Year End Review –MNRE,A new dawn in Renewable Energy- India attains 4th position in global wind power installed capacity;

A new dawn in Renewable Energy- India attains 4th position in global wind power installed capacity;
46.33 GW grid-interactive power; 7,518 MW of grid-connected power; 1502 MW Wind power capacity added; Small hydro power capacity reaches 4323 MW, 92305 Solar Pumps installed, 38,000 crore Green Energy Corridor is being set up; Surya Mitra” mobile App launched , Solar Tariff as low as Rs 3/unit

Year End Review –MNRE

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has taken several steps to fructify Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s dream of clean energy. The largest renewable capacity expansion programme in the world is being taken up by India. The government is aiming to increase share of clean energy through massive thrust in renewables. Core drivers for development and deployment of new and renewable energy in India have been Energy security, Electricity shortages, Energy Access, Climate change etc.

A capacity addition of 14.30 GW of renewable energy has been reported during the last two and half years under Grid Connected Renewable Power, which include 5.8 GW from Solar Power, 7.04 GW from Wind Power, 0.53 from Small Hydro Power and 0.93 from Bio-power.   Confident by the growth rate in clean energy sector, the Government of India in its submission to the United Nations Frame Work Convention on Climate Change on Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) has stated that India will achieve 40% cumulative Electric power capacity from non-fossil fuel based energy resources by 2030 with the help of transfer of technology and low cost International Finance including from Green Climate Fund. As on 31^st October, 2016, Solar Energy Projects with an aggregate capacity of over 8727.62 MW has been installed in the country.

The government is playing an active role in promoting the adoption of renewable energy resources by offering various incentives, such as generation-based incentives (GBIs), capital and interest subsidies, viability gap funding, concessional finance, fiscal incentives etc. The National Solar Mission aims to promote the development and use of solar energy for power generation and other uses, with the ultimate objective of making solar energy compete with fossil-based energy options. The objective of the National Solar Mission is to reduce the cost of solar power generation in the country through long-term policy, large scale deployment goals, aggressive R&D and the domestic production of critical raw materials, components and products. Renewable energy is becoming increasingly cost-competitive as compared to fossil fuel-based generation.

In order to achieve the renewable energy target of 175 GW by the year 2022, the major programmes/ schemes on implementation of Solar Park, Solar Defence Scheme, Solar scheme for CPUs Solar PV power plants on Canal Bank and Canal Tops, Solar Pump, Solar Rooftop etc have been launched during the last two years.

Various policy measures have been initiated and special steps taken in addition to providing financial support to various schemes being implemented by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) for achieving the target of  renewable energy capacity to 175 GW by the year 2022. These include, inter alia,  suitable amendments to the Electricity Act and Tariff Policy for strong enforcement of Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) and for providing Renewable Generation Obligation (RGO); setting up of exclusive solar parks; development of power transmission network through Green Energy Corridor project; identification of large government complexes/ buildings for rooftop projects; provision of roof top solar and 10 percent renewable energy as mandatory under Mission Statement and Guidelines for development of smart cities; amendments in building bye-laws for mandatory provision of roof top solar for new construction or higher Floor Area Ratio; infrastructure status for solar projects; raising tax free solar bonds; providing long tenor loans; making roof top solar as a part of housing loan by banks/ NHB; incorporating measures in Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS) for encouraging distribution companies and making net-metering compulsory and raising funds from bilateral and international donors as also the Green Climate Fund to achieve the target.

ESTIMATED POTENTIAL OF RENEWABLE ENERGY

The increased use of indigenous renewable resources is expected to reduce India’s dependence on expensive imported fossil fuels. India has an estimated renewable energy potential of about 900 GW from commercially exploitable sources viz. Wind – 102 GW (at 80 meter mast height); Small Hydro – 20 GW; Bio-energy – 25 GW; and 750 GW solar power, assuming 3% wasteland

TARGETS

The Government of India has set a target of 175 GW renewable power installed capacity by the end of 2022. This includes 60 GW from wind power, 100 GW from solar power, 10 GW from biomass power and 5 GW from small hydro power.

A target of 16660 MW grid renewable power (wind 4000 MW, solar 12000 MW, small hydro power 250 MW, bio-power 400 MW and waste to power 10 MW),  has been set for 2016-17. Besides, under off-grid renewable system, targets of 15 MW eq. waste to energy, 60 MW eq. biomass non-bagasse cogeneration, 10 MW eq. biomass gasifiers, 1.0 MW eq. small wind/hybrid systems, 100 MW eq. solar photovoltaic systems, 1.0 MW eq. micro hydel and 100,000 nos. family size biogas plants have been set for 2016-17.

The target set for the various renewable energy sources for the next three years are:

Source	2016-17	2017-18	2018-19
Solar Power	12,000	15,000	16,000
Wind	4000	4600	5200
Biomass	500	750	850
SHP	225	100	100
Grand Total	16725*	20450*	22150*

*(Capacities in MW)

SHARE OF RENEWABLE POWER IN TOTAL INSTALLED CAPACITY

Economic growth, increasing prosperity, a growing rate of urbanisation and rising per capita energy consumption has increases the energy demand of the country. In order to meet the energy demand, India has total installed power generation capacity of 307.27 GW as on 31.10.2016 from all resources. With 46.33 GW installed renewable power capacity, the renewable power has a share of about 15% to the total installed capacity.  

ACHIEVEMENTS

The details of year round initiatives and achievements of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy are as follows:

Green Power Capacity Addition

A total of 7,518 MW of grid-connected power generation capacity from renewable energy sources has been added so far this year (January 2016 to October 2016) in the country.

A total of 7060 MW of grid-connected power generation capacity from renewable energy sources like solar (3019 MW) and wind (3423 MW), Small Hydro Power (218 MW), Bio-Power (400 MW) has been added during 2015-16 in the country against target of 4,460 MW.  During 2016-17, a total 3575 MW capacity has been added till 31.10.2016, making cumulative achievement 46,327 MW.

