Thursday, May 1, 2025

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates WAVES 2025



WAVES highlights India's creative strengths on a global platform: PM

World Audio Visual And Entertainment Summit, WAVES, is not just an acronym, It is a wave of culture, creativity and universal connectivity: PM

India, with a billion-plus population, is also a land of a billion-plus stories: PM

This is the right time to Create In India, Create For The World: PM

Today when the world is looking for new ways of storytelling, India has a treasure of its stories dating back thousands of years, this treasure is timeless, thought-provoking and truly global: PM

This is the time of dawn of Orange Economy in India, Content, Creativity and Culture - these are the three pillars of Orange Economy: PM

Screen size may be getting smaller, but the scope is becoming infinite, Screen is getting micro but the message is becoming mega: PM

Today, India is emerging as a global hub for film production, digital content, gaming, fashion, music and live concerts: PM

To the creators of the world — dream big and tell your story, To investors — invest not just in platforms, but in people, To Indian youth — tell your one billion untold stories to the world: PM

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the WAVES 2025, India’s first-of-its-kind World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai today. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, he greeted everyone on the occasion of Maharashtra day and Gujarat Statehood day being celebrated today. Acknowledging the presence of all international dignitaries, ambassadors, and leaders from the creative industry, the Prime Minister highlighted the significance of the gathering, emphasizing that over 100 countries' artists, innovators, investors, and policymakers have come together to lay the foundation for a global ecosystem of talent and creativity. “WAVES is not merely an acronym but a wave representing culture, creativity, and universal connectivity”, he remarked, further underlining that the summit showcases the expansive world of films, music, gaming, animation, and storytelling, offering a global platform for artists and creators to connect and collaborate. The Prime Minister congratulated all participants on this historic occasion and extended his warm welcome to the distinguished guests from India and abroad.

Reflecting on India's rich cinematic history at the WAVES Summit, Shri Modi noted that on May 3, 1913, India’s first feature film, Raja Harishchandra, was released, directed by the pioneering filmmaker Dadasaheb Phalke. He recalled that Phalke’s birth anniversary was celebrated just a day earlier. He underscored the impact of Indian cinema over the past century, stating that it has successfully taken India's cultural essence to every corner of the world. He highlighted the popularity of Raj Kapoor in Russia, the global recognition of Satyajit Ray at Cannes, and the Oscar-winning success of RRR, emphasizing how Indian filmmakers continue to shape global narratives. He also acknowledged the cinematic poetry of Guru Dutt, the social reflections of Ritwik Ghatak, the musical genius of A.R. Rahman, and the epic storytelling of S.S. Rajamouli, stating that each of these artists has brought Indian culture to life for millions worldwide. Shri Modi also remarked that Indian cinema legends were honored through commemorative postage stamps, paying tribute to their contributions to the industry.

Emphasising the importance of India’s creative capability and global collaboration, the Prime Minister remarked that over the years, he has engaged with professionals from gaming, music, filmmaking, and acting, discussing ideas and insights that deepened his understanding of the creative industries. He highlighted a unique initiative undertaken during Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary, where singers from 150 countries came together to perform ‘Vaishnav Jan To’, a hymn written by Narsinh Mehta nearly 500-600 years ago. He stated that this global artistic effort created a significant impact, bringing the world together in harmony. He further noted that several individuals present at the summit had contributed to the Gandhi One Fifty initiative by creating short video messages, advancing Gandhi’s philosophies. He remarked that the collective strength of India's creative world, combined with international collaboration, has already demonstrated its potential, and that vision has now materialized as WAVES.

Shri Modi praised the resounding success of the first edition of the WAVES Summit, stating that from its very first moment, the event has captured global attention and is “roaring with purpose.” He acknowledged the dedication and efforts of the summit’s Advisory Board, emphasizing their role in making WAVES a landmark event in the creative industry. He highlighted the large-scale Creators Challenge and Creatosphere initiative, which saw participation from approximately 100,000 creative professionals across 60 countries. He remarked that out of 32 challenges, 800 finalists have been selected, recognizing their talent and congratulating them on their achievement. He encouraged the finalists, stating that they now have the opportunity to make their mark on the global creative stage.

