Tag: national

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 7: Mumbai BJP President and MLA Ameet Satam today announced a new internship programme to involve Gen Z students in civic governance, once Mahayuti comes to power in BMC. Through this internship programme, Gen Z students will contribute to strengthening urban planning and civic administration, said MLA Ameet Satam.

MLA Ameet Satam interacted with first-time voters (Gen Z) today at an event held at YB Chavan Centre, organised by youth organisation India’s International Movement to United Nations (IIMUN), one of the world’s largest youth-run non-profit organisations. The event was conceptualised and led by Rishabh Shah, founder and president of IIMUN.

“After the BMC elections, we will be launching an internship programme for Gen Z students interested in public policy and governance. Under this initiative, two interns will be assigned to each of Mumbai’s 24 administrative wards, with an additional two at the BMC headquarters. This programme will provide an opportunity for 50 young individuals who have completed courses in public policy and governance to observe civic systems, offer suggestions, and prepare research papers to strengthen urban planning and civic administration. After the BMC elections, these interns will actively work within the BMC under the programme,” said MLA Ameet Satam.

MLA Ameet Satam further said that the internship programme will follow a structured professional selection process with clear criteria. This will ensure the most deserving Gen Z candidates are chosen to contribute to civic governance, he added.

Highlights

• Will launch Gen Z internship programme to improve civic governance once Mahayuti comes to power in BMC
• 50 interns to be selected across 24 wards and BMC headquarters to monitor systems and suggest improvements. They will be 3rd eye as far as civic givernance is concerned.- MLA Ameet Satam
• Study group of IIT, VJTI experts to be formed to devise plan to prevent flooding – MLA Ameet Satam

MLA Ameet Satam also announced the formation of a study group consisting of experts from IIT and VJTI, which will seek opinions from former BMC municipal commissioners and former chief engineers of stormwater drains. “The study group will analyse Mumbai’s topography and average annual rainfall and compare it with other international cities having similar rainfall to devise an effective plan to prevent flooding in the city,” added MLA Ameet Satam.

During the interaction, Satam also spoke on a range of city issues, including roads, flooding, open spaces, waste management, environment, walkability, and safety and security, and shared his vision for Mumbai’s future.

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New Delhi [India], October 6: No smoke, no mirrors. Spherule Foundation just snagged the 2025 Mahatma Award for Social Good & Impact. The recognition isn’t just shiny, it’s a spotlight on hard, measurable work that’s reshaping communities across India.

On October 2, Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti, as India paused to honour the Father of the Nation, Spherule Foundation added a serious feather to its cap: the Mahatma Award 2025 for Social Good & Impact. The ceremony, held at the India International Centre in New Delhi, was more than ceremonial pomp; it was a nod to real action.

Supported by the Aditya Birla Group, the Mahatma Award is one of the highest global honours for social commitment. This year’s edition coincided with the 156th birth anniversary of Gandhi, amplifying the significance. For an NGO, winning this isn’t a participation trophy; it’s like scoring in the social impact major leagues.

Joining Spherule Foundation in the hall of fame are names like Ratan Tata, Azim Premji, Sudha Murty, ISRO, IBM Foundation, Twitter for Good, and Microsoft Philanthropy. That’s a room full of titans, and now, Spherule is rubbing shoulders with them, not just in reputation but in measurable impact.

Dr Geeta Bora, Founder & Director of Spherule Foundation, summed it up:

“This honour is not just for Spherule Foundation but for every changemaker, volunteer, and partner who believed in our vision. The Mahatma Award strengthens our resolve to keep working towards a society where equality, dignity, and compassion are at the heart of progress.”

Let’s be honest, if you’re going to do social good, having a founder with that kind of fire and clarity changes everything.

Spherule Foundation: A Snapshot of Impact

Under Dr Bora’s leadership, the Spherule Foundation is not just another charity collecting applause. This is a full-throttle, UN SDG-aligned engine impacting millions. Here’s a breakdown:

Spherule doesn’t just hand out pencils. STEM and Digital Learning Labs, remedial education, and scholarship programs are rolling out to underserved children. The goal? Equip the next generation with tools, not just toys. In a country where quality education is still uneven, this is a big deal.

Spherule’s health interventions are intense. NICUs, mobile health units, menstrual hygiene campaigns that hit the Guinness World Record, and nutrition support programs aren’t just feel-good gestures; they save lives.

Imagine running mobile clinics across regions where access is patchy at best, and then layering on awareness campaigns that reach millions. That’s a roadmap for real systemic change.

Women-centric programs are a Spherule hallmark: skill development, entrepreneurship support, and pathways to financial independence. Women who engage with Spherule programs aren’t just participants; they’re building small empires, gaining confidence, and transforming families.

India’s ongoing push for gender equality finds a practical ally in organisations like this, no fluff, just measurable uplift.

From Green Schools to renewable energy adoption and agroforestry initiatives, Spherule’s environmental focus hits multiple fronts. Climate awareness campaigns, large-scale environmental drives, and actionable sustainability projects position the foundation as a rare NGO that’s future-proofing India.

Yes, climate action sounds trendy in press releases. But Spherule backs it with measurable projects, solar panels installed, schools transformed, and carbon footprints reduced. That’s execution over buzzwords.

Disaster preparedness, rural changemaker incubation, and mental health initiatives round off the portfolio. Spherule’s work demonstrates that social impact isn’t linear; it’s ecosystemic. You can’t just fix schools and ignore community resilience.