Sector-wise highlights of achievements 

·         Largest ever wind power capacity addition of 3423 MW in 2015-16 exceeding target by 43%. During 2016-17, a total 1502 MW capacity has been added till 31.10.2016, making cumulative achievement 28,279 MW. Now, in terms of wind power installed capacity India is globally placed at 4^th position after China, USA and Germany.

·         Biggest ever solar power capacity addition of 3,019 MW in 2015-16 exceeding target by 116%. During 2016-17, a total 1750 MW capacity has been added till 31.10.2016, making cumulative achievement 8728 MW.

·         31,472 Solar Pumps installed in 2015-16, higher than total number of pumps installed during last 24 years i.e. since beginning of the programme in 1991. So far, 92305 Solar Pump have been installed in the Country as on 31.10.2016.

·         Solar projects of capacity 20,904 MW were tendered in 2015-16. Of these, 11,209 MW  capacity already awarded.

·         A capacity addition of 0.53 GW has been added under Grid Connected Renewable Power since last two and half years from Small Hydro Power plants.

·         Biomass power includes installations from biomass combustion, biomass gasification and bagasse co-generation. During 2016-17, against a target of 400 MW, 51 MW installations of biomass power plants has been achieved making a cumulative achievement to 4882 MW.

·         Family Type Biogas Plants mainly for rural and semi-urban households are set up under the National Biogas and Manure Management Programme (NBMMP). During 2016-17, against a target of 1.00 lakh biogas plants, 0.26 lakh biogas plants installations has been achieved making a cumulative achievement to 49.35 lakh biogas plants as on 31.10.2016.

The sector wise achievements from January 2016 to October are as follows: Programme/ Scheme wise Achievements in Year 2016 (January- October 2016)
Sector	Achievement (January- October 2016)	Cumulative Achievements as on 31.10.2016
I.   GRID-INTERACTIVE POWER (CAPACITIES IN MW)
Wind Power	3191.21	28279.40
Solar Power	3848.77	8727.64
Small Hydro Power	146.47	4323.37
BioPower (Biomass & Gasification and Bagasse Cogeneration)	331.78	4882.33
Waste to Power	7.50	114.08
Total	7525.73	46326.82
II.  OFF-GRID/ CAPTIVE POWER (CAPACITIES IN MWEQ)
Waste to Energy	14.61	161.12
Biomass(non-bagasse) Cogeneration	49.54	651.91
Biomass Gasifiers    -Rural     -Industrial	0.19	18.34
	15.58	176.30
Aero-Genrators/Hybrid systems	0.26	2.93
SPV Systems	84.98	373.99
Water mills/micro hydel	1.60	18.81
Total	166.80	1403.40
III.  OTHER RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS
Family Biogas Plants (in Lakhs)	1.014	49.354

Major Initiatives taken by Ministry

Solar Power

·         Under National Solar Mission, the target for setting up solar capacity increased from
20 GW to 100 GW by 2021-22. Target of 10,500 MW, set for 2016-17 which will take the cumulative capacity to 17 GW till 31st March 2017.

·         As on date, 19,276 MW has been tendered out, of which LOI issued for
13,910 MW/PPA signed for 10,824 MW.

·         34 Solar Parks of capacity 20,000 MW in 21 states have been sanctioned which are under various stages of execution.

·         As on 31.10.2016, a total of 90,710 solar pumps have been installed throughout the country.

• Also, A total amount of Rs. 67.01 crore has been sanctioned for preparation of master plans, solar city cells, promotional activities and installation of renewable energy projects and an amount of Rs. 24.16 crore has been released, so far, under Solar City Programme.

• Various departments and ministries under central government have collectively committed to deploying 5,938 MW of rooftop solar capacity for their internal power consumption. SECI is aggregating demand for a part of this requirement and helping in procuring rooftop solar systems. SECI has issued a tender for development of 1,000 MW rooftop solar capacity on pre-identified central government/ department owned buildings. It is the largest such tender in India’s fledgling rooftop solar market.

·         Several schemes namely (i) Defence scheme (ii)  Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) scheme (iii)  Bundling scheme (iv) Canal Bank/ Canal Top scheme  (v) VGF Scheme (vi) Solar Park scheme (vii) Solar rooftops, have been initiated/launched by the Ministry under National Solar Mission which are under implementation.  

·         Under Defence scheme against a target of 300 MW, 347 MW sanctioned, under Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) scheme against a target of 1000 MW, all capacity sanctioned, under 3000 MW Bundling scheme, Tranch-I: 3000 MW has been tendered, under100 MW Canal Bank/ Canal Top scheme, all capacity sanctioned, under 2000 MW & 5000 MW VGF Scheme, tenders issued for 4785 MW, and under 20,000 MW Solar Park scheme, 34 Solar parks have been approved in 21 States with aggregate capacity of 20,000 MW.

Solar Rooftop

·         A target of 40 GW grid connected solar rooftops to be achieved by 2022 has been set. So far, about 500 MW have been installed and about 3,000 MW has been sanctioned which is under installation. All major sectors i.e. Railways, Airports, Hospitals, Educational Institutions, Government Buildings of Central/State/PSUs are being targeted besides, the private sector.

·         A massive Grid Connected Solar Rooftop Programme launched with 40 GW target. State Electricity Regulatory Commissions of 30 States/UTs notified regulations for net-metering/feed-in-tariff mechanism. Rs.5000 crore approved for solar rooftops. About 500 MW solar rooftop capacity installed till 30.09.2016.

·         A total sanction of 1300 million dollars has been received from World Bank, KFW, ADB and NDB through which the SBI, PNB, Canara Bank and IREDA will be in the position to fund at the rate of less than 10%.

·         Ministry has tied up with ISRO for Geo tagging of all the Rooftop plants using ISRO’s VEDAS Portal.

