AVS POST

Category: News

  • Nominations for Padma Awards-2025 begins, Know all the procedures

    Nominations for Padma Awards-2025 begins, Know all the procedures

    Padma Awards-2025: Online nominations/recommendations for the Padma Awards 2025 to be announced on the occasion of Republic Day, 2025 have begun from today. The last date for nominations for Padma Awards is 15th September, 2024. The nominations/recommendations for Padma Awards will be received online on the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal (https://awards.gov.in).

    The Padma Awards, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, are amongst the highest civilian awards of the country. Instituted in 1954, these Awards are announced on the occasion of the Republic Day every year. The award seeks to recognize ‘work of distinction’ and is given for distinguished and exceptional achievements/service in all fields/disciplines, such as, Art, Literature and Education, Sports, Medicine, Social Work, Science and Engineering, Public Affairs, Civil Service, Trade and Industry etc. All persons without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex are eligible for these Awards. Government servants including those working with PSUs, except Doctors and Scientists, are not eligible for Padma Awards.

    The Government is committed to transform Padma Awards into “People’s Padma”. All citizens are, therefore, requested to make nominations/recommendations, including self-nomination. Concerted efforts may be made to identify talented persons whose excellence and achievements really deserve to be recognized from amongst women, weaker sections of the society, SCs & STs, divyang persons and who are doing selfless service to the society.

    The nominations/recommendations should contain all relevant details specified in the format available on the above said Portal, including a citation in narrative form (maximum 800 words), clearly bringing out the distinguished and exceptional achievements/service of the person recommended in her/his respective field/discipline.

    Details in this regard are also available under the heading ‘Awards and Medals’ on the website of Ministry of Home Affairs (https://mha.gov.in) and on the Padma Awards Portal (https://padmaawards.gov.in ). The statutes and rules relating to these awards are available on the website with the link https://padmaawards.gov.in/AboutAwards.aspx .

  • Empowering Women: IPS Officer Preeti Yadav’s Remarkable Contribution to Law Enforcement

    Empowering Women: IPS Officer Preeti Yadav’s Remarkable Contribution to Law Enforcement

    Empowering Women: In the bustling district of Gautam Buddh Nagar, Noida, a beacon of hope shines bright amidst the challenges of law enforcement. IPS Officer Preeti Yadav, serving as the ADCP (Mahila Suraksha/Police Line), has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives aimed at empowering women and ensuring law and order in the region.

    Empowering Women: Leadership in Action: Preeti Yadav’s Singham-style Approach to Policing

    Preeti Yadav’s tenure has been marked by exemplary dedication to her duty, particularly in advocating for the rights and safety of women. Under her leadership, the “Mission Shakti” campaign has not only raised awareness among hundreds of women but has also facilitated tangible steps towards their empowerment.

    Ensuring Security: Preeti Yadav’s Role in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections

    During the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Preeti Yadav played a pivotal role in ensuring smooth conduct both before and during the voting process. Her meticulous planning and effective management ensured that all aspects of security and logistics were seamlessly handled, contributing to the successful execution of the electoral process.

    Inspiring Civic Participation: Preeti Yadav’s Outreach Efforts

    Beyond her official duties, Preeti Yadav has been an active presence on social media, leveraging her platform to educate and engage with the public on the significance of elections and civic participation. Her efforts have not only demystified the electoral process but have also inspired a sense of responsibility and pride among citizens in exercising their democratic rights.

    Academic Excellence and Leadership: Preeti Yadav’s Journey

    A graduate with a gold medal in her Bachelor of Arts degree, Preeti Yadav’s academic achievements are a testament to her dedication and perseverance. Her success in cracking the UPSC examination at the age of 22 paved the way for her illustrious career in the Indian Police Service.

    Empowering Women: Breaking Stereotypes, Preeti Yadav as a Role Model for Women Officers

    As a woman in a predominantly male-dominated field, Preeti Yadav has shattered stereotypes and emerged as a role model for aspiring women officers. Her exemplary leadership, coupled with her empathetic approach towards community policing, has earned her widespread admiration and respect.

