Walkathon–To spread the message

Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment//Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav//International Day of Older Persons Posted On: 05 OCT 2025 at 5:53 PM by PIB Delhi

Message of inter-generational bonding

New Delhi: 05th October 2025: (PIB Delhi//Seven Seas News Desk)::

The Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (DoSJE), Government of India, will continue to celebrate the International Day of Older Persons, 2025 in collaboration with the Cantonment Board, Ministry of Defence and State Government of Madhya Pradesh at Manas Bhavan, Jabalpur on 6th October, 2025.

The event will witness the presence of distinguished dignitaries including Hon’ble Union Minister Dr. Virender Kumar, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Sh. Rakesh Singh, Hon’ble PWD Minister, State Government of Madhya Pradesh, Sh. Narayan Singh Kushwah, Hon’ble Minister, Social Justice and Disabled Welfare Department, State Government of Madhya Pradesh, Sh. Ashish Dubey, Hon’ble MP, Lok Sabha, Ms. Sumitra Balmik, Hon’ble MP, Rajya Sabha and Sh. Abhilash Pandey, Hon’ble MLA.

Key Events:

Cultural Performances by students of Swami Vivekanand Model High School, Katanga, Jabalpur showcasing respect for elders and India’s cultural heritage.

Nukkad Natak by Ashmita Group (NSD), spreading awareness on dignity and rights of senior citizens.

Felicitation Ceremony of the senior citizens to honor them for their contributions.

Experience sharing by the senior citizens.

Prize Distribution to the Students who are the winner of the Competitions held to celebrate the International Day of older persons on 1st October 2025

Sankalp-Pledge administered by the Hon’ble Union Minister, reaffirming collective responsibility towards elder care

Walkathon–To spread the message of inter-generational bonding, care and respect for our senior citizens.

The events being held with the partnership between the Central Government and the State Government of Madhya Pradesh will showcase the committed efforts toward building an inclusive society for the senior citizens.

 *****//KV//(Release ID: 2175080)

INS Tamal Concludes Port Call at Souda Bay Greece

Ministry of Defense//Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav//Posted on Saturday 23rd August 2025 at 1:24 PM by PIB Delhi

On her passage to home base in India

New Delhi: 23rd August 2025: (PIB Delhi//The Seven Seas News Desk)::

INS Tamal, the latest stealth frigate of the Indian Navy, on her passage to home base in India, called at Souda Bay, Greece, 19-22 Aug 2025. The ship’s crew engaged with the Hellenic Navy and NATO functionaries during the port call. This included the Commanding Officer's call on Commodore Dionysios Mantadakis, Base Commander of Souda Bay Naval Base, Captain Kouplakis Iiias, Head of the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operational Training Centre (NMIOTC), and Captain Stephen Steacy, Commanding Officer of Naval Support Activity of US Navy on 19 Aug 2025. The discussions during the meetings focussed on operational matters and maritime cooperation. A cross deck visit for crew of INS Tamal was conducted onboard the multi-role amphibious assault unit ITS Trieste, a Landing Helicopter Dock,of the Italian Navy, at Souda Bay.

India’s Ambassador to Greece, Mr Rudrendra Tandon visited the ship on 20 Aug 2025 and interacted with the crew. During the ship's port call, the crew visited the Souda Naval Base and Armament facility, the NMIOTC and the local maritime museum. The ship’s crew also paid homage at the World War II cemetery in Crete.

INS Tamal sailed out of Souda Bay on 22 Aug 2025, and participated in a Passage Exercise with HS Ritsos, a Roussen class patrol boat of the Hellenic Navy, aimed at validation of interoperability between the Navies.

The port call by INS Tamal reflects the importance India attaches to its relations with Greece and the endeavour to strengthen the growing defence cooperation between the two nations. It has also provided an opportunity for both navies to share best practices and pursue further opportunities for joint engagement.

The ship, enroute to her home base in India, will be visiting ports in friendly foreign countries in Asia furthering maritime diplomacy and strengthening bilateral ties across the spectrum.