The Prime Minister expressed enthusiasm for the creative developments showcased at the Bharat Pavilion during the WAVES Summit. He remarked that significant innovation has been achieved, and he looked forward to witnessing these creations firsthand. The Prime Minister highlighted the WAVES Bazaar initiative, noting its potential to encourage new creators and connect them with emerging markets. He praised the concept of linking buyers and sellers in the art industry, stating that such initiatives strengthen the creative economy and provide fresh opportunities for artists.

Reflecting on the deep-rooted connection between creativity and human experience, stating that a child's journey begins with the lullaby of a mother, their first introduction to sound and music, Shri Modi remarked that just as a mother weaves dreams for her child, creative professionals shape the dreams of an era. He underscored that the essence of WAVES lies in bringing together such visionary individuals who inspire and influence generations through their art.

Reaffirming his belief in collective efforts, stating that the dedication of artists, creators, and industry leaders will elevate WAVES to new heights in the coming years, Shri Modi urged his industry counterparts to continue the same level of support and handholding that made the first edition of the summit a success. He remarked that many exciting waves are yet to come and announced that WAVES Awards will be launched in the future, establishing themselves as the most prestigious honors in the world of art and creativity. He emphasized the need for sustained commitment, stating that the goal is to win the hearts of people across the world and inspire generations through creativity.

Highlighting India’s rapid economic progress, stating that the nation is on its way to becoming the world’s third-largest economy, the Prime Minister remarked that India holds the number one position in global fintech adoption, is the second-largest mobile manufacturer, and has the third-largest startup ecosystem worldwide. He emphasized that India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation has only begun and has much more to offer. “India is not only home to a billion-plus population but also a billion-plus stories”, he added. Referencing the country’s rich artistic history, he recalled that two thousand years ago, Bharata Muni’s Natya Shastra emphasized the power of art in shaping emotions and human experiences. He noted that centuries ago, Kalidasa’s Abhijnana-Shakuntalam introduced a new direction in classical drama. Prime Minister underscored the deep cultural roots of India, stating that every street has a story, every mountain carries a song, and every river hums a tune. He remarked that India's six lakh villages each have their own folk traditions and unique storytelling styles, with communities preserving their histories through folklore. He highlighted the spiritual significance of Indian music, noting that whether it is bhajans, ghazals, classical compositions, or contemporary tunes, every melody carries a story, and every rhythm holds a soul.

Shri Modi underscored India's deep-rooted artistic and spiritual heritage at the WAVES Summit, highlighting the concept of Naad Brahma, the divine sound. He remarked that Indian mythology has always expressed divinity through music and dance, citing Lord Shiva’s Damru as the first cosmic sound, Goddess Saraswati’s Veena as the rhythm of wisdom, Lord Krishna’s Flute as an eternal message of love, and Lord Vishnu’s Shankha as a call for positive energy. He emphasized that the mesmerizing cultural presentation at the summit also reflected this rich heritage. Declaring that “this is the right time,” Shri Modi reiterated India’s vision of Create in India, Create for the World, asserting that the country’s storytelling tradition offers an invaluable treasure spanning thousands of years. He highlighted that India's stories are Timeless, Thought-Provoking, and Truly Global, encompassing not just cultural themes but also science, sports, courage, and bravery. He remarked that India’s storytelling landscape blends science with fiction, and heroism with innovation, forming a vast and diverse creative ecosystem. He called upon the WAVES platform to take on the responsibility of sharing India’s extraordinary stories with the world, bringing them to future generations through new and engaging formats.

Drawing parallels between the People’s Padma awards and the vision behind the WAVES Summit, stating that both initiatives aim to recognize and uplift talent from every corner of India, the Prime Minister remarked that while Padma Awards started a few years after independence, they truly transformed when India embraced the People’s Padma, recognizing individuals serving the nation from remote areas. This shift, he emphasized, turned the awards from a ceremony into a national celebration. Similarly, the Prime Minister stated that WAVES will serve as a global platform for India's immense creative talent across films, music, animation, and gaming, ensuring that artists from every part of the country find recognition on an international stage.

