Latest news with #DigitalIndia
News18
2 days ago
- Business
- News18
EPFO 3.0: When Will PF Withdrawal Via UPI, ATM Begin? All You Need To Know
Last Updated: One of the most-anticipated features of the EPFO 3.0 is the ability for EPF subscribers to withdraw funds via UPI and ATM, which could revolutionise how PF is managed and accessed. In a significant step towards enhancing funds accessibility for salaried employees, the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is likely to launch EPFO 3.0 in June 2025, according to a DD News report. One of the most anticipated features of this digital transformation is the facility for EPF subscribers to withdraw funds using UPI and ATMs, potentially revolutionising provident fund (PF) account management and access. What is EPFO 3.0? EPFO 3.0 represents a comprehensive digital upgrade to the current EPF system. While existing systems require members to log in through the EPFO portal and submit claims processed over several days, version 3.0 is expected to significantly reduce turnaround time and offer real-time access to funds through user-friendly platforms like ATMs and UPI apps. This marks a shift from a partially manual process to a seamless digital interface. How Will ATM and UPI Withdrawals Work? Though the precise operational details are awaited, the EPFO 3.0 upgrade is expected to integrate PF accounts with the broader financial infrastructure supporting the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and ATM networks. This would allow subscribers to withdraw eligible EPF funds directly via UPI apps or bank ATMs, possibly using a secure PIN or Aadhaar-based verification. Withdrawal limits and conditions are likely to be implemented to ensure fund safety and compliance. Benefits of Digital Withdrawals Experts suggest the new digital withdrawal methods promise multiple benefits. Firstly, it enhances convenience by eliminating paperwork and lengthy waiting periods. Secondly, it enables anytime, anywhere access to EPF savings, crucial in emergencies. Thirdly, it aligns with the broader vision of Digital India and financial inclusion by integrating government-backed savings schemes with the digital financial ecosystem commonly used by most Indians. Implementation Timeline and Future Outlook As per the DD News report, the launch of EPFO 3.0 is anticipated in June 2025, though an official confirmation of the date is pending. A phased rollout or pilot testing in select regions may precede nationwide implementation. This development is likely to impact over six crore EPF account holders across India. First Published:
India.com
3 days ago
- Business
- India.com
India's first AI zone to come up in this city; not Bengaluru, New Delhi, Mumbai, Noida, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Gurgaon; the city is...
File/Representational Nava Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, is poised to become the home of India's first AI-centric Special Economic Zone (SEZ)– a dedicated area which is being specially designed for the development and operation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and computer data-related technologies. Mega AI data center to come up in Nava Raipur The project, being developed by RackBank Datacenters Pvt Limited at an investment of Rs 1000 crore, will host state-of-the-art computer systems and servers that will run AI systems capable of human-like reasoning, making it a hub for major global companies like Microsoft, Google, Meta, Amazon, etc to carry out their digital operations. An official statement issued by the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister's office (CMO) said the state state government has granted tax exemptions and other legal relaxations to accelerate the development of this novel project, which will transform Nava Raipur into India's next digital and technological hub. The RackBank Datacenter SEZ in Nava Raipur will be spread over around six acres and will feature a modern 1.5 lakh square feet data center equipped with cutting-edge technology. There are future plans to build four high-density data centers with a combined capacity of 80 megawatts, capable of supporting digital networks across multiple states, according to details revealed by the government. Project will create new jobs for local youth Talking about the initiative, Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Dev Sai described it as a new beginning which would elevate the state's position on the national technology map. Sai stated that the project for would generate new employment opportunities for the youth, and will further the visions of Digital India and Make in India. RackBank CEO Narendra Sen said the initiative is aimed at making India self-reliant in AI, adding that the data center will offer jobs such as IT engineers, data specialists, cybersecurity officers, network managers, and company will collaborate with Chhattisgarh's ITI, engineering, and polytechnic institutes to run training programs that prepare students for the industry, he said. Notably, AI is not limited to computers anymore and its various aspects have begun to influence areas like human language, thinking, education, health, and even agriculture. The new data center Raipur is being developed with these services in mind, and would attract global tech giants like Google, OpenAI, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta, to bring their operations to the city.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