****VM/SKY//(Release ID: 2160064)

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh

 Ministry of Science & Technology//Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav//प्रविष्टि तिथि: 28 MAR 2025 at 4:05 PM by PIB Delhi

At a high-level meeting of the Department of Biotechnology

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announces the creation of Regional BIRAC Centers across India, in collaboration with States, to accelerate StartUps and biomanufacturing, and thus harness the biotech potential in different parts of the country

Chairs a high-level review meeting of the Department of Biotechnology

Mapping of States based on their biotech potential and collaborating to set up Bio E3 Cells

"Encourage startups in biomanufacturing and bio foundries, attract FDI, and provide hand holding and incubator support," says Dr. Singh

A tripartite arrangement between research infrastructure, startups, and industrial R&D is the way forward: S&T Minister Dr. Singh

India ranks 3rd globally in biotech publications, with nearly two-thirds of research papers originating from the Department of Biotechnology

New Delhi: 28 March 2025:(PIB Delhi//Seven Seas News Desk)::

At a high-level meeting of the Department of Biotechnology, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the creation of Regional BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) Centers across India, in collaboration with States, to accelerate StartUps and biomanufacturing, and thus harness the biotech potential in different parts of the country.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space emphasized the need for comprehensive mapping of states based on their biotech potential and directed the department to collaborate with them in establishing Bio E3 (Economy, Environment and Employment) Cells highlighting that Assam is the first state to establish a dedicated BIO E3 cell. These specialized cells will provide necessary support for fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and scaling up biotech ventures.

Recognizing the critical role of StartUps in advancing biomanufacturing, Dr. Jitendra Singh called for enhanced handholding and incubator support to encourage new-age biotech entrepreneurs. He highlighted the importance of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in biomanufacturing and bio foundries, ensuring global investment to drive India's biotech revolution.

Dr. Jitendra Singh stressed that the Tripartite arrangement—a synergy between Research Infrastructure, Startups, and Industrial R&D—is the way forward for India’s biotech sector. He directed the department to prioritize setting up Core R&D Facilities equipped with state-of-the-art biomanufacturing capabilities to facilitate pilot validation, upscaling, and commercialization of promising biotech innovations.

Recalling the Centre-State Partnership Summit held in Delhi, Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated the Government's commitment to fostering a biotech revolution across states through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and technical assistance. He noted that several states have expressed interest in setting up Biotechnology Parks, further strengthening India's bio-economy.

The Science & Technology Minister underscored the significance of regenerative technologies, directing the department to prioritize their promotion within India’s biomanufacturing landscape. He urged officials to partner with industry leaders to replicate the success of India's Space Sector in biotech.

Dr. Jitendra Singh instructed the Department of Biotechnology to establish early industry linkages and work towards a 4P Model (Public-Private-People Partnership) for accelerating biotech growth. He also welcomed proposals to create BIRAC Centers at a global level to attract cutting-edge biomanufacturing technologies and investments.

Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed pride in India’s global standing in biotech research, noting that India ranks 3rd in biotech publications worldwide, with nearly two-thirds of research papers emanating from the Department of Biotechnology. He said “This reflects India’s growing influence and leadership in the international biotech arena.”

With these strategic directives, Dr. Jitendra Singh reinforced the Government’s vision to position India as a global leader in biotechnology, ensuring that biomanufacturing, research, and innovation drive the country’s economic and scientific growth to achieve Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary, DBT, DG-BRIC & Chairman, BIRAC, along with Managing Director, BIRAC, Shri Jitendra Kumar, and other senior officials and scientists of the department, were present at the review meeting.

******//NKR/PSM//(रिलीज़ आईडी: 2116170)

Thundery showers forecast this weekend

11:03 (UTC+1) on Sat 31 Aug 2024                                                            Saturday 31st August at 16:22

Increasing amounts of cloud will move in across the south of UK

Warm and humid air from the southeast could cause thunderstorms to develop later on Saturday and through Sunday.

After a chilly start, Saturday will be another fine and dry day for most with plenty of sunshine. Increasing amounts of cloud will move in across the south of the UK with the possibility of some showers in the south of England for a time.

A more notable change to our weather moves in overnight on Saturday night and into Sunday. Showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecast to develop across parts of southern England on Saturday night. By Sunday morning, there is an increasing risk of more active and organised heavy showers and thunderstorms moving in to, or developing across, parts of southern England.