Wind Power

·         During the year 2015-16, wind power capacity addition of 3.42 GW was made, which is highest ever wind power capacity addition in the country during a single year.   The present wind power installed capacity in the country is around 28.28 GW. Now, in terms of wind power installed capacity India is globally placed at
4^th position after China, USA and Germany.

·         India has a strong manufacturing base of wind power equipment in the country. Presently, there are 20 approved manufacturers with 53 models of wind turbines in the country up to a capacity of 3.00 MW single turbines. Wind turbines being manufactured in India are of international quality standards and cost-wise amongst the lowest in the world being exported to Europe, USA and other countries.

·         The wind power potential of the country has been reassessed by the National Institute for Wind Energy (NIWE), it has been estimated to be 302 GW at 100 meter hub-height. Online wind atlas is available on NIWE website. This will create new dimension to the wind power development in the country.

·         India has long coastline where there is a good possibility for developing offshore wind power projects. The cabinet has cleared the National Offshore Wind Energy Policy and the same has been notified on 6^th October 2015. Certain blocks near Gujarat and Tamil Nadu coast line have been identified. NIWE is in process of doing the wind resource assessment in these coastal areas.

·         Comprehensive Guidelines for Development of On-shore Wind Power Projects in the country have been formulated and issued on 22^nd October 2016.

·         Guidelines for implementation of “Scheme for Setting up of 1000 MW Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) - connected Wind Power Projects” issued on 22^ndOctober 2016.

·         The Policy for Repowering of the Wind Power Projects has been released on
5^th August, 2016 to promote optimum utilization of wind energy resources by creating facilitative framework for repowering.

Small Hydro Power

A capacity addition of 14.30 GW of renewable energy has been reported during the last two and half years under Grid Connected Renewable Power, 0.53 GW from Small Hydro Power.

Biomass Power

Biomass power includes installations from biomass combustion, biomass gasification and bagasse co-generation. During 2016-17, against a target of 400 MW, 51 MW installations of biomass power plants has been achieved making a cumulative achievement to 4882.33 MW.

Family Size Biogas Plants

Family Size Biogas Plants mainly for rural and semi-urban households are set up under the National Biogas and Manure Management Programme (NBMMP). During 2016-17, against a target of 1.00 lakh biogas plants, 0.26 lakh biogas plants installations has been achieved making a cumulative achievement to 49.35 lakh biogas plants.

Off-Grid Solar Applications

A special programme for 1,00,000 solar pumps launched of which 31,472 Solar Pumps installed in 2015-16, higher than total number of pumps installed during last 24 years i.e. since beginning of the programme in 1991.

Amendments in Tariff Policy to promote Renewable Energy

·         Enhancement in Solar RPO to 8% by March 2022.

·         Introduction of RGO for New coal/lignite based thermal plants after specified date.

·         Ensuring affordable renewable power through bundling of renewable power.

·         No inter-state transmission charges and losses to be levied for solar and wind power.

·         Further, pursuant to the revised tariff policy, the Ministry of Power on 22^nd July 2016 has notified the long term growth trajectory of RPO for solar and non-solar energy for next 3 years 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19 as under:-

Long term trajectory	2016-17	2017-18	2018-19
Non-solar	8.75%	9.50%	10.25%
Solar	2.75%	4.75%	6.75%
Total	11.50%	14.25%	17.00%

IREDA

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) has been awarded Mini Ratna Status and the authorised capital of IREDA is increased from Rs.1000 Cr. to Rs.6000 Cr.

New Office Building of MNRE

Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony of ‘Atal Akshay Urja Bhawan’, an integrated headquarters building for the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy was held on
19^th October, 2016. The Foundation Stone was laid by Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines.

Installation of 200 MW or more Capacity Solar Power Plant at the Central State Farm at Jetsar, Rajasthan 

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for utilization of 400 hectares of un-cultivable farm land at the Central State Farm (CSF), Jetsar in Sri Ganganagar District, Rajasthan for setting up of a solar Power Plant of capacity exceeding 200 MW. The land is presently in possession of National Seeds Corporation (NSC), a Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the administrative control of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The Solar Power Plant will be set up by a CPSE, which would be selected through negotiation. The Project, by utilizing un-cultivable land for a Solar Power Project, will yield revenue for NSC and will also generate clean energy for the nation

Green Energy Corridor

Rs.38,000 crore Green Energy Corridor is being set up to ensure evacuation of Renewable Energy.Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) has sought a Loan assistance of US$ 1,000 million from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) comprising of Sovereign guaranteed loan of US$ 500 million and Non-Sovereign loan of US$ 500 million. the Loan would be utilized for funding of the following transmission projects including a project under Green Energy Corridor projects in next 3-4 years:

(i)        HVDC Bipole link between Western Region (Raigarh, Chhattisgarh) and Southern Region (Pugalur, Tamil Nadu) - North Trichur (Kerala)- Scheme 1: Raigarh-Pugalur 6000 MW HVDC System.

(ii)      HVDC Bipole link between Western Region (Raigarh, Chhattisgarh) and Southern Region (Pugalur, Tamil Nadu) - North Trichur (Kerala)- Scheme 3: Pugalur- Trichur 2000 MW VSC based HVDC System.

(iii)    Real Time Measurement/ monitoring scheme.

(iv)    Inter State Transmission System (ISTS) associated with Green Energy Corridor as under:

a)         Ajmer(New) – Bikaner (New) 765 kV D/c

b)         Bikaner(New) – Moga (PG) 765 kV D/c

c)         LILO of one circuit of 400kV Bhadla- Bikaner (RVPN) line at Bikaner(New)

d)        Establishment of 2x1500 MVA, 765/400 kV S/s at Bikaner (New)

Enhancement of Budget

Ministry’s budget enhanced from Rs.1500 crore to Rs.9,000 crore (Rs.5,000 crore gross budgetary support + Rs.4,000 crore in way of bonds to be raised by IREDA) by 2016-17.

