INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng N ew s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tin en t Pub li s hed From the U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 35 No. 25 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 301-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday June 19, 2026 PM Modi emphasises importance of ‘trust’ in global partnerships at G7, reaffirms India’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive development Evian [France], June 16 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday underscored the importance of “trust” in building international partnerships and reaffirmed India’s commitment to advancing sustainable and inclusive global development during the Outreach Session of the 52nd G7 Summit in Evian, France. In a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that Prime Minister Modi highlighted the need for greater cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world during the G7 Outreach Session on the theme of “Forging New Partner- ships and Rebuilding International Solidarity”. “PM Narendra Modi participated in the Outreach Session on ‘Forging new Partnerships and rebuilding international solidarity’ at the G7 Summit. PM underscored the importance of ‘trust’ in building international partnerships, especially in an increasingly interconnected world,” the MEA post read. The Prime Minister stressed that global cooperation should evolve beyond the traditional donor-recipient framework and instead be based on solidarity and equality. WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a significant recognition of immigrant leadership and community service, the United States Congress has honored Dr. Jasdip Singh Jesse, Chairman of Sikhs of America Inc., for his exceptional contributions to public service, civic engagement, interfaith cooperation, and advocacy on behalf of the Indian-American and Sikh communities. The prestigious congressional recognition highlights Dr. Singh’s decades-long commitment to strengthening the relationship between minority communities and government institutions while promoting greater participation of immigrants in the democratic process. The honor places him among a distinguished group of community leaders whose efforts have positively impacted society at both local and national levels. According to the MEA, PM Modi highlighted India’s “humanity first” approach, reflected in several international initiatives spearheaded by the country, including the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the Global Biofuel Alliance, Mission LiFe and the ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’ campaign.” He said that the world should move from donor-recipient to partnerships based on solidar- ity and equality,” the post read.” PM highlighted that India has always followed a ‘humanity first’ approach reflected in India-led International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Global Biofuel Alliance, Mission LiFe and Ek Ped Maa ke Naam initiatives,” it added. The Prime Minister also noted that India’s approach to international engagement is rooted in the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ or “the world is one family’, G7 - MODI SEE PAGE 4 Capitol Hill Honors Diaspora Leader: U.S. Congress Recognizes Dr. Jasdip Singh Jesse for Outstanding Community Service Remember: A Voice for the Indian-American Community Over the years, Dr. Jasdip Singh Jesse has emerged as one of the most influential voices representing the Indian-American and Sikh-American communities in the United States. Through his leadership of Sikhs of America Inc., he has worked tirelessly to ensure that the concerns and aspirations of minority communities are heard by lawmakers, policymakers, and public officials. His efforts have focused on encouraging civic participation, promoting cultural understanding, and fostering “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” -Jesus Christ dialogue between diverse communities. By building bridges between government institutions and immigrant populations, Dr. Singh has helped create opportunities for greater representation and inclusion within American society. The congressional citation recognizes his role as a trusted liaison who has consistently facilitated constructive engagement between community organizations and federal agencies, helping address issues ranging from religious accommodation and civil rights to education, economic development, and public service. A Humbling Recognition Speaking after receiving the honor, Dr. Singh expressed gratitude to the many volunteers, community leaders, and supporters who have worked alongside him throughout the years. “Receiving this recognition from the United States Congress is both Championing Community Development an honor and a responsibility,” said Dr. Singh. “This achievement belongs not only to me but to the countless individuals who dedicate their time and energy to strengthening our communities and serving our nation. It is a reminder that