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India-Japan Partnership Enters New Era as PM Modi Highlights Strong Economic Ties, AI & Defence Cooperation

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the strength of India-Japan relations, describing the bilateral partnership as “truly special” while emphasizing its growing impact on the global economy. Speaking at the India-Japan Joint Economic Forum held in New Delhi, PM Modi highlighted that the collaboration between Japan’s technological expertise and investment capabilities, combined with India’s rapid growth and large-scale opportunities, creates significant benefits for the world economy. He noted that both nations have agreed to deepen cooperation across several strategic sectors, including artificial intelligence, economic security, defence, and healthcare, paving the way for a future-ready partnership. Addressing global economic challenges such as supply chain disruptions, trade uncertainties, and slowing international demand, PM Modi underscored India’s position as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, recording a GDP growth of 7.7 percent in the previous financial year. The Prime Minister further stated that over the last twelve years, India has adopted the philosophy of Kaizen to transform its economic framework, alongside implementing next-generation reforms in taxation, governance, and ease of doing business. He added that the government continues to open new sectors for private participation while introducing incentives aimed at accelerating economic growth, reinforcing India’s position as a highly attractive destination for Japanese investments. Surveys conducted by Japan Bank for International Cooperation have consistently ranked India as the most promising destination for Japanese businesses for four consecutive years. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, in her address, highlighted energy security as a crucial pillar of India-Japan cooperation. She referenced the recent G7 Summit, where Japan proposed measures to strengthen global energy security through transparent energy trade, strategic stockpiling, and stronger collaboration between energy-producing and consuming nations. She also emphasized Japan’s commitment to implementing these goals through its Power Asia Initiative. On the occasion, both leaders jointly inaugurated the fourth vehicle manufacturing facility of Maruti Suzuki at Kharkhoda, Haryana, marking another milestone in industrial collaboration between India and Japan. Source: News on AIR

India-Japan Partnership Enters New Era as PM Modi Highlights Strong Economic Ties, AI & Defence Cooperation Read More »

Rajnath Singh Highlights Economic Strength as Key Driver of India’s Defence Growth at Vibrant Gujarat Summit

/ Governance Community

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has underscored the critical connection between economic strength and national security, stating that a strong economy is the backbone of a nation’s defence capabilities. Speaking at the valedictory session of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Vadodara, he said India’s growing industrial capacity is paving the way for greater self-reliance in the defence sector. Highlighting Gujarat’s industrial potential, Singh expressed confidence that the state is well-positioned to become a global centre for defence manufacturing, driven by its expanding footprint in sectors such as chemicals, electronics, shipbuilding, and renewable energy. He pointed to India’s remarkable progress in indigenous defence production, noting that the country’s domestic defence manufacturing output has risen sharply from ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to nearly ₹1.78 lakh crore today, reflecting the government’s continued push towards strengthening the country’s self-sufficiency in strategic sectors. Singh also highlighted Vadodara’s growing significance in India’s aerospace ecosystem, mentioning the establishment of the country’s first private-sector military aircraft manufacturing facility, where Tata Group and Airbus are jointly producing the Airbus C-295 transport aircraft — a milestone development for India’s defence manufacturing ambitions. Meanwhile, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced that agreements worth ₹3.34 lakh crore were signed during the two-day summit. These investments are expected to create over 1.97 lakh employment opportunities, providing a major boost to the region’s economic growth and industrial development in the near future. Source: News on AIR

Rajnath Singh Highlights Economic Strength as Key Driver of India’s Defence Growth at Vibrant Gujarat Summit Read More »

Indian Railways Approves Kavach Safety System Deployment Across Key East Coast Railway Routes

/ Governance Community

Indian Railways has approved the deployment of the Automatic Train Protection system, Kavach, across 631 route kilometres under East Coast Railway, aiming to further strengthen railway safety and improve operational efficiency. According to the Railways Ministry, the project will cover six major railway sections under East Coast Railway, including Baghuapal–Budhapank, Haridaspur–Paradeep, Khurda Road–Balangir, Naupada–Gunupur, Lanjigarh Road–Junagarh, and Bobbili–Salur. The installation of Kavach, India’s indigenous automatic train protection technology, is designed to significantly improve train safety by enabling collision prevention and automatic braking systems, reducing the chances of accidents caused by human error. The railway ministry stated that the project will enhance the safety of both passenger and freight train operations across critical rail corridors in Odisha and surrounding regions connected through East Coast Railway. This initiative is part of Indian Railways’ broader mission to expand Kavach coverage on high-density and strategically important railway routes, reinforcing its commitment to safer and smarter rail transportation across the country. Source: News on AIR

