Latest news with #BhupendraPatel
India Gazette
3 hours ago
- Business
- India Gazette
5 years of PM SVANidhi scheme: 4.79 lakh street vendors in Gujarat become self-reliant
Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], May 31 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi's PM SVANidhi Scheme has proven to be a boon for street vendors and small businesses across the country, improving their livelihoods and living standards, said a press statement from Gujarat on Saturday. Gujarat has established itself as a leading state in successfully implementing the Prime Minister's ambitious scheme. Launched on June 1, 2020, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the PM SVANidhi Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India. Its objective is to empower street vendors nationwide and integrate them into the formal financial system. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the Gujarat government has implemented the scheme in mission mode, ensuring seamless loan disbursement, digital registration, and continuous support for vendors in urban areas. As it celebrates its fifth anniversary in June 2025, this transformative scheme has become a model of livelihood empowerment, determination, and inclusive economic growth over the past five years. Gujarat has consistently outperformed expectations in the successful implementation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious PM SVANidhi Scheme. The state achieved its first target of providing loan facilities to 3 lakh beneficiaries by July 2023 on time. Subsequently, it surpassed the second target of reaching 4 lakh beneficiaries by October 2024, securing the second position nationally. In recognition of this excellent performance, the Central Government increased Gujarat's target to providing loans to 5.20 lakh beneficiaries in November 2024. Gujarat has successfully achieved 92.14 per cent of this revised target, and in this regard, it ranks fourth at the national level. So far, a total of 4,79,141 street vendors have benefited from the scheme. They have been provided with working capital loans and various types of support, which have improved their livelihoods and helped them become more economically empowered and stable. The Government of India has supported Gujarat's efforts in the successful implementation of the PM SVANidhi Scheme by providing Rs 30.47 crore in interest subsidies. This scheme is being operated under 100 per cent central funding. This financial assistance has reduced the repayment burden on vendors, enabling more people to participate in the scheme. So far, over 4.79 lakh vendors in Gujarat have received the first loan installment, while 1.71 lakh vendors have received the second installment, and 42,176 vendors have been given the third installment. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the Gujarat government has ensured timely loan distribution and financial inclusion for all street vendors by organizing targeted loan disbursement camps, digital literacy programs, and collaborating with financial institutions. Gujarat has placed a strong emphasis on digital inclusion and financial literacy for street vendors under the PM SVANidhi Scheme. The state regularly conducts digital literacy camps, uses penny drop transactions to familiarize vendors with real-time payment systems, and hosts mega disbursement camps to encourage wider participation and outreach. These initiatives guarantee smooth onboarding and timely delivery of benefits. Resulting street vendors received total Rs. 15.87/- Cr. Cash Back using digital transaction. Additionally, Gujarat's success is supported by robust institutional collaboration with the State Level Bankers' Committee (SLBC) and various financial institutions. Designated loan disbursement days on Fridays and Saturdays ensure quick, predictable access to loans for street vendors. Special drives and onboarding efforts across all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) ensure that no vendor is left behind, facilitating comprehensive coverage and inclusion. Gujarat's remarkable success under the PM SVANidhi Scheme is a shining example of the state's unwavering commitment to street vendors and their empowerment. Through the effective use of digital technologies, promotion of financial inclusion, and active collaboration with various key stakeholders, the Gujarat government has ensured that thousands of street vendors gain access to essential resources and are able to strengthen and grow their businesses. Through these collective efforts, Gujarat has demonstrated that capable governance at the state level can not only transform lives but also empower communities and take strong steps toward economic development from the grassroots. (ANI)
India Gazette
3 hours ago
- Science
- India Gazette
Rare Arctic bird Sabine's Gull makes rare appearance in Nalsarova
Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], May 31 (ANI): Globally rare Arctic bird, Sabine's Gull, made a rare appearance at Gujarat's Nalsarova on Saturday morning. On Saturday morning, staff of the Forest Department at the Nalsarovar Wildlife Sanctuary--a Ramsar site--spotted the rare Sabine's Gull, a moment of thrill, pride, and joy for bird enthusiasts and ornithologists alike. The bird was observed in the open waters of the wetland by sanctuary staff and visiting bird watchers. Furthermore, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary Division, Sakkira Begum, stated that under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and the leadership of Forest and Environment Minister Mulubhai Bera and Minister of State Mukesh Patel, the state has been achieving significant progress in wildlife conservation and promotion. As a result, birds from across the globe are increasingly choosing Gujarat as their seasonal home--a matter of great pride for the state's people. Further elaborating on the observation, Begum stated that the sighting was exceptional, as Sabine's Gull rarely migrates to the Indian subcontinent. According to the public bird-watching database, such occurrences are extremely rare. The last recorded