemes.


Conclusion:

The launch of the Aspirational DMF Programme marks a new chapter in India’s effort to ensure inclusive, transparent, and sustainable development in mining-affected areas. By integrating DMF objectives with national priorities under the ADP and ABP, the Ministry of Mines has reaffirmed its commitment to “Viksit Bharat@2047 ” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat”, ensuring that the benefits of mineral wealth reach every corner of the nation through participatory governance and community-driven initiatives to empower mining-affected regions of our country.


For more details, check press release on PIB website.

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