The Foundation has created an integrated model where education, health, environment, and livelihoods intersect. That’s why it deserves the Mahatma Award.

India has no shortage of NGOs. But how many can genuinely scale and deliver measurable outcomes across multiple SDGs? Spherule Foundation is not just another name on a plaque. Its work touches education, health, gender equality, climate action, and community resilience simultaneously, while maintaining operational excellence.

In a country where policy often moves at a glacial pace, organisations like Spherule fill the execution gap. They don’t just talk; they implement. And the Mahatma Award is recognition that the needle is moving.

Final Word

Awards are symbols. Impact is legacy. Spherule Foundation has both. Winning the Mahatma Award isn’t the finish line; it’s a green flag for the next lap. The NGO has set a high bar for measurable, scalable, and sustainable social change. To know more about their impact and projects, visit www.spherule.org 

If you’re in India, pay attention, this isn’t philanthropy theatre. It’s impact that matters.

PNN News

New Delhi [India], October 6: India’s young innovators just got a serious upgrade. The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI) are teaming up to turbocharge Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) nationwide,  bridging industry, education, and CSR like never before.

A Landmark Indo-French Collaboration

On September 19, 2025, AIM and IFCCI signed a Statement of Intent (SoI) that signals a strategic push for innovation-driven education. The signing unfolded at the Embassy of France in New Delhi during the 3rd IFCCI CSR Connect Day 2025, an event themed “Collaborating for Scale, Cross-Sectoral Partnerships for Sustainable Development.” Over 100 participants attended, including corporate leaders, diplomats, government officials, and CSR experts.

Mr Thierry Mathou, French Ambassador to India, hailed the collaboration as a blueprint for innovation-led social development. He underscored the 2026 India-France Year of Innovation, emphasising that bilateral ties now extend beyond tech to include social progress. “French and Indian businesses should see CSR as a chance to lead in sustainability and community impact,” he said, laying down the challenge in no uncertain terms.

Why This Partnership Matters

The Atal Tinkering Labs program is already a juggernaut in grassroots innovation. Since its inception, AIM has empowered over 11 million student entrepreneurs across India. The program’s reach spans every district,  from the northernmost villages to the southern tip, from west to east.

Now, IFCCI’s Indo-French corporate network will help scale the initiative through CSR investments. The goal: enhance ATL infrastructure, improve curriculum delivery, and deepen industry-school linkages. Simply put, more schools, better labs, smarter students.

“From a small village school to urban centres, innovation is thriving everywhere,” AIM Mission Director Deepak Bagla said. “This new partnership with IFCCI will expand innovation-driven learning to even more students.”

CSR With Impact,  Not Just Lip Service

IFCCI is no stranger to big CSR plays. Since 2023, its CSR department has executed 86 projects, impacting 15,000+ individuals in India. Their initiatives cover education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, livelihood generation, and clean energy,  all aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Now, imagine this infrastructure applied to ATLs. Corporate funding doesn’t just build labs; it fuels hands-on experimentation, teacher training, and innovation challenges. Students in underserved regions suddenly gain access to 21st-century skills once reserved for elite schools.

“This partnership is about empowering youth with critical thinking and tech skills,” said IFCCI Director General Payal S. Kanwar. “We aim to make innovation accessible to every student, especially in underserved regions.”

From Curriculum to Creation

ATLs are not about rote learning or standard textbooks. They’re about experimentation, critical thinking, and real-world problem solving. This partnership focuses on:

• Identifying government schools for ATL implementation
• Providing teacher training programs
• Organising innovation challenges
• Building a sustainable ecosystem of learning

In short, the plan is to turn classrooms into mini-startup incubators. And with French corporate expertise and Indian ambition, the potential is huge.

Digital Literacy Meets STEM Innovation

ATLs are engines of STEM and digital literacy. From coding and robotics to hands-on electronics, students gain exposure to technologies shaping the modern world. AIM’s track record shows tangible results: thousands of student projects, many of which have won national recognition and some even reaching global platforms.

The IFCCI partnership ensures these labs aren’t just functional, they’re transformative. CSR investments will expand access to technology, tools, and mentorship, creating an ecosystem where innovation is not limited by geography or resources.

Scaling Innovation Across India

The challenge has always been scale without sacrificing quality. AIM’s approach has been methodical: quality over quantity, impact over optics. The collaboration with IFCCI brings corporate muscle to complement government initiatives. Together, they aim to:

1. Extend ATL programs to more districts
2. Upgrade existing labs with modern equipment
3. Introduce structured teacher development programs
4. Foster collaboration between students and industry

The endgame?
Every school in India should have access to a real innovation lab, not just a dream.

The Indo-French Edge

France brings more than money; it brings experience, networks, and a culture of innovation. The partnership signals a deeper trend: global collaboration for local impact. As Ambassador Mathou emphasised, social innovation is now a pillar of bilateral cooperation.

The synergy is clear: Indian ambition, French guidance, corporate CSR muscle,  all focused on one objective: building India’s next generation of innovators.

Looking Ahead

The SoI is a starting point, not the finish line. Over the next year, expect:

• New labs in underprivileged schools
• Innovation challenges linking students with corporate mentors
• Teacher upskilling programs to sustain lab impact
• A growing ecosystem connecting students, educators, and industries

The collaboration also dovetails with India’s broader goal of becoming a global innovation hub, reinforcing STEM education and entrepreneurship from the grassroots.

