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In a push to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious ‘Clean Ganga’ plan, the Union Government will start making efforts this week to implement <keyword id="2413594" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="Namami-Gange-project">Namami Gange project</keyword>, which it claims will bring visible change to the waters of the sacred river. 
 
The Namami Gange project is fully funded by the Indian Government for which it has okayed Rs 20,000 crore. 
 
Under this scheme, intensive river surface cleaning will be taken up in 10 identified cities along the banks of the holy river. Floating debris will be collected and cleaned off the Ganga river surface to see a visible difference in the cleanliness levels of the river waters. 
 
It will also cover ghat cleaning and drain-river confluence for ten priority locations is being prepared by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG). 
River surface cleaning boats, trash skimmer machines and trash booms will be pressed into service to collect floating material. 
 
The Modi government will invite global tenders this week for river surface cleaning. The ten identified cities are Haridwar, Varanasi, Allahabad, Kanpur, Mathura and Vrindavan, Garhmukteshwar, Patna, Kolkata, Sahibgunj and Nabadwip. 
 
Meanwhile, officials at the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation told Economic Times that aerators will be plied into action at river ghats to keep the gathering moss away. 
 
ET reported that the ministry wrote to the Central Pollution Control Board to install real-time monitors at 118 locations on Ganga where a nallah meets the river (drain-river confluence) to ensure that the cleaning is actually taking place and water quality is maintained. Ten of these have already been started on pilot basis. 
 
Moreover, the project will be backed by a mobile application- Bhuvan Ganga, which will enable people to see the difference at the surface of the river. 
 
This ISRO-backed India specific GIS tool will ensure real-time, public monitoring of pollution at the river bed on ground situations. The government is set to launch a Bhuvan Ganga app whereby real-time images of the Ganga can be captured by the public through smartphones and uploaded right away to check for any river surface pollution. 
 
This will bring in public participation as well as officials will be held accountable, if any laxity pointed out. 
 
Another public participation initiative- Ganga Volunteer Corps – which is yet to be launched initiative would channelise public volunteer services for cleaning of ghats and generating awareness. 
 
The Nirmal Ganga Bhagidaari project will see NGOs being involved in Ganga cleaning. 
 
(Image: Reuters)

Narendra Modi is ensuring you will get to take a dip in a visibly ‘Clean Ganga’ in the next few weeks

Union <keyword id="700459" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="ministry-of-water-resources">Ministry of Water Resources</keyword>, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation and the <keyword id="2751687" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="Ministry-Of-Ayush">Ministry of AYUSH</keyword> are discussing a proposal to build <keyword id="2893204" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="Herbal-units">herbal units</keyword> on the banks of river Ganga in Uttarakhand as part of the NDA government's ambitious <keyword id="510331" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="Clean-Ganga-project">Clean Ganga project</keyword>. If things go as per plan, Uttarakhand may soon have processing units of herbal medicines on the banks of the holy river, along with an '<keyword id="129195" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="Eco-Task-Force">Eco Task Force</keyword>' of ex-servicemen who would be engaged in plantation activities, according to a PTI report. 

	Moreover, the organic farming wing of the government is also likely to be roped in for the initiative, said official sources. 
 The Eco Task Force is likely to start functioning within the next three months and it would be entrusted with three major responsibilities, including prevention of dumping <keyword id="56059" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Garbage">garbage</keyword> into the river and planting saplings on the banks of Ganga, the sources added. As per the plan, herbal saplings procured from the <keyword id="223349" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="Forest-Research-Institute">Forest Research Institute</keyword> in Dehradun would be planted on the banks of river Ganga in the state. 

	"While the Eco Task Force would be carrying out planting of saplings, the Ministry of AYUSH would establish herbal processing units in Uttarakhand. The Ministry of Water Resources would be rendering assistance in marketing the herbal products. The whole plan would take off by October 2016," another senior ministry source said.
 

	The aim of the initiative is to generate more job opportunities for the local population, the senior ministry source said. 
 The proposed Force, a <keyword id="49995" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="territorial-army">territorial army</keyword> unit, consists of four battalions. Each battalion would be led by a Colonel-level officer from the <keyword id="43909" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="Defence-ministry">Defence Ministry</keyword>. 

	"In total, there would be about 1,600 personnel for the Eco Task Force. Funds to the tune of Rs 300 crore has been earmarked for the force for the first year," an official said. 
 

	Touted as the first-of-its-kind effort involving defence forces in cleaning a river in India, these battalions would be initially deployed in the most polluted stretches of Ganga. 

	 
	(Image: Reuters)

