Latest news with #PoorvottarSamparkSetu
Canada News.Net
27-06-2025
- Politics
- Canada News.Net
Union Minister Raksha Khadse pitches for sports, tourism-led development, intensifying My Bharat outreach in Tripura's Unakoti
Unakoti (Tripura)[India], June 25 (ANI): Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse on Wednesday concluded a comprehensive review meeting in Unakoti District, Tripura, as a pivotal component of her ongoing tour under the 'Poorvottar Sampark Setu' programme. This strategic initiative, guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is designed to assess the ground-level implementation of various Central Flagship Schemes, foster enhanced Centre-State collaboration, and accelerate development across the North Eastern Region. Khadse was accompanied by Tinku Roy, Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports for Tripura, Kriti Devi Debbarman, Member of Parliament from Tripura East, and other esteemed dignitaries from the district administration, a release said. Unakoti District, spanning 686.97 sq km with a population of 3,48,631 (including 3,08,438 in rural areas), serves as a crucial focus area for this programme. While boasting significant potential for eco-tourism, the district also confronts distinct challenges along its international border, including fencing issues, smuggling, narcotics, border crime and infiltration which are all being actively addressed by the administration. The review meeting saw Raksha Khadse engaging in extensive deliberations with public representatives and key district officials, focusing on the progress across vital sectors such as Health and Nutrition, Education, Agriculture and Water Resources, Financial Inclusion and Skill Development, and Basic Infrastructure. Unakoti has demonstrated remarkable strides in foundational infrastructure. Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), 15 projects covering 73.894 kms were completed in FY 2025-26. The district now boasts a total National Highway length of 91.000 km and an overall road connectivity spanning 739.705 km, supported by 421 Box Culvert/Slab Culvert, 25 R.C.C Bridges, and 19 Bailey Bridges, including the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Bridge and the ongoing JALAI BRIDGE. Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, an impressive 89.03% coverage has been achieved, with 47,737 Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) provided. An innovative scheme at Nooncherra provides a 30,000 gallons per day water capacity. Electricity access has reached 100% saturation in the EC-Unakoti Circle under SAUBHAGYA, providing 12,658 connections. The Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) has completed substantial line work and transformer installations, complementing 138 completed Gobar Gas Plants. Housing initiatives under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (PMAY) have seen 12,006 houses completed in rural areas and 6,161 units achieved in urban areas. Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen recorded remarkable achievements with 98.09% of Individual Household Latrines (IHHLs) constructed, alongside progress in segregation sheds and community sanitary complexes. Over 19.00 KM of embankment repairing work is also ongoing. Initiatives aimed at economic empowerment and improved livelihoods are yielding significant results. Under MGNREGS, the district has generated 4.71 lakh person-days against a projected 5.68 lakh, indicating sustained employment, with 93 ideal 'Amrit Sarovar' water bodies completed. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) has benefited 18,790 farmers with Rs. 70.394 Crores, while the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) provided crucial insurance support, the release said. Efforts are underway to reduce the food grain production gap through various cultivation initiatives. The Pradhan Mantri Matshya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has benefited 961 beneficiaries with Rs. 439.57 Lakh, funding new ponds, hatcheries, and equipment, and an Integrated Aqua Park is under development. Self-employment initiatives are thriving, with 40 new loans disbursed under PMEGP and 125 applications approved under PM-Vishwakarma. Financial inclusion is robust, with 102,306 Jan Dhan accounts opened and strong uptake of social security schemes, contributing to an increased Credit Deposit (CD) Ratio of 69.44%. Focused efforts have been made for tribal communities and women. Under PM-JANMAN, significant projects for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (Reangs) include Anganwadi Centres, ST Hostels, new PMGSY roads, and a Mobile Medical Unit that has served 12,319 footfall. The PM Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) enrolled 1,309 beneficiaries in 2024-25, and robust efforts have prevented 74 child marriage cases. A vibrant network of 11,507 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) has been mobilised, supported by Rs. 115 Crore in community funds and Rs. 59.7 Crore in bank loans, empowering 4,575 women under the 'Lakhpati Didi' initiative and fostering diverse local product manufacturing. The district's health services are strengthened by 81 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, achieving 100% immunisation coverage for infants and pregnant women under Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) 