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Governance Community

Government Urges Delivery Platforms to Scrap 10-Minute Delivery Promises to Safeguard Gig Workers

/ Governance Community

The central government has asked online food delivery and quick-commerce companies to abandon rigid “10-minute delivery” guarantees, citing serious concerns over the safety of gig workers operating under intense time pressure. Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday held discussions with senior representatives from platforms including Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy and Zomato. During the meeting, he stressed that delivery partners’ safety should take priority over speed and advised companies to remove strict delivery timelines from their apps, advertisements and promotional campaigns. Following the government’s intervention, Blinkit has reportedly withdrawn its “10-minute delivery” claim across its branding platforms. Other companies also assured the ministry that they would eliminate delivery-time commitments from their advertisements and social media content. The move is being viewed as an important step toward improving working conditions for delivery partners, who often face unsafe situations while rushing through congested city roads to meet aggressive deadlines. Concerns around gig workers’ safety, wages and rights have gained momentum in recent weeks. AAP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha has been vocal on the issue, consistently drawing attention to the challenges faced by delivery workers. On Monday, he shared a video on social media documenting his experience spending a day as a delivery partner in Delhi. Wearing a quick-commerce jacket and riding pillion on a two-wheeler, Chadha navigated heavy traffic and delivered parcels to highlight the realities of gig work. He said the experience helped him understand workers’ lives beyond policy discussions and corporate boardrooms. Earlier this month, Chadha welcomed the draft social security rules for gig workers, describing them as a crucial first step toward recognition, protection and dignity. Chadha has also supported gig workers who observed a nationwide symbolic strike on New Year’s Eve, demanding fair pay, safer working conditions and social security. The protest, organised by gig worker unions, saw thousands of delivery partners logging off or reducing work across several states, leading to service disruptions on one of the busiest days of the year. Chadha termed their demands legitimate, noting that gig workers are a vital pillar of India’s urban economy. Source: IANS

Government Urges Delivery Platforms to Scrap 10-Minute Delivery Promises to Safeguard Gig Workers Read More »

India set to become world’s third-largest economy by next year: Amit Shah

/ Governance Community

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah has expressed confidence that India will emerge as the world’s third-largest economy by the end of next year. He made the statement while addressing a public gathering in his hometown Mansa, located in Gujarat’s Gandhinagar district, after inaugurating and laying foundation stones for development projects worth more than ₹267 crore. Highlighting the government’s long-term vision, Mr. Shah said India is steadily moving towards becoming a global leader across sectors by 2047. During the event, he referred to the Somnath Temple as a powerful symbol of India’s cultural identity and self-respect. He announced that the government will observe Somnath Swabhiman Parva throughout the year to highlight the temple’s thousand-year-old heritage and inspire future generations with its legacy. Speaking on sports development, Mr. Shah noted that Ahmedabad is fast emerging as an international sports destination, with efforts underway to bring the 2036 Olympic Games to the city. He encouraged young athletes in the region to make optimal use of the newly developed sports complex in Mansa. At a separate programme in Gandhinagar, the Home Minister underscored India’s remarkable progress in biotechnology. After inaugurating the BSL-4 Biocontainment Facility at the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre, he said India’s bio-economy has grown significantly—from 10 billion US dollars in 2014 to 166 billion US dollars by the end of 2024. Source: newsonair

India set to become world’s third-largest economy by next year: Amit Shah Read More »

Govt eases norms for deep-tech startups, drops three-year eligibility rule for DSIR recognition

/ Governance Community

The central government has announced a major policy relief for deep-tech startups by removing the mandatory three-year existence requirement to obtain recognition under the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR)’s Industrial Research and Development Promotion (IRDP) Programme. Speaking at the 41st Foundation Day of DSIR in New Delhi, Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh said the decision is aimed at enabling deep-tech startups to scale faster at early stages, even before they achieve operational maturity. He noted that the move signals the government’s growing trust in India’s innovation ecosystem and its confidence in the long-term sustainability and intent of homegrown innovators. The Minister emphasised that the reform aligns with several transformational steps taken under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, including opening up the nuclear and space sectors to private participation. To support innovation in these emerging domains, he said the government will further accelerate policy and institutional initiatives. Dr Singh also highlighted that India is steadily advancing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, while simultaneously positioning itself as a reliable global innovation and technology partner for other nations. During the event, the Minister unveiled a series of initiatives to strengthen India’s research, development, and innovation ecosystem. These included the release of Guidelines for Recognition of In-House R&D Units, the recognition framework for Centres of Deep-Tech Startups, the launch of the PRISM Network Platform – TOCIC Innovator Pulse, and Creative India 2025 under the PRISM scheme. Source: newsonair

