PM chairs meeting of National Ganga River Basin Authority

[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
04-September, 2017 18:43 IST
President of India lays the foundation stone of ‘Saurashtra Narmada Avataran Irrigation Yojana’ (SAUNI) Phase-II Link-4 in Rajkot


The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind laid the foundation stone of ‘Saurashtra Narmada Avataran Irrigation Yojana’ (SAUNI) Phase-II Link-4 in Rajkot, Gujarat today (September 4, 2017).

Following is the full text of President’s address on the occasion:

“राष्ट्रपति का कार्यभार सँभालने के बाद यह मेरी पहली गुजरात यात्रा है। लेकिन गुजरात से मेरा सम्बन्ध लगभग पैंतालीस वर्ष पुराना है। मैं कई बार यहाँ आ चुका हूँ। और मैंने यहाँ की उस विशेष ऊर्जा का अनुभव किया है जो गुजरात के किसानो, उद्यमियों और सभी नागरिको में देखने को मिलती है। इसी विशेष ऊर्जा के कारण गुजरात विकास के अनेक पैमानों पर देश में अपना विशेष स्थान रखता है। कृषि, उद्योग, शिक्षा, कला, साहित्य, राजनीति आदि अनेक क्षेत्रों में गुजरात ने देश का गौरव बढ़ाया है।

स्वामी दयानन्द सरस्वती, महात्मा गांधी, सरदार पटेल, जमशेदजी टाटा और मोरारजी देसाई जैसे गुजरात में जन्मे भारतवासियों ने नैतिकता और राष्ट्र-प्रेम के महान आदर्श प्रस्तुत किए हैं।

दक्षिण गुजरात के वलसाड जिले की धरती ने मोरारजी देसाई जैसी विलक्षण प्रतिभा को जन्म दिया, जो प्रधानमंत्री बने। मुझे अपनी युवावस्था के दौरान स्वर्गीय मोरारजी देसाई के साथ काम करने का सौभाग्य प्राप्त हुआ था। मोरारजी देसाई अनुशासन और नैतिकता पर अडिग रहने वाले आदर्शवादी राजनेता थे।

भारत के वर्तमान प्रधानमंत्री श्री नरेन्द्र मोदी उत्तर गुजरात के मेहसाणा जिले से आते हैं। वे इस राज्य से दूसरे प्रधानमंत्री हैं। जिस निष्ठा से उन्होंने गुजरात को देश में अग्रणी राज्य बनाया था उसी कर्मठता के साथ वे विश्व में भारत को अग्रणी राष्ट्र बनाने के कार्य में तत्पर हैं।

सामाजिक और आर्थिक विकास के अनेक पैमानों पर गुजरात सारे देश में एक अग्रणी राज्य माना जाता है। गुजरात में कृषि विकास के लिए जो सफल प्रयोग किये गए थे, उन्हें राष्ट्रव्यापी स्तर पर उपयोग में लाया जा रहा है। ‘हर खेत को पानी’ तथा ‘पर ड्राप मोर क्रॉप’ के उद्देश्य को पूरा करने के लिए ‘प्रधानमंत्री कृषि सिंचाई योजना’ के तहत काम चल रहा है। ‘साइल हेल्थ कार्ड’ कार्यक्रम के जरिये खेतों की उत्पादकता बढाई जा रही है।

गुजरात के तीन-चौथाई हिस्से में बारिश कम होने के कारण पानी की कमी रहती है। दक्षिण गुजरात में पर्याप्त वर्षा होती है और आवश्यकता से अधिक जल उपलब्ध होने की स्थितियां भी बनती हैं।

अधिक जल वाले इलाकों से कम जल वाले इलाकों में पानी ले जाने के लिए राज्य में नहरों और पाइपलाइनों का जाल बिछाया गया है। गुजरात ने रेगिस्तानी क्षेत्र में 144 किलोमीटर लंबी कच्छ ब्रांच कैनाल को बनाने का विशाल कार्य पूरा कर लिया है।