5.0. OPD footfall increased to 253,244 in 2024-25, with 231,512 patients receiving free medicine. The PM-Shri Scheme is facilitating the construction of 5 additional classrooms, 1 library room, and a new school building. In youth and sports, proposals for major Khelo India projects are under consideration, including an International-size Synthetic 8-Lane Athletic Track and a Synthetic Football Turf. A Sports Training Centre is established, and a Youth Hostel construction is 20% complete. Furthermore, 275 Solar Agriculture DC Pumps have been completed under PM-KUSUM, and 1,443 Solar Street Lighting Systems have been installed, promoting renewable energy. The Betchara Gram Panchayat also secured third rank in the National Panchayat Award 2024, exemplifying local governance excellence. LPG coverage under PM Ujjwala Yojana has reached a remarkable 97.42%.Despite comprehensive progress, MoS Smt. Raksha Khadse highlighted key areas for intensified focus: continued emphasis on Border Security and Management, including resilient infrastructure development, especially after flood damage to fencing. She recommended a focused approach to eco-tourism development, leveraging Unakoti's unique heritage and natural beauty, while improving tourist amenities. Boosting Agricultural Productivity calls for innovative practices, climate-resilient farming, and widespread scheme adoption to bridge the food grain production gap. Targeted Skill Development for Employability programs aligned with local economic opportunities, like bamboo and rubber, are crucial to enhance youth employability and reduce migration. Promoting Sports and Youth Development involves expediting approval of Khelo India projects, maximising utilisation of existing infrastructure, and encouraging grassroots participation. She specifically advised intensifying the 'My Bharat' initiative and utilising MGNREGA funds for small rural sports grounds. For Improving Educational Infrastructure, she advised inspecting school toilet facilities and constructing essential boundary walls/borders for improved safety and environment. Ensuring Safe Drinking Water requires increasing manpower for water projects due to high iron content and requesting funds for permanent solutions to riverbank erosion. Regarding Upgrading Road and National Highway Network, following concerns about the condition of non-concrete roads, Khadse requested a comprehensive proposal (DPR) for a complete solution to be forwarded to MoRTH. Finally, she emphasised vigilant Last-Mile Delivery of benefits, streamlining data, addressing capacity gaps, and expanding Digital Literacy through internet connectivity and CSCs. The Union Minister expressed profound satisfaction with the dedication of the Unakoti District Administration and the tangible impact of Central Flagship Schemes. She stated, 'It is truly inspiring to witness the dedication of the Unakoti District Administration and the tangible impact of the Central Flagship Schemes on the lives of the people here.' She affirmed the Central Government's unwavering support, assuring that Unakoti will transition from an 'aspirational' to an 'inspirational' district, contributing significantly to the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat'. The detailed tour report will be submitted to the 'POORVOTTAR SAMPARK SETU' portal to further streamline monitoring and implementation of development initiatives in the region. (ANI)
India Gazette
26-06-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
Union MoS Khadse underlines youth, sports as key drivers of social upliftment during 'Poorvottar Sampark Setu' initiative in Sribhumi
Sribhumi (Assam) [India], June 26 (ANI): Continuing her whirlwind tour of the Northeast, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse arrived in Sribhumi on Thursday under the Centre's Poorvottar Sampark Setu outreach initiative--an ambitious programme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deepen administrative ties and accelerate development across the region. During a robust one-day engagement in Sribhumi, Khadse chaired a review meeting with officials from 26 departments. She underlined youth and sports as key drivers of social upliftment and assured enhanced support for sports infrastructure and youth-centric initiatives. Fresh from inspections in Unakoti and a surprise visit to Agartala's Sports Authority of India (SAI) Sports Training Centre earlier this week, Khadse's Sribhumi visit brought into sharp focus the district's recent strides, as per a ministry press release. Meanwhile, the Khel Maharan 2.0 programme has galvanised 246,500 youth registrations across eight disciplines, from kabaddi to road cycling, highlighting sports' rising allure in rural Assam. During a robust one-day engagement in Sribhumi, Khadse chaired a review meeting with officials from 26 departments. The meeting brought into sharp focus the district's recent strides in agriculture, health, education, fisheries, and welfare schemes. On agriculture, Sribhumi has notched a 103 per cent saturation under PM-KISAN and surpassed the 126 per cent target for Sali paddy insurance enrolment through PMFBY. Food security is equally robust: nearly 97.9 per cent of allotted NFSA rice has reached more than one million beneficiaries. In health, 33,662 expectant mothers registered for antenatal care in 