meaningful change is achieved when people come together in a spirit of service, unity, and shared purpose.” He emphasized the importance of encouraging younger generations to become actively involved in civic life and community leadership, noting that engagement in public affairs is essential for building a stronger and more inclusive future. Under Dr. Singh’s leadership, Sikhs of America Inc. has expanded its role as a leading advocacy organization, addressing issues that affect not only Sikh Americans but also the broader South Asian diaspora. The organization has promoted educational initiatives, interfaith dialogue programs, charitable activities, and efforts to strengthen community relations. Dr. Singh has also played a significant role in promoting understanding of Sikh traditions and values while encouraging cooperation among people of different faiths and cultural backgrounds. His work has helped foster mutual respect and strengthen the social fabric of diverse communities across the country. Beyond community advocacy, Dr. Singh DR. JASSE SINGH SEE PAGE 2
INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026 Capitol Hill Honors Diaspora Leader: U.S. Congress Recognizes Dr. Jasdip Singh Jesse for Outstanding Community Service DR. JASSE SINGH FROM PAGE 1 has contributed to initiatives involving education, economic cooperation, and philanthropy. Through partnerships with academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, and business leaders, he has supported programs aimed at empowering future generations and creating opportunities for social advancement. Building Bridges Between Nations In addition to his domestic contributions, Dr. Singh has been a strong advocate for strengthening ties between the United States and India. Through various forums and community initiatives, he has encouraged greater collaboration in trade, education, cultural exchange, and people-to-people relations. His efforts have helped highlight the growing influence of the Indian-American community as a vital bridge connecting the world’s two largest democracies. The congressional recognition of Dr. Jasdip Singh Jesse represents more than an individual achievement. It serves as a testament to the growing contributions of the Indian-American and Sikh-American communities to the social, economic, and civic life of the United States. As members of the South Asian diaspora continue to make significant contributions in business, education, public service, healthcare, technology, and government, this honor reflects the increasing recognition of their impact on American society. New Delhi [India], June 13 (ANI): In a medical achievement, doctors at a private hospital in Delhi successfully performed a robotic kidney removal surgery on a 19-month-old girl from Mauritius suffering from Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT). The child had this condition since birth, which affected the development of the kidneys and urinary system. Her right kidney had been completely damaged with multiple cysts, leaving it non-functional and making it a recurrent source of febrile urinary tract infections (UTIs). CAKUT is among the most common causes of chronic kidney disease in children, accounting for approximately 50% – 60% of all pediatric cases and up to 40% of pediatric end-stage kidney disease and can lead to significant health com- plications if left untreated. Following a detailed evaluation, the multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Vikas Jain opted for a robotic nephrectomy using advanced minimally invasive technology. Speaking about the case, Dr. Vikas Jain, HOD & Consultant – Urology, Manipal Hospital Dwarka in New Delhi, said, ” When we first met the child and her mother, our priority was to treat and give this little girl the opportunity to live a healthier life. At just 19 months old, she is among the youngest children to undergo robotic kidney re- A Milestone for the Diaspora Community leaders and supporters have welcomed the congressional citation as an inspiring example of what dedicated service and visionary leadership can achieve. Many view the recognition as a milestone that will encourage greater civic participation among future generations of Indian-Americans and Sikh-Americans. Dr. Jasdip Singh Jesse’s journey from community advocate to nationally recognized leader underscores the enduring value of service, perse- verance, and commitment to the common good. His latest honor from the United States Congress stands as a powerful affirmation of the role that community leadership plays in strengthening the nation and enriching its democratic traditions. moval surgery. Performing this procedure in a child so young required exceptional precision due to the extremely limited operating space. The unusually large right kidney, affected by multicystic dysplastic disease, occupied almost the entire upper right quadrant of the abdomen, significantly reducing the already limited working space available for surgery. This made the robotic procedure particularly