India's first AI-centric SEZ to come up in CG at a cost of 1000 crore
Raipur: In a landmark development, India's first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-centric Special Economic Zone (SEZ) will be established in Nava Raipur in Chhattisgarh. Designed exclusively for the advancement and operations of AI and computer data technologies, the govt expects it to catapult the region into the national and global spotlight as a leading digital and technological hub. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The project will be spearheaded by a private limited data company with an estimated investment of Rs 1000 crore. Spanning approximately over six acres, the SEZ will feature a state-of-the-art data center of 1.5 lakh square feet, which will be equipped with high-performance computing systems and servers capable of powering advanced AI requirements, officials said. Four high-density data centers are planned to support digital infrastructures across multiple states. CM Vishnu Deo Sai lauded the project as a 'new beginning for the state', highlighting its potential to generate employment for the youth and to establish the state as a technological force on the national stage. He emphasized that the AI SEZ aligns seamlessly with the visions of Digital India and Make in India. "This initiative is a strategic leap that positions India not just as a consumer of AI services, but as a self-reliant producer and host," said Narendra Sen, CEO of RackBank Data Centers Pvt Ltd, at the event, announcing the project. He added that the data center will create jobs for IT engineers, data scientists, cybersecurity professionals, and network managers. The company plans to collaborate with ITIs, engineering, and polytechnic colleges of the state to launch specialized training programs, preparing students for future roles in the AI industry. The ambitious plan of this SEZ envisions that global giants like Google, OpenAI, Microsoft, and Meta may host their AI services from this center. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now For the first time, India will not merely consume these services but also offer a domestic base for their operations, marking a new jump of the state in future technologies. The state govt thinks that beyond its technical significance, the project promises wide-ranging socio-economic impact. Students from remote and tribal regions will have national and international level opportunities right in the state, officials added. Raipur: In a landmark development, India's first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-centric Special Economic Zone (SEZ) will be established in Nava Raipur in Chhattisgarh. Designed exclusively for the advancement and operations of AI and computer data technologies, the govt expects it to catapult the region into the national and global spotlight as a leading digital and technological hub. The project will be spearheaded by a private limited data company with an estimated investment of Rs 1000 crore. Spanning approximately over six acres, the SEZ will feature a state-of-the-art data center of 1.5 lakh square feet, which will be equipped with high-performance computing systems and servers capable of powering advanced AI requirements, officials said. Four high-density data centers are planned to support digital infrastructures across multiple states. CM Vishnu Deo Sai lauded the project as a 'new beginning for the state', highlighting its potential to generate employment for the youth and to establish the state as a technological force on the national stage. He emphasized that the AI SEZ aligns seamlessly with the visions of Digital India and Make in India. "This initiative is a strategic leap that positions India not just as a consumer of AI services, but as a self-reliant producer and host," said Narendra Sen, CEO of RackBank Data Centers Pvt Ltd, at the event, announcing the project. He added that the data center will create jobs for IT engineers, data scientists, cybersecurity professionals, and network managers. The company plans to collaborate with ITIs, engineering, and polytechnic colleges of the state to launch specialized training programs, preparing students for future roles in the AI industry. The ambitious plan of this SEZ envisions that global giants like Google, OpenAI, Microsoft, and Meta may host their AI services from this center. For the first time, India will not merely consume these services but also offer a domestic base for their operations, marking a new jump of the state in future technologies. The state govt thinks that beyond its technical significance, the project promises wide-ranging socio-economic impact. Students from remote and tribal regions will have national and international level opportunities right in the state, officials added.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
India's first AI-focused SEZ to come up in Chhattisgarh