    IPS Officer Preeti Yadav

    Preeti Yadav’s Legacy of Public Service

    IPS Officer Preeti Yadav’s commendable efforts in promoting women’s empowerment, ensuring law and order, and facilitating smooth electoral processes stand as a shining example of dedicated public service. Her commitment to excellence serves as an inspiration to all, reaffirming the invaluable contribution of women officers in safeguarding our society and upholding the principles of justice and equality.

  • Lok Sabha Election 2024: Exercise Your Power – Vote on 89 Seats Across 13 States, Appeal by AVS POST

    Lok Sabha Election 2024: Exercise Your Power – Vote on 89 Seats Across 13 States, Appeal by AVS POST

    Lok Sabha Election 2024: On April 26, 2024, the second phase of voting for Lok Sabha Election 2024 is set to take place. In this phase, voting will be held for 89 seats across 13 states. The first phase of voting took place on April 19, where voting was conducted for 102 seats.

    The time has come for voting in the second phase of Lok Sabha Election 2024, and it is an important duty for every citizen of the country. Understanding the significance of our vote, we should contribute to our democracy and help shape the future of our nation.

    Lok Sabha Election 2024:For voting in the second phase of Lok Sabha Election 2024, make use of the Voter Helpline App. Through this app, you can obtain information about your polling booth and cast your vote. This app helps us easily access information about our polling center, enabling us to vote without any hassle.

    Lok Sabha Election 2024: Your vote holds immense importance. It is not just a symbol of individual rights but also the foundation of a strong society and a robust democracy. So, please contribute, vote, and play your part in building a prosperous future for our country.

    Lok Sabha Election 2024: It’s worth noting that the first phase of voting took place on April 19. In this phase, voting was conducted across 21 states for 102 seats. Similar to previous elections, Lok Sabha Election 2024 will witness voting in a total of 7 phases. This year, voting for the general elections is scheduled on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1, with the election results being announced on June 4.

    If you are planning to vote in the second phase, it’s essential to have information about your polling booth. The Election Commission of India has introduced the Voter Helpline App for the convenience of Indian citizens. With this app, you can quickly access information about your polling booth. This article provides a detailed process of checking your polling booth using the Voter Helpline App:

    1. If you haven’t downloaded the Voter Helpline App yet, download it from the Play Store.
    2. Log in to your account to use the app.
    3. If you haven’t created an account, sign up. Enter your mobile number and password to log in.
    4. After logging in, tap on Voter Services.
    5. Tap on Know Your Polling Station Details.
    6. Enter your EPIC number.
    7. Tap on Search Polling Station.
    8. Upon tapping this option, you’ll see information about your polling booth on the screen.

    In conclusion, as voting begins for the second phase of Lok Sabha Election 2024, let’s exercise our democratic right responsibly and contribute to the nation-building process.

  • LokSabha Elections 2024: 2963 Nomination forms filed for 95 PCs across 12 States/UTs for phase 3

    LokSabha Elections 2024: 2963 Nomination forms filed for 95 PCs across 12 States/UTs for phase 3

    1351 candidates to contest elections across 12 States/UTs going for polls in phase 3 of Lok Sabha Elections 2024

    LokSabha Elections 2024: 1351 candidates from 12 States /UTs to contest elections in phase 3 of Lok Sabha Elections 2024. This includes 8 contesting candidates for the adjourned poll in 29-Betul (ST) PC of Madhya Pradesh. Additionally, one candidate from Surat PC in Gujarat has been elected unopposed. The last date for withdrawal of candidature for all 12 States/UTs was April 22, 2024.

    LokSabha Elections 2024:A total of 2963 nominations were filed for 95 PCs (including 29-Betul) across 12 States/UTs going for polls in phase 3 for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. The last date for filing nominations for phase 3 for all 12 States/UTs was April 19, 2024. After the scrutiny of all nominations filed, 1563 nominations were found to be valid.

