PM Modi And Chilean President Hold Bilateral Talks At Hyderabad House

by EconomyLatest Updates

President Boric. The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen long-standing bilateral ties. Jaishankar later shared his thoughts on X, saying, “Pleased to call on President Gabriel Boric of Chile at the start of his state visit to India. Appreciate his commitment for deepening our long-standing cooperation. Confident that his talks with PM Narendra Modi today will foster new partnerships and greater engagement.”

As part of his visit, President Boric will travel to Mumbai and Bengaluru, where he will engage with political figures, industry leaders, startup entrepreneurs, and technology innovators. These discussions aim to foster collaborations in key sectors between the two nations.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that this state visit is an important opportunity for both India and Chile to review their bilateral relations and deliberate on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

“India-Chile relations have traditionally been characterised by warmth, friendship, and a commonality of views on a wide range of issues. Both countries cooperate extensively in multilateral forums and share similar views on climate change, renewable energy, and on the expansion and reforms of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC),” the MEA said.

Inputs from IANS

India-Thailand Bilateral Trade Ties Set To Strengthen During PM Modi’s Visit

by EconomyLatest Updates

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Thailand from April 3-4 to participate in the 6th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit.

As part of his visit, PM Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on April 3. The two leaders are expected to review bilateral cooperation and outline future partnerships between India and Thailand.

“India and Thailand are maritime neighbours with shared civilizational bonds which are underpinned by cultural, linguistic, and religious ties,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

Thailand’s investments in India have grown significantly in recent years, with key sectors including infrastructure, real estate, agro-processing, electronics, automotive, food processing, hospitality, and renewable energy.

A major highlight of this economic collaboration came in 2021, when Global Renewable Synergy Co., Ltd. made the largest-ever Thai investment in India’s renewable energy sector, amounting to $453.29 million.

Bilateral trade growth has been supported by initiatives like the Early Harvest Scheme (EHS), covering 83 products under the India-Thailand Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), which was implemented in September 2004. Additionally, the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) has facilitated increased trade. ASEAN and India are currently reviewing AITIGA to simplify and enhance its trade facilitation for businesses.

According to Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce, bilateral trade between India and Thailand reached $16.04 billion in 2023. Indian exports to Thailand were valued at $5.92 billion, while imports from Thailand to India stood at $10.11 billion.

Among ASEAN nations, Thailand is India’s fourth-largest trading partner, following Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Key Indian exports to Thailand include silver bars, gold, machinery and parts, metal scrap and products, chemicals, vegetables, medicinal products, seafood (fresh, chilled, frozen, processed), vehicle parts and accessories, iron, steel, electrical machinery, household appliances, and fabrics.

On the other hand, major imports from Thailand include animal and vegetable fats and oils, chemicals, polymers of ethylene and propylene, precious stones and jewellery, and iron and steel products.

(With IANS inputs)

Department of Social Justice and Empowerment organizes Inaugural Batch of Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme

by Health and CommunityLatest Updates

The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE), Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, successfully inaugurated the first batch of the Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme. The initiative, launched by Capacity Building Commission, aims at fostering a stronger sense of Seva Bhav (spirit of service) among government officials who are solution oriented, compassionate, and citizen-focused.

The programme features four short training sessions (approximately 1.5 hours each), designed to encourage open discussions, teamwork, and practical problem-solving through service-oriented narratives. The Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme at the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment will go on from 5th to 11th March 2025 at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.

The programme was inaugurated by Shri Amit Yadav, Secretary, DoSJE, who, in his address, emphasized the fundamental purpose of government service. He stated, “Many of us enter public service with a passion to make a difference. However, over time, daily routines and limited citizen interaction can make us lose sight of that purpose. This programme serves as a reminder of why we serve – to bring meaningful change in people’s lives. Every action taken by public servants contributes to the nation’s progress”.

Further, Shri Yadav highlighted the importance of personal development and self-fulfilment in public service. He emphasized that citizen interaction is at the heart of governance, and how officials engage with the public, address concerns, and resolve issues plays a pivotal role in effective administration. Speaking on the philosophy of the programme’s name, he added, “‘Karmayogi’ signifies our duty—towards our nation, our department, our citizens and ourselves. This initiative is an opportunity for every officer to develop leadership skills, adopt a solution-oriented approach, and embrace Seva Bhav in their roles.”