challenging. With meticulous planning and a multidisciplinary approach, we were able to safely remove the non-functioning kidney and help prevent future complications.” Dr. Abhinav Jain, Consultant – Urology, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi, said, “In children this young, every aspect of care demands special consideration, from positioning and monitoring to protecting the function of the remaining healthy kidney. In this case, our focus was equally on ensuring effective pain management and promoting an early recovery post the treatment. The smooth recovery and discharge reflected the coordinated efforts of the entire multidisciplinary team.” Along with this, the anaesthesia team ensured a smooth perioperative course and used an ultrasound-guided nerve block to provide prolonged pain relief, allowing the child to remain comfortable with minimal medication after surgery. This case highlights the growing role of robot-assisted surgery in paediatric urology and demonstrates how advanced surgical technology and multidisciplinary collaboration can enable complex procedures even in very young children. It also reflects the trust placed in India’s advanced healthcare capabilities by international patients seeking specialised treatment for rare and challenging conditions. (ANI) 19-month-old child from Mauritius undergoes Rare Robotic Kidney surgery in Delhi Immigration Lawyer Law Office of Ryan Morgan Knight Email or call for free consultation ryan@immigrationknight.com 1 (888) 735-0560 Ryan Knight Licensed to practice immigration law Nationwide; Licensed to practice art law in Maryland
India This Week 3 Priti’s Fashion and Jewelry Nina Jewelers 301-806-0567; 301-431-7430 Since 1991 Exclusive 22Kt Gold Jewelry, Ruby Emerald and Diamond Jewelry, 24Kt Coins and Bars Convert your gold jewelry to new designs We repair broken jewelry; We can polish and buff old jewelry to make it new AANCHAL SAREES 301-434-3029 • Artificial Jewelry • Lehengas • Sarees • Kaftans • Salwar Kamez • Children’s wear • Men’s wear and much more Visit: Priti’s Fashion and Jewelry (Nina Jewelers) 1157 University Blvd. E, Takoma Park, MD 20912 (Hampshire Langley Shopping Center) Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 11:am-7:00pm Monday Closed
INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026 Over 250-year-old handwritten Ramayan manuscript to be preserved at Ayodhya’s Ramkatha museum Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], June 17 (ANI): A rare, over 250-year-old manuscript of Tulsidas‘s Ramayan has been acquired by the International Ramkatha Museum in Ayodhya for preservation and public display in the facility.The acquisition was approved by the screening committee, which was chaired by Nripendra Misra, on Wednesday.Sanjeev Kumar Singh, Director of the International Ramkatha Museum, acknowledged the manuscript’s damaged condition, noting it is torn and partially eaten by termites, but emphasised its significance for the ‘Ramayana Manuscript Collection Yajna’ project.” Although it is damaged, torn, and partially eaten by termites in places, it remains a manuscript of the Ramayana (specifically the Ramcharitmanas) that deserves to be part of the collection. I believe that if this manuscript is added to our ongoing ‘Ramayana Manuscript Collection Yajna’ (project), our collection will become truly rich, profound, and divine,” said Singh. He stated that the addition of this 270-to275-year-old manuscript to the ongoing project would significantly enrich the museum’s archives due to its age, unique linguistic style, and the high-quality artistic craftsmanship used in its creation.” There are three reasons for this: its age, its language (or the style of its inscription), and its quality, referring to the artistic method used to write it. Based on these three aspects, it is worthy of preservation, and I consider it a significant acquisition. Although photographs reveal termite damage, the manuscript is exquisitely beautiful; its antiquity is a key factor, and as you know, there is a special value attached to ancient artefacts. Scholars estimate–and our own information, corroborated by others we have consulted, suggests–that it dates back roughly 270 to 275 years,” added Singh. The Museum Director further described the manuscript as an exquisitely crafted piece, spanning approximately 650 pag- es. He noted that the text features a beautiful, intricate interplay of red and black inks, underscoring its historical and artistic value.”When considering its linguistic style and the specific method of Devanagari script used, I feel it is a truly collectible item; the owner himself approached us, expressing a desire to be part of this grand, magnificent program dedicated to Lord Ram.It spans approximately 650 pages and is exquisitely crafted. It is worth collecting not merely because it contains the Ramcharitmanas or the story of Ram, but also because it offers insight into the technology of that era–revealing the quality of the paper and the ink used. If you have had the chance to examine it or speak with the owner, you would have noticed the beautiful interplay of red and black inks,” said Singh. Manuscript collector Madhavendra Porwal stated that this specific Ramayan text dates back to approximately 1768 AD and was written in Sanskrit on traditional handmade paper common to that period.” I represent an organization based in Lucknow called ‘Chambal Archives.’ We have compiled numerous versions of the Ramayana. \The specific manuscript I have shown you today dates back to approximately 1768 AD and contains around 600 to 700 pages. It is handwritten in the Sanskrit script using the kind of handmade paper that was common in the olden days. The controversial line–‘Dhol, gawar, shudra, pashu, nari; sakal tadna ke adhikari’–is written differently here, and the manuscript possesses many unique features. Since such handwritten works took about one and a half to two months to complete, the scribe noted the date of completion at the end of each chapter. Manuscript experts have told us that it contains rare information and details rarely found in other versions of the Ramayana,” Porwal told ANI. Porwal shared that he and his family have amassed 41 other versions of the Ramayana and possess numerous ancient texts. He noted that they in- tend to digitise these manuscripts and make them available to the public free of charge.”This manuscript has been in our family since my grandmother’s time; we also possess 41 other versions of the Ramayana and have collected many other ancient texts, leading us to establish an archive. Nowadays, people often reach out to us with such items because we undertake their conservation and restoration, and we are also striving to make them available digitally–all free of charge,” added Porwal. (ANI) With reduced dependence on lip reading, she gained greater confidence in academic, professional and social settings. The new phase of her life was marked by another major achievement when she secured admission to IIM Bangalore, one of India’s premier management institutions. Reflecting on her journey, Tina said every stage of life brought unique challenges, but the unwavering support of her family, educators and healthcare professionals gave her the strength to move forward. She described her experience as a reminder of the importance of believing in possibilities and making courageous choices. The hospital said the case highlights the role of advanced hearing restoration technologies and sustained rehabilitation in helping individuals with hearing loss pursue their aspirations with greater confidence and independence. (ANI) Delhi woman born with profound hearing loss regains hearing through bilateral cochlear implant, secures admission to IIT Bombay New Delhi [India], June 17 (ANI): A 22-year-old woman from Delhi, who was born with bilateral profound hearing loss, has regained access to sound and significantly reduced her dependence on lip reading after undergoing a successful bilateral cochlear implant surgery at a private hospital in the national capital.The patient, Tina Garg, had been living with severe hearing impairment since early childhood. Following her diagnosis, her family shifted to Chennai to ensure she received early intervention and specialised support at a school for young deaf children. During her formative years, Tina developed strong lip-reading skills, which became the foundation of her communication and academic journey. Despite the challenges posed by her condition, Tina remained fo- cused on her studies and excelled academically. With the support of her family, teachers and peers, she secured admission to IIT Bombay for her undergraduate studies. However, everyday communication remained demanding, as she had to rely extensively on lip reading, requiring constant concentration and effort. While researching treatment options, Tina came across the work of Dr Sumit Mrig, Director and Unit Head of ENT and Cochlear Implant Surgery at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka. Encouraged by a recommendation from a relative, she consulted the specialist and opted for bilateral cochlear implant surgery, a procedure in which electronic devices are implanted to directly stimulate the auditory nerve and provide the sensation of sound. The surgery was successfully performed, following which Tina underwent a structured auditory rehabilitation programme for six months to help her adapt to and interpret sounds more effectively. Speaking about the case, Dr Sumit Mrig said that profound hearing loss affects several aspects of a person’s life, including communication, confidence, education and social interaction.”Bilateral cochlear implantation, when combined with appropriate rehabilitation and long-term support, can significantly improve a person’s ability to engage with the world. The goal extends beyond improving hearing access; it is about enabling greater independence and quality of life,” he said. Following rehabilitation, Tina experienced a significant improvement in her ability to communicate and engage in daily life.