“Innovation is not about numbers, it’s about diversity and quality of ideas,” Deepak Bagla reiterated. AIM isn’t just counting labs; it’s nurturing solutions.

Why India Needs ATLs More Than Ever

With the Fourth Industrial Revolution in full swing, India faces a dual challenge: providing equitable access to technology and cultivating creative problem solvers. ATLs, now turbocharged with IFCCI support, answer both.

Rural students, traditionally sidelined in STEM, will now have hands-on labs, mentorship, and exposure. Urban students benefit from better infrastructure and industry engagement. Everyone wins.

The Bottom Line

AIM + IFCCI = innovation on steroids. This is more than a partnership; it’s a strategic move to future-proof India’s youth. With millions of students already impacted and the promise of exponential growth through CSR and industry engagement, the ATLs are set to become the epicentre of India’s innovation ecosystem.

In short: the labs are not just spaces, they’re launchpads for India’s next wave of entrepreneurs and technologists.

PNN News

New Delhi [India], October 6: India isn’t just building weapons anymore; it’s building the ecosystem to own them. On October 7, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh will flip the switch on a national movement to make “Made in India” mean business in the global defence arena. – Defence Manufacturing in India.

Defence Manufacturing in India: Aligning Industry with Mission Self-Reliance

At Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, the mood will be less “ceremonial launch” and more “boardroom strategy session.” The National Conference on ‘Opportunities in Defence Manufacturing in the Country’, organised by the Ministry of Defence’s Department of Defence Production, is more than another bureaucratic gathering. It’s a high-stakes convergence of policy, tech, and industry muscle.

The goal? Tight coordination between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and State/UT governments is a necessary chess move if India is serious about building a homegrown military-industrial complex.

For years, states have chased industrial growth in silos. Now, they’re being pulled into one integrated orbit: defence self-reliance. The conference will hammer out how regional industrial policies and infrastructure can plug directly into the national defence production grid.

Think of it as India aligning its industrial “microchips” into one national motherboard.

Digital Arsenal: Portals That Mean Business

Shri Rajnath Singh will launch two major digital weapons in India’s defence production arsenal:

• The Defence Exim Portal: This one’s about speed and sanity. Export and import authorisations in defence manufacturing have traditionally been a bureaucratic labyrinth. The new portal is designed to streamline the process, making it faster, cleaner, and far less prone to the infamous red tape that has long throttled private sector enthusiasm.
• Srijan DEEP (Defence Establishments and Entrepreneurs Platform): Don’t let the acronym fool you, this platform could be the LinkedIn of India’s defence ecosystem. It’s a digital repository mapping capabilities and products of Indian defence industries, basically, a radar for innovation and manufacturing capacity.
  

Together, these portals are not vanity projects. They’re infrastructure, digital highways for policy to meet practice.

Policy Arsenal: Publications with Purpose

In addition to the portals, two publications will be unveiled. The first, Aerospace & Defence Sector Policy Compendium of States and Union Territories, is a comprehensive snapshot of where each state stands in defence readiness, industrial clusters, incentives, and growth plans. It’s the scoreboard every investor and policymaker should be watching.

The second, iDEX Coffee Table Book: Shared Horizons of Innovation, celebrates the innovations under the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) program. It’s less a coffee table ornament and more a tribute to the start-ups, SMEs, and individual innovators driving India’s new-age defence R&D.

States as Strategic Partners

For decades, defence manufacturing sat squarely in the hands of public sector giants like HAL, BEL, and DRDO. States were spectators. That’s changing.

By roping in state and UT industry departments, the Centre is turning local ecosystems into strategic nodes in the national supply chain. Tamil Nadu is building an aerospace cluster. Maharashtra has shipbuilding potential. Uttar Pradesh is investing in a Defence Corridor. The conference isn’t about symbolism, it’s about execution.

It’s a recognition that defence self-reliance won’t be achieved in Delhi boardrooms, it’ll be built in factories from Coimbatore to Lucknow.

India’s Moment to Lead

Globally, defence is big business, $2.4 trillion spent in 2024 alone, according to SIPRI. India, now the world’s fourth-largest military spender, is still one of its top importers. That contradiction is what this push aims to end.

The country’s defence export numbers hit ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023–24, a record high. That’s a 32x jump since 2014. But compared to global giants like the US and France, India’s share remains a blip.

The Defence Exim Portal is part of the solution; cutting paperwork means cutting delays, which means exporters can actually compete on delivery timelines.

When Shri Rajnath Singh says “Atmanirbharta in defence,” he isn’t just selling patriotism; he’s selling a business case. A future where Indian components power jets, tanks, and ships globally, not just within Indian borders.

From Make in India to Make for the World

This conference is also a statement: the shift from “Make in India” to “Make for the World.”

The government’s Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP) 2020 laid the foundation. Now, this conference is on the next floor of that building.

India isn’t chasing manufacturing for manufacturing’s sake; it’s positioning itself as a global design-to-delivery hub. With over 350 private companies now part of the defence supply chain and start-ups innovating across UAVs, cyberwarfare, and space-tech, the timing couldn’t be sharper.

India’s Defence Startups: Quietly Disruptive

The iDEX initiative has already incubated more than 400 start-ups, funding innovations that range from AI-enabled targeting to indigenous drone swarms.