LOWEST SOLAR TARIFFS

Solar tariffs have fallen to an unprecedented low of Rs. 4.34 / kWh through reverse auction for one of six projects of 70 MW each to be put up in Rajasthan under the National Solar Mission. NTPC on 18.01.2016 conducted the reverse bidding for 420 MW solar power projects  However, the  tariff had further fallen to Rs 3 per unit, which was quoted by Amplus Energy Solutions in an auction for rooftop solar power conducted by Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI). 

SKILL DEVELOPMENT

Surya Mitra Scheme has been launched for creating 50,000 trained solar photovoltaic technicians by march 2020. A total number of 5492 Surya Mitra’s have been trained as on 30.09.2016 and more than 3000 are undergoing training. A network of over 150 Institutions, spread all over the country, have been created for implementing Surya Mitra scheme.

In addition, short term training programmes for small hydro, entrepreneurship development, operation & maintenance of solar energy devices and boiler operations in co-generation plants, have been organised.

About 7800 persons have been trained through these short term training programmes during the last two years.

Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal and New & Renewable Energy launched “Surya Mitra” mobile App at National Workshop on Rooftop Solar Power on 07.06.2016. The GPS based mobile app has been developed by National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) which is an autonomous institution of Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE). The Surya Mitra Mobile App is currently available in Google play store, which can be downloaded and used across India. This App is a high end technology platform which can handle thousands of calls simultaneously and can efficiently monitor all visits of Suryamitra’s. The trained Suryamitra’s who opts for entrepreneurship have joined in the Mobile App in several states. These Suryamitras are once again sensitized by NISE on soft skills Customer Relations Management, Punctuality and are now ready to deliver the services.    

 Other Initiatives

• International Solar Alliance was launched as a special platform for mutual cooperation among 121 solar resource rich countries lying fully or partially between Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn at COP21 in Paris on 30th November, 2015 to develop and promote solar energy, with its headquarter in India.  On 25^th January, 2016, the Foundation Stone for the proposed Headquarters of the ISA was laid at Gurgaon, Haryana (India) and its interim Secretariat was inaugurated. The International Steering Committee (ISC) of the ISA has held four meetings so far. The Framework Agreement of ISA has been finalized after discussions with various stakeholders. It was presented in the fourth meeting of the ISC of ISA. The Framework Agreement of ISA has been signed by 20 member countries including India, France, Brazil and others on 15^thNovember, 2016 at Marrakech, Morocco on the side-lines of COP-22.

·         Bank loans up to a limit of Rs.15 crores will be given to borrowers for purposes like solar based power generators, biomass based power generators, wind power systems, micro-hydel plants and for renewable energy based public utilities viz. Street lighting systems, and remote village electrification. For individual households, the loan limit will be Rs.10 lakh per borrower.

·        Coal cess has been increased 8 times from Rs.50 to Rs.400/ton in last two years
(2014-15) which will make available around Rs.40,000 crore/year for supporting and incentivizing development of Clean Energy projects in the country.

·         Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) up to 100% is permitted under the automatic route for renewable energy generation and distribution projects subject to provisions of The Electricity Act, 2003.

In order to achieve the targets, various initiatives have been taken by the Government which interalia include:

Ø      amendments in the Tariff Policy for strong enforcement of Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) and for providing Renewable Generation Obligation (RGO);

Ø      setting up of exclusive solar parks;

Ø      development of power transmission network through Green Energy Corridor project;

Ø      identification of large government complexes/ buildings for rooftop projects;

Ø      provision of roof top solar and 10 percent renewable energy as mandatory under Mission Statement and Guidelines for development of smart cities;

Ø      amendments in building bye-laws for mandatory provision of roof top solar for new construction or higher FAR;

Ø      infrastructure status for solar projects;

Ø      raising tax free solar bonds;

Ø      making roof top solar a part of housing loan by banks/NHB;

Ø      incorporating measures in Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS) for encouraging distribution companies and making net-metering compulsory

Ø      raising funds from bilateral and international donors as also from the Green Climate Fund to achieve the target. and

Ø      creation of Surya Mitras for installation and maintenance of the Solar Projects.

Year End Review-2016 “Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Bill-2016” Passed by Parliament

Year End Review-2016 “Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Bill-2016” Passed by Parliament

Sugamya Pustakalaya- An Online Library for Persons with Visual Disabilities Launched

Three Guinness World Records Created in Samajik Adhikarita Shivir, Navsari, Gujarat

                                               

Year End Review - 2016

Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment

Passing of the “Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Bill-2016” by Parliament was one of the major achievements of the Ministry during the year 2016. Besides this the Ministry launched various initiatives for the welfare of Scheduled Caste, Other Backward Class, Denotified, Nomadic & Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Persons with Disabilities, Persons in Destitute, Safai Karamcharis, etc. These initiatives include financial support to the target groups, rehabilitation of beggars, and result oriented skill development programmes. Some of the programmes launched during the year include

Parliament passes Rights of Persons With Disabilities (RPWD) Bill -2016 :

The Parliament passed the “Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Bill-2016” on 16^th December, 2016. In the Bill, the Disability has been defined based on an evolving and dynamic concept and the types of disabilities have been increased from existing 7 to 21 and the Central Government will have the power to add more types of disabilities. Speech and Language Disability and Specific Learning Disability have been added for the first time. Acid Attack Victims have been included.

The Bill provides for penalties for offences committed against persons with disabilities and also violation of the provisions of the new law. Special Courts will be designated in each district to handle cases concerning violation of rights of PwDs. Reservation in vacancies in government establishments has been increased from 3% to 4% for certain persons or class of persons with benchmark disability. Office of Chief Commissioner of Persons with Disabilities has been strengthened who will now be assisted by 2 Commissioners and an Advisory Committee comprising of not more than 11 members drawn from experts in various disabilities. Every child with benchmark disability between the age group of 6 and 18 years shall have the right to free education.