Thunderstorm warning issued

A Yellow severe weather warning for thunderstorms on Sunday has been issued for a swathe of England, fringing into eastern Wales. Although most places will miss them, and there remains a possibility that they fail to develop at all, if they do develop within this warning area 30 to 40mm of rain may fall in less than an hour with perhaps over 75mm in one or two places, leading to a chance of flooding and disruption.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Harris, said: “Through Saturday night and into Sunday we’ll see a gradual change in our weather across the UK with an increasing chance of heavy thundery showers developing, particularly across central parts of the UK. Should they develop there is the risk of some local disruption from intense rainfall, gusty winds, lightning and possibly hail too. Not everywhere within the warning area will see thunderstorms, and confidence in any individual location being affected remains extremely low at this time.

“The risk of thunderstorms steadily transfers northwards through Sunday afternoon and into the early evening. If you have plans for Sunday, I’d recommend keeping up to date with the Met Office forecast and any updates to the warnings.”

A world filled with wonder, adventure, and endless possibility

Wednesday 13th March 2024 at 12:21 AM

As the CH-47 Chinook helicopter soars through the skies over Hawaii

From CH-47 Chinook on Hawaii:13th March 2024:(Media Link//Seven Seas News Desk)::

This is an special click looks some risky too. Enjoying the View like this we can sea the broad size of the sea. we can feel the touching nature over the sea. In the photo you may see Army Sgt. Shelby Lewis looks out of the rear of a CH-47 Chinook during training over Hawaii on 3rd March 2024. this photo was taken by Army National Guard Sgt. Lianne M. Hirano when he was trying to click the joy of enjoying the View. These moments were clicked at a CH-47 Chinook-a big helicopter. This photo was provided by DoD USA army.

As the CH-47 Chinook helicopter soars through the skies over Hawaii, carrying soldiers on a training mission, there exists a moment of unparalleled wonder and exhilaration for those fortunate enough to gaze out of the rear. The feeling is akin to being suspended between earth and sky, with the lush greenery of the Hawaiian landscape sprawling below like a vibrant patchwork quilt.

As the wind rushes past and the rotor blades slice through the air, there's a sense of freedom unlike any other. With every twist and turn of the helicopter, the view morphs into a breathtaking panorama, revealing hidden valleys, towering peaks, and pristine beaches lapped by azure waters. It's a sight that evokes a profound sense of awe and gratitude, reminding soldiers of the vast beauty that exists beyond the confines of their military duties.

In this moment, as they peer out of the rear of the Chinook, the stresses and pressures of army life momentarily fade away, replaced by a sense of peace and tranquility. Surrounded by the camaraderie of their fellow soldiers, they find solace in the knowledge that they are part of something greater than themselves, bound by a shared sense of purpose and duty.

But amidst the serenity of the view lies an undercurrent of excitement and anticipation. For soldiers, even in moments of leisure, there is always the awareness of the training mission at hand, the need to remain vigilant and prepared for whatever challenges may arise. It's a reminder that even in the midst of beauty, the call of duty is ever-present.

Yet, despite the demands of their service, there's a profound appreciation for the opportunity to experience such moments of respite and reflection. For in the rear of a CH-47 Chinook over Hawaii, amidst the splendor of the landscape, soldiers find a fleeting glimpse of the world beyond their military obligations—a world filled with wonder, adventure, and endless possibility. And in that moment, they are reminded of the privilege and honor it is to serve their country, both in times of peace and in times of conflict.

Creature Comfort at Sea

Specially trained to help sailors cope with stress associated with deployment

June 23, 2023 |DOD News |   

When the Navy's newest and most advanced aircraft carrier set off last month on its second deployment, it carried something both familiar and entirely novel:

Meet Sage, the USS Gerald R. Ford's facility dog. Under a pilot program, she is the first "expanded operational stress control canine" that will be part of the crew of a Navy ship throughout a deployment.

The 3-year-old Labrador retriever has been specially trained to help sailors cope with stress associated with deployment, providing comfort and morale boosts as part of the ship's warfighter toughness mental health and resiliency team. 

A seated dog stares up at a person holding her leash.

A dog sits in front of four smiling, standing sailors in a room.