The training sessions are led by Master Trainers – Ms. Kajal Singh (Director) and Shri Puspendra Singh (Deputy Secretary), DoSJE, with support from Ms. Shipra Singh (Program Coordinator), Capacity Building Commission. The session witnessed active participation from attendees, who gained a deeper understanding of their roles and responsibilities within the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and its critical contribution to nation-building. The Vision and Mission of the department were discussed.

Insights from the successful implementation of the nationwide welfare initiatives and campaigns were referenced while discussing the training modules, providing participants with practical, real-world context. Additionally, key aspects of the department’s role in policy formulation, grievance redressal, legal frameworks, and enhancing ease of access to social justice schemes were deliberated in alignment with the programme’s objectives. This approach enabled participants to connect the learnings of the programme with their day-to-day responsibilities.

 

Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya M.Scindia Showcases India’s Telecom Transformation at MWC 2025

by Latest UpdatesTechnology

Minister for Communications Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia visited the prestigious Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, engaging in top level meetings with CEOs, addressed key sessions and witnessed major tech innovations in one of the world’s largest gatherings for the mobile and telecommunications industry.

This visit showcased India’s telecom transformation at Mobile World Congress 2025, with Bharat’s rapid 5G rollout, world’s lowest data tariffs, indigenous 4G/5G stacks & robust cybersecurity measures highlighted in the prestigious event.Participation in MWC 25 underscores the global standing of India’s telecom revolution and reflects India’s commitment to tech governance.

The Minister addressed key sessions on ‘Global Tech Governance: Rising to the Challenge’ and Balancing Innovation & Regulation: Global Perspectives on Telecom Policy’ at the event.

He said that “Innovation, Inclusivity, Sustainability & Trust forms the core of India’s guiding principles towards tech governance”and highlighted the success of Aadhaar, BharatNet in serving every citizen of the country.

The Minister also spoke about the four steps ofIndia’s efforts towards balancing innovation with regulation such as spectrum management; ensuring market stability; introducing telecom regulation to ease up various processes; and bringing cybersecurity measures for consumer protection.

During the MWC 2025 visit, Shri Scindia unveiled the curtains of India Mobile Congress 2025 and inaugurated Bharat Pavilion organized by the Telecom Equipment & Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC) with the support of the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India, featured 38 Indian telecom equipment manufacturers showcasing their state-of-the-art products, both hardware and software.

The Minister also inaugurated VVDN’s indigenously designed & manufactured AI based Wi-Fi-7 during his visit to Bharat Pavillion. He also visited other booths such as Meta and Google Cloud, catching a glimpse of their various technological solutions.

As part of the visit, the Minister interacted with top industry leaders from Qualcomm, Cisco, Mavenir, Ericsson, Nokia, AMD, AT&T, Airtel, BSNL, CDOT, TEPC, during dinner with CEOs, enabling strategic partnerships and innovation in Telecom.

The event also featured bilateral meetings with FCC,along with booth visits to Companies exploring cutting-edge developments in 5G, artificial intelligence, and next-generation mobile technologies.

The Minister’s participation in MWC 2025 highlights India’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies for enhancing digital infrastructure. This engagement also reflects India’s strategic focus on strengthening international partnerships, driving investments in the telecommunications sector, and shaping global policies to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth. Through active dialogue and collaboration, India aims to play a key role in shaping the future of global connectivity and technological advancements.

About Mobile World Congress 2025

MWC 2025, themed “Converge. Connect. Create.”, is taking place from March 3–6 in Barcelona, bringing together 101,000+ attendees, 2,700+ exhibitors, and leaders from 200+ countries to showcase the latest in 5G, AI, IoT, and digital transformation. With 1,200+ speakers, including top executives and policymakers, key themes include 5G Inside, AI+, Connect X, Enterprise Re-invented, Game Changers and Digital DNA.. MWC 2025 is the world’s leading platform for mobile innovation, networking, and future connectivity.

Shri Ajay Bhadoo Appointed as CEO of Government e Marketplace

by EconomyMirabilia Icons

The Government of India has appointed Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce Shri Ajay Bhadoo, as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Government e Marketplace (GeM). He will assume this role in addition to his existing responsibilities in the Department of Commerce.