India's first AI SEZ in Chhattisgarh RackBank to invest Rs 1000 crores Raipur: In a landmark development, India's first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-centric Special Economic Zone (SEZ) will be established in Nava Raipur in Chhattisgarh. Designed exclusively for the advancement and operations of AI and computer data technologies, the government expects it to catapult the region into the national and global spotlight as a leading digital and technological hub. The project will be spearheaded by a private limited data company with an estimated investment of Rs 1000 crore. Spanning approximately over six acres, the SEZ will feature a state-of-the-art 1.5 lakh square feet data center, equipped with high-performance computing systems and servers capable of powering advanced AI requirements. Four high-density data centers are planned to support digital infrastructures across multiple states. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai lauded the project as a 'new beginning for the state', highlighting its potential to generate employment for the youth and establish the state as a technological force on the national stage. He emphasized that the AI SEZ aligns seamlessly with the visions of Digital India and Make in India. 'This initiative is a strategic leap that positions India not just as a consumer of AI services, but as a self-reliant producer and host,' said Narendra Sen, CEO of RackBank Data Centers Pvt Ltd, at the event announcing it. He added that the data center will create jobs for IT engineers, data scientists, cybersecurity professionals, and network managers. The company plans to collaborate with ITIs, engineering, and polytechnic colleges of the state to launch specialized training programs, preparing students for future roles in the AI industry. The ambitious plan of this SEZ thinks that Global giants like Google, OpenAI, Microsoft, and Meta may host their AI services from this center. For the first time, India will not merely consume these services but also offer a domestic base for their operations, marking a new jump of the state in future technologies. The state government thinks that beyond its technical significance, the project promises wide-ranging socio-economic impact. Students from remote and tribal regions will have national and international level opportunities right in the state. The plan projects that in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, across language, education, health, and agriculture, this SEZ represents a bold step toward positioning Chhattisgarh inside India and outside, at the forefront of the digital revolution.
Hans India
5 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
Delhi celebrates 11 yrs of Modi govt, State's 100 days
New Delhi: A special discussion programme was held at Bharat Bharatam in the national capital to mark 11 years of service by the Central Government and to review the 100-day action plan and achievements of the newly formed Delhi Government. The event witnessed the presence of Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, cabinet ministers, Members of Parliament, MLAs, senior officials, policy experts, and representatives from various sectors. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasised that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has successfully advanced the vision of development, trust, and a "nation first" approach. She highlighted flagship initiatives such as Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Ayushman Bharat, and India's influential role on international platforms like the G-20 as examples of the country's evolving global identity. "Prime Minister Modi's leadership has not only positioned India as a resilient global power but also demonstrated unwavering commitment to citizen welfare through bold initiatives such as Operation Sindoor," Gupta stated. The Chief Minister also lauded the contributions of Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, noting that his three-year tenure has significantly strengthened governance and transparency in Delhi. Initiatives undertaken during his term include Yamuna river rejuvenation, action against unauthorized constructions, and key infrastructure upgrades. Efforts were also directed at enhancing peace and public safety across the capital. Gupta underscored the Delhi Government's focus on public welfare in its first 100 days. 'Every cabinet minister and MLA has worked tirelessly with a spirit of service to restore broken systems and return Delhi to a path of good governance and development,' she said. Describing the initial 100 days as a turning point, the Chief Minister highlighted major policy decisions and reforms, including a record-breaking ₹1 lakh crore budget aimed at infrastructure development. In the health sector, the government rolled out Ayushman Bharat in Delhi, granting health coverage to millions. Additionally, the Vaya Vandana Yojana was launched, offering free health insurance of up to ₹10 lakh to senior citizens above 70 years. Infrastructure improvements include the establishment of 1,139 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, 11 integrated public health labs, and nine critical care hospital blocks. To combat climate change and rising temperatures, the Delhi Government launched the Delhi Heat Action Plan 2025 and approved cloud seeding trials to mitigate air pollution. Public hearing camps are now being held across districts every Saturday to directly address citizens' concerns, alongside efforts to streamline the grievance redressal a bid to empower women, the government approved the Mahila Samridhi Yojana, and increased minimum wage rates, benefiting approximately 40 lakh workers across the city. Concluding her address, Chief Minister Gupta reaffirmed her government's commitment to service, transparency, and accessibility. 'Our mission is to make Delhi a model of cleanliness, safety, and sustainable development. This is our vision of a truly developed capital,' she said.