Indian Railways Approves Kavach Safety System Deployment Across Key East Coast Railway Routes Read More »

EPF Interest Rate Retained at 8.25% for FY26; UPI-Based Withdrawals to Roll Out Soon

/ Governance Community

The central government has officially approved an 8.25% interest rate on Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) deposits for the financial year 2025-26, keeping the rate unchanged for the third consecutive year. As per government officials, the interest amount is expected to be credited to more than 70 million contributing subscribers by the end of this month. The decision comes after approval by the Central Board of Trustees (CBT), the apex decision-making body of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation, with final clearance now granted by the finance ministry. In a significant push towards digital convenience, the government has also approved UPI-based withdrawals under the upcoming EPFO 3.0 platform. This new feature will allow EPF subscribers to access their provident fund savings directly through UPI apps and ATMs, making the withdrawal process quicker and reducing dependency on paperwork. The labour ministry is expected to officially notify these reforms by the end of the month, paving the way for a more streamlined and digitally enabled EPF ecosystem for millions of workers across India. Source: Economic Times

EPF Interest Rate Retained at 8.25% for FY26; UPI-Based Withdrawals to Roll Out Soon Read More »

PM Modi Thanks Slovakia for Backing India-EU Trade Deal, Announces Stronger Bilateral Partnership

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed appreciation to Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico for Slovakia’s support in advancing negotiations on the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), emphasizing that its early implementation would create major opportunities for industries, startups, and businesses in both nations. Speaking during a joint press statement in Bratislava, PM Modi said the successful completion of the India-EU FTA would mark an important step forward in economic cooperation between India and Europe while strengthening trade relations specifically between India and Slovakia. Highlighting future collaboration areas, Modi said technology will play a central role in the growing partnership. He pointed to the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding on digital technology, which is expected to boost cooperation in digital public infrastructure and innovation-driven initiatives. The Prime Minister also underscored the strong cultural ties shared by both nations, citing the translation of India’s ancient Upanishads into Slovak as a symbol of deep-rooted cultural connection. He added that the Indian community living in Slovakia continues to make valuable contributions to the country’s economy and social development. Addressing global affairs, Modi stated that both countries maintain close coordination on international matters and share a common belief that global conflicts and tensions must be resolved through peaceful dialogue. On defence ties, he said the sector reflects growing strategic trust between India and Slovakia. A newly signed Letter of Intent in defence cooperation, he noted, will strengthen joint development, manufacturing, and industrial collaboration between the two countries. PM Modi also announced the establishment of an India Chair on Artificial Intelligence at a Slovak university, stressing that the future of AI should be built on innovation while maintaining trust, responsibility, and respect for human dignity. Calling the visit historic, Modi highlighted that this marks the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Slovakia. During the visit, both countries agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Partnership, reflecting shared priorities and a common long-term vision. Speaking alongside Modi, Prime Minister Robert Fico backed India’s bid for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council, saying India deserves a greater global role. He also welcomed the India-EU free trade negotiations, calling it one of the most ambitious trade agreements under discussion. Fico further expressed interest in expanding defence industry cooperation with India and praised the country’s rapid progress in digital transformation and artificial intelligence, noting that India is advancing faster than many Western nations in these sectors. He also congratulated Narendra Modi on becoming India’s longest-serving Prime Minister. Source: News on AIR

PM Modi Thanks Slovakia for Backing India-EU Trade Deal, Announces Stronger Bilateral Partnership Read More »

Centre Approves ₹10,000 Crore ATF Stabilisation Package to Cushion Airlines Amid West Asia Crisis