His appointment as CEO of GeM, India’s largest e-marketplace for government procurement, comes at a pivotal time as the platform transitions to a next-generation digital marketplace powered by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). Currently, GeM has recorded a Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of ₹4.58 lakh crore, reflecting a 28.65% year-on-year growth.

An Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1999 batch from the Gujarat cadre, Shri Bhadoo brings over two decades of experience in policy formulation and implementation across diverse sectors, including urban infrastructure development.

In August 2024, Shri Bhadoo was appointed as Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce. Previously, he served as the Deputy Election Commissioner at the Election Commission of India. His extensive career also includes a tenure as Joint Secretary to the former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, and leadership roles such as CEO of the Gujarat Maritime Board and Commissioner of Rajkot and Vadodara Municipal Corporations. Shri Bhadoo holds a degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s in Business Law from the prestigious National Law School of India University, Bengaluru

Gene Bank to be established to ensure food security and genetic resources for future generations: Shri Narendra Modi

by Latest UpdatesTechnology

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, during a post-budget webinar held via video conferencing today, has announced that a Gene Bank will be established to conserve the country’s genetic resources. This initiative aims to ensure genetic resources and food security for future generations.

The webinar fosters collaboration among government, industry, academia, and citizens encouraging discussions to help translate the transformative Budget announcements towards the same into effective outcomes. With a key focus on empowering citizens, strengthening the economy, and fostering innovation, the deliberations will aim at paving the way for sustainable and inclusive growth; leadership in technology and other sectors; and a skilled, healthy workforce working towards realising the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. The key themes of the webinar include Investing in People, the Economy, and Innovation

A gene bank is a repository of genetic material, such as seeds, pollen or tissue samples, collected from different plant species in order to protect them from potential extinction and preserve vital varieties for future generations.

India’s first gene bank was set up in 1996 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR) in New Delhi. This bank is comprised of 12 regional stations across the country for collection and storage of vital crop germplasms. These germplasms are the genetic constituents of plants or animals that is used in research, conservation and crop breeding.

As on January 15, 2025, the bank currently stores 0.47 million accessions (plant material stored and used for breeding) — according to the database maintained by ICAR-NBPGR. These include cereals (0.17 million accessions), millets (more than 60,600 accessions), legumes (over 69,200 accessions), oilseeds (more than 63,500 accessions) and vegetables (nearly 30,000 accessions).

The Ministry of Finance has announced the establishment of a second National GenBank in the 2025-26 budget to safeguard India’s agricultural biodiversity. This facility will house 10 lakh (1 million) germplasm lines, offering critical conservation support for both public and private sectors involved in genetic resource management.

India is recognized as a biodiversity-rich country with a wide variety of cultivated crop species and their wild relatives. With over 811 cultivated crop species and 902 crop wild relatives, the nation plays a pivotal role in preserving plant genetic resources (PGR), which are essential for agricultural resilience, food security, and combating the challenges posed by climate change. The existing National GenBank, led by ICAR-NBPGR, conserves over 4.7 lakh accessions and supports the global effort of PGR conservation through partnerships and distributions to researchers, breeders, and scientists.

The establishment of the second GenBank will strengthen India’s position as a leader in global biodiversity conservation. This new facility will not only safeguard India’s invaluable plant genetic resources but also support international biodiversity initiatives, especially for countries in SAARC and BRICS regions, offering conservation assistance to those lacking well-established PGR networks.

With growing threats like climate change, natural disasters, and geopolitical challenges that jeopardize the security of genetic diversity worldwide, the creation of the safety duplicate GenBank is vital. This redundancy structure will provide a fail-safe for India’s irreplaceable germplasm, ensuring long-term sustainability and global food security.

This initiative reflects India’s commitment to preserving agricultural biodiversity, securing the future of food, and supporting sustainable farming systems both domestically and internationally.

On PM’s call Ayush Labs Open Doors: Young Minds Step into the World of Science & Innovation under the ‘One Day as a Scientist’ initiative

by Health and CommunityLatest Updates

In response to the call made by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during his Mann Ki Baat address, institutions under the Ministry of Ayush have actively engaged young students in the ‘One Day as a Scientist’ initiative. The program has provided aspiring minds with an immersive experience in scientific research, offering them firsthand exposure to laboratory work, advanced equipment, and the integration of traditional medicine with modern scientific advancements.

