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Eighth Regional Consultative Meeting on “Ease of Doing Research and Development (R&D)” Held at National Centre for Earth Science Studies, Thiruvananthapuram: 2025

The eighth iteration of the Regional Consultative Meeting on “Ease of Doing Research and Development (R&D)” was successfully organized by NITI Aayog on October 30-31, 2025, at the National Centre for Earth Science Studies (NCESS), Thiruvananthapuram. The meeting convened institutional leaders, Vice Chancellors, and representatives from various scientific ministries and departments for focused discussions on strengthening India’s R&D ecosystem.

Opening Remarks and Framework Introduction

Prof. N.V. Chalapathi Rao, Director of NCESS, highlighted the importance of creating an enabling environment for scientific inquiry and underscored the role of regional research institutions in fostering innovation-led development. Prof. Vivek Kumar Singh of NITI Aayog introduced the ROPE Framework (Removing Obstacles, Promoting Enablers) that guides the initiative on the Ease of Doing R&D. The framework aims to identify and overcome institutional and policy-level challenges while encouraging collaboration and capacity enhancement.



Expert Recommendations and Strategic Insights

Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, proposed leveraging retired scientific talent, strengthening University-Industry-Government (UIG) linkages, promoting data sharing, and enhancing science communication to make research more accessible to society.

Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member of NITI Aayog, emphasized that both internal (institutional structure, governance) and external (regulatory and funding) factors are crucial to improving Ease of Doing R&D. He stressed the need to address these simultaneously to advance India’s vision of becoming a global leader in research and innovation.

Holistic Approach to Science and Development

Kerala Governor Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar connected the ease of conducting R&D to the broader goal of improving citizens’ quality of living. He emphasized that science and technology must serve people-centric development and that collaboration among institutions, industries, and governments is essential for inclusive growth. He affirmed that regional development paves the way for national progress.

Conclusion and Forward Path

The two-day meeting concluded with interactive sessions reaffirming the collective commitment of academia, research labs, and government institutions to build an efficient, inclusive, and collaborative R&D ecosystem capable of propelling India’s scientific journey.


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

Source: PIB

India to Proudly Host 4-Day India International Science Festival (IISF 2025) at Chandigarh from December 6

The India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025 is scheduled to be held in Chandigarh from December 6 to 9, 2025, as announced by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences. The festival aims to spotlight India’s transformation into a science-led, innovation-driven nation under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

Science-Led Governance and Innovation

Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the decisive shift in governance where science now leads policy, articulating that policies are increasingly oriented by advancements in science and technology. He highlighted the government’s role as an enabler, facilitating private sector innovations, startups, and a new generation of innovators driving breakthroughs in Deep Tech, Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Quantum Technologies, and Clean Energy.



Festival Theme and Objectives

IISF 2025 will celebrate India’s journey toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat through science, technology, and innovation. The festival will bring together ministries, academia, industry, and startups to showcase India’s scientific achievements and foster a culture of innovation and self-reliance.

Participation and Leadership

Key participants include Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India; Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences; Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy; Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology (DST); Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology; and Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, Department of Scientific & Industrial Research, and Director General, CSIR. Representatives from Vijnana Bharati will also attend.


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

Source: PIB

Historic Enshrinement of Holy Jore Sahib at Takhat Sri Harmandir Ji Patna Sahib: 2025

A moment of profound reverence unfolded on November 1, 2025, at Takhat Sri Harmandir Ji Patna Sahib with the ceremonial enshrinement of the sacred Jore Sahib, the blessed footwear of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj and Mata Sahib Kaur Ji. The event was graced by Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Hon’ble Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, alongside a large congregation of devotees.

Guru Charan Yatra and Spiritual Significance

The enshrinement marked the culmination of the nine-day “Guru Charan Yatra,” where the holy relics journeyed from Delhi to Patna via Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. The sacred Jore Sahib was received with immense devotion, escorted by the Panj Pyaras in a spiritually uplifting procession symbolizing unity, sacrifice, and faith. Thousands lined the yatra route to pay homage, creating a historic moment of communal and spiritual solidarity.

Shri Hardeep Singh Puri reflected on the event’s deep personal significance, tracing his family’s centuries-old service to Guru Maharaj, whose sacred relics were entrusted to his ancestors over 300 years ago. The occasion witnessed the presence of Bihar Governor Shri Arif Mohammad Khan and spiritual leaders from various faiths, emphasizing communal harmony.



Custodianship and Antiquity Validation

Before the yatra, the custody of the holy relics was transferred on October 22 to the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee and the Takhat Sri Patna Sahib Management Committee. The relic’s authenticity and conservation were meticulously validated by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). The Conservation Division of IGNCA, led by Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi and Prof. Achal Pandya, ensured the relics were preserved with scholarly rigor and sanctity.