Govt eases norms for deep-tech startups, drops three-year eligibility rule for DSIR recognition Read More »

Gen Z and Gen Alpha will drive India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat: PM Modi

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasised that India’s future development will be led by its youngest generations, asserting that Gen Z and Gen Alpha will play a decisive role in achieving the vision of a Viksit Bharat. He said current policies are being designed with youth empowerment at their core, placing young people at the centre of nation-building. Speaking at the Veer Baal Diwas programme at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, the Prime Minister said he has deep faith in the competence, confidence, and capabilities of today’s youth. Referring to a traditional saying, he noted that wisdom should be valued regardless of age, as true greatness is reflected in one’s actions and achievements, not years. PM Modi observed that young Indians have already delivered inspiring accomplishments across fields, but stressed that these milestones are only the beginning of a much longer journey. He encouraged the youth to dream bigger and aim higher, noting that the nation now stands firmly behind their aspirations. Highlighting the contrast with earlier times, the Prime Minister said previous generations of youth often hesitated to dream due to an atmosphere of pessimism. In contrast, today’s India actively recognises talent, offers platforms for growth, and aligns the collective strength of 140 crore citizens with youthful ambition. He pointed to initiatives such as Digital India, which has empowered youth with access to the internet and learning resources, Startup India for innovation and entrepreneurship, and Khelo India for sporting excellence. He also referred to his recent participation in the Sansad Khel Mahotsav as an example of the growing ecosystem supporting young talent. Urging young people to remain focused, PM Modi cautioned against getting distracted by short-lived fame and stressed the importance of clarity in thought, values, and principles. He encouraged them to draw inspiration from national icons and ensure that their personal success contributes to the progress of the country as a whole. The Prime Minister further highlighted platforms like Mera Yuva Bharat, aimed at connecting young people, nurturing leadership skills, and creating opportunities across sectors. He reiterated that youth are central to India’s growth in areas such as space economy, sports, fintech, manufacturing, skill development, and internships, with new avenues opening across industries. Veer Baal Diwas, observed on December 26, was announced by PM Modi in January 2022 to honour the martyrdom of Sahibzadas Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, the sons of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Their sacrifice, he said, continues to inspire generations of Indians. Source: ANI

Gen Z and Gen Alpha will drive India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat: PM Modi Read More »

No immediate threat to Aravalli ecology; over 90% of region remains protected, says government

/ Governance Community

The central government has asserted that the ecological integrity of the Aravalli range is not under any immediate threat, stating that more than 90% of the region continues to remain under protection. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said sustained afforestation efforts, eco-sensitive zone declarations, and stringent oversight of mining and urban development are helping preserve the Aravallis as a vital ecological barrier and natural heritage. Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav clarified that recent concerns around the Supreme Court’s 100-metre ruling on the Aravalli hills are based on misinterpretation. Addressing the media, he appealed to the public to refrain from spreading misinformation related to the fragile mountain range. The minister explained that the Aravalli range spans approximately 1.47 lakh square kilometres across Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Of this vast area, mining activities are permitted in only about 0.19%. He further emphasised that, in line with the Supreme Court’s directions, nearly 90% of the Aravalli region falls under protected status, with no relaxations granted. Highlighting Delhi’s status, Mr Yadav reiterated that mining is completely prohibited in the Aravalli hills within the national capital. He also noted that the Supreme Court has recently accepted the recommendations of a committee formed by the environment ministry, which redefined the Aravalli hill ranges. Under this definition, landforms with a height of less than 100 metres will no longer be classified as part of the ancient Aravalli system. The government maintained that these measures strike a balance between conservation and regulation, ensuring long-term ecological stability of the Aravallis. Source: newsonair

No immediate threat to Aravalli ecology; over 90% of region remains protected, says government Read More »

PM Modi Honoured with Oman’s Highest Civilian Award, India-Oman Ties Get Major Boost