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INDIA THIS WEEK India chairs 28th IORA Senior Officials Committee meeting, reinforces cooperation for peaceful Indian Ocean Region New Delhi [India], June 17 (ANI): India hosted the 28th Meeting of the Committee of Senior Officials (CSO) of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) in New Delhi on June 15-16, reinforcing regional cooperation and advancing discussions on the organisation’s future roadmap for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indian Ocean Region.The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a post on X on Tuesday, said the meeting was held under India’s current chairship of IORA and reviewed progress across the organisation’s institutional matters and priority areas. “India hosted the 28th Meeting of the Committee of Senior Officials (CSO) of @IORAofficial in New Delhi on 15- FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026 PM Modi emphasises importance of ‘trust’ in global partnerships at G7, reaffirms India’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive development G 7 -MODI FROM PAGE 1 16 June 2026 under India’s current Chairship of IORA. The meeting reviewed progress across IORA’s institutional matters, priority areas and advanced discussions on the next IORA Action Plan (2028-2032), reinforcing cooperation for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indian Ocean Region,” the MEA said.The meeting comes as India continues to place emphasis on regional maritime coopera- The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- June 19, 2026 You can only reap what you sow! By Rajan George Sometimes it seems that many men Desire for themselves much more, More than they are willing to give For the common good. Without a care, they inflict pain On others with a callous mind, And relish in another’s downfall, While demanding goodness for themselves. An old adage wisely says, “What goes around comes around,” Yet it never seems to influence Their thoughts as they press on relentlessly. Forgetting the Golden Rule, We can only reap what we sow; Therefore, do unto others As you would have them do unto you. Propagating evil will never bring A virtuous end, no matter how we crave it. People steeped in self-comfort Have abandoned concern for their own Parents, siblings, and friends, Seldom realizing that they too May one day face the very same Predicament they have dealt to others. Lifelong regret will not correct the wrong, For what is sown will produce its own kind. The harvest may indeed be bitter, But such is the fruit of the choices we make. If we do not care for the good of others, We cannot expect the same for ourselves. Whatever we see in the present May not endure when reality strikes. tion, security, connectivity and inclusive growth across the Indian Ocean Region. According to a press release issued on May 7, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted India’s commitment to building an inclusive and future-ready maritime sector while addressing the 10th Indian Ocean Dialogue in New Delhi. The minister said women’s participation in India’s maritime sector has increased by 340 per cent since 2020, attributing the growth to initiatives aimed at promoting inclusion and leadership opportunities for women. “Through initiatives like ‘Sagar Mein Samman’, we are advancing dignity, inclusion and leadership opportunities for women in the maritime sector, which has seen a remarkable rise of about 340 per cent since 2020,” Sonowal had said.He noted that the Indian Ocean remains critical for global trade, energy flows and supply chains, and stressed the need for stronger cooperation among countries in the region. The 10th Indian Ocean Dialogue, hosted by India as Chair of IORA for 2025-27, focused on the theme ‘Indian Ocean Region in a Transforming World.’ The forum brought together ministers, policymakers, academics and industry leaders to discuss maritime security, blue economy, disaster risk management, climate change and women’s empowerment. (ANI) INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online further reiterating India’s commitment to supporting equitable and sustainable progress at the global level. “India’s vision of international partnership is rooted in the timeless philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the world is one family. PM conveyed that India remains firmly committed to advancing sustainable and inclusive global development,” it added. PM Modi had arrived in the French city earlier on Tuesday to attend the high-profile gathering, following an official invitation from the French President. This special invitation marks India’s 13th appearance at the summit as a partner nation, alongside being the seventh consecutive time the Prime Minister is participating in the global forum. Prior to the session, PM Modi and US President Donald Trump held a brief interaction following the traditional family photograph on the second day of the summit. Visuals from the summit showed Prime Minister Modi briefly interacting with the US President as leaders gathered after the official group photo at the venue of the high-level meeting.Both leaders had a handshake, with Trump patting PM Modi on his arm. The meeting between PM Modi and the US President was their first face-to-face interaction since PM’s visit to Washington in February last year. The Prime Minister and the US President also sat side by side at the G7 outreach session. Prime Minister Modi, upon his arrival at the summit venue, was welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron, following which the Prime Minister joined leaders of the G7 member nations and invited countries for the customary family photograph. Captured in the iconic frame alongside PM Modi were key world leaders, including European Council President Antonio Costa, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Beyond these collective sessions, the Prime Minister’s itinerary is packed with high-level diplomacy on the sidelines of the event, where he is slated to hold a series of crucial bilateral meetings with global counterparts, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Adding to this intense diplomatic schedule, a highly anticipated bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump is also on the cards for 17 June, which the White House confirmed will focus heavily on advancing the proposed India-US trade agreement. (ANI) Remember: “In the Beginning was the Word, The Word was with God, and the Word was God. All things were made by Him, and without Him was not anything made, that was made” JOHN 1:1-3