Prime Minister, addressing the nation via his monthly radio programme, encouraged students to visit research laboratories, planetaria, space centres, and science institutions to nurture their curiosity and foster a scientific temperament. Inspired by this vision, Ayush institutions welcomed students to their research facilities, allowing them to interact with scientists, explore cutting-edge technology, and understand the vast potential of Ayush systems in mainstream healthcare.

As part of the initiative, students from Amity University, Jaipur, visited the National Institute of Ayurveda (Deemed to be University), Jaipur, on February 19, 2025. Under the guidance of Prof. C.R. Yadav (Dean Research & HOD), Dr. Mahendra Prasad, Dr. Sarika Yadav, Dr. Bhanu Pratap Singh, and Dr. Rashmi Prakash Gurao, the students explored the Kriya Sharir department’s advanced equipment and machinery, with a special focus on the respiratory system. They had the opportunity to witness the working of state-of-the-art devices like the Body Plethysmograph, CPET, and the 3D VR lab. The students expressed keen interest in the innovative technology, recognising its potential in advancing healthcare research.

Similarly, on February 28, 2025, students of Dr. Gururaju Government Homeopathy Medical College, Gudivada, visited the research laboratory of Regional Research Institute (H), Gudivada, under the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH), in celebration of National Science Day. The laboratory staff provided students with a detailed demonstration of laboratory equipment and research methodologies used in homoeopathy. The session was presided over by Dr. Kishan Banoth, AD(H) Incharge, RRI(H), Gudivada, who emphasised the importance of scientific inquiry in traditional medicine.

Students from Captain Jailal Academic School, Lohat, Gurugram, Badli, Jhajjar, Haryana, visited the Central Research Institute for Yoga & Naturopathy (CRIYN), Jhajjar, for an insightful and immersive experience in Ayush research. The visit provided young minds with a unique opportunity to explore the scientific principles behind yoga and naturopathy, interact with researchers, and witness firsthand how traditional healing practices are being studied through modern scientific methodologies.

The theme for National Science Day 2025, ‘Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat’, perfectly aligns with the spirit of this initiative. These visits not only ignited the students’ passion for research but also strengthened India’s vision of developing future leaders in science and innovation.

Students who participated in these visits expressed excitement and appreciation for the opportunity. Many were inspired by the dedication of scientists and researchers working in the Ayush sector and expressed a desire to explore careers in traditional medicine research. Faculty members and institutional representatives also lauded the initiative, noting how such interactions provide students with a deeper understanding of scientific processes and career pathways in healthcare and innovation.

By facilitating these visits, the Ministry of Ayush has reinforced its commitment to fostering scientific temperament and curiosity among young minds. Encouraged by the positive response, the Ministry looks forward to expanding similar initiatives, bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and modern scientific exploration.

Indian Startups Raise $240.85 Million This Week, Bengaluru Leads In Funding Deals

by Latest UpdatesMirabilia Icons

Indian startups raise $240.85 million this week, Bengaluru leads in funding deals

During the week, 30 Indian startups secured a total of $240.85 million in funding including five growth-stage investments and 20 early-stage rounds.Bengaluru emerged as the leader in startup funding, with 12 deals secured during the week.It was followed by Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, and Patna.

Among business sectors, e-commerce startups received the highest number of investments, closing five deals, according to Entrackr report.

SaaS and fintech startups followed closely, securing three deals each, while companies in foodtech, healthtech, and manufacturing also attracted investor interest.

In the growth-stage category, edtech startup Leap raised $65 million in its Series E round led by Apis Partners.

B2B seafood startup Captain Fresh secured $30 million in its ongoing pre-IPO round.

SaaS IT management platform SuperOps raised $25 million, while a supply chain startup received $12 million in a Series C round from Evolvence India and Mirabilis Investment Trust.

Among early-stage startups, 20 companies collectively raised $107.15 million.

B2B SaaS startup Atomic work led with a $25 million Series A round, followed by investments in co-working firm Innov8, senior citizen-focused healthcare services provider Geri Care, telecom company Astrome Technologies, and mobility startup VoltUp.

Additionally, D2C handloom clothing brand Dressfolk and road safety products manufacturer Prisomoline raised funds but did not disclose the amounts.

