Government Introduces New Coastal Shipping Bill to Boost Maritime Trade
The bill seeks to address various challenges faced by the sector and create a more conducive environment for maritime trade. The bill introduces a licensing regime for vessels engaged in coasting trade, including foreign-flagged non-propelled vessels like mobile offshore drilling units and accommodation barges. A central database will be created to track information on coasting trade, including vessel movements, cargo details, and licensing information.
India’s Plan for Cooperative Grain Storage
The “World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector” aims to construct godowns at the Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) level. The pilot project has successfully constructed 11 godowns in 11 states: Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Assam, Telangana, Tripura, and Rajasthan.
India’s Commitment to Sustainable Mining Practices
The adoption of advanced mining technologies like surface mining, continuous mining, and highwall/longwall mining has minimized environmental impact and improved efficiency. By increasing the use of First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects, the government aims to reduce the reliance on road transportation, thereby reducing carbon emissions and air pollution.
Government Promotes Bio-Fertilizers for Sustainable Agriculture
Biofertilizers are promoted under Paramparagat Krishi Vikash Yojana (PKVY) and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) schemes. Under PKVY scheme, farmers are provided financial assistance of Rs 15000/ ha for 3 years through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for on-farm and off-farm organic inputs including bio-fertilizer. Under MOVCDNER, financial assistance @ Rs 32500/ ha for 3 years is provided to farmers for off farm /on –farm organic inputs including bio-fertilizer.
India Intensifies Efforts to Combat Tuberculosis
The National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) focuses on prompt diagnosis and treatment of TB patients with high-quality drugs and treatment regimens. The program actively seeks out TB cases in high-risk and vulnerable populations.
Government Launches Training Program to Enhance Chemical and Petrochemical Safety
The training program is designed to enhance safety and security measures in Major Accident Hazard (MAH) units across India. The program covered a wide range of topics, including accident and risk management, loss prevention, environmental protection, fire and explosion safety, and emergency response.