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the prestigious Order of Oman by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik during a ceremonial event at the Royal Palace in Muscat, recognising his outstanding contribution to strengthening India-Oman relations and his visionary global leadership. The honour was bestowed during the Prime Minister’s official visit to Oman, which coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, lending added significance to the moment and to the growing Strategic Partnership. Prime Minister Modi dedicated the award to the enduring friendship between India and Oman, describing it as a symbol of the mutual trust and affection shared by the people of both countries. A major highlight of the visit was the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a new chapter in bilateral economic engagement. The agreement aims to create a transparent and predictable trade framework, enhance market access, generate employment opportunities, and facilitate labour mobility while respecting Oman’s sovereign employment policies. The CEPA was signed by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, Qais Al Yousef, in the presence of Prime Minister Modi and Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. Both leaders welcomed the agreement as a landmark step that would significantly deepen the India-Oman Strategic Partnership. Notably, this is Oman’s second direct Free Trade Agreement in two decades, underscoring India’s importance as a trusted partner. In addition to CEPA, the two countries signed multiple Memorandums of Understanding covering areas such as maritime heritage, education, agriculture, and millet cultivation, further broadening the scope of cooperation. Prime Minister Modi held extensive discussions with the Sultan, including one-on-one and delegation-level meetings, during which they reviewed progress across defence, security, trade, energy, technology, agriculture, culture, and people-to-people ties. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments. At the India-Oman Business Forum, the Prime Minister highlighted opportunities to expand economic collaboration and invited Omani businesses to invest and innovate in India. He also addressed the Indian diaspora in Muscat, including over 700 students from Indian schools, which are marking 50 years of their presence in Oman this year. Addressing the community, he spoke about India’s cultural diversity, the global respect for the Indian diaspora, and India’s transformation over the past 11 years through innovation, startups, and Digital Public Infrastructure. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to the welfare of its overseas citizens and encouraged youth to dream big and innovate boldly. The Prime Minister concluded by emphasising that the India-Oman partnership is becoming future-ready through cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Source: newsonair

PM Modi Honoured with Oman’s Highest Civilian Award, India-Oman Ties Get Major Boost Read More »

DGCA’s Tariff Monitoring Unit to be reinforced to curb high airfares, government says

/ Governance Community

The Union government has announced plans to further strengthen the Tariff Monitoring Unit under the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to keep a close watch on airfares, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu informed the Rajya Sabha. Responding to supplementary questions during Question Hour, the Minister said that fare monitoring has been expanded beyond domestic routes and now includes international sectors as well. He added that the Ministry intervenes whenever there are indications of a sharp or unreasonable rise in ticket prices. Referring to the recent IndiGo disruption that led to widespread flight cancellations, Mr. Naidu said the government stepped in to cap fares to ensure prices remained reasonable and within reach of passengers. He also highlighted that passengers have been empowered through a tariff monitoring feature on the Air Sewa portal. If travellers believe fares are excessively high, they can upload screenshots of ticket prices on the portal, following which the Ministry will take up the matter with the concerned airline. The Minister noted that airfare surges are largely a result of the deregulated nature of the aviation sector, where prices tend to increase when demand significantly outstrips supply. Source: newsonair

DGCA’s Tariff Monitoring Unit to be reinforced to curb high airfares, government says Read More »

Maharashtra’s Record-Breaking Solar Pump Rollout Earns Guinness Recognition

/ Governance Community

Maharashtra has entered the Guinness World Records after installing 45,911 off-grid solar agricultural pumps within just one month — one of the fastest large-scale renewable irrigation deployments worldwide, second only to China. The rapid rollout, executed under the PM-KUSUM scheme and the Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Yojana, was completed in 30 days and formally certified by Guinness. A special ceremony in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar marked the achievement, attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, New and Renewable Energy Minister Atul Save, and senior officials. Fadnavis said the milestone represents a transformative shift in agricultural energy access, promising improved irrigation security, higher farm incomes, and reduced dependence on traditional power sources. He also directed officials to target 10 lakh solar pump installations by next year, building on the 7.5 lakh pumps already deployed. The massive rollout was enabled by pre-planned inventory, digital monitoring, multiple parallel installation teams, and a structured execution model that prioritised drought-prone areas. Strict service-level agreements ensured farmer grievances were addressed within three days, with automatic escalation for delays. Pump allocation followed land-based criteria: 3 HP for up to 2.5 acres, 5 HP for up to 5 acres, and 7 HP for larger farms. MSEDCL CMD Lokesh Chandra said the achievement stems from systematic planning, transparent vendor processes, and rigorous compliance. Maharashtra has now installed over 7.47 lakh solar pumps and is targeting 10.45 lakh units, making it one of India’s largest renewable irrigation transitions. The model — combining PM-KUSUM (Component B) and the state scheme — is being projected as scalable for other Indian states and Global South nations aiming for energy-secure, climate-friendly agriculture. The state plans to continue the accelerated rollout, gradually shifting all new agricultural power connections to off-grid solar systems, supporting long-term decarbonisation and reducing the load on the conventional grid. Source: Economic Times