sighting in India was in 2013, in Kerala. The bird observed at Nalsarovar was photographed by birding guide Gani Sama. Sabine's Gull is a small and strikingly beautiful gull, notable for its sharp black hood, clean grey upperparts, white nape, and, most uniquely, its tri-colored wings--marked in black, white, and grey. It is one of only two gull species with a black bill tipped with yellow and a forked, notched tail. The species primarily breeds in the high-latitude Arctic regions of North America, Greenland, and Siberia, nesting near wet tundra areas. For winter, it migrates to tropical upwelling zones--highly productive marine areas off the coasts of South America and western Africa. It does not typically pass through India during migration, making this sighting both rare and significant. Experts believe that the bird may have strayed from its usual migratory route. Such occurrences are of great interest and value to ornithologists and avian researchers. Nalsarovar is among India's largest and most ecologically significant wetland sanctuaries, home to numerous migratory and resident bird species such as flamingos, pelicans, ducks, and herons. The rare appearance of Sabine's Gull further underscores the sanctuary's global importance in bird conservation and elevates its status in international ornithological research. This sighting emphasises the importance of continued monitoring and documentation by Forest Department staff and bird watchers. Rare observations such as this help researchers better understand bird migration routes, behavioural patterns, and the effects of environmental and climatic changes. The Forest Department encourages all visitors and researchers to report any unusual or noteworthy bird sightings, thereby contributing to the growing understanding of India's rich avian diversity. (ANI)
India Gazette
a day ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
Gujarat CM Patel launches construction of recharge wells in Banaskantha
Gandhinagar (Gujarat) May 30 (ANI): The Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, has launched Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain - 2025 campaign, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As part of this, construction of recharge wells has started in the Banaskantha, following Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari approach. Under the guidance of the Prime Minister and in line with the objectives of the 'Catch the Rain' campaign, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the construction of recharge wells at Chodungri village in Dantiwada Taluka of Banaskantha district. Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Shankar Chaudhary, along with other ministers and dignitaries, graced the event. The Chief Minister and other dignitaries flagged off the JCB and tractor, ceremoniously marking the beginning of the recharge well construction work. CM Patel stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cultivated a tradition of involving people's strength--Jan Shakti--in the nation's development and has championed the philosophy of 'Sauno Saath, Sauno Vikas.' He said that at the core of Gujarat's inclusive development today lies the Prime Minister's vision, built on the pillars of Jal Shakti, Jan Shakti, Urja Shakti, Raksha Shakti and Gyan Shakti. The Chief Minister highlighted that the Prime Minister consistently underscores water as the cornerstone of development. When Narendra Modi assumed office as Chief Minister of Gujarat, the state grappled with severe shortages of both electricity and water. His visionary leadership empowered us to convert challenges into opportunities. He directed public efforts into a large-scale campaign dedicated to water conservation, storage, construction of check dams, and development of reservoirs to effectively address the water crisis. As a result of these efforts, Gujarat transitioned from being a water-deficient state to a water-surplus one. The Prime Minister has consistently guided us to stay prepared for any potential crisis, with foresight and strategic planning. With the noble aim of raising the groundwater levels across the country, the Prime Minister launched the nationwide Jal Shakti Abhiyan in 2019. Under his guidance, water conservation efforts involving public participation have been actively carried out throughout the nation. To raise the groundwater table in Banaskantha, the state government plans to construct nearly 50,000 recharge wells. Of these, 25,000 recharge wells are to be built with the support of Banas Dairy. CM congratulated Shankarbhai Chaudhary and his team for Banas Dairy's committed contribution to this initiative. Prime Minister Modi has given the mantra 'Water from the border should stay within the border, and water from the village should serve the village,' and under his leadership, water conservation efforts at all levels across the state have been initiated with active public participation. To support the irrigation system, boost agricultural production, and deepen groundwater levels, we have launched the Recharge Well Construction Campaign through rainwater storage and conservation, said CM. The Chief Minister stated that in our ancient culture, water is considered a divine blessing, and rivers are revered as mothers. Furthermore, water irrigation is a crucial element for farmers, who are the true pioneers of the agricultural revolution, to succeed in farming. Natural farming offers solutions to many problems. With adequate water availability in the state, agriculture and crop production have significantly increased. To further enrich farming, the focus has shifted towards chemical-free and natural farming practices. The use of chemical fertilisers harms both the soil and human health. Today, there is a rising incidence of serious health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart attacks, even among the youth. To address this, the Prime Minister has advocated the mantra of 'Back to Basics' and strongly promoted the campaign for natural farming. PM Modi has inspired us with a vision that combines environmental preservation, patriotism, public