पानी को बह जाने से रोकने के लिए बड़े-छोटे, हर तरह के बांध बनाए गए हैं। सरदार सरोवर परियोजना के बांध में 30 दरवाजे हैं जिन्हें बंद करके पानी को समुद्र में बह जाने से रोका जा सकता है।

जल संसाधन के प्रभावी और किफायती उपयोग के लिए गुजरात में माइक्रो इरिगेशन को प्रोत्साहन दिया गया है।

जल के समुचित उपयोग से खेत और चरागाह हरे-भरे होते हैं। फसलों की पैदावार बढती है। मवेशियों को चारा मिलता है जिससे दूध और डेरी उद्योग को लाभ होता है। इन सुधारों से किसान की आमदनी बढती है, उनका जीवन स्तर सुधरता है।

गुजरात में जल संसाधनों के प्रभावी उपयोग के लिए किसानो और ग्राम सभाओ की भागीदारी को मजबूत बनाया गया है। वास्मो (वाटर एंड सैनिटेशन मैनेजमेंट आर्गेनाइजेशन - WASMO) के तहत पीने के पानी की व्यवस्था में ग्राम-सभाओं की भागीदारी होती है। ‘पानी समितियां’ इसके लिए काम करती हैं।

गुजरात में जल संसाधन के समग्र और समुचित उपयोग के लिए किये जा रहे अनेक प्रयासों में सौराष्ट्र-नर्मदा-अवतरण-इरिगेशन-योजना (सौनी योजना) का अपना महत्व है। इस योजना के दूसरे चरण के शिलान्यास के अवसर पर मुझे बहुत ख़ुशी हो रही है।

सौनी योजना की परिकल्पना के मूल में इस कार्य को करने का दृढ निश्चय था कि गुजरात में जिन स्थानों में अधिक जल उपलब्ध है, वहाँ से कमी वाले स्थानों तक पानी ले जाना है। मुझे बहुत प्रसन्नता हुई है कि गुजरात के लोगों को जो आश्वासन दिया गया था उसे ठोस रूप दे दिया गया है।

यह कार्य जब तक पूरे देश में नहीं कर लिया जाएगा तब तक देश के विभिन्न हिस्से, कहीं सूखे - तो कहीं बाढ़ की विभीषिका से जूझते रहेंगे।

गुजरात के अनुभव से लाभ लेते हुए देश की सवा सौ करोड़ आबादी के लिए पर्याप्त खाद्यान्न पैदा करने के लिए जल संसाधन समेत सभी संसाधनों का समुचित उपयोग करना है।

आज से सौनी योजना के दूसरे चरण का कार्य शुरू होने जा रहा है और यह दो वर्षों में पूरा कर लिया जाएगा। नदियों के थालों के बीच परस्पर पानी पहुंचाने की इस उल्लेखनीय योजना के लिए मैं राज्य सरकार को, गुजरात की जनता को और खासकर सौराष्ट्र के लोगो को बधाई देता हूँ।

जय हिन्द !”

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[Hindustani78]

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind laying the foundation stone of ‘Saurashtra Narmada Avataran Irrigation Yojana’ (SAUNI) Phase-II Link-4 Ankadiya to Dhrafad Reservoir Project at Jasdan Taluk, Gujarat on September 04, 2017. The Governor of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, Shri O.P. Kohli and the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Vijay Rupani are also seen.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind addressing at the foundation stone laying ceremony of ‘Saurashtra Narmada Avataran Irrigation Yojana’ (SAUNI) Phase-II Link-4 Ankadiya to Dhrafad Reservoir Project at Jasdan Taluk, Gujarat on September 04, 2017.

 

[Hindustani78]

The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Gadkari chairing a meeting on Maharashtra Irrigation Project, in Mumbai on September 08, 2017. The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis and the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre are also seen.

The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Gadkari chairing a review meeting of the National Highway and National Highway Authority of India, in Mumbai on September 08, 2017. The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis and the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre are also seen.