Underscoring India's tradition of embracing diverse ideas and cultures, referencing a Sanskrit phrase, Shri Modi emphasized that India's civilizational openness has welcomed communities like Parsis and Jews, who have thrived in the country and become an integral part of its cultural fabric. He acknowledged the presence of ministers and representatives from various countries, noting that every nation has its own successes and contributions. He remarked that India's strength lies in respecting and celebrating global artistic achievements, reinforcing the country's commitment to creative collaboration. He emphasized that by creating content that reflects the accomplishments of different cultures and nations, WAVES can strengthen the vision of global connectivity and artistic exchange.

The Prime Minister extended an invitation to the global creative community, assuring them that engaging with India’s stories would reveal narratives deeply resonant with their own cultures. He emphasized that India’s rich storytelling tradition carries themes and emotions that transcend borders, creating a natural and meaningful connection. He remarked that international artists and creators who explore India’s stories will experience an organic bond with the nation’s heritage. He stated that this cultural synergy will make India’s vision of Create in India even more compelling and accessible to the world.

“This is the time of dawn of Orange Economy in India, Content, Creativity and Culture - the three pillars of Orange Economy”, exclaimed Shri Modi, remarking that Indian films have now reached audiences in over 100 countries, with global viewers increasingly seeking to understand Indian cinema beyond surface-level appreciation. He highlighted the growing trend of international audiences watching Indian content with subtitles, signaling deeper engagement with India's stories. Shri Modi also noted that India’s OTT industry has witnessed tenfold growth in recent years, stating that while screen sizes may be shrinking, the scope of content is infinite, with micro screens delivering mega messages. He observed that Indian cuisine is becoming a global favorite and expressed confidence that Indian music will soon gain similar worldwide recognition.

Emphasizing the immense potential of India’s creative economy, stating that in the coming years, its contribution to the country’s GDP is set to increase significantly, the Prime Minister remarked, “India is emerging as a global hub for film production, digital content, gaming, fashion, and music”. He noted the promising growth opportunities in the live concert industry and the vast potential in the global animation market, which currently stands at over $430 billion and is projected to double in the next decade. The Prime Minister highlighted that this presents a significant opportunity for India's animation and graphics industry, urging stakeholders to leverage this expansion for greater international reach.

Calling upon India's young creators to drive the nation's Orange Economy forward, acknowledging that their passion and hard work are shaping a new wave of creativity, Shri Modi emphasized that whether they are musicians from Guwahati, podcasters from Kochi, game designers in Bengaluru, or filmmakers in Punjab, their contributions are fueling India's growing creative sector. He assured that the government stands firmly behind creative professionals, supporting them through initiatives like Skill India, Startup Support, policies for the AVGC Industry, and global platforms like WAVES. He remarked that every effort is being made to build an environment where innovation and imagination are valued, fostering new dreams and empowering individuals to bring those dreams to life. Shri Modi highlighted that WAVES will serve as a major platform where Creativity meets Coding, Software blends with Storytelling, and Art merges with Augmented Reality. He urged young creators to make the most of this opportunity, dream big, and dedicate their efforts to realizing their visions.

The Prime Minister expressed his unwavering confidence in India’s content creators, highlighting that their free-flowing creativity is redefining the global creative landscape. He emphasized that the youthful spirit of India's creators knows no barriers, boundaries, or hesitation, allowing innovation to thrive. He remarked that through his personal interactions with young creators, gamers, and digital artists, he has witnessed firsthand the energy and talent emerging from India's creative ecosystem. He acknowledged that India's massive young population is driving new creative dimensions, from reels, podcasts, and games to animation, stand-up, and AR-VR formats. The Prime Minister asserted that WAVES is a platform designed specifically for this generation—one that enables young minds to reimagine and redefine the creative revolution with their energy and efficiency.