    LokSabha Elections 2024:In phase 3, Gujarat had a maximum of 658 nomination forms from 26 Parliamentary Constituencies, followed by Maharashtra with 519 nominations from 11 PCs. 40-Osmanabad Parliamentary Constituency in Maharashtra received a maximum of 77 nomination forms followed by 5-Bilaspur PC in Chhattisgarh with 68 nomination forms.

     

    State/UT wise details for Phase 3 of Lok Sabha Elections 2024:

    State/UT Number of PCs in third phase Nomination forms received Valid candidates after scrutiny After withdrawal, final Contesting

    Candidates

     
    Assam 4 126 52 47
    Bihar 5 141 54 54
    Chhattisgarh 7 319 187 168
    Dadra & Nagar Haveli and

     

    Daman and Diu

    		 2 28 13 12
    Goa 2 33 16 16
    Gujarat 26 658 328 266
    Jammu & Kashmir 1 28 21 20
    Karnataka 14 503 272 227
    Madhya Pradesh 9 236 140 127
    Maharashtra 11 519 317 258
    Uttar Pradesh 10 271 104 100
    West Bengal 4 101 59 57
    Total 95 2963 1563 1352
  • Painkillers Side Effects: Delhi Government Implements Stricter Regulations on Sale of Painkillers Without Prescription

    Painkillers Side Effects: Delhi Government Implements Stricter Regulations on Sale of Painkillers Without Prescription

    Painkillers Side Effects: In a bid to curb misuse and ensure responsible medication practices, the Delhi government has issued directives to chemists across the region, urging them not to dispense painkillers without a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner. This move comes amidst growing concerns over the rampant misuse of pain-relief medications, which can lead to addiction and other health complications.

    The decision was announced following a series of discussions and consultations between the Delhi government and stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector. Recognizing the need for stricter regulations to control the sale of certain medications, authorities have emphasized the importance of adhering to prescription guidelines to safeguard public health.

    According to the directive issued by the Delhi government, chemists are instructed to exercise caution and refrain from selling over-the-counter painkillers, including commonly used medications such as ibuprofen and paracetamol, without a valid prescription. This measure aims to deter individuals from self-medicating and encourage them to seek proper medical advice before consuming such drugs.

    The misuse and abuse of painkillers pose significant health risks, including addiction, adverse drug reactions, and overdose-related complications. By enforcing regulations that restrict the sale of these medications without proper authorization, authorities hope to mitigate these risks and promote responsible medication practices among the general public.

    Furthermore, the implementation of these stricter regulations underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the growing problem of substance abuse and promoting public health awareness. By collaborating with stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry and raising awareness about the potential dangers associated with the indiscriminate use of painkillers, authorities aim to protect the well-being of citizens and ensure safer healthcare practices across the region.

    Chemists and pharmacies are urged to comply with the new directives promptly to avoid potential legal repercussions and contribute to efforts aimed at promoting responsible medication use. Additionally, individuals are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals for appropriate diagnosis and treatment recommendations, rather than resorting to self-medication practices that can have adverse health consequences.

    As the Delhi government takes proactive steps to regulate the sale of painkillers and other prescription medications, it sends a clear message about the importance of prioritizing public health and safety. By fostering collaboration between regulatory authorities, healthcare providers, and the pharmaceutical industry, policymakers aim to create a more transparent and accountable healthcare ecosystem that prioritizes the well-being of all citizens.