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026 Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviews master plan for redevelopment of busy stations New Delhi [India], June 16 (ANI): Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday reviewed the master plan for the redevelopment of busy railway stations, including Borivali, Ambala and Mangaluru, during a meeting with senior railway officials. Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu was also present during the review meeting. The Railway Minister emphasised that redevelopment works should be carried out with minimal inconvenience to passengers and without disrupting train operations. He stressed the need to create future-ready railway infrastructure while maintaining the efficient day-to-day functioning of the station, a press release from the ministry stated.The meeting aimed at addressing present-day congestion while creating capacity for future growth. Discussions focused on improving passenger convenience through additional platforms, wider Foot Over Bridges (FOBs), improved inter-platform transfers, additional station entry and exit points, enhanced circulation areas, better multimodal integration and seamless passenger movement. Vaishnaw also directed officials to engage with MPs, MLAs, local body representatives, state governments and other stakeholders during subsequent stages of planning. Their suggestions and local requirements will be incorporated into the final redevelopment plans to ensure that station infrastructure development reflects the needs of passengers and local communities.As per the release, Vaishnaw stressed that station designs should be guided by a strong design philosophy focused on quality, durability and passenger convenience. Modern construction techniques, including the use of precast components and advanced construction systems, were discussed to facilitate faster execution while maintaining high construction standards. Officials were also directed to ensure effective utilisation of allocated funds and timely implementation of approved projects.The review focused on Borivali Railway Station, one of the most important passen- ger interchange hubs on Western Railway. Unlike terminal stations, Borivali serves as a major boarding, de-boarding and transfer point for both suburban and long-distance passengers. The station currently handles about 191 long-distance train services daily in addition to around 1,200 suburban train services, catering to approximately 3.65 lakh passengers every day. Passenger traffic is projected to increase significantly in the years to come. The station serves a mix of suburban and long-distance passengers, resulting in heavy congestion and complex passenger movement patterns, particularly during peak hours when passengers from different services converge within the station premises. The integrated redevelopment plan aims to improve passenger movement through enhanced inter-platform connectivity, expanded circulation spaces, upgraded concourses, improved foot overbridges, skywalk connectivity and streamlined access systems. The proposal includes the development of one additional platform, expanded concourse areas, additional lifts and escalators, improved passenger circulation facilities and expanded parking infrastructure to facilitate seamless inter-platform transfers and enhance passenger convenience and safety. To enhance capacity, improve passenger distribution and ease congestion at Borivali station, it has been decided to undertake the parallel development of Kandivali station through a comprehensive master plan. Kandivali station is located approximately two kilometres from Borivali station. With adequate railway land available, Kandivali station will support future train operations and passenger growth, helping decongest Borivali and improve operational efficiency, passenger comfort and accessibility. The integrated development of Borivali and Kandivali is expected to strengthen east-west connectivity, improve interchange efficiency, enhance integration with metro and road networks, and create a seamless multimodal transport system capable of supporting long-term growth. June 14 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted India’s emergence as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem and asserted that the country’s “express train of reforms” would continue unabated as it seeks to strengthen its innovation-driven growth model. Addressing the inauguration of the Bharat Innovates 2026 conclave in Nice in the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron, PM Modi said India had built a strong innovation ecosystem over the past decade through sustained policy support and institutional initiatives.”Over the past 11-12 years, India has built a robust ecosystem for innovation. From patent filings to incubation networks, from Startup India to policy support, this entire journey has moved forward in