Underscoring the importance of Creative Responsibility in a technology-driven 21st century, Shri Modi emphasised that as technology increasingly influences human lives, extra efforts are needed to preserve emotional sensitivity and cultural richness. He remarked that the creative world holds the power to foster human compassion and deepen societal consciousness. He asserted that the goal is not to create robots but to nurture individuals with heightened sensitivity, emotional depth, and intellectual richness—qualities that cannot stem from information overload or technological speed alone. Shri Modi stressed on the importance of art, music, dance, and storytelling, noting that these forms have kept human sensibilities alive for thousands of years. He urged creatives to reinforce these traditions and build a more compassionate future. He also highlighted the need to protect young generations from divisive and harmful ideologies, stating that WAVES can serve as a vital platform to uphold cultural integrity and instill positive values. He warned that neglecting this responsibility could have grave consequences for future generations.

Emphasising the transformative impact of technology on the creative world, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of global coordination to harness its full potential. He remarked that WAVES will serve as a bridge connecting Indian creators with global storytellers, animators with global visionaries, and transform gamers to global champions. He invited international investors and creators to embrace India as their content playground and explore the country's vast creative ecosystem. Addressing global creators, the Prime Minister urged them to dream big and tell their story. He encouraged investors to invest not just in platforms, but in people, and called on Indian youth to share their one billion untold stories with the world. He concluded by extending his best wishes to all participants of the inaugural WAVES Summit.

The Governor of Maharashtra Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Union Ministers, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Dr. L. Murugan were present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

WAVES 2025 is a four-day summit with tagline “Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries” is poised to position India as a global hub for media, entertainment, and digital innovation by bringing together creators, startups, industry leaders, and policymakers from across the world.

In line with Prime Minister’s vision of leveraging creativity, technology, and talent to shape a brighter future, WAVES will integrate films, OTT, gaming, comics, digital media, AI, AVGC-XR, broadcasting, and emerging tech, making it a comprehensive showcase of India's media and entertainment prowess. WAVES aims to unlock a $50 billion market by 2029, expanding India’s footprint in the global entertainment economy.

At WAVES 2025, India is also hosting the Global Media Dialogue (GMD) for the first time, with ministerial participation from 25 countries, marking a milestone in the country’s engagement with the global media and entertainment landscape. The Summit will also feature the WAVES Bazaar, a global e-marketplace with over 6,100 buyers, 5,200 sellers, and 2,100 projects. It aims to connect buyers and sellers locally and globally, ensuring wide-reaching networking and business opportunities.

Prime Minister visited the Creatosphere and interacted with creators, selected from the 32 Create in India Challenges launched nearly a year ago, which garnered over one lakh registrations. He will also visit the Bharat Pavilion.

WAVES 2025 will witness participation from over 90 countries, with more than 10,000 delegates, 1,000 creators, 300+ companies, and 350+ startups. The summit will feature 42 plenary sessions, 39 breakout sessions, and 32 masterclasses spanning diverse sectors including broadcasting, infotainment, AVGC-XR, films, and digital media.

 


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Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, Everlite by Senco Gold & Diamonds Launches New Store at Mumbai’s Andheri Metro Station in an Industry-First Expansion


 ~ Celebrating the opening of Senco Gold & Diamonds’ 177th store across India ~

Mumbai, 29thth April 2025: In a landmark move for the jewellery industry, Senco Gold & Diamonds has launched Everlite by Senco, marking its first-ever presence inside a metro station at Mumbai’s bustling Andheri Metro. Senco Gold and Diamonds proudly announces the and opening of its 177th outlet spanning an impressive 200 sq. Ft, this expansion marks a significant step in the brand’s commitment of providing customers with exquisite jewelry and impeccable craftsmanship across the city.


Adding glamour and excitement to the grand celebration, the new showroom at Andheri Metro Station, Andheri East, was inaugurated by renowned actress and Miss world 2017 Manushi Chhillar. The newly opened store Everlite by Senco Gold and Diamonds features an extensive collection from our everlite brand which is light weight contemporary designs for everyday wear ranging from modern lightweight designs making it the perfect destination for every occasion.


