National e-Governance Division: Transforming India through Digital Empowerment

The National e-Governance Division (NeGD) through a circular on 28th November, 2023 invites applications for various positions on a deputation basis. These positions are open to officers currently holding regular positions in the Central & State Government, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), Autonomous Organizations, and Statutory Bodies of the Government of India, as well as the States & Union Territory Governments.

Adoption of Cloud Services by Intermediaries Regulated by PFRDA

Cloud solutions offer numerous advantages such as scalability, ease of deployment, and reduced overhead costs. However, the adoption of cloud services is also subject to cyber security risks and challenges. Therefore, the circular highlights the importance of ensuring regulatory compliance and implementing necessary measures to mitigate these risks effectively.

Financial assistance to Tamil Nadu Sportspersons who participated and won medals in various sports

The main motive behind this funding is to encourage physically challenged sportspersons. Tamil Nadu Champions Foundation” with donations of Rs. 5 Lakhs from Hon’ble Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s own funds and 70 other private corporates and individuals contributions have so far amounted to Rs. 21.06 Crores. From this fund, about 228 sportsmen and women from Tamil Nadu have been provided as assistance and incentives to the tune of Rs.4.64 Crore.

Establishment of Hi-tech Dairy Plant in Namakkal

A hi-tech dairy plant with a production capacity of two-lakh liters per day will soon be set up in the district. The main objective of the scheme is to ensure livelihood and economic upliftment of milk producers in Namakkal district.

FSSAI Surveillance Drives Against Adulteration of Cinnamon with Cassia

Commissioners of Food Safety of States/UTs and the Central Licensing Authorities of FSSAI are urged to conduct a comprehensive market surveillance drive. The objective is to scrutinize the prevalence of malpractices, both in whole and powdered forms of these spices, in their respective jurisdictions.

Label Rectification for Imported Foods Allowed in Customs Bonded Warehouses

The FSSAI has taken this decision to facilitate a smoother import process for food items while maintaining stringent quality standards. The office order emphasizes that these modifications are introduced to strike a balance between facilitating trade and ensuring the safety of imported food into India.

Steviol Glycoside Not Permitted in Cocoa and Chocolate Products

As per this communication, it is clarified that ‘steviol glycoside (INS 960)’ is currently not permitted for use in ‘Cocoa and Chocolate products’ and ‘Imitation chocolate, chocolate substitute products’ under the existing Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Regulations, 2011. FBOs are hereby directed to ensure strict compliance with this regulation, refraining from manufacturing and/or selling such products in the market and on e-commerce platforms.

New Enhanced Rates of Financial Support for Torrefaction Plants

The maximum financial assistance for setting up of torrefaction plant is raised from INR 28 lakh to INR 56 lakh per Ton Per Hour (TPH) production capacity or 40% of capital cost for plant and machinery of one TPH plant, whichever is lower. Moreover, the amount of total financial assistance was also enhanced from INR 1.4 crore per proposal to INR 2.8 crore per proposal.