Banks of river Ganga in Uttarakhand likely to have herbal units

<ul><li>Exit polls predict that most of Uttar Pradesh is going to the way of the Grand Alliance but <keyword id="6354477" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi">Narendra Modi</keyword>’s constituency, Varanasi, may still want to give the Indian Prime Minister another chance. </li><li>Modi’s campaign involved highlighting infrastructural development while his opponents argued that most of the development over the past five years was superficial.</li><li>Modi has been accused of ignoring the demand of weavers and playing a divisive role between Hindus and Muslims in the constituency.</li></ul>Varanasi, the coveted constituency of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s Narendra Modi, is facing fierce competition from the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) between the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP). Even though the fighting primarily between the Grand Alliance and the BJP, Congress’ upper caste candidates could spoil things by eating into BJP votes playing in BSP-SP’s favour. Initial counting by NDTV shows Modi leading the state so far and other party's trail behind. On the one hand, the BJP is claiming that Varanasi’s development over the past five years trumps improvements in Amethi — the constituency of Modi’s primary contender from Congress, Rahul Gandhi — but on the other, Modi’s opposition is arguing that most of the development is superficial. But despite the pockets of resentment, it seems like India’s 3,000 year old city might give Modi a fighting chance against the Grand Alliance. Different definitions of development Modi has been riding on ‘Brand Varanasi’ highlighting the benefits of regular electricity, the addition of a four lane airport road, the planned ‘Heritage Corridor’ that will increase connectivity to the Vishwanath temple and the new cancer hospital. The Mahagathbandhan candidate, Shalini Yadav and Congress’ Ajay Rai have been arguing that most of the improvements do little to address the primary concerns of the voter — unemployment and cleaning up the Ganga. Voters are also <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/elections/lok-sabha/uttar-pradesh/modi-rides-high-on-brand-varanasi-but-not-everyones-cheering/articleshow/69368753.cms">reportedly</a> concerned about their freedom of speech and the growing threat of being <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/elections/lok-sabha/uttar-pradesh/view-changes-sweep-varanasi-so-does-modi-magic/articleshow/69387313.cms">classified</a> as ‘anti-national’ if you happen to disagree with a government policy. The constituency’s community of weavers claim that for Modi, they do not exist. And, that his politics are only deepening the divide between Hindus and Muslims in the constituency. The Kashi Vishwanath ‘Heritage Corridor’, while increasing connectivity, will be built as the cost of demolishing hundreds of old homes that fall in its way. Even so, Modi fever can be seen in the constituency as people are happy with the improvement in the quality of roads and the sparkling LED lights that adorn the the city’s ghats. BJP has been winning the seat in Varanasi since 1991,with the exception of 2004 when Congress’ Rajesh Kumar Mishra came out on top — and that was mainly due to internal disagreements within the BJP. But the issues of unemployment and pollution in the Ganga remain unaddressed according to voters in the area.

Varanasi Lok Sabha Election Result 2019: Modi leads in BJP stronghold shows initial counting

According to <keyword id="6354424" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="World-Bank">World Bank</keyword> President <keyword id="983419" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="Jim-Young-Kim">Jim Young Kim</keyword>, reforms initiated by Prime Minister <keyword id="6354477" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi">Narendra Modi</keyword> have had a huge impact on the way world looks at India. He also praised the progress made in 'Swachh Bharat' campaign and 'Clean Ganga' programme. 
 During a meeting with Modi on the sidelines of the ongoing UN General Assembly session, the World Bank President praised the progress made in 'Swachh Bharat' and 'Clean Ganga' programme where the World Bank is an important partner, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson <keyword id="32893" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="vikas-swarup">Vikas Swarup</keyword> told PTI 
 
"He (Jim Young Kim) said that the Prime Minister's reforms has had a huge impact on the way in which the world looks at India," Swarup added. 
 
Kim acknowledged that what was happening in India was actually very different from what had actually happened in different countries. 
 
"He maintained that the World Bank wanted to be a strong partner as India moved forward on these targets," Swarup said. 
 
The Prime Minister spoke on the progress made on the thousands of toilets that has been constructed, and also on the international technology that is being sought now on the 'Clean Ganga' program, on his ambitious programs for 175 gigawatts of renewable energy, Swarup said. 
 
The two leaders also discussed on the governance structure of the World Bank.
 

	Image credit: Indiatimes

World Bank's Jim Young Kim is a fan of PM Modi's reforms. Know why!