Commenting on the launch, Joita Sen, Director of Senco Gold & Diamonds said, "Mumbai holds a special place in our hearts, and we are thrilled to bring the Senco experience to the heart of Mumbai’s metro network. With our new store, we aim to provide busy commuters and urban shoppers easy access to contemporary, lightweight, and versatile jewellery with top notch craftsmanship. We are pleased to have Manushi Chhillar grace this occasion, adding to the celebration of our growing legacy."


Dhaval Raja, Chief General Manager of Senco Gold & Diamonds, shares, “As we are expanding our presence in India this was the best time during the Akshay Trithiya, we are thrilled to present our Everlite by Senco Gold and Diamonds store having collections of light weight everyday jewelry for everyone. With this store we are now at 177 stores across India. With this first-of-its-kind metro station jewellery outlet, Senco continues to pioneer new ways of bringing fine craftsmanship and modern designs closer to our customers' everyday lives. We look forward to welcoming jewelry enthusiasts and providing them with a premium shopping experience”.


Expressing her excitement for the store’s launch, Actress Manushi Chhillar said, "I'm delighted to be a part of Senco Gold & Diamonds' new store launch in City of Dreams Mumbai. The city's roots relate to the stations and opening store at hustling place itself make it an ideal destination for all working women’s. Senco Gold & Diamonds has always stood for elegance and tradition, and with Everlite’s lightweight and contemporary designs, they beautifully cater to the spirit of the modern Indian woman who values both style and substance I'm excited to witness the unveiling of their stunning collections, which will surely appeal to the people of Mumbai.”


Senco Gold & Diamonds has established itself as a trusted name in the jewelry industry, with a strong legacy of over eight decades. The brand continues to expand its footprint across India, offering intricately designed collections that blend tradition with modern aesthetics.


The grand opening event was marked by exciting offers, special discounts, and an exclusive showcase of new designs, attracting a large number of jewelry enthusiasts and patrons.

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ETERNAL BLESSINGS WITH PLATINUM JEWELLERY FOR AKSHAYA TRITIYA THIS YEAR





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 Mumbai, Celebrated as one of the most auspicious occasions in Hindu culture, Akshaya Tritiya marks a day of new beginnings, prosperity, and good fortune. It symbolizes the onset of new endeavours, prosperity and unending blessings.

 

This year, the festival will be celebrated on 30th April 2025. As the celebrations around Akshaya Tritiya evolve, the significance of purchasing 'true white' continues to hold great meaning as it symbolizes purity and auspiciousness. Besides being intrinsically white, Platinum jewellery with its 95% purity and timeless appeal, perfectly embodies the spirit of this occasion. One of the rarest & purest metals to exist on this planet, platinum is known for its naturally white, that remains untarnished over time, making it a fitting choice for auspicious events. Platinum jewellery thus becomes particularly favoured for this occasion due to its association with purity.

 

Consumers looking to commemorate Akshaya Tritiya with platinum jewellery have a diverse range to choose from. Options include contemporary pieces for women by Platinum Evara, unique statement jewellery for men from Men of Platinum, and beautifully crafted commitment-bands for couples by Platinum Love Bands. Platinum jewellery, blending tradition and modernity, symbolizes everlasting prosperity and beauty for generations. The "Pt 950" inscription on each piece signifies the highest purity, making it a fitting choice for Akshaya Tritiya celebrations.

SHOP THE PLATINUM JEWELLERY COLLECTION AT LEADING JEWELLERY RETAILERS NATIONWIDE


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Monday, April 28, 2025

Ola Electric announces 72-Hour Electric Rush with festive offers and special benefits for Akshaya Tritiya

  • Ola announces discounts of up to ₹40,000 on the S1 portfolio 
  • Free extended warranty on all Gen 2 and Gen 3 models
  • Same-day scooter deliveries on 30th April across select states

 

 

Bengaluru, April 28, 2025 – Ola Electric, India's largest pure-play EV company, today announced 72-Hour Rush including special offers and benefits on the entire S1 portfolio ahead of the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. As part of the 72-Hour Rush, customers can avail discounts of up to ₹40,000 on Gen 2 and Gen 3 models, along with free extended warranty. The Gen-2 models now start at ₹67,499, while the Gen 3 models start at ₹73,999. Customers in select states can enjoy #HyperDelivery (same-day delivery) on their new Ola scooters, making their Akshaya Tritiya celebrations even more special. The offers will be valid starting today, till 30th April.