Ministry Announces Rs 90 Lakh in Cash Awards  to Rio Paralympics 2016 Medal winners :

Ministry gave Cash awards of a total of Rs 90 lakhs for the Rio Paralympics 2016 Medal Winners under Awareness Generation and Publicity (AGP) scheme. Gold medal winner Shri Mariyappan Thangavelu and Shri Devendra Jhajharia were awarded Rs 30 lakh cash prize, Silver medallist Ms. Deepa Malik was facilitated with Rs 20 lakh and Shri Varun Singh Bhati was honoured with Rs 10 lakh for winning bronze medal at the Rio Paralympics 2016.On the best ever performance of Indian Paralympians, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had already hailed the efforts of para-athletes in his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on 25th September, 2016. India sent its biggest-ever contingent of 19 athletes to the Rio Paralympics 2016.

Three Guinness World Records created in Samajik Adhikarita Shivir, Navsari, Gujarat :

Three (3) Guinness World Records were created at Samajik Adhikarita Shivir and Scheme of Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fittings of Aids/Appliances (ADIP) Camp in Navsari, Gujarat on 17^th September, 2016. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Expressing his pleasure PM Shri Modi tweeted, “Navsari has set three records has made a mark for itself on the map of the world. Congratulations,” on the micro-blogging website.

The First record - “Highest number of Oil lamps lit simultaneously at single location” was set on the eve (16th September, 2016) of the Mega camp.  An incredible 989 Divyangjans (Person with Disabilities) came together to set an all-new record- almost doubling the minimum of 500 participants they needed in order to achieve the title. The challenge was for each person to light the lamp exactly at the same time after a given signal within 30 seconds.

The Second record ‘Biggest Wheelchair Logo’ was also broken on 17th September, 2016 in Navsari, Gujarat. The 1,000 participants in wheelchairs depicted a message saying ‘Happy Birthday PM’ in Tri-colour. It bettered the previous record of 346 participants that was achieved by Hope Inc. in Moorhead, Minnesota, USA.

The Third world record ‘Most people fitted with Hearing Aid in 8 hours – Single location (600 Hearing Aid) was also set on the same day. Free assistive devices kits were handed out to thousands of Divyangs throughout the weekend, in addition to the hearing aids distributed during the record attempt.

Sugamya Pustakalaya- an online library for persons with visual disabilities launched :

 “Sugamya Pustakalaya: A step towards an Accessible Digital India” (An online library for persons with visual disabilities) was launched by Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister for Law & Justice and Electronics & Information Technology at a function organized by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment in New Delhi on 24^th August, 2016. Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment presided over the function. 

“Sugamaya Pustakalaya” is an online platform that makes accessible content available to print-disabled people. The library houses publications across diverse subjects and languages and multiple accessible formats. It has been created by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in collaboration with member organizations of Daisy Forum of India and powered by TCS Access. Books are available in Accessible formats for people with visual impairment and other print disabilities. Over 2 lakhs books in diverse languages. Integrating libraries across India and the Globe, including the largest international library, ‘Bookshare’.

President presents “National Awards for Empowerment of Persons With Disabilities -2016 :

President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee presented the National Awards for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), 2016 to awardees at a function organized by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in New Delhi on 3^rd December, 2016 on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3^rd December). Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Ministers of State of Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Krishan Pal Gurjar, Shri Ramdas Athawale also graced the occasion.

On International Day of Persons with Disabilities i.e. 3^rd December  the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment presents National Awards on Individuals, Institutions, Organisations, State/District etc for their outstanding achievements and work done towards empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. 

President Presents ‘Vayoshreshtha Samman’ to Older Persons & Institutions on International Day of Older Persons :

The President of India Shri Pranab Mukharjee presented the National Awards for Senior Citizens “Vayoshreshtha Samman-2016” to eminent senior citizens and institutions in recognition of their service towards the cause of elderly persons, especially indigent senior citizens at a function organized by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment in New Delhi on 1^st October, 2016. Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment Shri Thawaarchand Gehlot presided over the function. These awards were presented as part of the celebration of the International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) on 1^st October.

Vayoshreshtha Samman is a Scheme of National Awards instituted by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (D/o Social Justice & Empowerment) initially in 2005 and was upgraded to the status of National Awards in 2013, for institutions involved in rendering distinguished service for the cause of elderly persons especially indigent senior citizens and to eminent citizens in recognition of their service/achievements. Ministries of Social Justice & Empowerment, Health and Rural Development are running such useful schemes for the welfare of elderly persons.

‘Job Fair for Divyangjans’organised :

Two days “Job Fair for Divyangjans” from 7th to 8th September 2016 was organized by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment in New Delhi.  It was inaugurated by Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment Shri Thaarwarchand Gehlot in New Delhi. About 30 privates sector companies and Industries participated in the special job fair for Divyangjans. Based on their requirements these companies and industries made assessments of Divyangjans to give them employment.

Ministry felicitates visually impaired Judo Medalists from Commonwealth Games :

The Government is working on setting up 5 National Sports Centres for persons with disabilities. Out of these 3 Centres viz. Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh will come up very soon as the land has been allotted and preparatory work has been started.  The Government is very keen to provide all possible supports to the persons with disabilities so that they can excel in different spheres of life. Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment said this on 1^st June, 2016 in New Delhi while felicitating Visually Impaired Judokas who won Gold & Bronze medals for India in recently held Commonwealth Championship in South Africa. Minister has also announced Rs.1 lakh each for Gold medallists and Coach and Rs. 50000 each for Bronze medallists. 

Prime Minister Unveils the Foundation Plaque of Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial :

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi unveiled the foundation plaque of Dr Ambedkar National Memorial on 21^st March 2016 to be constructed at 26, Alipur Road, Delhi where Dr Ambedkar breathed his last. Delivering Dr. Ambedkar’s Memorial Lecture on the occasion, Shri Modi said that Dr Ambedkar contribution to the nation is immense. Most of the programmes being taken by the government now had been visualized by him only. Because of his ideology and vision for oppressed and downtrodden, he should be remembered saviour of oppressed world over and not as the leader of Dalits only in India.