Ongoing Spiritual and Cultural Legacy

The sacred relics now reside permanently at Takhat Sri Harmandir Ji Patna Sahib, the revered birthplace of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The Gurdwara remains a beacon for devotees seeking blessings and darshan. This landmark event honors the enduring spiritual radiance and legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj and Mata Sahib Kaur Ji, symbolizing devotion, service, and faith.


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

Source: PIB

IEPFA & SEBI Hold Niveshak Shivir in Amritsar to Empower Investors and Resolve Unclaimed Dividend and Share Issues: 2025

The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, in collaboration with the Securities and Exchange Board of India, successfully organized the “Niveshak Shivir” in Amritsar on November 1, 2025. The one-day event drew enthusiastic participation from over 223 investors across Punjab, offering a single-window facilitation platform to address unclaimed dividends, share-related issues, and other investor services.

Single-Window Solutions and On-Spot Assistance

The Niveshak Shivir enabled direct resolution of unpaid dividends and claims pending for over six to seven years. Attendees benefited from on-the-spot KYC and nomination updates, and claim issues were addressed promptly through interaction with Registrar and Transfer Agents (RTAs) and company representatives. Dedicated kiosks ensured direct engagement eliminating the need for intermediaries, streamlining grievance redressal and enhancing transparency.



Promoting Investor Awareness

Following successful editions in Pune and Hyderabad, the Amritsar Shivir stood as a milestone reinforcing IEPFA’s vision of building a comprehensive investor-centric financial ecosystem nationwide. The camp provided not only immediate facilitation but also deeper awareness of investor rights and responsibilities, empowering participants with vital information.

Educational Initiatives

IEPFA and SEBI, in cooperation with CDSL IPF, launched an explainer video titled “Understanding the Process of Claiming Unpaid Dividends through IEPFA.” The video educates investors about what unclaimed dividends are, why they remain unpaid, the importance of timely dividend management, and guides them through the claim process in an easy and accessible manner.

Commitment to Investor Protection

The Niveshak Shivir exemplifies IEPFA’s commitment to enhancing financial literacy and safeguarding investors’ financial interests through transparency, accessibility, and trust. This outreach program continues to empower millions across India by simplifying complex processes and bridging gaps in investor grievance redressal.


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

Source: PIB

Lt Gen Avinash Das Proudly Takes Over as Commandant of Army Hospital Research & Referral, Delhi Cantt: 2025

Lieutenant General Avinash Das, a highly respected ENT surgeon with nearly four decades of service in the Armed Forces Medical Services, has been appointed as the Commandant of the Army Hospital Research & Referral (R&R), New Delhi, effective November 1, 2025.​

Distinguished Career and Leadership

An alumnus of the Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, Lt Gen Das brings exceptional clinical expertise and broad leadership experience, having held senior advisory roles at major military hospitals including Base Hospital, Delhi Cantt, and Command Hospital, Lucknow. He has been honored with the COAS, CISC, and GOC-in-C commendation cards for his exemplary service.​



Contributions and Vision: Lt Gen Avinash Das

He was pivotal as Commandant, Command Hospital (Northern Command), facilitating the move from Udhampur to a new state-of-the-art hospital building. Lt Gen Das is known for advancing medical research, clinical excellence, and the training of future specialists within the Armed Forces Medical Services. As Commandant of R&R, he is expected to continue elevating the hospital’s reputation in patient care, research, and medical education.​

Outlook

Lt Gen Avinash Das’s appointment is poised to reinforce Army Hospital (R&R)’s legacy as the premier centre for advanced healthcare and innovation for service personnel, veterans, and the wider defence community, furthering a tradition of service, excellence, and compassion.​

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

Source: PIB

First-Ever Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025 Witnesses Spectacular Culmination

The inaugural edition of the Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025 (SIM-25) culminated in an energizing celebration of fitness, valour, and national pride at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, on November 2, 2025. The event united over 12,000 runners in Delhi alone, and more than 45,000 participants from 46 Air Force Stations across India competed in three categories of 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km runs, reflecting the spirit of inclusivity and enthusiasm inherent in the Indian Air Force community.

Distinguished Presence and Enthralling Performances

The marathon was graced by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, and the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, who also actively participated in the 21 km run, inspiring both air warriors and citizens alike. The event featured a vibrant Zumba warm-up session, electrifying performances by the Indian Air Force Band, a synchronized drill display by the Air Warrior Drill Team, and a breathtaking skydiving exhibition, epitomizing the discipline, fitness, and spirit of the Indian Air Force.