 

 

Along with the expanded Gen 3 portfolio of scooters, the company continues to retail its Gen 2 scooters with S1 X (2kWh, 3kWh, and 4kWh) now starting at ₹67,499, ₹83,999, and ₹90,999, and S1 Pro starting at ₹1,11,999.

 

 

The company’s Gen 3 portfolio consists of the flagship S1 Pro+ 5.3kWh and 4kWh now starting at ₹1,88,200, and ₹1,48,999, respectively. The S1 Pro, available in 4kWh and 3kWh battery options, is now starting at ₹1,29,999 and ₹1,12,999, respectively. The S1 X range is starting at ₹73,999 for 2kWh, ₹92,999 for 3kWh, and ₹1,04,999 for 4kWh, with S1 X+ available with the 4kWh battery and priced at ₹1,09,999.

 

Ola Electric also rolled out same-day delivery and registration of vehicles under #HyperDelivery. Pilot of #HyperDelivery has started in Bengaluru, and is being scaled up across India during this quarter in a phased manner. Customers can now complete their purchase online or at an Ola Electric Store and ride home on their fully registered vehicles in just hours.

 

The company recently rolled out the first Roadster X motorcycle from its Futurefactory. The Roadster X series offers a breakthrough in motorcycle technology and comes with first-in-segment patented brake-by-wire technology with single ABS, and smart MoveOS 5 features such as advanced regeneration, cruise control, and reverse mode. The battery system of the Roadster X series gets an IP67 waterproof and dust-proof certification, advanced wire bonding technology, and a serviceable Battery Management System (BMS) enabling easy maintenance.

 

About Ola Electric Mobility Limited

Ola Electric Mobility Limited is India's leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer. It specialises in the vertical integration of technology and manufacturing for EVs and their components, including battery cells. The Ola Futurefactory in Tamil Nadu, where EVs and critical components are produced, is developing as India's most significant EV hub. It is supported by Ola's Bengaluru-based Battery Innovation Centre (BIC), dedicated to advancing cell and battery technology. Ola's R&D efforts span India, the UK, and the US, focusing on innovative EV products and core components. Ola maintains a direct-to-customer distribution network with more than 4000 stores across India and a robust online presence, making Ola Electric the largest company-owned network of automotive experience centres in the country.

 


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REC Limited Successfully Raises Rs 5,000 Crore Through Bond Issuance

New Delhi, April 28, 2025: REC Limited, a leading public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Power and a premier non-banking finance company, has successfully raised Rs 5,000 crore through the issuance of bonds. The offering included Rs 3,000 crore through 5-year bonds at coupon of 6.87 % and Rs 2,000 crore through 10-year bonds at coupon of 6.86 %. 

The bond issuance witnessed an overwhelming response from market participants, reflecting strong investor confidence in the company’s robust financial position and growth prospects.

The bonds have been assigned a "AAA" rating by prominent credit rating agencies – CARE Ratings, ICRA, and India Rating & Research Pvt Ltd (IRRPL) – signifying the highest degree of safety regarding timely servicing of financial obligations.

The bonds will be listed on both the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE), enhancing their liquidity and offering investors easy tradability.

About REC LIMITED


REC is a 'Maharatna' company under the administrative control of the Ministry of Power, Government of India, and is registered with RBI as Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC), Public Financial Institution (PFI) and Infrastructure Financing Company (IFC). REC is financing the entire Power-Infrastructure sector comprising Generation, Transmission, Distribution, Renewable Energy and new technologies like Electric Vehicles, Battery Storage, Pump Storage projects, Green Hydrogen, Green Ammonia projects etc. More recently REC Limited has also diversified into the Non-Power Infrastructure sector comprising Roads & Expressways, Metro Rail, Airports, IT Communication, Social and Commercial Infrastructure (Educational Institution, Hospitals), Ports and Electro-Mechanical (E&M) works in respect of various other sectors like Steel, Refinery, etc.