Start-ups like NewSpace Research, Tonbo Imaging, and ideaForge are no longer fringe players; they’re building the future of asymmetric warfare tech.

This conference gives them visibility. More importantly, it aligns state policies to support such ventures with infrastructure, incentives, and fast-track procurement pathways.

Because, let’s face it: innovation needs oxygen, not files that move at glacial speed.

Srijan DEEP: The Network Effect

The launch of Srijan DEEP could quietly be the most consequential part of this event.

Why? Because defence manufacturing is an ecosystem sport. A small gear manufacturer in Coimbatore might not know that a drone start-up in Bengaluru needs exactly what they make.

Srijan DEEP bridges that gap. It maps every product, component, and capability, letting suppliers and buyers find each other faster.

It’s not flashy, but neither is a jet engine’s turbine blade. It’s what keeps the machine running.

The States’ Turn in the Spotlight

Each state is expected to showcase its policies, potential, and existing capacities at the conference.

Expect the big players, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, to highlight their existing aerospace parks. But the real story might come from emerging players like Odisha and Rajasthan, who are aggressively courting MSMEs into defence manufacturing.

When you see bureaucrats using phrases like “synergising industrial policies,” it usually sounds like jargon. But this time, there’s a clear subtext: “We’re done watching other countries make our weapons.”

Challenges? Of Course. But Look at the Direction.

No transformation is clean. There are still issues, procurement delays, testing bottlenecks, limited venture funding, and state-level coordination hiccups.

But here’s the thing: India’s defence sector is finally talking like an industry, not an institution.

And this conference, bringing everyone from defence secretaries to state industrial commissioners under one roof, is a signal that the conversation has matured.

The Shri Rajnath Singh Factor

Shri Rajnath Singh’s stewardship of defence modernisation has been quietly consistent. From boosting defence exports to clearing record numbers of indigenisation projects, he’s been a more pragmatic CEO than politician.

This conference fits that pattern: practical, structured, and results-oriented. No fluff, just focus.

He’s not announcing schemes to grab headlines. He’s launching systems to outlast them.

The Takeaway

By the end of this conference, India’s defence manufacturing landscape will have a clearer roadmap and a few more tools to execute it.

More importantly, the event signals a shift in mindset. The Indian defence ecosystem is no longer asking “if” we can build at scale. It’s asking “how fast.” And that’s the kind of question great nations ask when they stop buying power and start building it.

PNN News

New Delhi [India], October 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi just dropped a Rs 62,000 crore megaboost – PM-SETU – for India’s youth. Think ITIs, skill labs, and global employability, basically the rocket fuel for a self-reliant Bharat.

Kaushal Deekshant Samaroh: Not Your Average Convocation

Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi wasn’t just hosting a convocation; it turned into a mega youth festival. PM Modi greeted lakhs of students from ITIs across India, Bihar in particular, recalling the tradition of massive ITI graduations he started a few years back. “Today is another milestone,” he said, with a hint of pride that only comes from seeing young Indians geared for real-world skills.

The day wasn’t about ceremonial pomp alone. PM Modi launched youth-focused initiatives worth over Rs 62,000 crore, aimed at transforming education, skills, and jobs across India. And yes, Bihar got a special spotlight, because when India’s youth thrive, so does the nation.

PM-SETU Scheme: ITIs Go Global

The star of the show: PM-SETU (Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs). Budget? Rs 60,000 crore. Scale? 1,000 ITIs. Goal? Make Indian youth globally employable.

Here’s the blueprint:

• 200 “hub” ITIs with 800 “spoke” ITIs.
• Advanced machinery, industry mentors, and new curricula.
• Innovation centres, production units, placement services.
• Global co-financing from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank.

In PM Modi’s words: “PM-SETU will connect Indian youth with global skill requirements.” Translation: India’s workforce just got a serious upgrade.

Skill Labs: Hands-On Training Across India

1,200 vocational labs inaugurated in 400 Navodaya Vidyalayas and 200 Eklavya Model Schools across 34 states and UTs. These labs cover 12 high-demand sectors: IT, automotive, agriculture, electronics, logistics, tourism, and more.

Students from remote and tribal areas will now get practical exposure in their mother tongues, a subtle but powerful nod to accessibility. Vocational teachers are trained to deliver industry-relevant lessons, ensuring employability starts early.

Bihar: Youth-Centric Mega Transformation

Bihar was treated like the poster child for youth empowerment. PM Modi inaugurated:

• Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Skill University offers industry-oriented courses for globally competitive graduates.
• Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme, interest-free loans up to Rs 4 lakh.
• Mukhyamantri Nishchay Svyam Sahayata Bhatta Yojana, a monthly allowance of Rs 1,000 for five lakh graduates, plus free skill training.
• Bihar Yuva Ayog, a statutory youth commission for ages 18–45.

“The youth of Bihar may not realise how badly the education system was destroyed 20–25 years ago,” PM Modi reminded. Migration to Delhi, Mumbai, and Varanasi wasn’t a choice; it was a necessity. Now? Bihar is reclaiming its talent home turf.

Education Gets a Modern Makeover

PM Modi didn’t just focus on ITIs. Higher education in Bihar is getting a facelift:

• The Bihta campus of NIT Patna opens with a 5G lab, ISRO Regional Academic Centre for Space, Innovation & Incubation Centre supporting nine start-ups.
• Foundations laid at Patna University, Bhupendra Mandal University, Jai Prakash University, and Nalanda Open University under PM-USHA.
• IIT Patna expansion is in progress.