Celebration of Legacy and Creativity

Adding glamour, prominent actors Huma Qureshi, Shefali Shah, Archana Puran Singh, and Sunil Grover joined the event to motivate participants. The event also unveiled a teaser of Operation Safed Sagar, a Netflix series narrating the courage and resilience of the Indian Air Force during the Kargil War, bridging the past and present valor.

Tribute to a War Hero

The marathon honored the valor of Param Vir Chakra awardee Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, commemorating his legacy and inspiring future generations to embody his courage and dedication. The day was a celebration of the indomitable spirit of the Indian Air Force—an enduring symbol of strength, unity, and national pride.


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

Source: PIB

EPFO Foundation Day 2025: PDUNASS Honoured for Transformative Governance Initiatives

Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) celebrated its 73rd Foundation Day on November 1, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event was graced by Union Minister of Labour and Employment, Youth Affairs and Sports, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, along with senior officials from across India.

Awards and Recognition

The Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya National Academy of Social Security (PDUNASS), EPFO’s training and capacity-building institution, was honoured with two prestigious Bhavishya Nidhi Awards 2025:

  • Best Achievement in Capacity Building

  • Special Initiative – Reimagining Governance: Discourse for Excellence (RGDE)



Special Initiative – Reimagining Governance: Discourse for Excellence (RGDE)

Launched on Good Governance Day, 2023, the RGDE series exemplifies PDUNASS’s commitment to fostering institutional learning and leadership. Bringing together eminent personalities from governance, policy, arts, and culture, RGDE serves as a platform for ethical public service discourse. Notable speakers have included Shri Kailash Satyarthi, Dr. Devi Shetty, Shri Sanjeev Sanyal, Shri Adil Hussain, and Shri Prabhat Kumar.

This initiative has evolved into a vibrant movement inspiring reforms in training design, ethics, and governance within EPFO. The award was jointly received by Shri Kumar Rohit, Director of PDUNASS, and Shri Uttam Prakash, RPFC-I, the RGDE Series Moderator since its inception.

Best Achievement in Capacity Building

PDUNASS was recognized for training 155 newly recruited Assistant Provident Fund Commissioners (APFCs) during 2024-25, focusing on both functional excellence and behavioural development. Two innovative modules, “Design Thinking” (in collaboration with NID Ahmedabad) and “Compassion in Governance” (in partnership with the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion), were launched to nurture creativity, empathy, and innovation.

Additional initiatives like “Book Review” and “Delicious Initiatives” were introduced to foster teamwork and a culture of continuous learning. The award was jointly received by Shri Kumar Rohit and Shri Ankur P. Gupta, RPFC-I.

Launch of Coffee Table Book & Exhibition

Shri Mansukh Mandaviya launched a Coffee Table Book titled “Reimagining Governance: Discourse for Excellence,” chronicling the RGDE series journey. The subsequent EPFO Exhibition showcased key PDUNASS initiatives, including various booklets on governance, training, and social security achievements from campuses across India.

Commitment to Excellence

The Foundation Day witnessed widespread participation from EPFO officers and employees, reaffirming their dedication to ethical, people-centric governance. PDUNASS continues to serve as a national thought leader advancing social security administration and governance excellence.


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

Source: PIB

WAVES Animation Bazaar and 8th Edition of IndiaJoy 2025 Proudly Inaugurated in Hyderabad

The WAVES Animation Bazaar and the 8th edition of IndiaJoy 2025 were inaugurated at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC), Hitex, marking a significant milestone for India’s creative economy. The event was graced by Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, along with other dignitaries from the media and entertainment industry.

Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) to Establish Regional Center in Hyderabad

Shri Sanjay Jaju announced that a regional center of the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), the first of its kind in India, will soon be established in Hyderabad. This initiative is aimed at bolstering the growth of gaming, animation, and digital entertainment industries across the country.



Hyderabad – The Hub of AVGC Ecosystem

Highlighting the strong contributions of the Telugu film industry and the Telangana Government’s efforts, Hyderabad is recognized as the nucleus of India’s Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics (AVGC) ecosystem. This vibrant sector drives the nation’s creative economy, with India’s media and entertainment industry rapidly expanding and serving as a vital expression of the country’s soft power.

WAVES Initiative and Industry Transformation

The WAVES initiative, conceptualized by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, envisions India as a global leader in creativity and digital innovation. Shri Jaju emphasized that South India, especially Hyderabad, plays a pivotal role in advancing Indian cinema and creative technologies. The initiative aims to transform the Indian film industry by integrating creativity with technology, creating a global platform for collaboration and innovation, similar to how the IPL revolutionized Indian cricket.