Recently, Sage and her handlers visited sailors aboard the USS Normandy, another ship in the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, in the Mediterranean Sea. From the looks of it, things went swimmingly. 

Young people from G7 countries call on leaders

Thursday 27th April 27 2023 at 1:29 PM

Honour commitment to nuclear disarmament 

Hiroshima: 27th April 2023: (Seven Seas News Bureau)::

Youth delegates from G7 countries, meeting in Hiroshima, are calling on  G7 leaders to seize the opportunity presented by their upcoming Summit and take action on nuclear disarmament, reminding them “possession or use of nuclear weapons is illegitimate as recognized by the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) and our future security cannot be dependent on distrust”. 

Meeting in the city that symbolises the devastating humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons, the 50 delegates issued a statement calling on the leaders of the G7 to listen to the survivors of the nuclear attack on the Hiroshima in 1945, known as hibakusha, and recognise the moral imperative of nuclear disarmament. 

The statement says: “We urgently demand action on nuclear weapons to honour the lived experiences of the hibakusha and other communities affected by nuclear weapons, and to secure a safer world free from weapons of mass destruction for generations to come.”

The delegates went on to urge the leaders to follow the framework of the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) as the best way to achieve disarmament: “Given the conflicts and crises we face today, we believe that the time for action against nuclear weapons is now. As young people, we champion the TPNW as the most effective path to eliminating nuclear weapons.”

The ICAN Hiroshima G7 Youth Summit took place from 25-27 April and was organised by the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) and hosted by The Center for Peace, Hiroshima University (CPHU). It brought students and youth activists from 19 countries, including all G7 countries to the city to learn about the humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons from atomic bomb survivors and other experts, and to discuss actions to realise a world free of nuclear weapons.

Among the summit’s other recommendations to the G7 leaders are the promotion of research into the impact of nuclear weapons on communities, particularly marginalised communities, in order to support victim assistance and environmental remediation; involve marginalised communities in decisions on nuclear policies; and to shift funding from nuclear weapons to sustainable investments in mitigating the effects of climate change, programmes for education, and peacebuilding.

National Tourism Awards on World Tourism Day

Entry Date: 27th September 2022 at 6:55 PM by PIB Delhi

81 awards given by Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar 

*Awards given this year highlighting the achievements of the industry in 2018-19

*Explore domestic tourist destinations first before looking at international travel:Dhankhar

*India’s Tourism sector is moving towards creative, responsible and inclusive growth: Reddy

New Delhi: 27th September 2022: (PIB//Seven Seas News)::

Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar presented the National Tourism Awards to awardees today at the programme organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, to mark the World Tourism Day, 2022. Union Minister of Tourism Shri G. Kishan Reddy and MoS Tourism Shri Ajay Bhatt also graced the ceremony. Secretary Tourism Shri Arvind Singh and other senior officers of the Ministry were also present on this occasion. A total of 81 awards were given away this year highlighting the achievements of the industry in 2018-19. Vice President also released India Tourism Statistics 2022, New Incredible India Global Promotional Films, and “GoBeyond:75 Experiences of North India” e-book on this occasion.

During his keynote address Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar described India as “heaven for tourism” and asked the Indians to explore domestic tourist destinations first before looking at international travel. Referring to Bharat’s long civilizational history and rich cultural heritage, he underlined that most of the tourist places in the country have a deep connect with our history, folk arts and ancient texts.

Vice President termed tourism a key driver of economic growth and employment generation in the country. Referring to multiple dimensions to the tourism, the Vice President stressed the need for fully leveraging the India’s immense potential in the field of medical tourism as well as the growing global interest in our ancient practices of healing such as Ayurveda and Yoga.

Appreciating the Government’s efforts for the development of the tourism sector in the country, Shri Dhankhar said that the development of tourism infrastructure has been accompanied with innovative initiatives such as Dekho Apna Desh and Utsav Portal.

Speaking on the occasion Shri G. Kishan Reddy said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India’s Tourism sector is moving towards creative, responsible and inclusive growth. Ministry of Tourism is working with 360-degree perspective and whole of government approach for the development of tourism sector. Along with Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Commerce are also working for the development of this sector, which will help in establishing better synergy and convergence leading to sustainable and world class infrastructure development.