Financial strain? Reduced. Scholarships doubled from ₹1,800 to ₹3,600. Education loans are now interest-free.

Translation: youth get modern education, skill labs, financial freedom, and direct career paths. Not bad for a day’s work.

ITIs: From 10,000 to 15,000 in a Decade

PM Modi’s pride in ITIs is palpable. 2014: 10,000 ITIs. 2025: 15,000 ITIs. 170 trades. 1.5 crore youth trained. Skills in local languages. All integrated with industries for future-ready talent.

The PM-SETU scheme isn’t just upgrading infrastructure, it’s redesigning the whole ITI ecosystem for the 21st century. Think hubs, spokes, industry partnerships, and global standards. India’s industrial education is finally stepping up to the big league.

Jobs, Jobs, Jobs

Bihar alone: 50 lakh youth connected to employment in 20 years. Recent years? 10 lakh permanent government jobs. Teachers? 2.5 lakh recruited in two years.

The future target: double the employment opportunities in five years. PM Modi’s message: Bihar youth can and should work locally. Why migrate when home-grown opportunities are skyrocketing?

GST Savings: A Bonus for Youth

PM Modi threw in a small but symbolic victory: reduced GST on bikes and scooters. Cue Dhanteras planning for young Indians. A minor anecdote, sure, but it drives home a bigger point: government is tuned into youth priorities, both serious (skills, jobs) and lifestyle (vehicles).

From Fragile Five to Manufacturing Giant

Before 2014, India was among the “Fragile Five” economies. Today? India is racing to the top three global economies. Manufacturing, exports, jobs, mobile phones, electronics, automobiles, and defence. ITI-trained youth are benefiting. The Mudra scheme helped crores start businesses.

The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (₹1 lakh crore) aims to employ 3.5 crore youth in the private sector. PM Modi’s pitch: India’s young workforce isn’t just skilled, it’s unleashed.

With a strong focus on skilling and innovation, our government is preparing the Yuva Shakti to lead the future. Speaking at the launch of youth-centric initiatives in Delhi. https://t.co/kiAbStpTP4

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 4, 2025

The Takeaway: Youth Power = National Power

PM Modi wrapped up by stating that skill, innovation, and hard work have no substitutes. Luckily, India’s youth already carry all three. With ITIs upgraded, vocational labs operational, scholarships in place, and jobs lined up, a Viksit Bharat isn’t a dream anymore.

PNN News

New Delhi [India], October 4: Rise Against Hunger India has once again been recognized with the Mahatma Award for Social Good Impact – Zero Hunger. This marks the organization’s third consecutive recognition, having received the award in 2023, 2024, and 2025. The honor reaffirms the organization’s leadership in combating hunger and advancing sustainable food security in India.

The award was received by Mr. Dola Mohapatra, Executive Director, Rise Against Hunger India, and Mr. Hatim Dawasaz, Trustee, at a ceremony in New Delhi on October 1, on the eve of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

“We see this award not just as recognition, but as encouragement to keep going,” said Mr. Mohapatra. “Our mission has always been clear—bring food to those in need, support communities, stand by people in emergencies, and unite others in the movement to end hunger. Ending hunger is more than just feeding people; it’s about addressing the root causes of hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition. Through our community empowerment programs, we work with communities to ensure sustainable food and nutrition security,” he added.

The Mahatma Award is regarded as one of the highest honors in social impact, inspired by the life and values of Mahatma Gandhi. It annually recognizes changemakers who exemplify courage, innovation, and lasting social good across sustainability, philanthropy, education, healthcare, climate action, and hunger alleviation.

Over the past decade, Rise Against Hunger India has served over 40 million meals and reached 3.8 million people across the country through various food security and livelihood improvement interventions. Through partnerships with grassroots NGOs, rural communities, and humanitarian initiatives, the organization has consistently supported vulnerable populations and those affected by disasters.

“Rise Against Hunger India’s recognition in the Zero Hunger category underscores its unwavering commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger, and reinforces its belief that ending hunger is not just a necessity, but a movement for collective human dignity,” shared Mr. Dawasaz.

Rise Against Hunger India distributes fortified, pre-packaged dry meals, primarily uncooked khichdi mixes enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, to vulnerable populations such as women, children the elderly, and those affected by crises. Volunteers from diverse backgrounds assemble these meals, which are then distributed through community partners to reach those in need efficiently and sustainably.

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New Delhi [India], October 3: The Centre for Scientific Outreach (CSO) proudly announces the launch of the National Aviation Olympiad (NAO)- 1st Pan-India initiative designed to inspire, educate, and engage school students in the dynamic world of aviation.

The Olympiad is envisioned as a movement to bridge India’s youth with the rapidly expanding aviation sector, cultivating the next generation of aviators, engineers, policymakers, and innovators. Through a carefully designed curriculum and an expert committee of 100 experts from academia, industry and policy makers, NAO will test students’ knowledge in science, technology, and aviation fundamentals while nurturing creativity, problem-solving, and awareness about the aviation industry’s role in national growth.

The agenda, syllabus and awards of the Olympiad are currently under formation while the school onboarding process is on. The Olympiad will be conducted in three phases from August 2026 to December 2026. With India poised to become one of the largest aviation markets globally, it is vital to engage young minds early on and prepare them to lead tomorrow’s skies.