<ul><li>India’s President’s address was full of praises for <keyword id="6387077" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="narendra-modi-government">Narendra Modi government</keyword>. </li><li>However, some of the accolades may be exaggerated or not in sync with facts.</li></ul>Ram Nath Kovind, India’s President for eighteen months, took the lead to give the country’s Parliament a report card on behalf of the four-and-a-half year old Narendra Modi government. Kicking off the <keyword id="105431" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="budget-session">budget session</keyword> of Parliament, Kovind, in a speech that lasted over an hour, gave a glowing tribute to the incumbent government that will be seek re-election in less than 100 days from now. The following are some of the highlights of Kovind’s laudatory speech, each followed by facts that may question the President’s conviction about the Modi government’s performance. 1. “Compromising with security needs is not in interest of present &amp; future of country. New deals in last year, purchase of defence equipment raised morale of defence. After decades, Indian Air Force will use ultramodern Rafale aircraft in coming months &amp; strengthen itself.” The government auditor – the Comptroller and Auditor General of India – is yet to <a href="https://www.news18.com/news/india/only-3-copies-of-cags-rafale-report-likely-to-reveal-pricing-details-parliament-may-get-redacted-version-2018409.html" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">submit</a> its report on the government’s deal to purchase 36 Rafale aircraft for an undisclosed sum of money. Giving a clean chit to the government on the <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/all-you-need-to-know-about-the-rafale-deal-controversy/jet-set-go/slideshow/65079741.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">alleged irregularities</a> may be premature. 2. “Youth are the greatest strength of our nation. India has the largest number of young people in the world, and the policy decisions of my Government have been inspired by the aspirations and dreams of young Indians of 21st century.” The President said this on the day a report revealed that employment in the Indian economy was at its <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/unemployment-in-india-is-at-its-highest-in-45-years-says-an-indian-daily-citing-an-undisclosed-jobs-survey/articleshow/67769020.cms">worst</a> in 45 years, a labour survey that the government has not made public yet. 3. “GST has benefited businesses by bringing in more honesty and transparency." In December 2018, the All India Manufacturers’ Organisation (AIMO), <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/indias-micro-and-small-enterprises-saw-a-whopping-32-drop-in-jobs-in-the-last-4-years-survey/articleshow/67123219.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">said</a> small businesses across the country lost over 3.5 million job losses since 2014. The job losses were attributed to a 70% drop in operational profits in the MSME sector since 2014, according to K E Raghunathan, president of AIMO. 4. “By decreasing the burden of income tax and keeping the rate of inflation under control, the government has created new opportunities for expanding the savings of the middle class.” Despite the government’s best intentions, the “current (consumer) sentiment on the general economic situation dipped further into the pessimistic zone” – this is the finding from a consumer confidence <a href="https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/PublicationsView.aspx?id=18729"></a><a href="https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/PublicationsView.aspx?id=18729" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">survey</a> conducted in six Indian cities by the Reserve Bank of India. In fact, the consumer confidence is at its lowest it has been since Modi government took charge. Indeed inflation has been low for much of the current government’s tenure, jobs have been scarce and income growth very tepid, making middle class consumers penny wise. 5. “Demonetisation was a defining moment in the govt’s war on corruption and black money. This decision struck at the very root of the parallel economy thriving on black money; and the money outside the formal system was brought within the ambit of nation’s economy.” One of the defining steps against black money taken by the Modi government, by its <a href="https://www.financialexpress.com/economy/modi-says-demonetisation-forced-nirav-modi-vijay-mallya-to-flee-curbed-black-money/1431229/"></a><a href="https://www.financialexpress.com/economy/modi-says-demonetisation-forced-nirav-modi-vijay-mallya-to-flee-curbed-black-money/1431229/" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">own admission</a>, was demonetisation. However, contrary to the hope that a big chunk of unaccounted cash stashed away will be left worthless, nearly all the <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/finance/after-almost-two-years-of-counting-rbi-says-99-3-of-demonetised-notes-returned/articleshow/65589904.cms"></a><a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/finance/after-almost-two-years-of-counting-rbi-says-99-3-of-demonetised-notes-returned/articleshow/65589904.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">banned notes</a> have returned to the system. What came to a grinding halt was the <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/demonetisation-hit-growth-by-2-percentage-points-us-study/articleshow/67154320.cms"></a><a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/demonetisation-hit-growth-by-2-percentage-points-us-study/articleshow/67154320.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Indian economy</a> leading to job losses. 6. “Government has approved ₹25,500 crores for ‘Namami Gange Mission’. By stopping the flow from dozens of big drains into the river, by stopping the industrial waste, and by setting up sewer treatment plants, my government has shown proactiveness to clean up Ganga.” Indeed the money has been allotted and a lot has been spent, but is it working? India’s waterman <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/why-indias-waterman-thinks-the-governments-3-5-billion-plan-to-clean-up-ganga-is-not-working/articleshow/67672185.cms"></a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/why-indias-waterman-thinks-the-governments-3-5-billion-plan-to-clean-up-ganga-is-not-working/articleshow/67672185.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Rajendra Singh</a> believes that a clean Ganga may still be a distant dream. 7. "Government's digital plan is helping rural India." Once again, one of the stated goals of demonetisation was to make India a cashless society and push people towards digital payments. It seemed to work in the initial days of the cash crunch, but soon after, people were back to using cash, and in fact, it is <a href="https://www.livemint.com/Money/Oxohtwl6CBCWjnfjdbHCEL/Cash-transactions-up-after-demonetisation-but-Indias-ATM-ne.html"></a><a href="https://www.livemint.com/Money/Oxohtwl6CBCWjnfjdbHCEL/Cash-transactions-up-after-demonetisation-but-Indias-ATM-ne.html" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">now more than before</a> demonetisation. 8. “In 2014, only 59 village panchayats in the country had digital connectivity. Today, 1 lakh 16 thousand village panchayats are connected with optical fibre and about 40 thousand village panchayats have been provided with wi-fi hotspots.” The other big pillar of the Digital India dream is to allow millions of Indian villagers access to internet through a broadband network that spans the length and breadth of the country. The network has been laid for the first phase covering one lakh villages, but only 10% of the network is getting utilised. This has <a href="https://www.deccanchronicle.com/business/in-other-news/220119/rs-42000-crore-bharatnet-projects-face-delay-cost-overrun.html"></a><a href="https://www.deccanchronicle.com/business/in-other-news/220119/rs-42000-crore-bharatnet-projects-face-delay-cost-overrun.html" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">reportedly</a> led to the department of telecom warning the two implementing agencies, as recently as last week. India is ranked 91st among 139 countries on the Networked Readiness Index 2016, according to the <a href="http://reports.weforum.org/global-information-technology-report-2016/networked-readiness-index/"></a><a href="http://reports.weforum.org/global-information-technology-report-2016/networked-readiness-index/" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">World Economic Forum (WEF)</a>). 9. “By enacting RERA law, my govt has ensured that construction of houses is completed and they are handed over to the buyers as scheduled. After enactment of this law, about 35,000 real estate projects have been registered where lakhs of houses are being constructed.” The Real Estate Regulation Act is a potential game changer for India’s tainted real estate industry, infamous as a haven for ill-gotten wealth, but the reform measure has made little progress since it was rolled out in May 2017. “States have notified the act but, unfortunately, the structures of the RERA machinery in most of the states have not been put in place,” Samantak Das told the <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/wealth/real-estate/poor-implementation-of-rera-across-states-poses-a-challenge-to-home-buyers/articleshow/66375451.cms"></a><a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/wealth/real-estate/poor-implementation-of-rera-across-states-poses-a-challenge-to-home-buyers/articleshow/66375451.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">IANS</a> in October 2018, adding that, “"After constituting a model act at the central level, the Union government has a role to look at whether the states are adhering to the central legislation and implementing it in true letter and spirit.” 10. “Be it cities or villages, the government is working at a fast pace to strengthen healthcare related infrastructure.” The government last year set a target of raising annual health spending to 2.5% of India’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2025, from 1.15% now-- which is one of the lowest proportions in the world. Nepal (2.3%) and Sri Lanka (2%) spend more on healthcare than the government in India does. 11. “Thirty four crore bank accounts have been opened in the country because of ‘Jan Dhan Yojana’ and almost every family is now connected to the banking system. Today, Rs 88,000 crore deposited in Jan Dhan accounts is a testimony to the changing saving habits.” While it is true that the government pushed millions of Indians to have a bank account for the first time in their lives, it is still not a universal phenomenon. According to an August 2018 report from NABARD, nearly 190 million people still do not have access to a bank. Only “49% households reported that at least one of their members had saved any money in an institution (banks, post office etc.),” according to the report. 12. "Our daughters are making remarkable contribution in every field today and have brought laurels to the country. It is for the first time since independence that the policies &amp; programmes of the Govt have created numerous new opportunities for enterprise for women" It is true that there are more conversations about ending the discrimination against women today than ever before, but it is a global phenomenon too. However, presidential speeches have little impact unless it is forced into practice, particularly among public personalities like members of Parliament. In India’s political sphere, there is more sexism than oxygen in the air. Most recently the newly-appointed Congress general secretary <a href="https://www.indiatoday.in/elections/story/pretty-face-no-other-talent-bihar-minister-s-sexist-remark-about-priyanka-gandhi-1438935-2019-01-25" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Priyanka Gandhi </a>was at the receiving end of jibes that called her ‘chocolate face’ and ‘Surpanakha’ (a demon from Hindu mythology). But is not BJP’s forte <a href="https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/bjp-up-chiefs-sexist-joke-on-mayawati-akhilesh-and-mulayam-over-1995-guest-house-incident-raises-a-storm/355537" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">alone.</a> It’s something that unites the country’s <a href="https://www.newsbytesapp.com/timeline/Politics/39755/176209/congress-and-bjp-can-t-be-absolved-of-sexist-remarks" data-type="tilCustomLink">political class</a> more than anything else. Meanwhile, in India’s booming private sector, 40% of <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/a-whopping-40-of-indias-women-engineers-dont-have-jobs-because-of-rampant-sexism-at-workplace/articleshow/67486684.cms">women engineers </a>in India do not have a job because the country’s corporate culture has a gender bias. See Also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/unemployment-in-india-is-at-its-highest-in-45-years-says-an-indian-daily-citing-an-undisclosed-jobs-survey/articleshow/67769020.cms">Unemployment in India is at its highest in 45 years – says an Indian daily citing an undisclosed jobs survey</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/indian-government-commits-to-increasing-public-health-spending-to-2-5-of-gdp-by-2025but-is-that-enough/articleshow/67086285.cms">Indian government commits to increasing public health spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2025—but is that enough?</a>