Shri Reddy further highlighted that India plans to position itself as a major tourism destination during its presidency of G20 for 2023. During the presidency we aim to showcase India as a ‘must visit’ destination at a global level. 3600 railway coaches have been allocated for tourism purpose for Circuit specific trains. Such trains have already started for Ramayana and Buddhist Circuits while the one for Krishna Circuit will start soon. Our aim is to make India one of the most prominent destinations of the world. Union Minister added that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is working as brand ambassador of Indian tourism.

MoS Tourism Shri Ajay Bhatt congratulated all the award winners and said that Ministry of Tourism has prepared a draft National Tourism Policy 2022 as part of the vision of New India on high trajectory of growth and prosperity. The Policy aims at Improving framework conditions for tourism development in the country, supporting tourism industries, strengthening tourism support functions and developing tourism sub sectors.

During his welcome speech Secretary Tourism Shri Arvind Singh said that this kind of award motivates the travel and tourism sector. Travel & Tourism is one of the world’s largest economic sector, creating export and prosperity around the world. Indian Tourism sector has emerged as one of the key drivers of growth for Indian economy post covid, he said.

As India celebrates 75 years of independence, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, commences its Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) iconic week on 27th September 2022 by recognizing the efforts of industry stakeholders and conferring the National Tourism Awards. Due to Covid, the Awards could not be organised during the last 2 years.

The National Tourism Awards are presented to various segments of the travel, tourism and hospitality industry, including State Governments in recognition of their performance in their respective fields and also to encourage healthy competition with an aim to promote tourism. These Awards have over the years emerged as a prestigious recognition of achievements in the travel, tourism and hospitality sectors.

Kindly click for the details of awardees

Kindly click for the India Tourism Statistics 2022

*******   NB/OA    (रिलीज़ आईडी: 1862636)

TV Personality Montel Williams Served in the Navy, Marine Corps

 Feature// 9th February 2022 | By David Vergun DOD News

A Marine poses
for a photo

Montel Williams is perhaps best known for his TV appearances from 1991 to 2008 on "The Montel Williams Show." Williams, born in Baltimore on July 3, 1956, also served in the military, enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1974 and later graduating from the Naval Academy in 1980 with a degree in engineering and a minor in international security affairs. 

He then served 18 months in Guam as a cryptologic officer for naval intelligence. His next assignment was as a cryptologic officer with the Naval Security Fleet Support Division at Fort Meade, Maryland.  

After 22 years of military service, he retired from the Navy with the rank of lieutenant commander.  

On the last episode of "The Montel Williams Show," Navy Capt. Kenneth J. Braithwaite II, director of Joint Public Affairs Support Element Reserve, presented Williams with the Navy's Superior Public Service Award. 

"It was an honor to be able to award a true patriot like Mr. Williams," Braithwaite said. "This award signifies his genuine gratitude for military service. He has a definite understanding and appreciation of what sailors and Marines sacrifice, something he knows well from his own military experience." 

During annual holiday shows in his television program's long run, Williams reunited deployed sailors with their families. In 2006, he and a production crew flew to the U.S. Central Command 5th Fleet area of responsibility to tour Iraqi oil platforms and meet with deployed sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. 

A group poses for a photo

His program frequently highlighted the efforts of nonprofit organizations that support service members. Throughout his 17 years on television, Williams continuously shared with audience members and viewers the importance of supporting the military and recognized sailors' and Marines' sacrifices in service to their country. 

"During the entire run of my shows," Williams recalled, "I would do two or three shows dedicated to the military every single year. I went back and forth to the Persian Gulf multiple times while my show was on the air, taking messages to family members."  

Men talk during a ship tour

Shortly after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1999, Williams established the Montel Williams MS Foundation to further the scientific study of MS, provide financial assistance to select organizations and institutions conducting research, raise national awareness and educate the public.  

"My responsibility is to my fellow man," he said. "We are not here for self alone ... what I can do for mankind is much greater than what I can do for myself, and that's why I try my best. That sounds lofty and all that, but that's my purpose." 

Besides doing "The Montel Williams Show," he was an actor in several military-themed shows. He portrayed a Navy SEAL, Lt. Curtis Rivers, in three episodes of the TV series "JAG."  