Startups and Innovation

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between IICT and T-Hub supports startup incubation and innovation in the media and entertainment sector. The IndiaJoy expo showcased startups incubated under the WAVEX initiative and intellectual property created by winners of the Create in India Challenge Season 1. The platform provides young creators with market access and exposure to prominent industry events.

WAVES Animation Bazaar and Industry Showcase

The WAVES Animation Bazaar, launched at the event, serves as a physical content marketplace linking creators with buyers and OTT platforms, empowering creators to monetize their work and accelerate industry growth. The event also featured a roundtable chaired by Shri Sanjay Jaju with Telugu and Malayalam film producers, where Japan was announced as the partner country for India’s International Film Festival (IFFI) 2025.

Combatting Piracy and Promoting Ease of Certification

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting reaffirmed its commitment to combating piracy, a growing threat to Indian cinema. A new system for multilingual film certification was introduced to simplify and streamline the certification process.

Event Significance and Attendance

Organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the two-day event highlighted India’s creative economy across films, esports, visual effects, animation, OTT platforms, comics, and emerging digital entertainment sectors. Notable attendees included the Hon’ble Minister for IT, Telangana, Shri Duddilla Sridhar Babu, Shri Dil Raju, Chairman of Telangana Film Development Corporation, actor Shri Teja Sajja, and key industry leaders from Telugu film associations.


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

Source: PIB

DRI Foils High-Value Smuggling Bid of Cocaine in Coffee; Rs 47 Crore Narcotics Seized at Mumbai Airport, Five Arrested

In a major crackdown on international drug trafficking, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 4.7 kg of cocaine, valued at around ₹47 crore in the illicit market, from a female passenger arriving from Colombo at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai.

Discovery and Arrests

Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officials intercepted the passenger shortly after arrival and conducted a thorough examination of her baggage. They discovered nine pouches containing white powder concealed cleverly inside coffee packets. Preliminary testing using the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) field kit confirmed the substance to be cocaine.

Following this, a coordinated operation led to the arrest of four additional syndicate members — one who came to the airport to receive the shipment and three others involved in financing, logistics, and distribution. All five individuals have been apprehended under the NDPS Act, 1985.



Emerging Trends and Investigation

Recent DRI seizures indicate a disturbing trend where international drug networks increasingly exploit Indian women as couriers while hiding narcotics within food and everyday items to evade detection. A detailed investigation is underway to dismantle the larger transnational syndicate orchestrating this smuggling attempt.

The DRI remains committed to the vision of “Nasha Mukt Bharat”, aiming to disrupt narcotics supply chains to protect India’s youth, economy, and national security.


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

Source: PIB

Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh Assumes Charge as Chief of Personnel of Indian Navy: 2025

Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh, AVSM, NM took charge as the Chief of Personnel of the Indian Navy on November 1, 2025. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, he was commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1, 1990.

Distinguished Naval Career: Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh

A specialist in Gunnery and Missiles, Vice Admiral Singh has served onboard Indian Naval Ships Ranjit and Prahar. He was part of the commissioning crew of three indigenously constructed warships: INS Brahmaputra as Gunnery Officer, INS Shivalik as Executive Officer, and INS Kochi as Commanding Officer. Additionally, he commanded INS Vidyut and INS Khukri.

He has contributed to naval training as an instructor at INS Dronacharya (Gunnery School) and served as Deputy Commandant at the Naval War College in Goa. His staff roles include Assistant Chief of Personnel (HRD), positions in the Directorate of Naval Intelligence at Naval Headquarters, and service in the Indian Naval Work-up Team.



Leadership Roles and Achievements

Vice Admiral Singh was appointed Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet in November 2022, focusing on operational preparedness under the mission “Ordnance on Target.” Elevated to Vice Admiral rank in January 2024, he became Controller Personnel Services, implementing initiatives to enhance working conditions for naval personnel and the broader naval community. Before his current role, he served as Commandant of the National Defence Academy.

He earned the Admiral Katari Trophy for standing first in overall merit during his initial training. Under his command, INS Khukri received the Chief of Naval Staff ‘Unit Citation’ in December 2011 for effective anti-piracy operations. His commendations include the FOC-in-C Commendation (2002), the Nausena Medal (2020), and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (2024).

Academic Qualifications and Training

Vice Admiral Singh holds MSc and MPhil degrees in Defence & Strategic Studies. He has completed the Staff Course at DSSC Wellington, Higher Command at the Naval War College, and National Defence College courses in India. Internationally, he attended the Maritime Intelligence Course at the National Intelligence University, Washington, and the United Nations Staff Officers Course (UNSOC) in Stockholm, Sweden.


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

Source: PIB