On a weekly basis, startup funding remained stable but showed a slight dip of 3.22 per cent, down from $248.87 million in the previous week.

Over the past eight weeks, the average weekly funding stood at $349.53 million, with 26 deals per week.

76th Republic Day: Goa, Uttarakhand Shine On Kartavya Path, Showcase Cultural Heritage And Tourism

by Latest Updates

On the 76th Republic Day, Kartavya Path showcased India’s diverse strengths and its evolving cultural inclusiveness, marching towards a bright future. Among the 31 tableaux, including 16 from states and Union Territories, Uttarakhand and Goa highlighted their rich cultural heritage, tourism potential, and vibrant art forms.

Goa’s tableau, themed ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas,’ celebrates the state’s pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and rich culture.
Goa, often referred to as the “Pearl of the East,” is known for its historical charm, vibrant arts, and warm hospitality. The tableau highlighted ‘Diwaja,’ a unique earthen lamp symbolizing purity and ancestral bonds. During Diwaja, women observe a five-day fast and offer lighted lamps in a ritual.

It also showcased Kaavi art, an ancient Goan mural tradition using red laterite paste on lime-based surfaces. Found in temples and homes, this art reflects motifs inspired by nature, Hindu mythology, and rural life.
As Goa is known for its beaches, its tableaux highlighted the water sports that play a vital role in Goa’s tourism.

It also underscored activities like coastal weddings and photo shoots, which are gaining popularity.

The 1864-built Fort Aguada Lighthouse, one of Asia’s oldest, is depicted, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and glimpses of Goan history.

The North Indian State Uttarakhand tableau is themed “Cultural Heritage and Adventure Sports,” showcasing the state’s rich culture, natural beauty, and adventure tourism.

At the forefront, a woman in traditional attire is depicted creating Aipan art, symbolizing its social, cultural, and religious significance in Uttarakhand.

This traditional art, made using rice paste and ‘geru,’ adorns prayer rooms, entrances, and walls.

The tableau also highlighted adventure sports and tourism activities like mountain biking in Nainital and Mussoorie, trekking in the Valley of Flowers and Kedarkantha, snow skiing in Auli, and thrilling activities like yoga, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and rock climbing in Rishikesh.
Uttarakhand’s tableau also emphasized preserving its cultural heritage while promoting adventure tourism.

Earlier, President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day, followed by the national anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute using 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system.

The President of India and her Indonesian counterpart, President Prabowo Subianto, who is the chief guest of this year’s Republic Day, were escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army.

 

Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi greets everyone on 76th Republic Day

by Mirabilia IconsPolitics

Republic Day marks the adoption of India’s constitution and the country’s transition to a republic on January 26, 1950. Every year, the celebrations marking the day feature spectacular military and cultural pageantry. 

Republic Day Parade 2025 will be a unique blend of India’s cultural diversity and military prowess, with special focus on 75 years of enactment of the constitution and Jan Bhagidari.

The theme for the tableaux at the Republic Day Parade 2025 has been decided as “स्वर्णिम भारत – विरासत और विकास” |

Greeting everyone on the occasion of Republic Day, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi remarked that today we celebrate 75 glorious years of being a Republic.

In separate posts on X, the Prime Minister said:

“Happy Republic Day. 

Today, we celebrate 75 glorious years of being a Republic. We bow to all the great women and men who made our Constitution and ensured that our journey is rooted in democracy, dignity and unity. May this occasion strengthen our efforts towards preserving the ideals of our Constitution and working towards a stronger and prosperous India.”

The Indian government has launched many welfare schemes since independence including schemes for healthcare, social security, and employment. E-governance in India has demonstrated the use of electronic tools and processes to improve governance and enhance government capacity to function efficiently.

On 76th Republic Day,  Mirabilia Business Magazine released 76 short clips demonstrating government led welfare schemes to mark the day and made a phenomenal record. 

The purpose is to build a strong and sustainable bridge between government capacity enablement and digital empowerment of masses and to strengthen capacities of local administration and institutions to reach the vulnerable groups with information on government entitlements. 

The broader view of “reaching out to the masses” is to communicate information or a message to a large and diverse group of people, essentially aiming to spread a message widely across a broad audienc