He also produced and starred in a short-lived TV series called "Matt Waters," which appeared on CBS in 1996. In it, he played an ex-Navy SEAL turned inner-city high school teacher. 

Two men bond during a gathering

In 1997 he played Air Force Lt. Col. Northrop, a nuclear missile silo commander, in the fictional movie "The Peacekeeper."

Courtesy//Source: US Department of Defense

Knighthawk helicopter practice

 Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 practices 

SAN DIEGO: 26th November 2021: (Seven Seas News Bureau)::

An MH-60S Knighthawk helicopter of the “Wildcards” Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 practices helicopter visit, board, search and seizure (HVBSS) operations on the Admiral Hornblower yacht in San Diego Bay in support of Helicopter Advanced Readiness Program (HARP) exercises, Nov. 26, 2021. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Erica Higa)

Photo by: MC3 erica higa

Smooth Sailing A Great Joy too

 Sails alongside the Japanese destroyer 

Coral Sea 2nd July 2021 (Seven Seas News)::

Smooth Sailing gives a great joy. Touch the soul too. Encourage the waves of thoughts too. Have you felt?

The USS Rafael Peralta sails alongside the Japanese destroyer JS Makinami in the Coral Sea, June 28, 2021.

Photo was clicked by: Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Dan Serianni

Courtesy: US Department of Defense 

Karwar Naval Base under ‘Project Seabird’

 24-June-2021 17:44 IST

 RM says it will be Asia’s largest Naval Base 

Karwar Naval Base Karnataka: (PIB/Ministry of Defense/Seven Seas News)::

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh visited the Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka on June 24, 2021 to review the progress of ongoing infrastructure development under ‘Project Seabird’. Accompanied by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh, Shri Rajnath Singh undertook an aerial survey of the Project Area and Sites before arriving at the INS Kadamba Heli Pad. The visiting dignitaries were received by Flag Officer Commanding in Chief, Western Naval Command Vice Admiral R Hari Kumar and Flag Officer Commanding Karnataka Naval Area, Rear Admiral Mahesh Singh. 

The Raksha Mantri inspected the ongoing works at the Naval Base and received on-site briefings including capability demonstration at the Shiplift Tower. He also undertook a tour of the Naval Harbour and reviewed the marine works/infrastructure being developed as part of Project Seabird Phase II A as also operationalisation of Piers. Shri Rajnath Singh visited the newly-constructed Sailors Married Accommodation which incorporates advanced features for water efficiency, handling of house-hold waste, energy efficiency and provides environment-friendly houses. 

Shri Rajnath Singh interacted with Project Seabird Contactors & Engineers and Officers, Sailors & Civilians of Karwar Naval Base. In his address, he expressed satisfaction at the progress of works being carried out under ‘Project Seabird’. He hoped that after the completion of the project, the Kawar Naval Base would become Asia's largest Naval base which would further bolster the operational readiness of the Armed Forces and help in augmenting trade, economy & humanitarian aid operations. 

The Raksha Mantri complimented the Indian Navy for being a strong arm of the Armed Forces that is making an invaluable contribution towards maritime and national security, besides strengthening India's position at the strategic as well as diplomatic & commercial levels. He stated that the Navy is successfully discharging its duties of protecting the country, which through its coastline of more than 7,500 kms, about 1,300 islands and an exclusive economic zone of 2.5 million sq kms, is playing a crucial role in the development of the world. Shri Rajnath Singh added that the Navy is continuously strengthening India’s relations with its maritime neighbours with focus on 'SAGAR' (Security & Growth for All in Region) envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He also praised the role of Indian Navy during Goa Liberation War of 1961 and the 1971 Indo-Pak war among others. 

Shri Rajnath Singh lauded the efforts of Indian Navy for providing humanitarian assistance to not just the country, but the world, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. “From rescuing stranded Indian nationals from affected countries to ferrying in critical equipment, including oxygen cylinders, from abroad, Indian Navy has worked tirelessly in the fight against COVID-19. It also extended assistance to various countries,” he said. 