Key Highlights of NAO

● Nationwide Reach: Targeting participation from 2,500+ schools reaching 1,00,000+ students across all 28 states and 8 union territories.

● Three Phases of Competition: From school-level rounds to national finals, ensuring inclusivity and excellence.

● Mock Olympiads & Seminars: Helping students prepare and gain deeper insights into aviation careers.

● Career Awareness: Winners at each level will receive mentorship, exposure visits, and pathways to careers in aviation and aerospace.

● Awareness Creation: To promote aviation and aerospace as attractive career options.

● Talent Identification: To discover students with aptitude in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with a focus on aviation.

● Innovation Stimulation: To encourage students to solve real-world challenges in aviation—such as sustainability, safety, and air mobility.

● Equal Opportunity: To reach students across metros, Tier-2, Tier-3 cities, and rural India.

● Industry-Academia Linkage: To create pathways for students to interact with aviation professionals, institutions, and industries

The Olympiad will culminate in a National Grand Finale in December 2026 where top 5 students from each state and UT zone across the country will compete, showcasing their talent and vision for the future of aviation. Winners get mentorship, scholarship and recognition from top faces of the aviation industry.

The initiative is supported by industry experts, educational institutions, and thought leaders who believe in creating a sustainable pipeline of skilled youth for India’s aviation revolution.

About Centre for Scientific Outreach (CSO)

The Centre for Scientific Outreach is an organization dedicated to promoting scientific awareness, innovation, and education among students across India. With projects spanning waste management, educational outreach, and national-level competitions, CSO aims to empower young minds with knowledge that liberates – in spirit of its motto, “सा विद्या या विमुक्तये.”

Call to Action

School onboarding is going on currently. It has to be duly noted that all participation is via the schools and no direct participation of the students is allowed.

Registrations Open Now
Visit: https://nationalaviationolympiad.com

E-mail: nao@thecso.in
Contact: +91 9211229927, +91 9773987836

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Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 3: GST 2.0 aimed to simplify taxation and support education. But India’s notebook manufacturers now face rising costs, blocked tax credits, and tougher competition from imports.

Reform with Unintended Consequences

The rollout of GST 2.0 was welcomed by industry as a bold reform designed to streamline taxation and reduce compliance burdens. For education-related goods, the government made a significant move: setting the GST rate on notebooks at 0%.

The intention was straightforward: make learning more affordable. Yet, the notebook manufacturing sector is experiencing unforeseen challenges as a result.

Imports Gain an Edge

Under the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, imports from Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia already arrive in India at 0% customs duty. With GST 2.0 setting notebook GST at 0%, these imports now attract no IGST either.

The outcome: imported notebooks can land in India completely tax-free; domestic notebooks, by contrast, face production costs inflated by input taxes.

The Input Credit Blockage

Notebook manufacturing relies heavily on raw materials, including coated paperboard, packaging films, adhesives, and wires. These inputs attract 18% GST.

Previously, Indian notebook makers could balance this by claiming input tax credit (ITC). But with final notebooks taxed at 0%, there is no ITC mechanism available. This leaves manufacturers bearing the full burden of GST on raw materials.

This tax mismatch has become the central concern for domestic producers.

Rising Costs vs Flat Prices

While the GST reduction was expected to lower notebook prices for students, the opposite trend is visible in the market. Prices are climbing, mainly because manufacturers must absorb higher raw material costs without the benefit of ITC relief.

Cheaper imports from ASEAN countries add another layer of pressure, creating a dual challenge for India’s small and medium notebook makers.

Small-Scale Industry at Risk

The notebook sector is dominated by MSMEs across India, many located in semi-urban and rural areas. These businesses are typically labour-intensive, employing hundreds of thousands of workers, often women and youth.

Higher costs, blocked ITC, and import competition threaten their viability. If left unaddressed, the consequences could include:

• Job losses across rural belts.
• Closures of small units, which are already operating on tight margins.
• Loss of investments in domestic manufacturing.
• Greater import dependency, despite India’s capacity to meet demand.

Imports from Indonesia: A Case in Point

Indonesia is the world’s largest producer of paper and paper products. With duty-free access under ASEAN agreements, its exports pose a substantial competitive threat to India’s local players.

For domestic producers, the concern is not about efficiency or productivity. India already has sufficient capacity to meet its own notebook demand. The issue is purely cost competitiveness under the current tax regime.

Industry’s Representation to Government

The All India Notebook Manufacturers Association (AINMA) – booksmanufacturersassociation@gmail.com – has conveyed its concerns to policymakers, including the Union Ministry of Commerce and the GST Council.

In its representations, the Association has requested:

1. Examination of input tax credit (ITC) mismatch, by maintaining a nominal GST rate on notebooks, would enable ITC to flow back to manufacturers.
2. Anti-dumping or safeguard measures on imports, to ensure a level playing field for domestic producers.
   Review of raw material GST rates, particularly for coated paperboard, which has recently been increased from 12% to 18%.

The Association emphasises that the objective is not to oppose GST reforms, but to ensure that benefits reach students without damaging local industry.

Protecting Education and Employment

Notebook manufacturing is unique in its dual contribution: it supports India’s education ecosystem while also sustaining rural employment. Any disruption here impacts both access to affordable learning materials and livelihoods.