/ Governance Community

The Union Government has approved a one-time budgetary support package of ₹10,000 crore to help stabilise Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices and protect the aviation sector from the impact of sharp global fuel price fluctuations triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Speaking at an Inter-Ministerial briefing in New Delhi on recent developments in West Asia, Rohit Raj, Director in the Ministry of Civil Aviation, said the measure has been introduced in the larger public interest to safeguard air connectivity, maintain stability in aviation services, and prevent a significant increase in airfares for passengers. He clarified that the initiative is not a subsidy but a temporary stabilisation mechanism designed to absorb the impact of exceptional fuel price volatility. The arrangement includes provisions for accountability, monitoring, and recovery of funds. According to Raj, reducing airlines’ exposure to sudden spikes in fuel costs will help limit the transfer of additional expenses to travellers while ensuring uninterrupted air services across the country. He emphasized that reliable air connectivity plays a crucial role in supporting regional development, tourism, trade, healthcare, education, and investment, adding that the government remains committed to affordable and dependable air travel while promoting the growth of India’s civil aviation sector. Providing an update on the country’s energy situation, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said India has sufficient stocks of petrol, diesel, LPG, and natural gas. She noted that no LPG distributorships have reported shortages and highlighted improvements in service delivery, with online LPG bookings reaching 99% and OTP-based deliveries exceeding 96%. Sharma said authorities continue to monitor the market closely and take enforcement action against black marketing and hoarding of petroleum products. Since March, more than eight lakh PNG connections have been activated, while infrastructure for nearly 2.98 lakh additional connections has been established. She also revealed that approximately 1.43 crore domestic LPG cylinders were delivered across the country over the past three days. During the same period, around 19,000 tonnes of commercial LPG were sold, along with more than 1.57 lakh five-kilogram Free Trade LPG cylinders. Meanwhile, Asim R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf) in the Ministry of External Affairs, said the government is closely monitoring developments across the Gulf and West Asia. He advised Indian citizens to avoid travel to Iran and stated that Indian embassies and consulates in the region continue to operate 24/7 helplines and provide assistance to citizens. Mahajan added that flight operations between the region and India are gradually improving, with additional services being introduced. He also noted that the government is regularly issuing travel advisories and updates related to local regulations and flight operations to keep citizens informed. Source: News on AIR

Centre Approves ₹10,000 Crore ATF Stabilisation Package to Cushion Airlines Amid West Asia Crisis Read More »

IMD Issues Orange Alert for Thundersquall Across Multiple States, Heavy Rainfall Likely in South India

/ Governance Community

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for thundersquall activity in several states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, West Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Coastal Andhra Pradesh, warning residents to remain cautious amid potentially severe weather conditions. According to the latest forecast, heavy rainfall is expected over Interior Karnataka, Kerala, Mahe, Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal through tomorrow. The weather agency has also predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and strong gusty winds across Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Konkan and Goa, Lakshadweep, Maharashtra, Rayalaseema, Saurashtra and Kutch, Telangana, and West Uttar Pradesh over the next two to three days. Similar weather conditions are likely to affect Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim, Coastal Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and South Interior Karnataka tomorrow. In addition, the IMD has warned of hot and humid weather conditions in parts of Northeast India, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura. Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are also expected to experience uncomfortable hot and humid conditions during the day. Source: News on AIR

IMD Issues Orange Alert for Thundersquall Across Multiple States, Heavy Rainfall Likely in South India Read More »

PM Modi Pushes Faster Execution of Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, Reviews Key Infrastructure Projects at PRAGATI Meeting