2024-25, with over 94 percent enrolling in their first trimester; departments are now tackling rising hypertension and anemia cases. On agriculture, Sribhumi notched a 103 percent saturation under PM-KISAN and surpassed 126 percent enrolment for Sali paddy insurance under PMFBY. Food security is equally robust: nearly 97.9 percent of allotted NFSA rice has reached more than one million beneficiaries. In health, 33,662 expectant mothers registered for antenatal care in 2024-25, with over 94 percent enrolling in their first trimester; departments are now tackling rising hypertension and anemia cases. Education officials reported 223,034 students enrolled across primary to higher secondary schools, with attendance holding steady at 72 per cent. Teacher presence remains high at 88 percent an encouraging sign as authorities push to close learning gaps. Fisheries underpin local livelihoods: last year's production of 19,430 MT, dominated by pond and tank yields, sustains nearly the entire population's dietary needs. 'Sribhumi exemplifies how committed governance and community energy can rewrite development narratives,' Khadse told reporters. 'From Unakoti's model schools to Agartala's athlete training and now Sribhumi's agricultural and health successes, we are one step closer to realising Modi ji's vision of a truly Viksit Bharat in the Northeast.' Looking ahead, the Minister urged district officials to fast-track pending household tap connections under Jal Jeevan Mission, shore up maternal-health infrastructure, and harness digital platforms for seamless Aadhaar-based payments which already stand at 96 percent coverage in rural livelihoods schemes. Her day in Sribhumi concluded with grassroots interactions--meeting members of civil society organisations to gather firsthand feedback on service delivery. As the Poorvottar Sampark Setu caravan moves on, Assam's northeastern hamlets remain firmly in the national spotlight. (ANI)
India Gazette
25-06-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
Union Minister Raksha Khadse pitches for sports, tourism-led development, intensifying My Bharat outreach in Tripura's Unakoti
Unakoti (Tripura)[India], June 25 (ANI): Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse on Wednesday concluded a comprehensive review meeting in Unakoti District, Tripura, as a pivotal component of her ongoing tour under the 'Poorvottar Sampark Setu' programme. This strategic initiative, guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is designed to assess the ground-level implementation of various Central Flagship Schemes, foster enhanced Centre-State collaboration, and accelerate development across the North Eastern Region. Khadse was accompanied by Tinku Roy, Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports for Tripura, Kriti Devi Debbarman, Member of Parliament from Tripura East, and other esteemed dignitaries from the district administration, a release said. Unakoti District, spanning 686.97 sq km with a population of 3,48,631 (including 3,08,438 in rural areas), serves as a crucial focus area for this programme. While boasting significant potential for eco-tourism, the district also confronts distinct challenges along its international border, including fencing issues, smuggling, narcotics, border crime and infiltration which are all being actively addressed by the administration. The review meeting saw Raksha Khadse engaging in extensive deliberations with public representatives and key district officials, focusing on the progress across vital sectors such as Health and Nutrition, Education, Agriculture and Water Resources, Financial Inclusion and Skill Development, and Basic Infrastructure. Unakoti has demonstrated remarkable strides in foundational infrastructure. Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), 15 projects covering 73.894 kms were completed in FY 2025-26. The district now boasts a total National Highway length of 91.000 km and an overall road connectivity spanning 739.705 km, supported by 421 Box Culvert/Slab Culvert, 25 R.C.C Bridges, and 19 Bailey Bridges, including the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Bridge and the ongoing JALAI BRIDGE. Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, an impressive 89.03% coverage has been achieved, with 47,737 Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) provided. An innovative scheme at Nooncherra provides a 30,000 gallons per day water capacity. Electricity access has reached 100% saturation in the EC-Unakoti Circle under SAUBHAGYA, providing 12,658 connections. The Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) has completed substantial line work and transformer installations, complementing 138 completed Gobar Gas Plants. Housing initiatives under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (PMAY) have seen 12,006 houses completed in rural areas and 6,161 units achieved in urban areas. Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen recorded remarkable achievements with 98.09% of Individual Household Latrines (IHHLs) constructed, alongside progress in segregation sheds and community sanitary complexes. Over 19.00 KM of embankment repairing work is also ongoing. Initiatives aimed at economic empowerment and improved livelihoods are yielding significant results. Under MGNREGS, the district has generated 4.71 lakh person-days against a projected 5.68 lakh, indicating sustained employment, with 93 ideal 'Amrit Sarovar' water bodies completed. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) has benefited 18,790 farmers with Rs. 70.394 Crores, while the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) provided crucial insurance support, the release said. Efforts are underway to reduce the food grain production gap through various cultivation initiatives. The Pradhan Mantri Matshya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has benefited 961 beneficiaries with Rs. 439.57 Lakh, funding new ponds, hatcheries, and equipment, and an Integrated Aqua Park is under development. Self-employment initiatives are thriving, with 40 new loans disbursed under PMEGP and 125 applications approved under PM-Vishwakarma. Financial inclusion is robust, with 102,306 Jan Dhan accounts opened and strong uptake of social security schemes, contributing to an increased Credit Deposit (CD) Ratio of 69.44%. Focused efforts have been made for tribal communities and women. Under PM-JANMAN, significant projects for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (Reangs) include Anganwadi Centres, ST Hostels, new PMGSY roads, and a Mobile Medical Unit that has served 12,319 footfall. The PM Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) enrolled 1,309 beneficiaries in 2024-25, and robust efforts have prevented 74 child marriage cases. A vibrant network of 11,507 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) has been mobilised, supported by Rs. 115 Crore in community funds and Rs. 59.7 Crore in bank loans, empowering 4,575 women under the 'Lakhpati Didi' initiative and fostering diverse local product manufacturing. The district's health services are strengthened by 81 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, achieving 100% immunisation coverage for infants and pregnant women under Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) 5.0. OPD footfall increased to 253,244 in 2024-25, with 231,512 patients receiving free medicine. The PM-Shri Scheme is facilitating the construction of 5 additional classrooms, 1 library room, and a new school building. In youth and sports, proposals for major Khelo India projects are under consideration, including an International-size Synthetic 8-Lane Athletic Track and a Synthetic Football Turf. A Sports Training Centre is established, and a Youth Hostel construction is 20% complete. Furthermore, 275 Solar Agriculture DC Pumps have been completed under PM-KUSUM, and 1,443 Solar Street Lighting Systems have been installed, promoting renewable energy. The Betchara Gram Panchayat also secured third rank in the National Panchayat Award 2024, exemplifying local governance excellence. LPG coverage under PM Ujjwala Yojana has reached a remarkable 97.42%.Despite comprehensive progress, MoS Smt. Raksha Khadse highlighted key areas for intensified focus: continued emphasis on Border Security and Management, including resilient infrastructure development, especially after flood damage to fencing. She recommended a focused approach to eco-tourism development, leveraging Unakoti's unique heritage and natural beauty, while improving tourist amenities. Boosting Agricultural Productivity calls for innovative practices, climate-resilient farming, and widespread scheme adoption to bridge the food grain production gap. Targeted Skill Development for Employability programs aligned with local economic opportunities, like bamboo and rubber, are crucial to enhance youth employability and reduce migration. Promoting Sports and Youth Development involves expediting approval of Khelo India projects, maximising utilisation of existing infrastructure, and encouraging grassroots participation. She specifically advised intensifying the 'My Bharat' initiative and utilising MGNREGA funds for small rural sports grounds. For Improving Educational Infrastructure, she advised inspecting school toilet facilities and constructing essential boundary walls/borders for improved safety and environment. Ensuring Safe Drinking Water requires increasing manpower for water projects due to high iron content and requesting funds for permanent solutions to riverbank erosion. Regarding Upgrading Road and National Highway Network, following concerns about the condition of non-concrete roads, Khadse requested a comprehensive proposal (DPR) for a complete solution to be forwarded to MoRTH. Finally, she emphasised vigilant Last-Mile Delivery of benefits, streamlining data, addressing capacity gaps, and expanding Digital Literacy through internet connectivity and CSCs. The Union Minister expressed profound satisfaction with the dedication of the Unakoti District Administration and the tangible impact of Central Flagship Schemes. She stated, 'It is truly inspiring to witness the dedication of the Unakoti District Administration and the tangible impact of the Central Flagship Schemes on the lives of the people here.' She affirmed the Central Government's unwavering support, assuring that Unakoti will transition from an 'aspirational' to an 'inspirational' district, contributing significantly to the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat'. The detailed tour report will be submitted to the 'POORVOTTAR SAMPARK SETU' portal to further streamline monitoring and implementation of development initiatives in the region. (ANI)