The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Gadkari briefing the media after attending the meeting on Maharashtra Irrigation Project and review meeting of the National Highway and National Highway Authority of India, in Mumbai on September 08, 2017. The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis is also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Water Resources
12-September, 2017 15:52 IST
Shri Nitin Gadkari says work on Three River Interlinking projects to begin within three months

31st Annual general meeting of The National Water Development Agency Society held today

The Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Road Transport & Highways and Shipping Shri Nitin Gadkari has said that his Ministry will start work on three river interlinking projects within the next three months. These include the Ken-Betwa Linking Project, Damanganga- Pinjal Link Project and the Par-Tapi-Narmada Link projects. Shri Gadkari said that the three projects are ready with all necessary approvals, and he will hold meetings with the concerned Chief Ministers soon to sort out inter-state issues so that the three projects can take off within the next three months.

Shri Gadkari was speaking at the 31st Annual General Meeting of the National Water Development Agency Society in New Delhi today. Ministers of State for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal and Shri Satya Pal Singh were also present on the occasion. The AGM was also attended by Water Resources/ Irrigation Ministers from the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand and Rajasthan.

Expressing his concern about the plight of people in the thirteen drought prone and seven flood prone regions of the country, Shri Gadkari stressed upon the need to develop effective means for conserving the available water and sharing what is surplus. In this context he said there is a need to evolve ways to conserve the nearly 60-70 percent of water that runs-off into the oceans.

Shri Gadkari also said that socio- economic cost of water projects should be taken into account while preparing DPR. He also underscored the need for developing innovative funding models for water projects, and accessing loans at very low rates of interest. He assured that he would also take up this issue with the Central Government.

The Minister of State Shri Satya Pal Singh said that successful models of water conservation and water management from different parts of the country should be documented and circulated by the Ministry so that regions can benefit from each others’ experience.

The State Water Resources Ministers drew attention to the specific water related issues in their respective states and how they were dealing with these issues.

The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Gadkari, the Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, the Minister of State for Human Resource Development and Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Dr. Satya Pal Singh, the Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Dr. Amarjit Singh and other dignitaries at the 31st Annual General Meeting of National Water Development Agency, in New Delhi on September 12, 2017.

The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Gadkari chairing the 31st Annual General Meeting of National Water Development Agency, in New Delhi on September 12, 2017. The Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, the Minister of State for Human Resource Development and Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Dr. Satya Pal Singh, the Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Dr. Amarjit Singh and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Gadkari chairing the 31st Annual General Meeting of National Water Development Agency, in New Delhi on September 12, 2017. The Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, the Minister of State for Human Resource Development and Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Dr. Satya Pal Singh and the Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Dr. Amarjit Singh are also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Gadkari chairing a meeting on Projects on Decongestion of Delhi & Issues relating to Yamuna, in New Delhi on September 13, 2017. The Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, the Lt. Governor of Delhi, Shri Anil Baijal and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Gadkari chairing a meeting on Projects on Decongestion of Delhi & Issues relating to Yamuna, in New Delhi on September 13, 2017. The Lt. Governor of Delhi, Shri Anil Baijal and other dignitaries are also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat

15-September, 2017 18:32 IST
President of India launches ‘Swachhta hi Seva’ Campaign

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, launched a nationwide sanitation campaign, ‘Swachhta hi Seva’, at Ishwariganj village in Kanpur today (September 15, 2017). He also administered the ‘Swachhta hi Seva’ pledge to all present there whereby they resolved to create a clean, healthy and new India. The President honoured village-level champions who contributed to making Ishwariganj village ‘Open Defecation Free’.


Addressing the gathering, the President said India is fighting a decisive battle for cleanliness and hygiene. Today, all of them had taken an oath that committed them to ensuring public hygiene, personal hygiene and environmental hygiene. Cleanliness is not the responsibility of only sanitation personnel and government departments; it is a multi-stakeholder national movement. Together we should make the effort to clean our houses, public places, villages and cities. The aim is all-round cleanliness and hygiene everywhere, with implications for health and sanitation and overall prosperity of our people. Achieving the goals of the Swachh Bharat Mission expeditiously will be an appropriate tribute to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi.


Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik; Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath; Sushri Uma Bharati, Union Minister of Drinking Water & Sanitation, and Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi, Lok Sabha MP from Kanpur.


Earlier in the day, the President visited the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Smriti Vatika in Lucknow and paid his respects at the statue of the late social thinker and political leader Deen Dayal Upadhyaya.

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The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind launching a nationwide sanitation campaign, ‘Swachhta hi Sewa’, at Ishwariganj village in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh on September 15, 2017. The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik, the Union Minister for Drinking Water & Sanitation, Sushri Uma Bharti, the Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries are also seen.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind launching a nationwide sanitation campaign, ‘Swachhta hi Sewa’, at Ishwariganj village in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh on September 15, 2017. The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik, the Union Minister for Drinking Water & Sanitation, Sushri Uma Bharti, the Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries are also seen.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind at the launch of a nationwide sanitation campaign, ‘Swachhta hi Sewa’, at Ishwariganj village in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh on September 15, 2017. The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik, the Union Minister for Drinking Water & Sanitation, Sushri Uma Bharti, the Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries are also seen.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind addressing at the launch of a nationwide sanitation campaign, ‘Swachhta hi Sewa’, at Ishwariganj village in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh on September 15, 2017.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind administering the pledge at the launch of a nationwide sanitation campaign, ‘Swachhta hi Sewa’, at Ishwariganj village in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh on September 15, 2017. The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik, the Union Minister for Drinking Water & Sanitation, Sushri Uma Bharti, the Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries are also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Water Resources
21-September, 2017 17:02 IST
PM to lay foundation stone of STP to be built at Varanasi under Namami Gange Programme

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone of a 50 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) based on Hybrid Annuity-PPP model in Ramana in Varanasi on September 22, 2017. This is the first time ever that Hybrid Annuity-PPP model is adopted in sewage sector. It is a major step forward in realising the dream of Nirmal Ganga under Namami Gange programme.

The work to construct, operate and maintain the 50 MLD STP in Varanasi has been awarded to a consortium led by Essel Infra Projects Limited at an estimated cost of Rs 153.16 crore.

The Government of India had accorded Cabinet approval to implement the Hybrid Annuity based PPP model with 100% central sector funding. Under this model, the development, operation and maintenance of the STP will be undertaken by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) at the local level. As per this model, 40% of the Capital cost would be paid during construction while the remaining 60% of the cost will be paid over the life of the project as annuities along with operation and maintenance cost (O&M) expenses for the next 15 years.

One of the most important features of this model is that both the Annuity and O&M payments are linked to the performance of the STP. This will ensure continued performance of the assets created due to better accountability, ownership and optimal performance.

 

[Hindustani78]

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Durga Mata Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi offering prayers at Durga Mata Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Durga Mata Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at Durga Mata Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017.

 

[Hindustani78]

Prime Minister's Office22-September, 2017 20:38 IST
PM visits Tulsi Manas Temple, Durga Mata Temple in Varanasi; releases postal stamp on Ramayana


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, visited the historic Tulsi Manas Temple in Varanasi this evening. He released a postal stamp on “Ramayana,” on this occasion.

Emphasizing the significance of the occasion, when a stamp on the theme of “Ramayana” is being released in the precincts of the Tulsi Manas Temple, the Prime Minister said that stamps have a special place in society. They are a wonderful way to preserve our history, he added. The Prime Minister also spoke of how the life and ideals of Lord Rama continue to inspire everyone.

The Prime Minister later visited the Durga Mata Temple, and Durga Kund.


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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi visiting the Tulsi Manas Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017. The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik and the Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath are also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi visiting the Tulsi Manas Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi visiting the Tulsi Manas Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017. The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik is also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi visiting the Tulsi Manas Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017. The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik and the Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath are also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi releasing a postal stamp on “Ramayana”, during his visit to Tulsi Manas Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017. The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik and the Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath are also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing the gathering after releasing a postal stamp on “Ramayana”, during his visit to Tulsi Manas Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017. The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Ram Naik and the Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath are also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing the gathering after releasing a postal stamp on “Ramayana”, during his visit to Tulsi Manas Temple, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 22, 2017.