REC Limited provides loans of various maturities to State, Central and Private Companies for creation of infrastructure assets in the country. REC Limited continues to play a key strategic role in the flagship schemes of the Government for the power sector and has been nodal agency for Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGAYA), Deen Dayal Upadhaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY), National Electricity Fund (NEF) Scheme which resulted in strengthening of last mile distribution system, 100% village electrification and household electrification in the country. REC has also been made the nodal agency for certain States and Union Territories for the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). REC has also been given the responsibility of PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojna from Central Government. The Loan Book of REC stands at ₹5.65 lakh crore, Market capitalization at ₹1,31,844 crore and Net Worth at ₹76,502 crores as on 31 Dec 2024.

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Coastal States Fisheries Meet 2025: Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh Launches Projects Worth Rs.255 Crores in Mumbai; Awards First Ever Aqua Insurance to Fisherfolk

5th Marine Fisheries Census Goes Digital: VyAS-NAV App Enabled Tablets Distributed; Guidelines on Turtle Excluder Device & SOP for Vessel Communication and Support System Issued

Mumbai, 28 April 2025

 A “Coastal States Fisheries Meet: 2025” was organized today on 28th April 2025 in  Mumbai under the chairmanship of Union Minister, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D) and Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh. The event also saw the gracious presence of Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Shri George Kurian, Minister of State, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Minority Affairs along with Governors and  Fisheries Ministers of several coastal states and UTs. On this occasion, Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, inaugurated and laid the foundation for key projects for 7 coastal states and UTs with a total outlay of Rs.255 crores under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Key initiatives like the 5th Marine Fisheries Census Operations, PMMSY Guidelines on Turtle Excluder Device and release of Standard Operating Procedure for Vessel Communication and Support System were also launched at the Coastal States Fisheries Meet. The Union Minister also distributed tablets enabled with Digital Application VyAS-NAV  and awarded the first ever aqua insurance (One Time Incentive Sanction-cum-Release Order) to beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) on this occasion. Today marks the beginning of the 5th Marine Census operations which involves training of the supervisors, recruitment and training the village wise data enumerators, followed by the actual census activity spread across 3 months. The entire operation will be completed by December 2025.

 

5th Marine Fisheries Census Goes Digital: VyAS-NAV App

In a major preparatory step for India’s 5th Marine Fisheries Census (MFC 2025), a mobile application VyAS-NAV has been launched for the digital based data collection with an aim to boost transparency and efficiency. Marking a shift from traditional method to a geo-referenced, app-based digital system, the MFC 2025 will cover a 1.2 million fisher households nationwide bringing in real-time validation. This mammoth exercise is coordinated by the Department of Fisheries (DoF) of the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). VyAS-NAV was developed by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) which is the nodal agency for implementing the marine fisheries census in nine coastal states. VyAS-NAV app will be used by supervisors for field verification of fishing villages, fish landing centres and fishing harbours. This is a foundational step towards ensuring comprehensive coverage and accuracy of the census frame.  This app has features to record summary picture of villages based on primary and secondary sources. The supervisors are staff of CMFRI, Fishery Survey of India and the Fisheries Departments across the coastal states.

 