India Gazette
24-06-2025
- Sport
- India Gazette
Union MoS Raksha Khadse visits SAI STC Agartala; Stresses need for LTAD, Northeast Sports Empowerment
Agartala (Tripura)[India], June 24 (ANI): Raksha Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, is currently on a significant tour of Tripura. As part of the extensive 'Poorvottar Sampark Setu' dialogue initiative, she made an unannounced visit to the Sports Authority of India (SAI) operated Sports Training Centre (STC) in Agartala today. During her visit, the Minister conducted a thorough review of the training facilities, observed the dedicated work of the coaches, and assessed the progress of the athletes. She also meticulously inspected the modern amenities and overall readiness of the STC center, which plays a pivotal role in the region's sports landscape. The SAI-STC centre in Agartala is particularly renowned for its focus on gymnastics, with carefully selected young athletes currently undergoing intensive training. Established through a collaborative effort with the local government, this centre is widely recognised as a crucial pillar for sports development across North-East India. Khadse's detailed assessment included a close look at the training equipment, the hostel facilities provided to the athletes, their dietary provisions, and the medical and psychological support services available, ensuring a holistic development environment. A highlight of her visit was the direct interaction with the athletes. The Minister engaged personally with the young trainees, taking the time to understand their motivations, the challenges they face and their individual aspirations. Many of these budding talents openly shared their dreams of participating in national and international competitions. In a heartwarming response, Minister Khadse remarked, 'The future of India lies with these young individuals. The central government stands firmly with them, committed to their success.' Khadse's current tour is an integral part of 'Poorvottar Sampark Setu', an ambitious program spearheaded by the Government of India. Under this initiative, Union Ministers undertake direct public engagement tours across the North-Eastern states to conduct on-ground reviews of development status and address local issues effectively. During her time in Tripura, the Minister engaged in extensive discussions covering various critical areas, including sports, youth policy, education, and science and technology projects. In line with India's long-term development vision encapsulated in 'India@2047', the sports sector is earmarked to play an increasingly significant role. The overarching objective, as emphasised by the Minister, is to nurture and develop athletes from the grassroots level through SAI centres, preparing them for grand international competitions. Minister Khadse expressed a strong resolve to help young Indian athletes achieve global prominence and excel at major events, specifically targeting the Olympics in 2028 and 2032. Concluding her visit, Raksha Khadse extended her heartfelt commendation to the youth of Tripura for their boundless enthusiasm in both sports and science. She stated, 'North-East India is not just geographically, but also in terms of human skill, talent, and energy, the backbone of India's bright future.' She reassured everyone present of the central government's unwavering commitment and full support for their endeavours. (ANI)
News18
24-06-2025
- Sport
- News18
MoS Sports Raksha Khadse After Surprise Visit: 'Future Of India Lies With...'
Last Updated: Raksha Khadse visited the Sports Authority of India's Training Centre in Agartala to review facilities and interact with athletes under the 'Poorvottar Sampark Setu' initiative. Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, made an unannounced visit to the Sports Authority of India's Training Centre on Tuesday. The purpose of her visit was to review the facilities and interact with the athletes to better understand the challenges they face. Khadse is currently touring Tripura as part of the government's 'Poorvottar Sampark Setu' initiative. During her visit to the SAI-operated Sports Training Centre (STC), the Minister evaluated the training facilities, observed the coaches' work, and assessed the athletes' progress, as stated in a press release from the ministry. She meticulously inspected the modern amenities and overall readiness of the STC centre, which is crucial to the region's sports landscape. The SAI-STC centre in Agartala specialises in gymnastics. Khadse's evaluation included a thorough inspection of the training equipment, the hostel facilities for athletes, their dietary provisions, and the medical and psychological support services. The centre was established through a collaboration with the local government. Future Of India 'The future of India lies with these young individuals. The central government stands firmly with them, committed to their success," Khadse said after the inspection. The 'Poorvottar Sampark Setu' initiative mandates Union ministers to engage directly with the public in the North-Eastern states to conduct on-ground reviews and address local issues effectively. 'North-East India is not just geographically, but also in terms of human skill, talent, and energy, the backbone of India's bright future," she said. First Published: June 24, 2025, 18:57 IST