Maharashtra’s Record-Breaking Solar Pump Rollout Earns Guinness Recognition Read More »

DRDO successfully conducts high-speed rocket-sledge test for fighter jet escape system

/ Governance Community

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully carried out a high-speed rocket-sledge test of an indigenous fighter aircraft escape system, marking a major leap in India’s in-house dynamic testing capabilities. With this achievement, India has entered the select group of nations capable of performing advanced escape-system trials at controlled high velocities. The test was jointly executed with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at the Rail Track Rocket Sledge (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory in Chandigarh. Officials from the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Institute of Aerospace Medicine were present during the evaluation. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, IAF, ADA, HAL and industry partners, calling the milestone a “significant boost to India’s defence self-reliance.” Dynamic ejection trials such as this are far more challenging than standard tests like Net or Zero-Zero trials. They offer a realistic assessment of ejection seat reliability and the canopy severance mechanism’s efficiency. For this test, a dual-sledge system carrying the forebody of an LCA aircraft was accelerated to an exact velocity through sequential firing of multiple solid-fuel rocket motors. Key performance indicators — including canopy break pattern, ejection timing, and full aircrew recovery — were assessed using a fully instrumented Anthropomorphic Test Dummy, designed to replicate the physiological responses of a human pilot. The test captured detailed data on forces, acceleration, and motion loads that an ejected aircrew member would endure. The entire sequence was recorded through onboard sensors and ground-based imaging systems. Source: newsonair

DRDO successfully conducts high-speed rocket-sledge test for fighter jet escape system Read More »

Governance Emerges as India Inc’s Top Priority as Companies Race to Scale AI Infrastructure: IBM Study

/ Governance Community

India Inc is placing AI governance at the centre of its growth strategy, with a new study from the IBM Institute for Business Value revealing that strong oversight is now seen as the most critical factor for scaling AI infrastructure. In the report titled AI Infrastructure That Endures, 83% of Indian executives say that robust governance frameworks are essential for deploying AI at scale. Yet, only 4% claim their organisations have fully established mechanisms to manage AI-related risks — signalling a widening preparedness gap even as AI adoption accelerates. Despite this shortfall, enterprises are increasing investments significantly. Nearly 58% of companies have boosted their infrastructure budgets, with spending expected to rise by 19% in 2025, mirroring global trends. However, just one in ten leaders believes their current systems are fully ready to support AI needs, underscoring the urgent need for modernization to enable trust, speed and scalable performance. According to Subhathra Srinivasaraghavan, Vice President at the IBM India Systems Development Lab, Indian businesses are entering a defining stage of their AI evolution. She noted that organisations must now convert ambition into long-term impact by building agile, trustworthy and talent-driven AI ecosystems. Strengthening hybrid architectures, deepening AI skills and adopting governance-by-design were highlighted as key enablers for India’s progress toward its Viksit Bharat vision. The study finds that hybrid infrastructure is emerging as a performance catalyst — with 65% saying a fit-for-purpose hybrid strategy has improved cost and efficiency. Another 32% plan to expand hybrid AI environments over the next three years. On the skills front, companies recognise talent as a core driver of AI success. Eighty-three per cent are investing in training or hiring for AI-focused roles, though 75% admit they are still early in workforce maturity. Meanwhile, 43% have set up AI Centres of Excellence to scale internal capabilities. Source: ANI

Governance Emerges as India Inc’s Top Priority as Companies Race to Scale AI Infrastructure: IBM Study Read More »