About Marine Fisheries Census-2025

The Marine Fisheries Census (MFC) -2025 focuses on the exhaustive, precise, and timely documentation of every marine fisher family, fishing village, fishing craft and gear, as well as infrastructure facilities associated with fishing harbours and fish landing centres across the country. Unlike in the past, customized mobile and tablet-based applications created by CMFRI will be used for data collection in a bid to reduce manual errors and accelerate data compilation for policy-level use. This MFC is a process that starts with the signaling of field operations and ends with the reporting. The reference period where the household enumeration takes place is the core activity. In this case it is November - December 2025. Various constituents of this process are referred to as census operations. As of now, many such activities are planned in the pre core census phase. The first of it is, validation of Marine Fisheries villages is inaugurated today. This will be followed by a round of workshops followed two rounds of training. These all, form part of the Marine Fisheries Census. Roughly 3500 villages and 1.2 million households will be covered in this exercise at various points in time. The village enumeration will be finalized by May- June, while family level data and other facilities will be covered during Nov-Dec, which will be done by enumerators from the village and probably fishing community. In nutshell the operations span from April to December. The village list finalization and landing centres data will be covered by staff of CMFRI, FSI and DoF and the same has started from today. The core activity, scheduled for November–December 2025, involves trained enumerators preferably from the local community, visiting each marine fisher household with smart devices. This is preceded by a robust preparatory phase. Emphasis will be given to record finer details of fishers like their demographic and socio-economic status, alternative livelihood options, and how and where government schemes can influence their status, all collected through a robust online digital platform. Officials will train enumerators in digital data collection and will validate village and infrastructure details using VyAS-NAV.

 

Summary of Activities and Timeline:

Timeline

Activity

Nov 21, 2024

Official announcement and approval during World Fisheries Day celebrations

Nov 2024 – April 2025

Preparatory work: schedule finalization, development of VyAS-NAV application and preliminary groundwork

April 2025 – Nov 2025

Pre-census marine fishing village list validation, enumerator identification, staff recruitment, training of supervisors/enumerators, App development and testing, craft & gear census (across harbours and landing centres)

Nov – Dec 2025

45-day full-scale Marine Fisheries Census field exercise – Enumerators will visit each marine fisher household in the identified marine fishing villages under supervision at district, state, regional, and national levels

 

No. of marine fishing villages, Census 2016

State

Fishing
villages

West Bengal

171*

Odisha

739

Andhra Pradesh

533

Tamil Nadu

575

Puducherry

39

Kerala

220

Karnataka

162

Goa

41

Maharashtra

526

Gujarat

280

Daman & Diu

12

Lakshadweep

10

Andaman & Nicobar

169

Total

3477

* Subsequent reference to villages actually means Gram Panchayat in West Bengal

 

About Aquaculture Insurance

The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), a sub-scheme launched under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana offers a comprehensive aquaculture insurance. The aquaculture insurance focuses on mitigating risks and extending financial incentive particularly to small and marginalized farmers. Through the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP), the Sub-scheme offers seamless digital access to insurance, helping safeguard the incomes of fishers and fish farmers against unexpected losses while also promoting better tracking and formalization within the fisheries sector. Eligible beneficiaries include registered aquafarmers, firms, companies, societies, cooperatives, Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs), and other entities involved in the fisheries value chain as identified by the Department of Fisheries. For intensive aquaculture systems such as recirculatory aquaculture systems, the premium is capped at ₹1 lakh per farmer for 1800 m³. Farmers can choose between Basic Insurance, which covers losses from natural calamities and other parametric risks, and the Comprehensive Insurance, which includes Basic Insurance and disease coverage. Additionally, Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and women beneficiaries are eligible for an extra 10% incentive, further promoting inclusivity. The insurance covers one crop cycle only thereby stabilizing income and encouraging investment in aquaculture.

Notably, the government has introduced Aqua Insurance for the first time, offering dedicated financial protection to aquafarmers. This landmark initiative ensures targeted insurance coverage, digital accessibility, and focused support for marginalized communities in the fisheries sector. The beneficiaries awarded today were Shri D.R.Ravikumar, Tamil Nadu, Shri Mohan Sathiyamoorthy, Tamil Nadu, Shri Sivaramakrishnan, Tamil Nadu, Shri Gandhi Palanivelu, Tamil Nadu, Shri Patnala Subrahmanyam, Andhra Pradesh, Shri Penki Ravi Kumar, Andhra Pradesh, Shri Chiluvuri Ravi Teja, Andhra Pradesh and Shri Korapati Venkata Subba Lakshmi, Andhra Pradesh.

 

For PMMSY Guidelines on Turtle Excluder Device: Click Here

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