mission mode. Today, India is the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world,” He noted that India’s innovation agenda extends beyond metropolitan centres and focuses on empowering grassroots innovators across the country.”But our vision is not limited to major cities alone. We have worked to take innovation to the grassroots level. Atal Tinkering Labs have been established in schools. Young people are being connected through hackathons and innovation challenges. Incubators and research institutions are being expanded across the country. And we are especially linking women innovators with a wide range of emerging technologies,” he said.Highlighting the growing role of women in India’s entrepreneurial landscape, the Prime Minister said, “As a result of all these efforts, India has witnessed transformational change on a large scale. Today, from Drone Didis to becoming founders of startups, our women power is writing new success stories.” PM Modi also underscored the government’s efforts to promote innovation in strategic sectors, stating that India’s defence sector had been opened up to harness the energy and talent of young entrepreneurs.”To further harness the energy of our youth, India’s defence sector has also been opened up for innovation. Today, hundreds of startups associated with the defence and space sectors are doing remarkable work in India,” he said. The Prime Minister further highlighted recent reforms in the nuclear energy sector, saying they had created fresh opportunities in clean energy and frontier technologies.” And recently, India has undertaken important reforms in the nuclear energy sector as well. This is creating new possibilities in the areas of clean energy, advanced reactors, and frontier research,” the Prime Minister added. Emphasising the government’s commitment to sustained reforms, the Prime Minister said, “This express train of reforms will not stop; it will continue to move forward. And the number of startups emerging from India will continue to multiply many times over.” Bharat Innovates 2026, jointly inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi and French President Macron, brings together startups, investors, innovators and policymakers to explore collaboration in emerging technologies and deepen innovation partnerships between India and France. Addressing the conclave before PM Modi, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal stated that the event serves as a platform to showcase India’s thriving startup ecosystem, now boasting over 230,000 startups, as a reliable partner for global growth. (ANI) PM Modi hails India as world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, says “express train of reforms will not stop” Nice [France], the Prime Minister said. The plan also includes multi-level parking, dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones, improved road connectivity and transit-oriented development for optimal utilisation of railway land, the press release said. The redevelopment plan for Ambala Cantonment station was also reviewed during the meeting. Ambala currently serves 328 trains and handles daily passenger traffic of more than 44,000 passengers, which is projected to rise significantly in the upcoming years. To meet future traffic requirements and support additional train services, the redevelopment plan proposes construction of two new full-length platforms along with a new 12-metre-wide FOB. The project also includes installation of additional escalators and lifts to improve passenger circulation and facilitate convenient inter-platform movement, particularly for elderly passengers, Divyangjan passengers and passengers carrying luggage. Refurbishment of existing platforms, provision of new platform sheds and development of surface parking facilities are also planned.The proposed redevelopment aims to provide enhanced station access, improved passenger movement areas, better connectivity, modern station facilities and upgraded infrastructure to support future traffic growth. Upon completion, the project is expected to enhance operational capacity, reduce congestion, improve accessibility and provide a safer, more comfortable and passenger-friendly travel experience.The review also covered redevelopment plans for Mangaluru Central station. The station currently handles more than 28,000 passengers daily and serves approximately 50 trains. Passenger traffic is expected to rise in the future, necessitating capacity augmentation and infrastructure enhancement.To cater to future growth and accommodate additional train operations, the redevelopment plan proposes the construction of two new full-length platforms. The project also includes platform upgradation works, construction of a new 6-metre-wide Foot Over Bridge, improved platform shelters, and installation of additional escalators and lifts to facilitate smooth passenger movement within the station premises.The redevelopment plan envisions improved passenger amenities, enhanced accessibility, better connectivity, additional operational capacity and modern station infrastructure. These interventions will reduce crowding, improve convenience for senior citizens and Divyangjan passengers, and create a more comfortable, efficient and future-ready station environment while supporting regional connectivity and economic development.Officials noted that the redevelopment initiatives at Borivali, Ambala and Mangaluru will significantly enhance passenger experience, operational efficiency and infrastructure capacity. The proposals will now be taken forward for further detailed examination and stakeholder consultations before moving to the next stage of planning and implementation, the release stated. (ANI)
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