The sector argues that aligning GST structures to restore competitiveness would ensure that:

• Students benefit from stable or lower notebook prices.
• Manufacturers remain viable and continue to provide employment.
• India maintains its self-reliance in an essential product.

Balancing Reform and Industry Needs

GST 2.0 represents a milestone in India’s tax landscape. But like many broad reforms, it has sector-specific ripple effects. The notebook industry is one such case.

The challenge before policymakers is to balance two priorities: making education affordable and protecting domestic MSMEs. Both objectives are achievable, provided adjustments are made to address ITC blockages and import parity issues.

The Way Forward

Policy dialogue between industry associations and government is already underway. Possible measures could include:

• Reintroducing a nominal GST rate on notebooks, enabling ITC benefits.
• Monitoring import flows and, if necessary, applying anti-dumping duties.
• Reviewing GST rates on raw materials critical to notebook manufacturing.

Such steps would align with both the spirit of GST reforms and the goals of “Make in India.”

Conclusion

The notebook sector’s concerns highlight an important lesson in tax reform: well-intended measures can create unintended pressures when sectoral dynamics are not fully aligned.

GST 2.0 has simplified taxation and supported education on many fronts. For the notebook industry, however, relief measures are urgently needed to ensure that affordability for students does not come at the cost of domestic employment and industry sustainability.

PNN News

New Delhi [India], October 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi didn’t mince words on Vijaya Dashami. In a series of messages, he blended tradition, tribute, and a reminder of India’s enduring spirit. Courage, wisdom, and devotion, these weren’t just pleasantries; they were a roadmap.

Vijaya Dashami: Triumph of Good Over Evil

On October 2, 2025, the Prime Minister took to X (formerly Twitter) to extend greetings on Vijaya Dashami, the festival celebrating the victory of good over evil. PM Modi’s message was succinct but unmistakable: courage, wisdom, and devotion are non-negotiables on life’s battlefield.

“Vijaya Dashami celebrates the triumph of good and righteousness over evil and falsehood. May courage, wisdom and devotion always guide our paths. Wishing my fellow Indians a happy Vijaya Dashami.”

In Hindi, he reiterated the sentiment, emphasizing the inspiration to remain steadfast on the paths of courage, intelligence, and faith. The message resonated across India, cutting through the usual noise of holiday greetings.

Paying Homage to Gandhiji: Truth, Non-Violence, and Moral Courage

October 2 is double trouble for the nation: it’s also Gandhi Jayanti. PM Modi’s tribute to Mahatma Gandhi was part homage, part reminder that India’s moral compass still points to truth and non-violence.

“Gandhi Jayanti is about paying homage to the extraordinary life of beloved Bapu, whose ideals transformed the course of human history. He demonstrated how courage and simplicity could become instruments of great change. He believed in the power of service and compassion as essential means of empowering people. We will keep following his path in our quest to build a Viksit Bharat.”

PM Modi’s phrasing wasn’t sentimental fluff. It was a clear message: India remembers its icons, and their principles guide policy, leadership, and citizen engagement. In a country navigating rapid technological, social, and economic shifts, referencing Gandhiji is a subtle nudge to stay grounded, moral, and committed to collective progress.

Lal Bahadur Shastri: Integrity and Decisive Leadership

The Prime Minister didn’t stop at Gandhiji. Shastri Ji’s birth anniversary also drew PM Modi’s attention. He highlighted the former Prime Minister’s integrity, humility, and decisive leadership, reminding Indians of the man behind the slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan.”

“Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji was an extraordinary statesman whose integrity, humility and determination strengthened India, including during challenging times. He personified exemplary leadership, strength and decisive action. His clarion call of ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ ignited a spirit of patriotism among our people. He continues to motivate us in the endeavour of building a strong and self-reliant India.”

This wasn’t history class. PM Modi’s tribute underscores an enduring leadership lesson: integrity paired with decisive action isn’t optional, it’s essential. Especially for a nation juggling farmers, soldiers, and a growing economy, Shastri’s principles remain relevant.

Mourning Pandit Chhannulal Mishra: A Life Devoted to Culture

In a quieter but deeply personal gesture, PM Modi expressed grief over the demise of Pandit Chhannulal Mishra Ji, a titan of the Banaras Gharana.

Pandit Ji wasn’t just a classical vocalist; he was a custodian of Varanasi’s musical soul. His contributions elevated Indian classical music globally while mentoring generations of students.

PM Modi emphasized the personal connection: Pandit Ji had been his proposer for the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat in 2014, a symbolic passing of cultural and civic trust.

“सुप्रसिद्ध शास्त्रीय गायक पंडित छन्नूलाल मिश्र जी के निधन से अत्यंत दुख हुआ है। वे जीवनपर्यंत भारतीय कला और संस्कृति की समृद्धि के लिए समर्पित रहे… शोक की इस घड़ी में मैं उनके परिजनों और प्रशंसकों के प्रति अपनी गहरी संवेदना प्रकट करता हूं। ओम शांति!”

The Prime Minister’s message combined respect, personal reflection, and a clear statement: Indian art and culture are as critical to national identity as politics or policy. Pandit Ji’s Padma Vibhushan in 2020 affirmed that devotion to art is recognized at the highest level.