Here’s a fact check after Indian President's glowing tribute to the Narendra Modi government

<ul><li>The central government is set to launch <keyword id="7815662" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jal-Shakti-Abhiyan">Jal Shakti Abhiyan</keyword> to fight water crisis problems in the country. </li><li>The campaign will work out measures for <keyword id="6354898" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rainwater-harvesting">rainwater harvesting</keyword> and <keyword id="6362691" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="water-conservation">water conservation</keyword> efforts in 255 districts from July 1 to September 15, in its first phase and would be coordinated by central government IAS officers as decisions relating to water is a state issue. </li><li>The second phase will run from October 1 to November 30 in states that receive rains from the north-east monsoon. </li><li>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on June 22, wrote letters to village panchayat heads and urged them to undertake rainwater harvesting and water conservation efforts in rural India. </li></ul>The new finance minister <keyword id="129243" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> will present the Union Budget for 2019-20 in the Parliament on July 5. Just days before, Prime Minister Narendra Modi set the tone for the big announcement likely on Friday by initiating the ‘Jal Shakti Abhiyan’, a project to conserve water through rainwater harvesting and other efforts to save water. Amid the high temperatures and severe water crisis, the country is going through, it would be among government’s main agenda to tackle the rapidly increasing water issues throughout the country, The major cities of India like Chennai and Bengaluru were recently in the news due to severe water crisis. The story of rural India is more frightening where 80% of rural homes does not have piped water supply. Only 18% of 17.9 million rural homes have tap water. The central government in efforts to deal with water related issues had merged the water resources and drinking water and sanitation ministries and formed the Jal Shakti Ministry. The new ministry, which has the decision making power over all international and interstate water disputes, the Clean Ganga project, and making drinking water accessible, will be hopeful of a handsome budget to deal with the The government is also set to launch the Jal Shakti Abhiyan to workout measures for rainwater harvesting and water conservation from July 1 in a phased manner, under the supervision of central government IAS officers of Joint or Additional Secretary-level in 255 districts. It seeks to work out measures for rainwater harvesting and water conservation efforts in 255 districts of the country starting July 1, 2019. The campaign is planned in a phased manner, where the first phase starts on July 1 and would run till September 15 in states receiving rainfall during the south-west monsoon, and would be coordinated by the IAS officers of Joint or Additional Secretary-rank from the 255 districts. The next phase will kickstart from October 1 and run till November 30 and will cover states that receive rainfall during the north-east monsoon. As water is not central government issue and state governments are free to decide upon policies for usage and water conservation, the officers will be drawn from various ministries of Government of India, including the Department of Space, Petroleum and Defence, <a href="https://dopt.gov.in/sites/default/files/31-16-2019-EOMM-I.pdf">according to the Department of Personnel and Training</a>. Prior to the launch of the campaign, high level teams were constituted in the 255 districts, and engineers and technical staff was designated in 1,539 blocks across the country to measure ground water levels, the state of aquifers, and ponds and water bodies under encroachment. India’s population is 17.74% of the total world population, whereas the water resources account for a mere 4%. This combined with ever increasing demand and depleting water sources due to encroachment, contamination and reduced rainfall, puts India in a grave situation. “As of today, India only conserves 8% of all rainfall, which is among the lowest in the world,” <a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/under-jal-shakti-scheme-centre-to-focus-on-replenishing-water-bodies/story-heKzqsW0IzPfY0lwi9OjxI.html">a senior Jal Shakti official said</a>.”we need to change this.” In line with Gram Swaraj Abhiyan The Jal Shakti Abhiyan is in line with last year’s Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, where central government officials monitored the implementation of seven flagship development schemes in 117 districts across the country. To further achieve its target, the ministry will draft block and district level water conservation plans and the Kisan Vigyan Kendras would organise fests to promote better crop choices and more efficient usage of water for irrigation. To spread awareness about the campaign, major communications campaign on TV, radio, social media would be carried out, for which celebrities will also be roped in. The prime minister, on June 22, wrote letters to all village panchayat heads, and urged them to undertake rainwater harvesting and water conservation activities in rural India, <a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=190639">as per PIB release</a>. “In the last four years, nearly 50,000 villages have used MGNREGA [rural income guarantee act] and other state funds to successfully conserve rain water in a big way,” rural development secretary <a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/under-jal-shakti-scheme-centre-to-focus-on-replenishing-water-bodies/story-heKzqsW0IzPfY0lwi9OjxI.html">Amarjeet Sinha was quoted saying</a>. The government is also likely to announce a national water conservation policy along with a conservation programme for the 226 highly water stressed districts of the country, an official said. Plans with the MPs to prioritise water storage works under their local area development fund are also underway. “Any national policy on water has to pivot around ground water because “ground water is India’s water lifeline”. Secondly, he said there is a complete policy vacuum on the urban water sector and India urgently needs a programme to regulate its urban-water footprint,” said Himanshu Thakkar of the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People.