The Raksha Mantri also highlighted some of the reforms undertaken by the Government to further strengthen the operational preparedness of the Armed Forces, including appointment of Chief of Defence Staff and setting up of Department of Military Affairs in Ministry of Defence. He also listed out a number of initiatives taken by the Government to promote self reliance in defence manufacturing. The initiatives include allocation of 64 per cent of modernisation funds under capital acquisition budget for 2021-22 for domestic procurement; changes in Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 and increase in FDI limit in the defence sector to 74 per cent. 

On the efforts to boost self reliance in Indian Navy, Shri Rajnath Singh said more than two-thirds of Navy's modernisation budget has been spent on indigenous procurement in the last five financial years. Lauding Navy’s commitment towards ‘AatmaNirbhar Bharat’, he stated that out of the 48 ships and submarines, 46 are being inducted through indigenous construction. The Raksha Mantri described Indigenous Aircraft Carrier Vikrant as a shining example of Navy's self-reliance efforts. He said the commissioning of Indigenous Aircraft Carrier Vikrant will be a momentous occasion in the history of Indian defence as it is coinciding with the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence. He expressed confidence that Indian Navy will become one of the top three Navies in the world in the coming years and continue to play a crucial role in protecting the nation.

2nd Dose: Africa urgently needs 20 million of COVID-19 vaccine

 Thursday: 27th May 2021 at 7:03 PM

Brazzaville: 27 May 2021: (Press Release)::

Symbolic Photo

Africa needs at least 20 million doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine in the next six weeks to get second doses to all who received a first dose within the 8—12-week interval between doses recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). 

A single dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine gives around 70% protection for at least 12 weeks. Data on the protection from one dose after 12 weeks is limited, however COVID-19 antibodies have been found in the body up to 6 months after one dose. The full course provided with a 12-week interval gives 81% protection for an extended period.

In addition to this urgent need, another 200 million doses of any WHO Emergency Use Listed COVID-19 vaccine are needed so that the continent can vaccinate 10% of its population by September 2021. This follows a call made by WHO Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at the World Health Assembly, WHO’s governing body earlier this week for all Member States to support a massive vaccination push.

To date, 28 million COVID-19 doses, of different vaccines, have been administered in Africa, which represents less than two doses administered per 100 people in Africa. Globally, 1.5 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered.

“As supplies dry up, dose-sharing is an urgent, critical and short-term solution to ensuring that Africans at the greatest risk of COVID-19 get the much-needed protection,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “Africa needs vaccines now. Any pause in our vaccination campaigns will lead to lost lives and lost hope.”

“It’s too soon to tell if Africa is on the cusp of a third wave. However, we know that cases are rising, and the clock is ticking so we urgently appeal to countries that have vaccinated their high-risk groups to speed up the dose-sharing to fully protect the most vulnerable people.”

France is the first country to share COVID-19 vaccines from its domestic supply, donating over 31 000 doses to Mauritania, with another 74 400 set for imminent delivery. France has pledged to share half a million more doses with six African countries in the next few weeks. The European Union and its Member States have pledged over 100 million doses for low-income countries by the end of 2021. The United States of America has pledged to share 80 million doses with lower-income countries, and other high-income countries have expressed interest in sharing vaccines. Expediting these pledges is crucial and the COVAX Facility is a proven tool for swift delivery. 

African countries that are unable to use all their vaccines are sharing them across the continent. While this prevents vaccine wastage, redistributing doses is costly and countries must roll out all available doses as soon as possible. WHO is working closely with countries to improve vaccine rollout by optimizing delivery strategies and increasing uptake.

In the longer term, Africa must boost its manufacturing capacity for vaccines. Yet there is no quick-fix and putting the policies, processes and partnerships in place may take years. Intellectual Property waivers are a crucial first step but must come alongside the sharing of expertise and critical technologies. 

More than 100 WHO Member States, including 54 African countries are co-sponsoring a draft resolution led by Ethiopia which is being presented at this week’s World Health Assembly. The resolution aims to strengthen local production, promote technology transfers and innovation, and consider the agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights and intellectual property rights through the lens of boosting local production.

WHO is helping African Member States to lay the groundwork to build up vaccine manufacturing capacity. Around 40 African countries joined a recent WHO training to build manufacturing capacities and WHO is working with the African Union to support the African Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plan for Africa, supporting feasibility studies and potential technology transfers on request, sharing expertise and helping forge crucial partnerships.