  • #LoksabhaElection2024: ECI directs Chief Secretaries and Director General of Police of all States/UTs and heads of central agencies to ensure peaceful and inducement free General Elections 2024

    #LoksabhaElection2024: ECI directs Chief Secretaries and Director General of Police of all States/UTs and heads of central agencies to ensure peaceful and inducement free General Elections 2024

    #LoksabhaElection2024: The Election Commission of India today convened a crucial meeting with all States/UTs to review and assess the law and order situation, prevention of illicit activities, seizures and strict vigil across inter-state and international borders in the ongoing General Elections to Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies 2024 for a free, fair, peaceful and inducement free elections. The purpose of the combined review was to bring all concerned stakeholders together on the same platform for a seamless coordination and cooperation amongst officials of the neighboring states/UTs along with central agencies guarding the borders. The Commission, in detail, reviewed critical issues pertaining to each State/UT.

    The meeting chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar along with ECs Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Shri Sukhbir Singh Sandhu was attended by top officials from States/UTs and central agencies guarding the borders.

    CEC Rajiv Kumar in his opening remarks underscored Commission’s commitment to ensuring free, fair, peaceful, and inducement-free elections, and called upon all stakeholders to work together seamlessly to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure level playing field. He directed States/UTs to ensure that every voter can exercise their right to vote without fear or intimidation. CEC Shri Kumar called on all States/UTs and agencies to convert their ‘resolve’ into concrete ‘actions’ for a free, fair, peaceful and intimidation-free elections.

    Key issues discussed during the meeting included the need for enhanced coordination among neighboring States/UTs, diligent deployment of CAPF provided adequately in all States/UTs; logistical support for movement and transport on CAPF personnel in bordering poll going State/UT; identification and monitoring of  flashpoints in border areas that may have ramifications on the election process; preemptive measures to address communal tensions based on past experiences, and the imperative of securing porous borders against illegal activities. The Commission underscored the importance of strict vigilance to curb the movement of contraband items, including narcotics, liquor, arms, and explosives across international borders. Directed for identification of exit and entry points for movement of liquor and cash along the borders, curbing of illegal Ganja cultivation in some states.

    The Commission reviewed support from Indian Air force and state civil aviation department for sorties to ferry polling teams in challenging regions of 11 states like Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra.  Directions were given for adequate security measures to safeguard political functionaries and candidates based on threat perception, particularly in states like Chhattisgarh and Jammu & Kashmir. The recent violence and turmoil in Manipur and ramifications in conduct of peaceful elections were also addressed, with the Commission urging swift action to assist Internally Displaced Persons and ensure their participation in the electoral process.

    The following general directions were given:

    Law & Order related

    1. Integrated check posts at International and Inter state borders for strict surveillance
    2. Sharing of Intelligence on criminals and antisocial elements between bordering districts
    3. Sealing of inter-state borders for preventing bogus voting during last 48 hours
    4. Regular inter-state coordination meetings of border districts
    5. Intensify patrolling on inter-state border districts by state police
    6. Additional nakas to be set up at strategic locations in coordination with bordering states.
    7. Seal inter-state border on poll day
    8. Excise Commissioners of bordering states/UTs to ensure checking of genuineness of the permits, surprise checks of liquor shops especially in border districts.
    9. Timely deposition of licensed weapons and execution of Non- Bailable Warrants
    10. Action against absconders, history sheeters, criminals involved in election related offences
    11. Adequate security cover to political functionaries/ candidates based on threat perception

    Expenditure Monitoring:

    1. Plugging the inflow of illicit liquor, cash, drugs along inter-state and international borders.
    2. Strengthening monitoring at checkposts with CCTV Camera installation
    3. Joint checking and operations by police, excise, transport, GST and forest department
    4. Strict vigil along helipads, airports, bus stations and railway stations
    5. Strict action against liquor and drug kingpins; curtail flow of country made liquor; establish forward and backward linkages to plug it systemically
    6. Mapping of sensitive routes for transport of liquor, cash, drugs and freebies