 

[Hindustani78]

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi doing shramdan for the construction of a twin pit toilet, at Village Shahanshahpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 23, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi doing shramdan for the construction of a twin pit toilet, at Village Shahanshahpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 23, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi doing shramdan for the construction of a twin pit toilet, at Village Shahanshahpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 23, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi interacting with the people, at Shahanshahpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 23, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi interacting with the people, at Shahanshahpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on September 23, 2017.

 

[Hindustani78]

Prime Minister's Office
23-September, 2017 13:21 IST
PM performs Swachhta Shramdaan, visits Pashudhan Arogya Mela, addresses gathering at Shahanshahpur, Varanasi


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today performed Shramdaan for the construction of a twin pit toilet at Shahanshahpur village in Varanasi. He interacted with the people, who have resolved to make the village open-defecation-free. He appreciated their initiative of naming the toilet "Izzat Ghar."

The Prime Minister visited a Pashudhan Arogya Mela organised at the village. He was briefed on various health and medical activities being performed at the premises. These included surgeries on cattle, ultrasonography etc.

Addressing a large gathering on the occasion, the Prime Minister congratulated the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, and the State Government, for the successful setting up of the Pashudhan Arogya Mela. He said this is a new effort which would benefit the animal husbandry sector in the State. He said that increase in milk productivity will lead to economic benefit for the people. He said cooperatives can help consolidate the gains in the dairy sector, as has been the case in other parts of the country.

Describing the well-being of people as the priority for governance, the Prime Minister reiterated the pledge to double farm incomes by 2022. He noted that soil health cards are benefiting farmers significantly. He said each one of us should resolve to make a positive contribution by 2022, to achieve the India that our freedom fighters dreamt of.

The Prime Minister said that the feeling of "cleanliness being our responsibility", needs to be inculcated among all. He said this would go a long way towards ensuring wellness, and protecting the health of the poor. He said Swachhta is like a prayer for him, and cleanliness is a way to serve the poor.

***


President's Secretariat
23-September, 2017 19:21 IST
President of India in Uttarakhand, Visits Divya Prem Sewa Mission In Haridwar

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, visited the Divya Prem Sewa Mission, Haridwar, today (September 23, 2017).

The President received a rousing reception amid heavy rain. Speaking on the occasion, he said that this is his first visit to ‘Devbhoomi’ Uttarakhand after assuming the office of President. He commended the state for its natural beauty and spiritual heritage.

The President also praised the national contribution of famous political leaders from the state, such as G.B. Pant and H.N. Bahuguna.

The President highlighted the legacy and efforts of the state in the area of ecological conservation. He said illustrious people from Uttarakhand, such as Sundarlal Bahuguna, have set an example for the world on how to preserve and protect nature and the environment. People associated with the 'Chipko Andolan' used to sing a song that goes, ‘Our soil, Our water, Our forest; Our forefathers nurtured these. We will certainly save them'. Uttarakhand has to achieve its development goals within this framework of environmental protection. There is need to maintain the right balance between conservation and development.

The President said that the 'Namami Gange' mission will travel to the plains of India and end in West Bengal, but it begins in Uttarakhand. Therefore, the movement to clean and preserve the Ganga should also start in Uttarakhand.

The President praised the work done by the Divya Prem Seva Mission in the service of leprosy patients. He expressed hope that people of our country will draw inspiration from the efforts of the Divya Prem Seva Mission and dedicate themselves in the service of humanity.

