Latest news with #Mandaviya
Hindustan Times
19 hours ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
At Urban Adda, experts push vision for human-centric cities
As India's cities grow denser and more chaotic, a fundamental question is taking centre stage: What would cities look like if they were designed for people instead of cars? That idea drove the conversations at Urban Adda 2025 — a three-day national dialogue on urban futures that kicked off on World Bicycle Day at India Habitat Centre. Organised by the Raahgiri Foundation in collaboration with the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) and GuruJal, the event was inaugurated by Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who urged citizens to embrace cycling as a sustainable and healthy habit. Hindustan Times is the media partner for the event. 'Cycling is the best form of exercise and a solution to pollution,' said Mandaviya, who holds the labour & employment and youth affairs & sports portfolios. Recalling his early days as a member of Parliament, he said, 'I cycled to Parliament daily and was known as the 'cycle-wala MP'. We must shed the notion that cycling is only for a certain segment and turn it into a movement for all.' The minister also launched two books authored by Dr Bhairavi Joshi — Cycling, Children & Cities, and Road to Cycle2School — advocating safe, active mobility for children and youth. The event's inaugural theme, 'Gati & Grace – Mobility, Art & Access for All', focused on building more inclusive, accessible and people-friendly cities. It featured sessions on improving roads, public spaces and transport infrastructure with inputs from policymakers, artists, activists and urban designers. The opening session titled 'The Human Centred Cities: Designing for Well-being, Connection and Sustainable Futures' called for cities to be designed not just efficiently, but equitably. 'A change in mindset is something we are all working towards, but statutory guidelines are extremely important,' said Ranjit Gadgil, programme director at Pune-based NGO Parisar. 'Mandates are needed so that standard urban designing can be done. Then, experts can be brought in to implement these designs.' The session was moderated by Sarika Panda Bhatt of the Raahgiri Foundation. In the second session, experts discussed adopting a 'Vision Zero' approach — aiming for zero road deaths or serious injuries, which can only be possible through proper planning and implementation of rules. Professor Geetam Tiwari of IIT Delhi, in her keynote address, argued that effective enforcement alone would not suffice — roads must be designed to forgive mistakes. 'We cannot rely on individuals to always make the right decision — our roads must be designed to forgive human error,' she said. 'Even if an individual jumps a red light, for instance, an uneven road surface could automatically reduce their speed and lower the risk of a fatal crash. It does not mean we should encourage not following traffic rules, but the infrastructure should be designed in such a way that even if there are people who do not follow rules, lives are not lost.' A subsequent session, 'User Experience, Accessibility and Inclusion by Design', focused on making public infrastructure inclusive for persons with disabilities (PWDs). Four volunteers participated in a short exercise simulating PWD experiences — two used wheelchairs, one was blindfolded, and one used crutches to navigate around the room. Stuti Kacker, former secretary, ministry of social justice and empowerment, said, 'In the early days of the Accessible India campaign, people would ask — where are the PWDs? We realised they're often isolated and reluctant to come out. After 10 years, there's more awareness, but the system is still not seamless and we need to work on that.' Among the panellists was Anuj Dayal, principal executive director, corporate communications, at Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). Delhi Metro was among the first public transport systems in the country to incorporate accessibility features such as tactile strips, audio announcements and ramps for elevators. 'The national building code and the CPWD helped us incorporate these additions, but we also consulted activists like Anjlee Agarwal and Javed Abidi,' said Dayal, stating users can call the station master at any Metro station to ask for crutches or wheelchairs. 'In that case, the metro staff guides them to the platform,' he said. He noted that in lifts, buttons are placed at a low height, but acknowledged past complaints that not all lifts had ramps. 'We have tried to take feedback and incorporate changes wherever possible,' he said.
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Shankar Mahadevan on IPL 2025 closing ceremony: ‘I feel truly humbled to pay tribute to our Armed Forces'
Over 15,000 cyclists nationwide participated in the Tiranga Rally, honoring armed forces during Fit India Sundays. Led by Dr. Mandaviya, the event celebrated patriotism, fitness, and environmental awareness, featuring celebrities and highlighting national unity through cycling.