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday stressed the importance of effective implementation of Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, urging States to focus not only on infrastructure creation but also on measurable outcomes through continuous monitoring, citizen participation, and better coordination among stakeholders. Chairing the 51st PRAGATI meeting in New Delhi, the Prime Minister reviewed seven major infrastructure projects spanning the Railways, Power, and Road sectors across nine States, with a combined value of nearly ₹30,000 crore. During the review of Swachh Bharat Mission initiatives, Modi directed States to speed up the completion of solid waste management infrastructure, including waste processing units and GOBARdhan plants. He highlighted the need for stronger implementation mechanisms to ensure long-term impact and improved sanitation outcomes. Reviewing power sector projects, the Prime Minister called for rapid expansion of rooftop solar systems in urban areas, residential societies, and public institutions. He said rooftop solar adoption should be pursued in mission mode to lower electricity costs, strengthen energy security, and boost clean energy generation at the community level. On road and port connectivity projects, Modi emphasised that the Vadhavan Port project should evolve into a model for integrated multi-modal infrastructure development. He said the port must function as a national logistics gateway connected through coastal shipping, inland waterways, dedicated freight corridors, high-speed rail, highways, and airport networks. While assessing the Ken-Betwa River Inter-linking Project, the Prime Minister said the initiative should become a benchmark for resolving inter-state water issues through cooperation, timely approvals, technology-driven monitoring, and mission-oriented execution. He encouraged States to explore similar integrated projects focusing on river-linking, water conservation, groundwater recharge, and efficient irrigation systems to enhance long-term water security. The Prime Minister also warned that delays in public infrastructure projects lead to rising costs and deprive citizens of timely access to essential services and development benefits. He stressed that Ministries, Departments, and State governments must adopt a proactive and time-bound approach to resolve bottlenecks and accelerate implementation. Modi further suggested innovative use of canal infrastructure, including installing solar panels along and above canals. He noted that such projects could optimise land use, reduce water evaporation, generate renewable energy, and create additional economic value from water resources. At the beginning of the meeting, the Cabinet Secretary informed that a monthly review mechanism for social sector schemes has now been operationalised at the State level following the Prime Minister’s directions. The system is aimed at ensuring regular monitoring, quicker resolution of implementation challenges, and greater accountability at State and district levels. Swachh Bharat Mission has been selected as the first scheme for review under this mechanism. Source: News on AIR

PM Modi Pushes Faster Execution of Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, Reviews Key Infrastructure Projects at PRAGATI Meeting Read More »

India, US Share Strong Commitment to Fighting Terrorism: EAM Jaishankar

/ Governance Community

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has reaffirmed that India and the United States share a strong commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Speaking at the celebrations marking the 250th Independence Day of the United States in New Delhi, Dr Jaishankar stressed that both countries firmly believe in maintaining zero tolerance towards terrorism, making counter-terrorism cooperation a key pillar of bilateral ties. He highlighted that India and the US also have shared interests in reducing risks in the global economy and expanding strategic choices for the world. According to him, the growing convergence between the two nations has strengthened their partnership across several sectors. Referring to the recent visit of US Secretary of State and NSA Marco Rubio, Dr Jaishankar said the visit underlines the increasing importance of India-US relations in the current global landscape. He further noted that last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump laid out a roadmap to further deepen the long-standing partnership between the two countries. Source: News on AIR

India, US Share Strong Commitment to Fighting Terrorism: EAM Jaishankar Read More »

India, Italy Elevate Ties to Special Strategic Partnership; Sign 15 Agreements Across Key Sectors

/ Governance Community

India and Italy have upgraded their bilateral relationship to a Special Strategic Partnership following delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome. The visit resulted in the signing of 15 agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors. The two nations signed Memorandums of Understanding covering agriculture, critical minerals, Ayurveda, science and technology, maritime transport and ports. A major agreement was also concluded to facilitate the mobility of Indian nurses to Italy, creating fresh opportunities for healthcare professionals. Another important pact focuses on the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal, highlighting collaboration in maritime and cultural heritage. India and Italy also agreed to enhance cooperation in tackling tax crimes, money laundering and terror financing. Addressing a joint press statement after the talks, Prime Minister Modi said the India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029 would serve as a forward-looking roadmap for bilateral ties. He added that both countries are working towards establishing an India-Italy Innovation Centre and expanding defence collaboration through the India-Italy Defence Industrial Roadmap. Prime Minister Modi said both maritime nations would strengthen cooperation in shipping, logistics, port modernisation and the blue economy. On global issues, he noted that India and Italy remain closely engaged on developments in Ukraine, West Asia and other international matters, stressing that dialogue and diplomacy are essential for resolving conflicts. He also reiterated the need for decisive action against terrorism and terror financing networks. Highlighting economic ties, Mr Modi said Italy is recognised for its design and precision, while India has emerged as a centre for scale, talent and affordable innovation. He added that both countries will move ahead with the vision of “Design and Develop in India and Italy and Deliver for the World.” Prime Minister Meloni said the Special Strategic Partnership reflects the growing strength of India-Italy relations built on shared values and mutual trust. She also underlined the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific and expanding cooperation in strategic sectors. The agreements are expected to boost trade, innovation, defence cooperation and people-to-people ties, while reinforcing collaboration on global peace, sustainable development and international security. Source: News on AIR

India, Italy Elevate Ties to Special Strategic Partnership; Sign 15 Agreements Across Key Sectors Read More »