    Directions to Central Agencies

    1. Strict vigil along Indo-Myanmar border by Assam Rifles; Indo Nepal Border by SSB especially in areas having porous border with Nepal; Indo- Bangladesh border and western borders by BSF; Indo-China border by ITBP, and in states with coastal area by Indian Coast Guard.
    2. Assam Rifles to hold regular joint security coordination meetings with State Police, CAPF, etc.
    3. SSB to keep strict watch over international borders with Nepal and Bangladesh for any illicit activity, specially before 72 hours of poll.
    4. Ensure area familiarization for newly inducted CAPF companies in coordination with civil administration.
    5. Establish Joint Check Posts in coordination with State Police

    Chief Secretary, DGP, Principal Secretary (Home), Pr Secretary (Excise), Chief Electoral officer and State Police Nodal Officer of all States/UTs. Heads of Central Agencies involved in guarding borders namely Border Security Force, Assam Rifles, Sashastra Seema Bal, Indo Tibetan Border Police and Coast Guard along with heads of CRPF, Central CAPF nodal officer, Additional Secretary MHA and representatives from M/o Defence and Railways attended the review meeting.

  • CCI approves acquisition NFCL Assets and 100% shareholding of ZeroC by AMG India using proceeds of investments received from AMG Entities, BSI, Gentari, and Platinum Rock

    CCI approves acquisition NFCL Assets and 100% shareholding of ZeroC by AMG India using proceeds of investments received from AMG Entities, BSI, Gentari, and Platinum Rock

    The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the proposed acquisition NFCL Assets and 100% shareholding of ZeroC by AMG India using proceeds of investments received from the AMG Entities, BSI, Gentari, and Platinum Rock. AM Green B.V. (AMG), AM Green Ammonia Holdings B.V. (AMGAH), AM Green Ammonia B.V. (AMGA), AM Green Ammonia (India) Private Limited (AMG India) are collectively referred to as “AMG Entities”. AMG Entities are newly incorporated entities and are currently not engaged in any business activities.

    Baker Street Investment Pte. Ltd. (BSI) is organised as a private limited company in Singapore that is part of a group of investment holding companies managed by GIC Special Investments Private Limited.

    Gentari International Renewables Pte. Ltd. (Gentari) is a newly incorporated company in November 2022, controlled by the PETRONAS Group. It is a clean energy company operating 3 core portfolios – (i) renewable energy; (ii) hydrogen; and (iii) green mobility.

    Platinum Rock B 2014 RSC Limited (acting in its capacity as the trustee of the Platinum Stone A 2014 Trust) (Platinum Rock) has made several investments across the world (including in India) in various sectors including infrastructure, such as transportation, utilities, energy and fund investments in the infrastructure sector. It does not, however, carry out any other business activities, whether in India or globally.

    Greenko ZeroC Private Limited (ZeroC) is not engaged in any revenue generating business activities in India at present.

    Nagarjuna Fertilizers and Chemicals Limited (NFCL) is a public listed company specialising in urea manufacturing and micro-irrigation products. It has one urea manufacturing plant in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh and three micro irrigation manufacturing plants, namely two in Telangana (i.e., Nacharam and Sadashivpet) and one in Halol, Gujarat. NFCL Assets refers to certain assets of NFCL presently used for the urea and micro-irrigation business.

    The Proposed Combination involves: (i) NFCL Asset Acquisition: Acquisition of the NFCL Assets by AMG India using proceeds of investments received from the AMG Entities, BSI, Gentari, and Platinum Rock. The NFCL Asset Acquisition is proposed to be achieved through an asset sale; and (ii) ZeroC Acquisition: Acquisition of 100% shareholding of ZeroC by AMG India using proceeds of investments received from the AMG Entities, BSI, Gentari, and Platinum Rock. (Proposed Combination).

     

  • Tips from Renowned Dentist Dr. A.S. Malik on Dealing with Dental Issues in Summer

    Tips from Renowned Dentist Dr. A.S. Malik on Dealing with Dental Issues in Summer

    Dental Tips: Summer brings not just holidays and endless fun, but also the risk of dental problems for both children and adults. Everyone knows the impact of summer on our bodies, but are you aware that the scorching heat can also harm your teeth and gums? Apart from diseases like chickenpox, measles, sunburn, and other summer ailments, various dental issues can also arise during the hot season.