Nirmala Sitharaman’s budget on Friday may push for water conservation

<keyword id="71" type="POSITION" weightage="80" keywordseo="Prime-Minister">Prime Minister</keyword> <keyword id="6354477" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi">Narendra Modi</keyword> on Monday said that his visit of <keyword id="87" type="COUNTRY" weightage="80" keywordseo="Germany">Germany</keyword> is aimed at realising the 'immense' potential that exists between New Delhi and <keyword id="3731" type="COMPANY" weightage="80" keywordseo="berlin">Berlin</keyword>, inviting companies of the European nation to <keyword id="47916" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="invest">invest</keyword> and manufacture in India.
 "My visit to Germany and India's participation at the <keyword id="194013" type="COMPANY" weightage="80" keywordseo="Hannover">Hannover</keyword> Messe as a partner country is aimed at realising the immense possibilities that exist between us. In my discussions with <keyword id="92" type="POSITION" weightage="80" keywordseo="Chancellor">Chancellor</keyword> <keyword id="6419185" type="COMPANY" weightage="80" keywordseo="Merkel">Merkel</keyword> and with captains of German industry, I intend to share our sense of optimism and confidence in our future plans. I will also listen carefully to learn what more we can do to address concerns of German entrepreneurs with regard to investment and manufacturing in India," the Prime Minister wrote in an op-ed for a German newspaper, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.

	Terming Germany as India's 'preferred partner' in skill development, Prime Minister Modi elaborated on the sectors in which the two nations can collaborate.

	"We see Germany as our preferred partner in developing skills of young Indians. We also want to learn from Germany's path-breaking experiences in renewable energy. We wish to replicate your success in solar roof-top projects and off-grid solar and wind power solutions, as well as your expertise in grid integration and management. Our smart city project can utilize your technologies to achieve water, waste and urban development objectives. We admire Germany's achievements in the application of technology solutions to meet environmental challenges," the Prime Minister wrote.

	"You are also our natural ally in my government's 'Clean India' initiative. We also want to benefit from Germany's experience in cleaning the River Ganga. We invite your transport companies, including your railways, to assist us in the modernisation of our transport networks. Your logistics and infrastructure companies can contribute to ongoing development of industrial corridors in India," he added.
 Quoting <keyword id="6355532" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="Mahatma-Gandhi">Mahatma Gandhi</keyword>, Prime Minister Modi referred to poverty as 'the worst form of violence', adding that man's progress in the 21st century will depend upon 'cooperation and collaboration'.

	"I visualize India as a key engine of global growth. Our democratic principles and practices are guarantors of stability. We have a free media and an independent judiciary that allows all opinions to be aired without fear. We believe in 'rahein saath badhe saath' (stay together-grow together). There is no other way forward," he wrote.
 "Mankind's progress in this century depends on cooperation and collaboration. Conflict is unthinkable. So is poverty which <keyword id="6356181" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="Gandhi">Gandhi</keyword> called the worst form of violence. If we can take all Indians together into a better socio-economic future, I believe that the world we share will be a <keyword id="808955" type="COMPANY" weightage="80" keywordseo="better-place">better place</keyword> for all," he added.

	Prime Minister Modi, currently in Germany for the second leg of his three-nation tour, inaugurated the Hannover Messe on Sunday and vowed to remove unnecessary regulations and procedures to simplify the process of foreign investment in India, as well as to make it easier for other countries to initiate business deals.
 He also attended a round table conference with German <keyword id="5645" type="POSITION" weightage="80" keywordseo="CEO">CEO</keyword>s, with Voith CEO Dr.Hubert Lienhard and <keyword id="211583" type="COMPANY" weightage="80" keywordseo="Bombardier-Transportation">Bombardier Transportation</keyword> CEO <keyword id="991297" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="Lutz-Bertling">Lutz Bertling</keyword> among those present at the meeting.
 The Prime Minister arrived in Hannover after concluding a successful visit to <keyword id="6354785" type="COUNTRY" weightage="80" keywordseo="France">France</keyword>. He will depart for the final leg of his three-nation, nine-day tour on April 14, flying to Ottawa. (ANI)