New Rules notified to revamp Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act :

The Ministry has notified the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Rules, 2016 on 14 April 2016, the birthday of Babasaheb Ambedkar.  The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 was amended by Parliament in 2016. The amendments made stronger provisions for the protection of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes from atrocities against them. Rules have now been framed to give effect to the amended provisions. These rules will speed up the process of dispensation of justice to victims of atrocities, are strongly sensitive in cases of offences against women, and liberalize and expedite access to relief for the members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes who have been victims of atrocities.

National Job Portal for persons with disabilities launched :

The Ministry launched an exclusive job portal for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) on 27^th January 2016. The PwDs can avail the different facilities such as self employment loan, education loan, skill training, link to scholarships and information about jobs in a single window platform through this National Job Portal.  A book on success stories of 100 PwD entrepreneurs who have come up in their life to be the true role models was also launched. The book “YES WE CAN” has been published by penguin publishers with the support of NHFDC.

‘Inclusiveness and Accessibility Index’ as part of Prime Minister’s ‘Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan’ for Persons with disabilities  launched :

Government launches ‘Inclusiveness and Accessibility Index’ to mark the next chapter of its flagship Campaign, the ‘Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan’. The Index, prepared in collaboration with The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) was launched by Shri M Venkaiah Naidu, Minister of Urban Development, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation and Parliamentary Affairs at a function held in New Delhi on 30^th March 2016. The ‘Inclusiveness and Accessibility Index’ helps the industries and corporate to participate in the Accessible India Campaign (AIC) by voluntarily evaluating their readiness for making the workplace accessible for Persons with Disabilities. The Prime Minister made a call to the Corporate Sector to come forward and support the Campaign during his speech on the occasion of the launch of AIC on 3rd December 2015, which also marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Steps taken to promote Schedule Caste Entrepreneurship :

Venture Capital Fund of Rs. 200 Crore for Schedule Caste Entrepreneurs created on 22 December 2014. The Scheme would be implemented by Industrial Corporation of India Limited. The Fund has been registered with SEBI. Credit Enhancement Guarantee Schemes for Young Scheduled Caste Entrepreneurs launched with a budget of Rs. 200 crore to facilitate concessional finance. This will encourage Entrepreneurship among SC and result in job creation.

First Ever Draft List of Denotified & Nomadic Tribes released :

The Ministry released first ever draft list of Denotified, Nomadic & Semi Nomadic Tribes, prepared by National Commission for Denotified, Nomadic & Semi Nomadic Tribes in New Delhi on 27^th June 2016. The draft list has state wise details of the Denotified, Nomadic & Semi Nomadic Tribes. 

Releasing the book, Shri Thaarwarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment said that it is the intention of the Government to bring all the downtrodden groups of the country into the mainstream as envisioned by the Prime Minister. In addition to the draft list of DNT communities, Minister also released the feedback from these communities, decisions of the commission and its communication with the State Governments. He also said that for the first time his Government has reviewed the progress of development of these communities, so as to identify their issues and suggest appropriate measures for their improvement. 

Motor Bikers, Citizens rally in support of Accessible India Campaign’s “Ride for Accessibility” at India Gate :

The Ministry and some of the leading Motor-Bike Groups of the National Capital came together to spread awareness about ‘Universal Accessibility’ through ‘Ride for Accessibility’ for the Accessible India Campaign. A festival of ‘Roaring Wheels’ rolled out at the India Gate in New Delhi on 24^th July, 2016. The Rally ‘Ride for Accessibility’ was flagged off by Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment.

Ministry signs MOU with  National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC), AIIMS :

The Ministry signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) under All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi in New Delhi on 30^thAugust, 2016 to conduct a National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use. The proposed National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use will provide estimates of proportion and absolute number of Users and Dependent individuals of various psychoactive substances (Drugs) in all the states/UTs and at the National level in India. It will also help in mapping the presence of services and interventions for drug dependent individuals and identifying the gaps in service delivery. 

Accessible India Campaign-Important achievements /milestones of the Campaign :

·           50 cities have been selected as part of this Campaign. 

·           Eighteen organizations were empanelled as Access Auditors by the Department, after a detailed screening procedure.

·           Access Audit of 1092 buildings out of 1098 building (work order issued on 19.03.2016) in 31 cities is completed, constituting 99.3% achievement. In addition to this, work orders for 410 buildings in 13 more cities have been issued on 23.06.2016 to the empanelled auditors in which Access Audit of 400 buildings (97.5%)  are completed.

·           State Governments have been requested to send financial proposals along with pending Utilization Certificates (UCs) of previous years under SIPDA Scheme. Financial proposals from 10 States/UTs have been received.

·           PRAGATI meeting   on Accessible India Campaign under the Chairmanship of the Prime Minister with Central Government Secretaries and State   Chief Secretaries was held on 24.08.16 to review the implementation of the campaign. 

·           Video conferencing with State Secretaries of Social Welfare Department of 10 States was held on 31.08.16 to expedite financial proposals.

·           Decision taken that Central Ministries/Departments will carry out retrofitting of the building to make them accessible from their budget. It has been targeted that all international airports and A-1, A and B categories railway stations will be made accessible by December, 2016.

·           Efforts are being made on accessibility of government websites and on the need to make changes in the Public Procurement Policy for mandatory accessible provisions in the purchase of IT Hardware and Software.  Accessibility of TV programmes and dissemination requirements are also important targets under Accessible India Campaign. 

·            M/o Drinking Water and Sanitation and M/o Urban Development have been requested to ensure that adequate number of unisex accessible toilets is constructed in each block under Swachh Bharat Mission.

·           50 Accessibility Clubs in IITs, IIMs and other institutes have been set up for encouraging innovation and investment in Accessibility Solutions.

·           The Department has prepared an index to measure inclusiveness and accessibility across different kinds of organizations.  The Index is an educational and aspirational tool, which aims at assessing the current state of inclusiveness and accessibility of persons with disabilities in an organization and acts as a guide for taking progressive steps to increase support, inclusiveness and accessibility towards persons / employees with disability. 