    With some precautionary measures, you can mitigate dental irregularities associated with summers, such as toothaches and dental sensitivity.

    In this article, our dental experts and oral hygiene specialists have explained how the summer heat affects dental problems.

    1) Dehydration: During summers, dehydration often occurs due to the rise in body temperature caused by the heat. Rehydrating yourself with fluids helps balance the lack of water in your body, preventing adverse effects like dizziness, dry skin, fever, etc.

    Such prolonged dehydration adversely affects your oral health too. Reduced moisture levels in the body affect saliva glands, resulting in decreased saliva flow. Low saliva levels cause your teeth and gums to dry out, providing a breeding ground for oral bacteria and leading to various dental problems.

    2) Acid in Cold Drinks: Many people prefer carbonated beverages, fruit juices, and sparkling water for hydration. Despite helping to lower body temperature and provide hydration, these liquid substances contain excessive sugar and acidic components harmful to teeth.

    In simpler terms, if you consume carbonated drinks for hydration, you are paving the way for bacteria to thrive in your mouth. This ultimately leads to dental issues like cavities, toothaches, etc.

    3) Heat: If you have underlying dental issues, your teeth will react to the increased temperature during summers. For instance, bacteria present in decayed teeth take advantage of the summer heat and cause swelling around the teeth. This results in severe toothaches.

    In most cases, summer does not directly harm our teeth. However, whatever we expose our teeth to in high summer temperatures increases the risk of seasonal dental problems.

    4) Increased Risk of Minor Dental Injuries: Small dental injuries that occur while playing or engaging in physical activities become worse during the summer season.

    Since it’s vacation time, children love to play. Whether indoors or outdoors, they may fall and injure themselves. When small chips or cracks occur on the surface of the teeth, they often don’t lead to serious consequences. However, the small injuries that occur on the surfaces of teeth due to high summer temperatures increase the risk of sensitive teeth-like problems.

    Ground Level: In most cases, the summer season doesn’t directly harm our teeth. However, whatever we expose our teeth to in high summer temperatures increases the risk of seasonal dental problems.

    Maintaining your dental health during summers is possible by consuming natural fluids for hydration instead of carbonated drinks, keeping your teeth and gums clean, avoiding acidic food items, and getting regular dental check-ups during the summer months.

  • India at G20 2nd Employment Working Group Meeting at Brasilia

    India at G20 2nd Employment Working Group Meeting at Brasilia

    The two day 2nd Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting under the Brazilian Presidency commenced today in Brasilia. The G20 EWG’s mandate is to address labour, employment and social issues for strong, sustainable, balanced and job-rich growth for all. As India is a member of the G20 Troika, represented by Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Labour & Employment, India is co-chairing the 2nd EWG meeting, along with Brazil and South Africa. The Indian delegation also comprises Mr. Rupesh Kumar Thakur, Joint Secretary, and Mr. Rakesh Gaur, Deputy Director from the  Ministry of Labour & Employment.

    The opening session began with speech of the Brazilian Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mr Luiz Marinho. Following this, in her opening remarks, Ms Sumita Dawra, noted that the priority areas of the 2nd EWG at Brasilia align with the priority areas and outcomes of previous G20 presidencies including Indian presidency, and commended the continuity in the multi-year agenda to creating lasting positive change in the world of work. This not only sustains but also elevates the work initiated by the EWG during the Indian Presidency.

    The focus areas for the 2nd EWG meeting is on (i) creating quality employment and promoting decent labor; (ii) addressing a just transition amidst digital and energy transformations; (iii) leveraging technologies to enhance the quality of life for all; (iv) the emphasis on gender equity and promoting diversity in the world of employment for inclusivity, driving innovation and growth.