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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Water Resources
26-September, 2017 19:19 IST
WAPCOS Pays Highest ever dividend of Rs. 42 Crore

Union Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari received a dividend cheque of Rs. 42.13 crore from CMD of WAPCOS Ltd. Shri R K Gupta in New Delhi today. He also presented bonus shares worth Rs. 30 crore to the Minister. The Dividend of Rs.42.13 Crore (Inclusive of Dividend Tax) is the highest ever since inception of the Company. With the issuance of Bonus Shares of Rs.30 Crore the Company’s Paid up Capital has increased by 32.5 times (from Rs.2 Crore to Rs.65 Crore), during the last seven years. Speaking on the occasion Shri Gadkari said that in the field of major infrastructure projects, particularly in the construction of dams and reservoirs, irrigation channels, water supply and sanitation, power plants and transmission lines, ports and harbours and even in road construction, WAPCOS is an established brand name in India and abroad. He said “I have been particularly impressed with the Company’s pursuit of the Government’s goal of partnering with our friends in developing countries to build up their capacities through projects supported by India”.

Shri Gadkari also released a book titled “WAPCOS Discovering New Horizons” which documents company’s growth journey since its inception, USPs, important projects, key achievements and recognition/accolades received at National/International Forums on the occasion. The Minister also released a Technical Journal “WAPTECH” featuring Technical Articles/Papers in the areas of Water Resources, Power and Infrastructure Development authored by WAPCOS’ personnel on the basis of their experience and lessons learnt, for sharing of knowledge among fellow engineers and scientists.

Speaking on the occasion Union Minister of State for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Dr. Satya Pal Singh said that WAPCOS is an important link between the Ministry and State and Union Territories in the execution of projects supported by the Union Government. He said the company is also a major source of various surveys and reports on utilization of water resources, river basins studies, aquifer mapping, agricultural productivity etc. Union Minister of State for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal in his address referred to the various projects undertaken by the company in Rajasthan. He underlined the need for services of top class engineering and managerial consultants such as WAPCOS to help the states in the execution of various projects.

Union Water Resources, Secretary Dr. Amarjit Singh and CMD of WAPCOS Shri R K Gupta also addressed the function.

WAPCOS also signed an agreement and two MoUs on the occasion. The agreement was signed with Central Water Commission; Water Resources Department, Government of Bihar and Water Resources Department, Government of Jharkhand for execution of North Koel Reservoir Project on turnkey basis as Project Management Consultants. The project is situated on North Koel river which is a tributary of Sone River finally joining the river Ganga. The North Koel Reservoir is located in the most backward tribal areas in Palamau and Garhwa districts of Jharkhand State. The project aims to provide irrigation to 1,11,521 hectares of land annually in the most backward and drought prone areas of Palamu and Garhwa districts in Jharkhand and Aurangabad and Gaya districts in Bihar. The storage of water in dam is restricted at lower level in order to reduce the submergence and protect Betla National Park and Palamau Tiger Reserve.

The MoU signed between WAPCOS and Central Soil and Materials Research Station (CSMRS), an institution of national importance, will provide world class service in geotechnical engineering, investigation and engineering services. WAPCOS and CSMRS shall work together in the progressive direction of promotion of business development, diversification in the areas of operations, consultancy and construction supervision through technical and infrastructural support, implementation module of projects, augmentation of capacity building and training programs etc.

The second MoU signed between WAPCOS and National Water Academy (NWA), a leading training centre in the area of water resources, envisages to provide training and capacity building in Water Resources Planning, Development and Management and to develop institutional capability at the national level in new emerging technologies in water resources sector to PSUs, Private Sector, Foreign Nationals, Central and State Government organizations, Media Personnel, NGOs and individuals on continued basis.

During the year 2016-2017, WAPCOS has achieved the highest ever Gross Income of Rs.975.44 Crore, Profitability of Rs. 161.38 Crore and secured New Business of Rs. 1983.6 Crore. Net worth of the Company has reached an all-time high at Rs.469.6 Crore. WAPCOS is eligible for “Excellent” Rating on the basis of its performance in all Financial and Dynamic parameters under MOU such as Turnover; Profitability; New Business; Projects Implementation; Customer Satisfaction; Human Resource Management etc.