India.com
3 days ago
- Business
- India.com
PF Withdrawal Via ATM, Free ESIC Treatment & More: 5 Major Overhaul In EPFO 3.0; Rollout Likely This Month
photoDetails english 2909765 Updated:Jun 02, 2025, 09:45 AM IST EPFO To Undergo Major Digital Overhaul 1 / 7 Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has confirmed that the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is all set for a major digital overhaul. The changes were expected to rollout between end of May or June. Since there was no activity on EPFO Version 3.0 last month, it is mostly expected that the new rules might kick in from June 2025. EPFO Version 3.0 2 / 7 EPFO Version 3.0 will undergo numerous changes with regards to auto-claim settlements, digital corrections, and ATM-based fund withdrawals, Mandaviya had told a news agency. Here are looking at 5 such upcoming changes. 1. EPFO Seamless Process 3 / 7 The new version will eliminate the need for complex and lengthy form-filling processes or physical visits for claims and corrections. 2. EPFO A/C Update With OTP verification 4 / 7 Beneficiaries will be able to update their EPFO accounts and mandates using OTP verification and conveniently monitor their pension entitlements or withdraw funds. 3. Integration Of Social Security Schemes 5 / 7 Mandaviya said the government is also considering the integration of various social security schemes, including the Atal Pension Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Bima Yojana, and Shramik Jan Dhan Yojana, to streamline and strengthen pension coverage. Beneficiaries under the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) will soon be able to receive free medical treatment at hospitals empanelled under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. 4. Charity-Run Private Hospitals Under ESIC Ambit 6 / 7 Designated charity-run private hospitals will also be brought under ESIC ambit to expand social security coverage. Currently, ESIC provides free treatment to about 18 crore people through 165 hospitals, over 1,500 dispensaries and around 2,000 empanelled hospitals. 5. Members To Soon Withdraw PF Through UPI And ATM 7 / 7 The EPFO plans to launch a ground-breaking new PF withdrawal method via the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). Labour and Employment Secretary Sumita Dawra had previously told news agency ANI, the ministry has approved NPCI's recommendation, and members may withdraw PF through UPI and ATM by the end of May or June this year. This may also be a good pilot for members of other schemes like the General Provident Fund (GPF) of Govt Employees of the Public Provident Fund (PPF) of Banks.
India Gazette
3 days ago
- Sport
- India Gazette
Tiranga Rally: 25th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle pays tribute to armed forces, celebrates World Bicycle Day
New Delhi [India], June 1 (ANI): The 25th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle, celebrated as Tiranga Cycling Rally, was successfully held in various parts of the country on Sunday morning. Highlighting a powerful blend of patriotism, fitness, and environmental awareness, more than 15000 cyclists from over 5000 locations joined in for a nationwide tribute to India's armed forces, as per a press release from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Media. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, led over 1500 cyclists at the Major Dhyanchand National Stadium here, alongside Secretary (Sports) Hari Ranjan Rao, sports icons - Olympic medalist Yogeshwar Dutt, cricketer Saba Karim, wrestler Sarita Mor, Bollywood actress Sharvari, and the Indian cycling team. One of the major highlights of the Sunday morning remained a full-fledged participation of cyclists from several regions of Jammu and Kashmir, including Jammu, Poonch, Kishtwar, Kulgam, Bandipora, Shopian, Baramulla, Budgam, Samba and more. These cycling drives were conducted by several Khelo India Centres (KICs), Khelo India State Centres of Excellence (KISCEs) and SAI Training Centres (STCs). Paying tribute to the armed forces, especially in light of the recent successful Operation Sindoor, Dr Mandaviya emphasized the deeper significance of this edition. 'This Tiranga Rally is a salute to our jawans and their sacrifice. Fitness and patriotism go hand in hand,' the Minister said. The landmark edition saw the launch of two key initiatives - the 'Fit India Newsletter' and the 'Carbon Credit Feature' on the 'Fit India' mobile app, where cyclists can now track the carbon credits they save by cycling regularly. 'One download of the app will make you a part of the Fit India movement,' Dr Mandaviya added. 'Your speed--from 7 to 34 kmph--and your distance will be recorded, and your carbon credits will be added.' The newly launched Fit India Newsletter will also serve as a monthly digest, featuring inspiring news stories as well as updates and training tips from various fitness influencers. Actress Sharvari, who is hailed as an upcoming superstar and is credited for films like Munjiya and Maharaja, was awarded the title of 'Young Fit India Icon' by Dr Mandaviya at the event. 'This movement is huge, and it is an honour to be a Fit India Icon. Cycling reminds me of school summer holidays--we all used to hire cycles and set out. This cycle rally is even more significant for me because this is for our brave soldiers. We can sleep peacefully in our homes because of them, and it is my great honour to pay tribute to their bravery through this Tiranga Rally,' he said. The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative started in December 2024 with 150-odd cyclists and the participation figure has grown by leaps in a span of six months. Credit for this huge surge goes to partners such as the CISF, Indian Medical Association, journalist associations, teachers, Corporates, and professionals from several other walks of life who have made this possible. In this edition, the special partners were the Cycling Federation of India, Yogasana Bharat, Association of Indian Universities, BYCS India, CultFit and Red FM. Olympian and wrestling champion Yogeshwar Dutt called