This is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pitch for India in Germany, the world's engineering hub

The world’s largest religious carnival, the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/Top-10-crazy-stuff-companies-doat-the-Kumbh-Mela/articleshow/48185752.cms">Kumbh Mela</a> in Nasik, will have a footfall of around three crore people this year. Apart from being a crowd puller, the magnificent event has also become a centre of attraction for<a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/Companies-dive-in-for-a-bite-of-the-Kumbhpie/articleshow/48124752.cms"> tech companies</a> like MIT, Nokia, Wikipedia, the Tata Center for Technology and Design, the IITs and Reliance Innovation Lab. 
 The trendsetters and researchers from such tech giants are looking forward to the event-‘<keyword id="2577221" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Kumbhathon">Kumbhathon</keyword>’, an opportunity to work with the masses—a larger test group—to study the stress of rapid urbanization and create disruptive solutions in the domains of health, housing, food, payments and transportation. Kumbhathon, a 365-day project, has been set-up by few organizations to come up with solutions to address the challenges like stampedes, an ordinary concern during such events. 
 
The 30-day period will become a golden goose for them to test out frugal innovations that will, in the future, power the smart cities of developing economies. 
 Sophie Vandebroek, chief technology officer and president of the <keyword id="6490330" type="CITY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Xerox">Xerox</keyword> Innovation Group, in her address to the Kumbhathon members, said, "Our research team in Bengaluru is looking forward to collaborating with MIT during the Kumbhathon in Nasik, to pilot innovations that will make a positive difference for rapidly growing communities. Researchers at Xerox are addressing a wide range of urban challenges using a combination of mobile sensing, crowd-sourcing, and prescriptive analytics to create actionable insights for cities and their citizens." 
 Not just this, religious leaders like <keyword id="1197765" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Swami-Chidanand-Saraswati">Swami Chidanand Saraswati</keyword>, founder of Ganga Action Parivar, along with Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji, secretary-general of Global Interfaith WASH Alliance, too, are working to strengthen PM Narendra Modi’s renewable energy initiative. To make <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/Maha-Kumbh-to-generate-a-whopping-Rs10000-Crore-in-revenue/articleshow/48022906.cms">Kumbh </a>clean and energy-friendly, the spiritual leaders will use their clout among devotees to promote the use of solar lamps sold by Urjakart, an Indian startup. 
 
Under the guidance of tech companies, students are hoping on to the Kumbh bandwagon with their ideas for startup. The two apps developed by them so far are Epimetrics and Meditracker. While Epimetrics attempts to curb the spread of epidemics by digitizing doctors' logs across the city, Meditracker acts as a '911' service alerting medical personnel in case of any serious injuries. 
 
Another innovation gaining momentum at <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/Shortage-of-condoms-raises-fears-of-spread-of-HIV/AIDS-before-Kumbh-Mela/articleshow/47937531.cms">Kumbh </a>is the concept of crowd steering with the help of mobile towers, a real-time system that not only shows the density distribution of a large crowd but also tracks the flow, allowing people to be redirected away from saturated areas. There are also low-cost pop-up housing systems that use industrial racks from cold storage to create multi-level habitable spaces for people, and Annadan, an innovative supply chain that diverts food donated to temples to those who are hungry, thus reducing food wastage. 
 
Image: indiatimes

Here’s how tech companies are exploiting the Kumbh Mela this year

Full text of President Ram Nath Kovind's first address to the Parliament as the 17th Lok Sabha gets underway

Despite tight schedule, Prime Minister <keyword id="6354477" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi">Narendra Modi</keyword> addressed members of Indian community in Seoul and highlighted how the ‘mood’ in India had changed from the day he took over and also elucidated what all measures he is taking to present the country as one of the major global players. 
 
Modi, who landed in Seoul on final leg of his three-day tour, played his development plank and said ‘development’ was a medicinal herb, which would solve India’s problems. 
 
Citing examples of how India helped Nepal in its distress and how India evacuated not only its nationals but people from other countries, including Pakistan, also from Yemen, Modi said that cooperation was rising among countries. 
 
The Prime Minister, who is known for his oratory skills, quoted poet Rabindranath Tagore, saying he said South Korea was ‘Lamp of the East’, and told the gathering about his Government’s ‘Act East Policy’. 
 
He looked for investments from Indian diaspora, saying they had equal rights on the country. “The extent to which Narendra Modi has a right over India, you too have the same right on the country,” he said. 
 
As Modi nears one year of completion of his office, he did not fail to praise his own Government among people, emphasising how the country had starting changing after 30 years. 
 
This time he chose to wore a band-gala suit for the event in contrast to other events in the past in different countries, where he is spotted wearing traditional kurta-churidaar to address Indian community. 
 
Mentioning about SAARC and BRICS, India said now was the time to emphasise on ‘I’, which had become strong in past one year. 
 After his address, Modi will meet South Korean President <keyword id="1193885" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="Park-Geun-Hye">Park Geun-hye</keyword> and present his ‘Make in India’ initiative to South Korean chaebols, like Samsung, LG and Hyundai. 
 
He is expected to meet highest officials of the companies and lure them to do businesses in India. 
 
After winning the biggest mandate last year in May, Modi had vowed to cut red tapism and correct India’s ranking in ‘ease of doing business’, which slipped to 142. 
 
After arriving in the country, Modi laid a wreath at Seoul National Cemetery. He also received a rousing welcome by Indian diaspora and is scheduled to address 1,500 members of Indian community before meeting the President. 
 
India and South Korea look forward to boost bilateral trade, which stands at $16 billion. 
 
Globetrotting Modi wants to attract maximum investments in India. The Indian PM wants to invite countries for his various projects like smart cities, sanitation drive, clean Ganga campaign, among others. 
 