Malnutrition in India

As per the Rapid Survey of Children (2013-14), 29.4 per cent children below five years are underweight, 38.7 per cent are stunted and 15.1 per cent are wasted.

Malnutrition is not a direct cause of death among children but can increase morbidity and mortality by reducing the resistance to infections. However, it is estimated that malnutrition is a contributing factor in about one-third of all deaths in under- five children in India, as per CHERG (2010) Report.

The Government of India is implementing various schemes all across the country for reducing infant mortality on account of malnutrition:

        i.            Provision of Supplementary food to children aged 6-36 months under Integrated Child Development Project (ICDS).

      ii.            Promotion of Institutional deliveries through cash incentive under Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) and Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK) which entitles all pregnant women delivering in public health institutions to absolutely free and no expense ante-natal check-ups, delivery including Caesarean section, post-natal care and treatment of sick infants till one year of age.

    iii.            Strengthening of delivery points for providing comprehensive and quality Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCH+A) Services,  ensuring essential newborn care at all delivery points, establishment of Special Newborn Care Units (SNCU), Newborn Stabilization Units (NBSU) and Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) units for care of sick and small babies. Home Based Newborn Care (HBNC) is being provided by ASHAs to improve child rearing practices.

    iv.            Early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding for first six months and appropriate Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices are promoted in convergence with Ministry of Women and Child Development. Village Health and Nutrition Days (VHNDs) are observed for provision of maternal and child health services and creating awareness on maternal and child care including health and nutrition education.Government has recently launched “MAA” programme in order to increase awareness on breastfeeding and build capacities of the health workers on IYCF practices.

      v.            Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) is being supported to provide vaccination to children against many life threatening diseases such as Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Poliomyelitis, Tuberculosis, Measles, Hepatitis B, Meningitis and Pneumonia due to Haemophilus Influenzae type B.

    vi.            Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) for health screening, early detection of birth defects, diseases, deficiencies, development delays including disability and early intervention services has been operationalized to provide comprehensive care to all the children in the age group of 0-18 years in the community.

  vii.            Some other important interventions are Iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation for the prevention of anaemia among the vulnerable age groups, Vitamin-A Supplementation for children 6 -59 months, home visits by ASHAs to promote exclusive breast feeding and promote use of ORS and Zinc for management of diarrhoea in children,

viii.            Nutrition Rehabilitation Centres are established at Government Health facilities to manage severe acute malnutrition.

Speech by the President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee at the World Confluence of Humanity, Power and Spirituality

Speech by the President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee at the World Confluence of Humanity, Power and Spirituality

1.    I am indeed very happy to be here at the inaugural session of the ninth World Confluence of Humanity, Power and Spirituality, organized by ASSOCHAM, Srei Foundation and the Times Group. This conclave is being conducted annually since 2010 to spread the message of inter-faith peace and harmony, to ignite the human spirit, and to harness the potential of human beings towards selfless service.

2.     The theme of this convention, “Sach Bharat: Spirituality at Work”, is of immense relevance. Spirituality is important for any individual. At times, it is confused with religion but spirituality carries a deeper meaning in its strong connect in our daily lives, including our workplace. Being spiritual is being devoted, including devotion to one’s work. Working harder for the growth of the nation is an act of devotion in itself. With an august gathering present here, I hope this forum would help in propagating such a message.

            Ladies and Gentlemen:

3.    Human life is full of challenges and contradictions. On the one hand, we are continuously racing against time running towards fulfilling our life ambitions. On the other, we are trying to seek answers to questions about true happiness and real success. Amidst work pressure and the anxiety to prove ourselves, we are also driven by the desire to look for peace of mind and achieve inner satisfaction. These diverse threads are not very difficult to integrate but to comprehend them, we have to delve deeper to understand the true meaning of life. This platform, to my mind, should help us to clarify some of our doubts and concerns.

            Ladies and Gentlemen:

4.    Spirituality forms the support base of the moral and social principles which has made mankind civilized. We belong to a country and a civilization that has always attached great importance to spiritual thought. It is one of the many gifts India has given to the world. From ancient times to the modern age, India has been a guiding light among nations when it comes to spiritual leadership. Lord Krishna, Lord Ram, Lord Buddha, Lord Mahavira, Emperor Ashoka, Kabir, Guru Nanak, Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekananda, Mahatma Gandhi - throughout our history and in our present - we have been blessed with great spiritual thinkers and teachers. This is a land where Dharma Rajya has existed. This is also the country that fought its battle for freedom using non-violence. This rich heritage is among our greatest strengths.

5.    So what is spirituality for us today? I believe it is an India that lives by the values we have always upheld through our history; an India that embraces diversity, that is open and inclusive, where people live with the values of inclusion and tolerance. It is also an India where people strive for achievement, for personal growth, and for balance in life.

6.   Our philosophers and spiritual thinkers have spoken of the need to achieve a higher level of being. Spirituality awakens that inner power in human beings. That power also helps people to face difficulties in their lives. Every religion imparts the lesson that we can surmount our problems and challenges only with truth. This conclave of Sach Bharat, according to me, should re-ignite our minds to maintain our roots in truth while we pursue economic prosperity.

7.   Sach Bharat is an imperative for our country today. We swear by ‘Satyameva Jayate’, which is inscribed in our national emblem. It means “truth wins”. Our scriptures say: “God is Truth and Truth is God”. We must always stand for truth as only then can victory be ours. Sach or truth is the only basis of our progress. Truth was there at the beginning of the universe. Truth alone will be there at its end. Truth is the basis of our existence. Swami Vivekananda once observed and I quote: “You can get rid of everything for the sake of truth, but you cannot get rid of truth” (unquote).

