Month: October 2024

On October 28, 2024, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched two Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) named Adamya and Akshar at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). This significant event highlights India’s commitment to indigenous shipbuilding, as both vessels were constructed with over 60% indigenous content as part of a broader contract for the construction of a total of eight FPVs at a cost of approximately ₹473 crore. The commissioning of these Fast Patrol Vessels is essential for strengthening India’s maritime security framework, particularly given the increasing challenges in maritime domains and the…

The recognition and protection of Indigenous herbal knowledge through patents is a multifaceted issue intertwined with traditional rights, intellectual property (IP) laws, and biopiracy concerns. Over recent years, indigenous knowledge, particularly regarding traditional medicinal practices, has gained increased attention as pharmaceutical companies seek to patent such knowledge, often without adequate compensation or recognition of the originating communities. The recognition of Indigenous herbal knowledge through patents is essential in safeguarding the rights of traditional knowledge holders against biopiracy and exploitation. Implementing effective legal frameworks that consider the unique characteristics of traditional…

On October 25, 2024, Indian Railways, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD), launched a revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at enhancing the protection of vulnerable children who come into contact with railway services. This updated procedure stems from the need to provide a comprehensive framework that safeguards children potentially at risk of exploitation and trafficking, especially those who may be separated from their families while traveling by train. In conclusion, the revised SOP represents a significant step forward in the Indian Railways’ ongoing commitment…

As of 2023, approximately 95% of land records in rural India have been digitized as part of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), an initiative launched by the Indian government to enhance the efficiency and transparency of land management. This impressive feat encompasses over 6.26 lakh villages, significantly transforming the process of land ownership documentation and management since its inception in 2016. This digitization is not merely about modernizing records; it supports economic growth and stability, empowering marginalized communities by improving access to land rights and eliminating bureaucratic…

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has launched a strategic partnership with HCLSoftware to significantly enhance India’s startup manufacturing ecosystem. This alliance, announced on October 23, 2024, is a critical element of DPIIT’s Manufacturing Incubation Initiative, aimed at fostering innovation and supporting startups within the manufacturing sector. The partnership is expected to align with India’s broader goal of becoming a global manufacturing hub. DPIIT has previously signed over 80 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with various industry stakeholders under the Startup India initiative, reflecting a strong commitment…

On October 25, 2024, the Indian Navy marked a significant milestone with the launch of ‘Abhay’, the seventh ship in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) project, built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE). This event took place at the L&T shipyard in Kattupalli, and was presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command. In a time-honored maritime tradition, the ship was launched by Mrs. Sandhya Pendharkar, President of the Navy Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA) for the Eastern Region.…