Modi started his tour with China and then visited Mongolia. 
 
(Image: PIB)

Modi’s act of self-praise, woos Indian diaspora in Seoul

Modi Government is about to complete one year in office and one year is a significant time for understanding the intent and to some extent the performance of any government. <keyword id="2403978" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="The-Modi-government">The Modi government</keyword> had won the election on the plank of development and its promise to bring ‘acche din’. The article tries to trace some of the promises that were made and the performance of the government during the previous year under various broad themes. 
 
Economy- The government has been helped by what a prominent editor termed ‘acche sitare’, ‘good luck’. It is no doubt true that fall in commodity prices in general and crude oil, in particular, helped the government reign in the <keyword id="6365485" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="fiscal-deficit">fiscal deficit</keyword> and give it headway to make fiscal policies for the country. The fiscal deficit target for 2015-16 has been the pegged by the budget to 3.9%. While this is little above than recommendations of the Fourteenth <keyword id="74136" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="finance-commission">Finance Commission</keyword> ( which recommended it to be 3.6 percent of the <keyword id="35050" type="CITY" weightage="80" keywordseo="gdp">GDP</keyword>), the government has understandably batted for growth. The government still is slowly but surely moving towards the limit set by FRBM (Fiscal Responsibility and Budgetary Management) Act, 2003 that pegged the target at a maximum level of 3% of the GDP. The government has also tried to help the <keyword id="34412" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="economy">economy</keyword> gain momentum by enabling legislation for reforms. These included trying to go in for a major reform in the indirect taxation regime as well as accepting the recommendations of Fourteenth <keyword id="25455" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="finance">Finance</keyword> Commission in respect to revenue sharing with states. It was ostensibly done to ensure a spirit of ‘cooperative federalism’ between states and center, as well as greater financial devolution to states. The figure now stands at 42% of the total revenue collection up from the earlier 32%. Also, the year saw growth forecasts been revised for India by a number of International Bodies and agencies. The IMF revised its forecasts to 7.5 % In 2015 in its WEO April 2015 forecast. It was up from the 6.4 projected for 2015 in the WEO April 2014 forecast. Similarly, the Asian Development Bank in its Asian Development Outlook 2015, indicated a bettering economy with less than 5 percent core <keyword id="22195" type="COMPANY" weightage="80" keywordseo="Inflation">inflation</keyword>. They also alluded to the new monetary policy framework according to which RBI, India's central bank is to play the role of price stabilization primarily while being mindful of growth. With the policy framework in place, the central bank will be maintaining the inflation target of 4±2 % from FY 2016 onwards. Thus with an overall bettering situation a total score of 7.5 out of 10. 
 
Foreign Engagement and Defence- Foreign engagement was by far the area where the most vigorous activity and keen intent were observed. The sphere saw initiatives undertaken by the PM himself to make India more noticeable as well as more integrated with the International sphere. It included among many things, trips to foreign countries both in the neighbourhood as well as to countries like Germany, France, Australia, US, Canada and most recently beginning May 14, 2015 his trip to China. The engagement also saw a large number of foreign dignitaries coming to India from across the world. The engagement also saw bilateral agreements as well as plans to invest in India's development by countries and companies abroad, most notably by Japan, US and China. Also, steps to resolve contentious issues have been undertaken pertaining to the border areas with neighbours. It includes the recently passed Bangladesh Land Accord Bill that envisages transferring enclaves and demarcation of the boundary along the present porous borders. Also, in the broad sphere of defence the decision to acquire 36 Rafale fighter jets is a welcome step. More such acquisitions will have to be made since these 36 planes would add just two squadrons to thirty-five squadrons that IAF has. It is below an authorized strength of forty-two which will be down to twenty- five by 2022. It means we must speed up the process of defense acquisitions since there is urgent need to upgrade and modernize the armed forces and security apparatus in India. Overall a score of 8.5 out of 10 foreign engagement and 7.5 out of 10 on defence. 
 
 
Agriculture- Here the government has not been able to do that well, and it is understandable because there has been erratic weather accentuated by some mismanagement by the government. The sector is critical as most people are dependent on it for employment. Added to the weather were the issues of land acquisition and urea availability to farmers. Land Acquisition Bill though being blocked by the opposition on the farmer rights plank is linked directly to the development of clusters and employment of youth for especially rural areas. The focus of the government seems to be the development of irrigation facilities under its Pradhanmantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana. A fund was proposed to be set up for marginalized farmers with a corpus of Rs. 25000 crores in NABARD. An overall score of 6.5 on 10. 
 
Industrial policy and power- Industrial policy saw a continuity from the previous regime. The National Manufacturing Policy (NMP) was hailed by the 'Make in India' as the 'most comprehensive and significant policy initiative of the government'. The 'Make in India' is an initiative that is critically dependent on other factors. These include availability of land, ease of doing business as well as removal of inverse duty structures that make imports of finished products cheaper than finished products. Apart from this labour policies that favour flexibility in hiring and firing are also seen to be the main bottlenecks. While the government has taken some steps to rectify, these bottlenecks outcomes are yet to be seen. Similarly, the <keyword id="44528" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="FDI">FDI</keyword> policy has seen incremental reforms with the opening up of <keyword id="35450" type="COMPANY" weightage="80" keywordseo="insurance">insurance</keyword> and defence sectors further to 49% from the earlier limit of 26%. Both these are positive steps for the economy. Greater structural changes could have been undertaken in these spheres especially with the mandate, but nonetheless significant work is been done. In the power sector, much has been achieved. It included the successful auction of the coal mines, which is slated to rope in a massive 15 lakh crore over the 30-year timeframe if all the mines are auctioned and are working at optimum output. Apart from this coal production was at an all-time high as well as the government seems on track to meet the power requirements of the country. Overall a score of 6.5 for industries and a score of 8 for power out of 10. 
 