            Ladies and Gentlemen:

8.   As our sages and thinkers have often said, India has enlightened the world with spirituality and truth. But India also needs to strive for greater economic prosperity to eradicate backwardness and poverty. Development of industry is central to economic progress. The success of our industrial sector depends on the efficient use of our resources including labour as much as the productive use of capital. A happy and satisfied workforce is the key to a healthy industrial eco-system. We have to prepare our manpower by instilling in them a culture of hard work, sincerity and dedication. This is where, I believe, spirituality has a role to play.

9.   At the workplace, being spiritual is to express the full potential of our souls at work; remembering always that God is our only employer. Spirituality gives a superior meaning to whatever we do. If we approach work with the same piousness as we have when we worship God, we will experience a sense of being uplifted; of being connected to a greater power. If we think of pleasing God through our work and that God is watching us, our work will have a different quality and meaning. We will then move closer to perfection.

10.  A work force that is motivated and content, works with devotion and passion, strives for achievement and betterment, indicates the power of a spiritual and honest mind. We need to inspire commitment in our workforce. Through the Bhagwat Gita, Lord Krishna guides us by saying and I quote:

“तस्मादसक्त: सततं कार्यं कर्म समाचर |

असक्तो ह्याचरन्कर्म परमाप्नोति पूरुष: || 19||”

“Tasmād asaktaḥ satataṁ kāryaṁ karma samāchara
Asakto hyācharan karma param āpnoti pūruṣhaḥ”,  which means that “Therefore, O Arjuna, always perform your duty efficiently and without attachment to the results, because by doing work without attachment one attains the Supreme Person” (unquote).

            Ladies and Gentlemen:

11.   In today’s world which is becoming more and more insular, it is imperative that we use spirituality to guide us in our thoughts, deeds and actions. Spirituality shows us how to treat others. All religions profess values for reformation of the human being. The Gita says and I quote: “Perform all work carefully, guided by compassion” (unquote). Spirituality means embodying kindness, compassion and selflessness. If these values flourish in our citizens, offices and factories and in our work culture, they would become happy and productive workplaces. Their effect will transmit to the wider community. At the organizational level, companies have to look at how they are upholding their values. How congruous are their actions with regard to what they espouse as their values? How ethical are their actions and how fair are their practices? Whatbehaviours in their employees are they rewarding? Are these behaviours consistent with their values? Is there trust within the organization and is the organization trusted by the outside world for its integrity? These are some of the very basic questions which we will have to answer ourselves. 

12.   Organizations have to ensure that their culture- the way they do things- promotes a spirit of inclusion and collaboration. Working towards self-actualization has to be a way of life for the employees. An organization that believes in and works towards spirituality at the workplace will ensure that its people have every opportunity to self-explore, seek a higher purpose and behave with others with kindness, compassion and selflessness.

Ladies and Gentlemen:

13.   India is a nation with a large young population. The youth is our greatest strength and our beacon of hope for a brighter future. We have to ensure that our rich civilizational values are instilled in them. If business leaders and other stakeholders come together, we can actualize the potential of our bright young population. As we strive for higher levels of socio-economic development, we need to ensure that we remain connected to our values. It will guide us to a path of growth that is rich in spirit and wisdom. I hope to see this conference bring us closer to this vision. With these words, I conclude. My best wishes to you all for a bright future!

Targets of Global Education

Targets of Global Education

The Government is committed to provide equitable access to quality education to all sections of the society. Having nearly reached the goals/targets of universalizing elementary education, and making substantial gains in expanding access to secondary and higher education, the focus is on improving the quality of education at all levels so as to realize India’s human resource potential to its fullest. Presently, the Government is in the process of formulating a New Education Policy to meet the changing dynamics of the population’s requirement with regard to quality education, innovation and research, aiming to make India a knowledge superpower by equipping its students with the necessary skills and knowledge and to eliminate the shortage of manpower in science, technology, academics and industry.
Further, several initiatives are currently being undertaken to enhance the quality of education across the spectrum. In elementary education, the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) programme harmonized with Right to Education (RTE) aims for improvements in school infrastructure and also improving learning outcomes. Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), ICT in Schools, Centrally Sponsored Scheme on Teacher Education (CSSTE), Shaala Siddhi, Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan are being implemented to improve the quality of secondary education. In higher education also, various schemes ,namely, Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA), Global Initiative for Academics Network (GIAN), Impacting Research, Innovation & Technology (IMPRINT), Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme(TEQIP), Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya National Mission on Teachers and Teaching (PMMMNMTT), Study Webs of Active-Learning for Young Aspiring Minds (SWAYAM), National Digital Library, campus connect programme, Uchhatar Avishkar Abhiyan, Unnat Bharat Abhiyan are being implemented to improve the quality of higher education. To promote objective assessment of performance annually, Government has launched the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) in September 2015. A number of initiatives are also undertaken by UGC and AICTE for quality improvement in higher and technical education.

Exercise EKUVERIN – 2016

Opening Ceremony: Indo- Maldives Joint Military Exercise Commences in Maldives

A 14 days joint training exercise of the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force commenced today with the Opening Ceremony at Kadhdhoo, Lammu Atoll in Maldives.
The training contingents comprised of a platoon strength from BIHAR Regiment and a similar strength of the Maldivian National Defence Force. Senior military observers of both the countries will be witnessing the validation phase of the Exercise.
Exercise EKUVERIN – 2016 will be the seventh edition of Joint Exercise and is in continuation of a series of joint Exercises between the Indian Army and Maldivian National Defence Force. The previous edition of the Exercise was held at Trivandrum, India in 2015.
The aim of the Joint Exercise is to acquaint both forces with each other’s operating procedures in the backdrop of amphibious and counter insurgency/ Counter terrorism environment as also to enhance the existing military relationship between the Indian Army and the Maldivian National Defence Force.
The Indian Army contingent had landed at Male International Airport on 14 Dec 2016 on a C-130 military aircraft of the Indian Air Force. The exercise aims to enhance the interoperability between the Indian Army and Maldivian National Defence Forces in conducting joint operations and cement bonds of friendship between the two countries.