PM Modi’s Messaging Style: Blunt, Inspirational, and Grounded

Across all these posts, a pattern emerges: PM Modi delivers tradition with a punch. No filler. No empty platitudes. He blends:

1. Historical reverence: Highlighting Gandhiji and Shastri Ji anchors the messaging in Indian ethos.
2. Cultural pride: Pandit Mishra tribute signals that art and heritage are national priorities.
3. Direct appeal: Vijaya Dashami greetings aren’t just ceremonial; they’re a reminder of courage and devotion as life principles.

PM Modi’s X-feed isn’t just a social media page; it’s a lesson in leadership, culture, and communication.

India Context: Why These Messages Matter

October 2 isn’t just symbolic; it serves as a litmus test of leadership messaging. India, with its vast democratic canvas, looks to the Prime Minister for cues on how values intersect with governance.

• Vijaya Dashami: Reinforces moral courage in everyday life.
• Gandhi Jayanti: Signals commitment to non-violence and ethical governance.
• Shastri Ji’s anniversary: Highlights decisive action and self-reliance.
• Pandit Mishra’s demise: Cultural continuity matters as much as policy.

These aren’t isolated gestures; they’re a strategic weave of culture, politics, and national identity. Any leader can post wishes. PM Modi layers history, symbolism, and personal connection into every word.

Looking Ahead: Lessons for Leadership

For India, this multi-layered approach has a takeaway: leaders who respect the past and mentor culture alongside governance inspire deeper citizen engagement. Lessons for executives, policymakers, and cultural stewards are clear:

• Anchor initiatives in enduring values.
• Celebrate tangible heroes, political, cultural, or social.
• Communicate in a direct, unapologetic tone that doesn’t underestimate the audience.

Whether you’re running a nation, a company, or a startup, this style, bold, precise, and inspirational, works.

PNN News

New Delhi [India], October 2: India just dropped a serious maritime flex. INS Sutlej, the Navy’s hydrographic ace, has docked in Mauritius for the 18th joint survey, reaffirming India’s strategic and scientific grip over the Indian Ocean.

INS Sutlej Touches Down in Port Louis

On 29 September 2025, INS Sutlej, a specialised hydrographic survey vessel of the Indian Navy, arrived at Port Louis, Mauritius. This marks the 18th joint hydrographic survey between the two nations. The mission underscores decades of maritime coordination and deepening strategic trust.

The vessel isn’t just a floating gadget-lab; it’s a platform for cutting-edge ocean mapping, ensuring safe navigation and sustainable marine resource management in a region that’s more geopolitically crucial than ever.

The Mission Scope

INS Sutlej is set to cover roughly 35,000 square nautical miles, that’s a swath of the Indian Ocean that could easily make a geography quiz sweat. The mission involves comprehensive hydrographic data collection, mapping seabeds, and updating navigational charts.

For Mauritius, this isn’t just tech-wizardry on display. Officers from multiple ministries are boarding the ship for hands-on training in hydrographic survey techniques. It’s capacity-building with a serious wow factor. By the end of this mission, Mauritius will have homegrown experts who can handle ocean data like pros.

Bilateral MoU Drives Longstanding Cooperation

This survey isn’t a one-off stunt. It’s part of a framework laid down by the bilateral MoU on Hydrography, formalised during the 14th Joint Committee Meeting earlier this year. India and Mauritius have a history of syncing their oceanographic strategies, and the MoU cements that operationally.

Think of it as a VIP pass to the Indian Ocean: joint hydrographic missions, shared data, and mutual training. It’s a classic example of strategic diplomacy through science.

Beyond the Charts – Strategic Significance

While mapping oceans sounds nerdy, the implications are anything but. For India, the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is more than a playground; it’s a chessboard. INS Sutlej’s deployment signals India’s intent to maintain navigational safety, safeguard ocean resources, and ensure a collaborative regional presence.

Mauritius benefits too. With updated charts and trained personnel, the island nation gains greater control over its waters and strengthens its maritime resilience. That’s smart, scalable capacity building in action.

Regional Maritime Collaboration

The Indian Ocean is a hotspot for commerce, security, and climate-sensitive research. Missions like these aren’t just about bilateral PR; they’re about enhancing regional collaboration, mitigating maritime risks, and supporting sustainable oceanic management.

In plain terms: India sends a ship, Mauritius gets skills, both countries score points in maritime strategy, and the Indian Ocean becomes a bit safer for everyone.

Capacity Building in Action

INS Sutlej doubles as a floating classroom. Mauritian officers are learning hydrographic data collection, charting techniques, and processing methods directly onboard. This hands-on approach ensures that training isn’t theoretical; it’s mission-ready.

It’s also a subtle flex: India doesn’t just patrol oceans; it transfers knowledge. That’s strategic influence, dressed as scientific collaboration.

A Reaffirmation of Strategic Ties

Every wave INS Sutlej maps is a statement: India and Mauritius are in this together. The deployment reiterates the two nations’ shared commitment to scientific excellence, maritime safety, and sustainable resource management.

From an Indian perspective, these missions are proof that strategic relationships are built on substance, not just ceremonies. A 35,000-square-nautical-mile survey isn’t just work; it’s credibility in action.

Looking Ahead

The Indian Ocean is only going to get hotter, geopolitically, economically, and environmentally. Future missions will likely build on this foundation, integrating newer tech, deeper oceanographic data, and expanded regional cooperation.

INS Sutlej’s arrival in Mauritius is a reminder: in the Indian Ocean, being proactive beats being reactive. And India, for now, is playing proactively like a boss.

PNN News