Education- The countries' education system can broadly be classified under two broad areas- higher education and school education. There are several schemes that are operational under these. The government in the past one-year has come up with several new initiatives including the Beti-Bachao Beti Padhao Abhiyan, Swachh Vidyalaya and GIS Mapping of schools and has opened several new institutions. However, the fact remains that despite all government’s initiatives most people if given a choice, prefer private schooling since it gives their children a competitive edge later on in their careers. The governments of the past have failed in this and correcting this anomaly will take time. Also, in respect to higher education the government seems keen to have holistic development with several new AIIMS, IIM and IIT like institutions being opened in states that have a paucity of these. What remains to seen is how quality and not just quantity is pursued within these institutions while ensuring regional development. An overall score of 6.5 on 10. 
 
Infrastructure- The primary focus of the government in this sphere is up-gradation of existing and quick development of new infrastructure. The first can be observed in the push for railway up-gradation and improvement in customer service. The second can be observed more in the highways sector with the minister setting himself a target of 30 km a day by 2017. In March this year 11 km of roads were being laid. The broad ambit of infrastructure covers the development of roads, highways, ports, airport, waterways, canals, and railways. It is too early to judge the government's progress on the same however the fact that there is clearance for projects worth close to Rs. 6 lakh Crore across 10 key sectors. It shows intent on the part of government for infrastructure development. Overall a score of 7.5 on 10. 
 
Social Schemes- The social schemes of the government have been particularly impressive. These include the <keyword id="2494045" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="jan-dhan">Jan Dhan</keyword> Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jivan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) and Atal Pension Yojana and many other social missions like the <keyword id="6562839" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="Swacch-Bharat-Mission">Swacch Bharat Mission</keyword> and the Clean Ganga Mission. For the Jan Dhan Yojana already around 12.5 crore accounts have been opened along with a capital infusion of Rs 10,500 crore into the system. The three recently launched social security schemes (namely the (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana ) and Atal Pension Yojana) have got nearly 6.5 crore subscriptions. It is because (PMJJBY) scheme offers Rs. 2 lakh cover for a mere 330 Rs. Per year (provided bank account holders are from age 18-50). Under the (PMSBY), renewable one-year accident cum disability cover of Rs. 2 lakh is provided for Rs.12 premium every year. The Atal Pension Yojana is aimed at those people who work in the unorganised sector and do not fall under the ambit of regular pension. The scheme offers pension under various brackets depending on the contribution made over a period. The scheme is for people in the age bracket 18-40 years. The social focus of the government is also evident from the fact the government has continued with previous schemes and linked them with technology for targeted interventions. The JAM (Jan Dhan Account, Aadhaar Cards and Mobiles) number Trinity as mentioned in the budget speech is an example of the same. The government seems to have a social focus for benefit to poor. An overall score of 8 on 10. 
 
Urbanization and Urban development- The urbanization and urban development received an increased thrust under the 100 Smart City project. The thrust of the present government is not only on up gradation of brownfield cities but also development of new greenfield cities. Traditionally, India has been slow to urbanize, and at present 32 percent of people reside in urban areas. However, the quality of urban life has seen a precipitous decline in the past few decades. The government's smart city initiative is a step aimed at understanding and absorbing the migration of people from rural to urban areas. However, the implementation of the project holds the key. Success in greenfield development is critically linked to land acquisition. Also, will the 'smart cities' improve liveability for the ever-burgeoning population remains to be seen? The project is ambitious in scope and the past year has seen some activity with the launch of the GIFT city in Gujarat and work on cities of DMIDC. An overall score of 6.5 on 10. 
 
Health and Environment- Health along with education have been two areas where successive governments have faltered. The system in India needs a drastic overhaul and increased spending by the government. Also there is a severe shortage of trained personnel in the sector. Add to this the decrepit facilities in rural areas that forces one to look at ways and means to better delivery. The activity in the health ministry was seen to be rather subdued. However, the taxation on cigarettes ensures that a majority of population reconsiders decision to buy cigarettes. The quality of air and the general pollution levels in Indian cities pose serious health issues for all residents. Disease patterns are also changing and this calls for a comprehensive approach to healthcare access and delivery. Not much has been done in this regard. An overall score of 6 on 10. 
 
<keyword id="107737" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="Entrepreneurship">Entrepreneurship</keyword> and Employment- For the first time a separate ministry for entrepreneurship has seen the light of the day. This fact along with the fact that skilling are the main thrust areas of the ministry make it clear that the government is in sync with the present ground reality. A million people will enter the workforce every month over the next decade. So it becomes imperative that India produces jobs for its burgeoning workforce. That will not just come from formal and informal sector but will require a thrust for entrepreneurship. Similarly, thrust for skilling is imperative. Further, a draft policy on skill development and entrepreneurship has already been made and put out for public consultation. Though much remains to be seen in terms of its impact the direction and intent, in this case, seems to be spot on. An overall score of 7.5 on 10. 
 
Overall, in assessing the performance, the government seems to have taken cognizance of the major challenges facing India in multiple spheres and taken requisite steps. It seems to be headed in the right direction. It augurs well for India in the medium to long term. Much will depend on the speed of legislation, decision-making and implementation over the next four years. 
 
(Dr. Amit Kapoor is President and CEO of India Council on Competitiveness and Honorary Chairman of Institute for Competitiveness, India. He tweets @kautiliya and can be contacted at <a href="mailto:amit.kapoor@competitiveness.in">amit.kapoor@competitiveness.in</a>. The article is co-authored with Sankalp Sharma who is Senior Researcher at Institute for Competitiveness)

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