The Company has forayed and forged ahead to secure new business in countries like Angola, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Central African Republic, Chad, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Fiji, Ghana, Guinea Conakry, Kenya, Lao PDR, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Mongolia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Philippines, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Swaziland, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tabago, Togo, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Yemen and Zimbabwe by virtue of which WAPCOS increased its presence in many countries and also facilitated strengthening of bilateral relations between India and other Countries.

WAPCOS as a techno-commercial organization under the aegis of Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation has grown into a true Indian multinational with footprints across the globe in line with Government of India’s flagship programmes on “Skill India” and “Make in India”.



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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Water Resources
28-September, 2017 15:48 IST
NMCG to use latest Geo-Spatial Technologies for Namami Gange Programme

Union Minister of State for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Shri Satyapal Singh today urged officials of National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) and Survey of India to work in an integrated manner and make optimal use of latest geo-spatial technologies to rejuvenate river Ganga. The Minister reiterated that all steps to clean Ganga must be taken up and executed in a time-bound manner.

Followed by a brief introduction by NMCG, Director, NRSC, Dr. Y V N Krishna Murthy gave a detailed presentation on “Geospatial Technology Support for National Mission for Clean Ganga” during which several issues vis-à-vis Ganga Rejuvenation were discussed. DG, NMCG Shri U P Singh was also present on the occasion. Director, Survey of India, Shri D N Pathak also made a small presentation.

Shri Satya Pal Singh asked the officials to come up with a water quality monitoring app and work in the direction of developing a water testing kit that can be distributed to people. He reaffirmed that geo-spatial and crowd sourcing technologies like Bhuvan Ganga app must be used effectively to evoke a mass movement and as many people as possible should be involved in clean Ganga movement. He stressed on the need to popularize Namami Gange programme using such technologies.

“We should encourage people who are ready to become part of clean Ganga movement and can give incentives to the ones who are doing exemplary work in this field,” The Minister said adding, “Technology can play the role of a bridge between the government and the people.” He said that all work on Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping of river Ganga should be expedited.

Expressing concerns over the pace of work related to use of geo-spatial technologies in Ganga cleaning, the Minister exhorted the officials of various departments to sit together and prepare a timeline for projects that are ongoing and being envisaged. “The timelines will have to be made and strictly adhered to” he stressed.

National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), which is a part of Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has been supporting NMCG to use geospatial technology for water quality monitoring, hydrological monitoring and evaluation, geomorphological monitoring and evaluation, bioresources monitoring and evaluation, comprehensive geospatial database, develop mobile application for enabling community participation and to co-ordinate necessary linkages with other agencies. The support is aimed at achieving the objective of monitoring of pollution in river Ganga. NMCG also strives to achieve GIS mapping of the entire Ganga river basin for effective execution and decision-making.

Some of the tasks enlisted by NRSC as part of support to NMCG are generation of comprehensive GIS database, water quality assessment using satellite data of main Ganga from Kannauj to Varanasi, real time water quality data visualization, high quality multispectral satellite image, aerial topographical survey, urban sprawl change mapping, non-point source pollution assessment etc. A holistic approach is being adopted by NMCG to keep river Ganga clean by identifying five km. stretches from the edge of the bank/flood plain to the nearest main road for a comprehensive planning approach.

Samir/jk

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Shipping
02-October, 2017 14:55 IST
Vice President to lay foundation stone for the development of Muktyala to Vijaywada stretch of Krishna River

NH projects worth Rs 4,468 Crore to be inaugurated/lay foundation stone in Andhra Pradesh on 3rd October

The Vice President Shri Venkaiah Naidu will lay the foundation stone for the development of Muktyala to Vijayawada stretch of Krishna River (National Waterways – 4) tomorrow in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. He will also inaugurate approximately 415 km of National Highways projects worth Rs 1928.46 crores and lay the foundation stone for another 250 km NH projects worth Rs 2539.08 crores. The Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation Shri Nitin Gadkari and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Shri N Chandrababu Naidu will also be present on this occasion.