awareness, and a deep sense of responsibility toward future generations to build a Viksit Bharat. Advocating for sustainable development in harmony with nature, he has launched nationwide initiatives like 'Ek Ped, Maa ke Naam' to enhance green cover alongside water conservation. Under the mantra 'Vocal for Local,' the Prime Minister has also charted a path to strengthen indigenous production. By supporting natural farming, he has laid down a roadmap to protect the health of generations to come. Through these commitments, he has called upon the nation to realise the goal of a Viksit Bharat@ 2047. The Chief Minister was confident that the water conservation efforts underway today will secure water resources for future generations. CM Bhupendra Patel congratulated visionary Prime Minister and the nation's armed forces on the remarkable success of Operation Sindoor. He remarked that this achievement has once again showcased the courage and heroism of our military, uniting the entire country in pride through the 'Tiranga Yatra.' With great pride, he called upon everyone to honour and salute our soldiers by chanting 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai.' Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil stated that India is home to 18% of the world's livestock, with Banaskantha district having the highest number of animals. Water is an essential factor for these animals as well as for sustaining life. However, it may surprise you to know that only 4 per cent of the country's water is potable. Out of 700 districts in India, 150 are designated as dark zones in terms of water availability, including Banaskantha, one of the largest districts in North Gujarat. Efforts to lift Banaskantha out of this dark zone have been underway for the past year under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under his leadership, continuous efforts are being made nationwide to conserve water through initiatives like Amrit Sarovar, Narmada Yojana, and Sauni Yojana. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had emphasised the need to connect rivers, and the current Prime Minister is fulfilling this vision by working on linking rivers such as the Narmada, Sabarmati, and rivers in Kutch. Moreover, a Rs 77,000 crore project has been approved to connect three rivers across Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. To realise the Prime Minister's vision of a Viksit Bharat@ 2047, it is crucial to meet the country's water needs not merely by building dams but by adopting the 'Catch the Rain' approach--harvesting rainwater and recharging groundwater resources. On this occasion, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Shankar Chaudhary, stated that PM Modi has launched a significant initiative to tackle water scarcity in the country's dark zone districts, with Banaskantha being the first selected in Gujarat. Under this effort, Banas Dairy will construct 25,000 recharge wells in the district, offering farmers 50 per cent assistance. He emphasised the need to continue this campaign for the next four years, with a vision extending over ten years. To further green Banaskantha, Banas Dairy has also worked on revitalising the mountains by dispersing seed balls. He also spoke about the success of Operation Sindoor. He said that everyone must make collective efforts to recharge more groundwater. Chaudhary urged that this campaign should continue for the next four years, with plans formulated for the next ten years accordingly. To make Banaskantha greener, Banaskantha Dairy has also worked on throwing seed balls on the hills to promote vegetation growth. He also spoke about the success of Operation Sindoor. Archana Varma, Managing Director of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, briefed the attendees about the ministry's ongoing work, while Banaskantha District Collector Mihir Patel warmly welcomed everyone. (ANI)
India Gazette
a day ago
- Business
- India Gazette
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel holds meeting with Sweden's Consul General
Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], May 30 (ANI): Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel held a meeting with the Consul General of Sweden (based in Mumbai) Sven Ostberg, along with representatives from around eleven Swedish companies and industrial leaders. This meeting was organised to strengthen the Investor Facilitation Mechanism, which promotes investments and collaborations across various sectors between the Government of Gujarat and Sweden. During the discussion, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel highlighted that Gujarat continues to derive substantial benefits from the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He stated that Gujarat, under the guidance of the Prime Minister, has emerged as a policy-driven and proactive governance model, becoming the first choice for investors from India and abroad. He mentioned that Gujarat provides such an encouraging, peaceful atmosphere and robust infrastructure that once people come to Gujarat for industrial investment, they do not consider any other place for investment. CM outlined how Gujarat has assumed a leadership role under the guidance of the Prime Minister in key areas such as renewable energy and green growth. He assured the Swedish investors of the State Government's full support and cooperation in these sectors, along with the timely and appropriate resolution of all matters, whether minor or significant. The Swedish industry leaders expressed their gratitude to CM Patel for the support extended by the State Government and conveyed their expectation that such dynamic cooperation would continue in the future as well. Consul General Sven Ostberg stated that approximately 60 Swedish industries and companies currently operate in Gujarat across various sectors, providing employment opportunities to nearly 11,000 individuals. He further noted that Swedish companies are actively contributing to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision of 'Make in India, Made for the World,' and reiterated this point during his interaction with the Chief Minister. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Das; Principal Secretary of Industries Mamta Verma; Commissioner of Industries P. Swaroop; Secretary Dr Vikrant Pandey, and other senior officials. (ANI)