the initiative 'a movement that links national health with national pride'. He remarked, 'If we are healthy, the country will be healthy. Young kids, senior citizens, all are participating. That's the power of this campaign.' Several athletes pan-India also joined in to make the landmark 25th edition of Sundays of Cycle a grand success. Olympian and Arjuna Awardee Dipa Karmakar flagged off the rally in SAI Training Centre (STC) Agartala, while in SAI Sonepat, Deepika Kumari ( Padma Shri Awardee Archer), Purnima Mahato (Padma Shri Archery Coach), Arjuna Awardees Sumit Antil, Paralympics Double Gold Medallist and Asian Games Gold medallists Jyothi Surekha , Ojas Deotale, Aditi Gopichand Swami, Paralympians Sundar Gurjar and Pushpender took part. Renowned Indian Hockey player SK Uthappa was also in attendance in SAI Bengaluru. Meanwhile, there was a big representation of the All India Police force in SAI Rohtak. Rekha Arya, the Sports Minister of Uttarakhand, and Girish Yadav, the Sports Minister of Uttar Pradesh, joined in from respective events in Uttarakhand and Varanasi. Former cricketer and sports administrator Saba Karim praised the inclusiveness of the initiative. 'This is a brilliant step by SAI. Cycling keeps us fit and our surroundings green. I used to cycle to school myself. There's no maintenance, no pollution. A perfect tool for health and the environment.' Wrestler Sarita Mor, too, spoke passionately: 'I feel blessed to be part of this initiative started by PM Narendra Modi. Cycling is already a part of my training routine. Today, with this rally, we also remember our brave soldiers of Operation Sindoor. It is because of them that we stay safe today.' (ANI)
Hans India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
25th edition of 'Fit India Sundays on Cycle' pays tribute to armed forces; celebrates World Bicycle Day
The 25th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle, celebrated as Tiranga Cycling Rally, was successfully held across the nation on Sunday morning. Highlighting a powerful blend of patriotism, fitness and environmental awareness, more than 15,000 cyclists from over 5000 locations joined in for a nationwide tribute to India's armed forces. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya led over 1500 cyclists at the Major Dhyanchand National Stadium here, alongside Secretary (Sports) Ranjan Rao, sports icons - Olympic medallist Yogeshwar Dutt, cricketer Saba Karim, wrestler Sarita Mor, Bollywood actress Sharvari and the Indian cycling team. One of the major highlights of the Sunday morning remained a full-fledged participation of cyclists from several regions of Jammu and Kashmir, including Jammu, Poonch, Kishtwar, Kulgam, Bandipora, Shopian, Baramulla, Budgam, Samba and more. These cycling drives were conducted by several Khelo India Centres (KICs), Khelo India State Centres of Excellence (KISCEs) and SAI Training Centres (STCs). Paying tribute to the armed forces, especially in light of the recent successful Operation Sindoor, Mandaviya emphasised the deeper significance of this edition. 'This Tiranga Rally is a salute to our jawans and their sacrifice. Fitness and patriotism go hand in hand,' he said. The landmark edition saw the launch of two key initiatives – the Fit India Newsletter and the Carbon Credit Feature on the Fit India mobile app, where cyclists can now track the carbon credits they save by cycling regularly. 'One download of the app will make you a part of the Fit India movement. Your speed - from 7 to 34 kmph - and your distance will be recorded, and your carbon credits will be added," Mandaviya added. The newly launched Fit India Newsletter will also serve as a monthly digest, featuring inspiring news stories as well as updates and training tips from various fitness influencers. Actress Sharvari, who has been hailed as an upcoming superstar and is credited for films like Munjiya and Maharaja, was awarded the title of 'Young Fit India Icon' by Mandaviya at the event. 'This movement is huge and it's an honour to be a Fit India Icon. Cycling reminds me of school summer holidays - we all used to hire cycles and set out,' she said. 'This cycle rally is even more significant for me because this is for our brave soldiers. We can sleep peacefully in our homes because of them and it is my great honour to pay tribute to their bravery through this Tiranga Rally.' Olympian and wrestling champion Yogeshwar Dutt called the initiative 'a movement that links national health with national pride'. He remarked, 'If we are healthy, the country will be healthy. Young kids, senior citizens, all are participating. That's the power of this campaign.' Several athletes pan-India also joined in to make the landmark 25th edition of Sundays of Cycle a grand success. Olympian and Arjuna Awardee Dipa Karmakar flagged off the rally in SAI Training Centre (STC) Agartala while in SAI Sonepat, Deepika Kumari (Padma Shri Awardee Archer), Purnima Mahato (Padma Shri Archery Coach), Arjuna Awardees Sumit Antil, Paralympics double gold medallist and Asian Games gold medallists Jyothi Surekha, Ojas Deotale, Aditi Gopichand Swami, Paralympians Sundar Gurjar and Pushpender took part. Renowned Indian hockey player S.K Uthappa was also in attendance in SAI Bengaluru. Meanwhile, there was a big representation of the All India Police force in SAI Rohtak. Rekha Arya, Sports Minister of Uttarakhand, and Girish Yadav, Sports Minister of Uttar Pradesh, joined in for respective events in Uttarakhand and Varanasi. Former cricketer and sports administrator Saba Karim praised the inclusiveness of the initiative. 'This is a brilliant step by SAI. Cycling keeps us fit and our surroundings green. I used to cycle to school myself. There's no maintenance, no pollution. A perfect tool for health and environment," he said. Wrestler Sarita Mor, too, spoke passionately, "I feel blessed to be part of this initiative started by PM Shri Narendra Modi. Cycling is already a part of my training routine. Today, with this rally, we also remember our brave soldiers of Operation Sindoor. It is because of them that we stay safe today."