As per MoU signed with Govt. of Andhra Pradesh on 14th April,2016, NW-4 in Andhra Pradesh is proposed to be developed in three phases

· Phase-I: -Muktyala to Vijayawada (Krishna River) (82 Km)

· Phase-II: -Vijayawada to Kakinada (Eluru canal & Kakinada canal) and Rajahmundry to Polavaram stretch of Godavari (233 Km)

· Phase-III: -Commamur Canal, Buckingham canal and balance stretches of Krishna & Godavari Rivers (573km)


The Vice President will lay the foundation stone for Phase- I on 3rd October, 2017. Work on this phase that is development of the 82 km from Muktiyala to Vijayawada stretch has already commenced. Dredging began in the shallow areas in May this year, and the work is expected to be complete by June, 2019. The project will provide an efficient logistics solution to boost the economic growth of the region and facilitate the development of the capital city Amravati during its early development stage as substantial construction material is expected to be transported on this stretch of NW-4.

For Temporary Terminal Facilities was awarded in August this year and is expected to be complete by June 2018. For the Permanent Terminal Facilities work is expected to be awarded by March, 2018 and work to be completed by June, 2019. Night Navigational aids to be taken up in 2018. Three cargo terminals are proposed to be built at Muktyala, Ibrahimpatnam, and Harishchandrapur and four Passenger Terminals are to be built at Durga Ghat, Bhawani Island, Vedadari, and Amravati on NW- 4 in phase 1. The DPR for construction of these seven terminals has been completed.



National Waterway No.4 was declared in November, 2008 for a total length of 1078 km. This length was extended to 2890 km by NW Act-2016. The following stretches are included in this :

a) River Godavari (Bhadrachalam to Rajahmundry) = 171 km

b) River Krishna (Wazirabad to Vijayawada) = 157 km

c) Kakinada Canal (Kakinada to Rajahmundry) = 50 km

d) Eluru Canal (Rajahmundry to Vijayawada) = 139 Km

e) Commamur Canal (Vijayawada to Pedaganjam) = 113 km

f) North Buckingham Canal (Pedaganjam to Chennai) = 316 km

g) South Buckingham Canal (Chennai to Merkanam) = 110 km

h) Kaluvelly Tank (Markanam to Puducherry) = 22 km

Extended sections

a. River Krishna from Wazirabad to Galagali (628 Km)

b. River Godavari from Bhadrachalam to Nasik (1184Km)




A proposal for Phase-II has been recommended by IWAI board for PIB/Cabinet. Also, a proposal for formation of Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for implementation of the project is under consideration for the approval of Cabinet. The SPV is expected to be formed by November 2017.


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[Hindustani78]

According to the National Water Development Agency, the project will provide irrigation, domestic &industrial water supply and power to Chhatarpur, Panna and Tikamgarh (MP) and Mahoba, Jhansi and Banda (UP). (Vipin Kumar / HT PHOTO)

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A man fishes in the Ken river in Bundelkhand, Madhya Pradesh. The environment ministry has given the final approval for the Ken-Batwa river linking project. (Vipin Kumar / HT PHOTO)

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The new dam under construction on the Ken river in Madhya Pradesh in Bundelkhand, India last year. The linking project envisages diversion of surplus water from Ken basin to water-deficit Betwa basin. (Vipin Kumar / HT PHOTO)

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Migratory birds fly over the Gangau Dam and Reservoir on Ken river in Panna National Park in Chhattarpur district, Madhya Pradesh. A MoU was signed in 2005 between the Centre and the two states (MP and UP) to start work on the project. (Vipin Kumar / HT PHOTO)

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Villagers who live on the side of the Panna forest reserve fear conditions of famine, since illegal sand mining has already changed the course of the river Ken. (Vipin Kumar / HT PHOTO)

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Villagers who live on the side of the Panna forest reserve fear conditions of famine, since illegal sand mining has already changed the course of the river Ken. (Vipin Kumar / HT PHOTO)