India Gazette
2 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel launches state-wide Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan
Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], May 29 (ANI): Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, while initiating the state-wide 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan', stated that this campaign will serve as a unique initiative to enhance agricultural production, promote farmer self-reliance, and foster indigenous produce. In this context, he said that inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this campaign aims to bring about a revolutionary transformation in agriculture by integrating efforts such as value addition, farm mechanization, and natural farming through the use of timely technology in agriculture. This campaign, organised by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare with support from ICAR, scientists from state Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and experts from agricultural universities, will be conducted nationwide from May 29 to June 12, according to the press release. CM Patel launched the campaign in Gujarat from Anand Agricultural University on Thursday. Under this campaign in Gujarat, an extensive plan has been formulated to directly reach more than 3.50 lakh farmers through 2951 clusters across 235 talukas. During this campaign, scientists from 30 Krishi Vigyan Kendras and four agricultural universities, agricultural experts, officers from the agriculture department, and local progressive farmers will visit villages and interact with farmers. During these visits, farmers will be informed about natural farming, modern and climate-resilient farming methods, new improved seeds, nano fertilizers, soil health card usage, and the importance of using only the necessary amount of fertilizers. Additionally, they will also be made aware of farmer-beneficiary schemes of the Central and State Governments. In the Anand Agricultural University zone, more than 1.02 lakh farmers from 793 villages across 9 districts; 80,000 farmers from 465 villages across 7 districts under Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University; 1.20 lakh farmers from 933 villages across 10 districts under Junagadh Agricultural University; and over 71,000 farmers from 760 villages across 7 districts under Navsari Agricultural University zone will be covered under this campaign. Altogether, more than 3.5 lakh farmers will be reached, as planned by the state government's Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. CM Patel described the campaign as a golden opportunity delivered to the doorstep of Gujarat's farmers. He added that by recognising the need for innovation and research in agriculture, Gujarat, under the visionary leadership of PM Modi, has set a remarkable example of how to effectively harness modern technology and science, such as nano urea fertilizer and drone technology, in the farming sector. He further stated that PM Modi demonstrated in Gujarat how political will, when focused on the betterment of farmers, the agricultural sector, and rural life, can bring about transformative changes by ensuring the provision of adequate electricity and Narmada water for irrigation. PM initiated the 'Krishi Mahotsav' with an approach where the state government proactively provides farmers with guidance on optimal crop selection for their fields and strategies for achieving higher value through value addition. The Chief Minister stated that agricultural welfare dimensions such as Soil Health Cards, Lab to Land, and Pashu Arogya Mela have been made possible for Gujarat through PM's visionary leadership and foresight. As a result, during the period from 2001 to 2014, when the national agricultural growth rate was just 3 percent, Gujarat's annual agricultural growth rate was increasing at a double-digit pace. The Chief Minister congratulated PM Modi and the brave soldiers of the country for the success of Operation Sindoor and stated that just as the army constantly stands guard to protect the country's borders, farmers ensure the food security of the nation's people. He also expressed confidence that Gujarat's farmers will continue to lead the way in this Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan for Viksit Bharat@2047. On the occasion of launching this campaign, the Chief Minister also symbolically distributed various assistance kits to the farmers. Addressing the event, Dr. Manish Das of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, provided detailed insights into ICAR's efforts to overcome challenges faced by farmers in the agricultural sector. He further stated that through this campaign, which is aligned with the Prime Minister's Lab to Land vision, ICAR aims to provide a new dimension by reaching around 1.5 crore farmers in the state. He expressed confidence that ICAR scientists will work to solve the challenges faced by farmers in their fields through this campaign. In a welcoming address, Vice-Chancellor of Anand Agricultural University, K B Kathiria, stated that the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan will become a platform for mutual learning between farmers and scientists. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Director of Agriculture Prakash Rabari. On this occasion, Deputy Chief Whip Raman Solanki, Member of Parliament Mitesh Patel, District Leader Sanjay Patel, MLAs Yogesh Patel, Chirag Patel, Kamlesh Patel, Vipul Patel, Additional Chief Secretary of the Agriculture Department Anju Sharma, Managing Director of Agro Industries Vijay Kharadi, Secretary of Agriculture and Cooperation Department P D Palsana, District Collector Pravin Chaudhary, District Development Officer Devahuti, Superintendent of Police Gaurav Jasani, senior officials and staff of the Agriculture Department, and a large number of farmers were present. (ANI)