    On the first day of the meeting, deliberations were held on the over-arching theme of promotion of gender equality and promoting diversity in the workplace. The Indian delegation emphasized the need for creating inclusive environments by ensuring equal representation and empowerment for all, irrespective of race, gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic background.

    In this context, Indian delegation elucidated significant strides taken by India in promotion of (i) gender equality in the workplace and beyond; (ii) steps taken for migrant workers; (iii) promoting reemployment of senior citizens, (iv) participation in work force of the differently abled and the marginalised. Some of these achievements showcased at day 1 of the 2nd EWG are the following:

    1. To increase female labour force participation, India has enacted Occupational Safety Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 which entitles women to be employed in all establishments for all types of work with their consent at night time. This provision has already been implemented in underground mines.
    2. In 2017, the Government amended the Maternity Benefit Act of 1961, which increased the ‘maternity leave with pay protection’ from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for all women working in establishments employing 10 or more workers. This is expected to reduce the motherhood pay gap among the working mothers.
    3. To aid migrant workers, India’s innovative policy ‘One Nation, One Ration Card’ allows migrants to access their entitled food grains from anywhere in the Public Distribution System network in the country. We have also implemented multiple schemes to provide social security and welfare benefits while ensuring portability across states. These schemes provide for affordable housing, enhanced employability through skill development and old-age pension to such workers.
    4. A landmark step in fostering inclusion in the workforce is the e-Shram portal, launched to create a national database of unorganized workers, especially migrant and construction workers. This initiative, providing the e-Shram card, enables access to benefits under various social security schemes. The portal allows an unorganised worker to register himself or herself on the portal on self-declaration basis, under 400 occupations in 30 broad occupation sectors. More than 290 million unorganised workers have been registered on this portal so far.
    5. India has also taken several steps to promote the participation of aged persons in the labour market; for the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities, including vocational training, skill development, and job placement services; & for traditionally marginalized and vulnerable groups.
  • Happy Holi 2024: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh celebrates Holi with soldiers in Leh

    Happy Holi 2024: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh celebrates Holi with soldiers in Leh

    Happy Holi 2024:Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh celebrated the festival of colours Holi with soldiers in Leh on March 24, 2024. He was accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande and General Officer Commanding, Fire and Fury Corps Lt Gen Rashim Bali.

    Addressing the soldiers, the Raksha Mantri commended their valour, determination and sacrifice as they serve in harsh terrain & inclement weather conditions to protect the motherland. The positive commitment of the soldiers posted in high altitudes is much stronger than minus temperatures, he said. He termed Ladakh as India’s capital of valour & bravery, just as Delhi is the national capital, Mumbai is the financial capital and Bengaluru is the technology capital.

    “The entire country feels safe as our brave soldiers are protecting the borders. We are progressing and leading a happy life as our vigilant soldiers stand ready at the borders. Every citizen is proud of the Armed Forces as they live far away from their families so that we celebrate Holi and other festivals with our families peacefully. The nation will forever be indebted to our soldiers, and their courage and sacrifices will keep inspiring the future generations,” Shri Rajnath Singh said.

    The Raksha Mantri asserted that he decided to celebrate Holi with the soldiers a day before, as he believes that the festivals should first be celebrated by and with the protectors of the country. He urged the Chiefs of the three Services to establish a new tradition of beginning the celebrations of the festivals with the soldiers a day before. “Such celebrations with soldiers on the snowy peaks of Kargil, in the scorching plains of Rajasthan and in the submarines located in the deep seas should become an integral part of our culture,” he said.

    On the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh also laid a wreath at the War Memorial, Leh as a mark of solemn tribute to the bravehearts who have made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.

    Later, the Raksha Mantri spoke with the soldiers posted in the world’s highest battlefield Siachen over phone and extended the Holi greetings. He told them that he will soon visit Siachen and interact with them. Shri Rajnath Singh was scheduled to visit Siachen and celebrate Holi with the troops there. However, due to adverse weather conditions, there was a change in the programme and he celebrated the festival of colours with the soldiers in Leh.