Dr Moeti spoke during a virtual press conference today facilitated by APO Group. She was joined by Honorable Semano Henry Sekatle, Minister of Health, Lesotho, and Her Excellency Stéphanie Seydoux, Ambassador for Global Health, Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, France. Also on hand to answer questions were Dr Richard Mihigo, Coordinator, Immunization and Vaccines Development Programme, WHO Regional Office for Africa, and Dr Nsenga Ngoy, Emergency Response Programme Manager, WHO Regional Office for Africa. 

Navigate a combat rubber raiding craft

 During an exercise in the Philippine Sea 

Philippine Sea: 28th February 2021: (Seven Seas News)::

Marines and sailors navigate a combat rubber raiding craft after launching from the USS Ashland during an exercise in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 24, 2021.

Photo By: Marine Corps Sgt. Danny Gonzalez

Courtesy: US Department of Defense

Sunlit Sail: special Moments of Life and Travel

 Evaluation exercises aboard a patrol boat in San Diego 

Photo Courtesy US Department of Defense 

Internet: 21st February 2021: (USA Defense Department//Seven Seas News)::

Sailors assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron 11 participate in evaluation exercises aboard a patrol boat in San Diego, Feb. 24, 2021.

Photo By: Navy Chief Petty Officer Nelson Doromal Jr.

DRDO at Republic Day Parade 2021

 Sunday: 24-January-2021 at 17:35 IST

 DRDO has been a design and development agency for Armed Forces 

New Delhi: 24th January 2021: (PIB//Seven Seas News)::

DRDO has been showcasing advanced defense technology products for tri services at Rajpath on Republic Day every year. Delivering on its mandate of development of state of the art defence systems, DRDO once again has brought two important tableaux to the prestigious Republic Day parade 2021. Showcasing the major achievements of the year, are LCA Navy take off and landing onboard the aircraft carrier and the complete family of Anti Tank Guided Missiles.

Light Combat Aircraft Tejas has achieved a major technology capability milestone by landing and taking off from the Aircraft Carrier of IN. The LCA Navy tableau celebrates the successful demonstration of carrier operations of LCA Navy from INS Vikramaditya on sea. The tableau of LCA Navy shows landing, takeoff and lift operation, three most important operations required to be met by an aircraft onboard a carrier ship. LCA Navy successfully demonstrated landing on a 90 meters runway and take-off from short run of 145 meters in 2020. LCA Navy is India’s first 4+ Generation STOBAR (Ski-Jump Take Off But Arrested Recovery) fighter aircraft capable of operating from an aircraft carrier. Cdr Abhishek C Gawande of Indian Navy is the commander of the tableau.

Symbolizing India’s strides in anti-tank missile technologies will be the tableau showcasing the full complement of DRDOs Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) Systems. This tableau showcases NAG, HELINA, MPATGM, SANT and Laser Guided ATGM for MBT Arjun. The ATGM tableau will be represented by Shri ShiladityaBhowmick Scientist ’D’, a young scientist of DRDL, Hyderabad.

NAG is a 3rd generation fire and forget missile developed for mechanized formations to engage heavily fortified enemy tanks. HELINA, the Helicopter launched anti tank missile is a 3rd generation fire and forget missile with a range of 7 km designed and developed for integration on weaponised version of Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). MPATGM is a Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile with a range of 2.5 km with Fire and Forget and Top Attack capabilities for infantry use. SANT is a smart Stand-off Anti-Tank Missile being developed for launch from Mi-35 Helicopter for Air Force anti tank operations. ATGM for MBT Arjun is a laser guided PGM (Precision Guided Munition) which is launched from the 120 mm rifled gun of Arjun tank to engage and defeat Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) protected armoured targets.

LCA Tejas model is also part of IAF Tableau and adorning the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Tableau representing the theme of Vocal for Local. Other DRDO products on Rajpath this year are Akash Surface to Air Missile and Astra Air to Air Missile on IAF Tableau.

DRDO has been a design and development agency for Armed Forces and to reinforce the spirit of AtmaNirbhar Bharat, DRDO is partnering with all stakeholders of defence ecosystem, including academia, industry and services in developing state of the art defence systems

Drone Dog

 A test of an unmanned ground vehicle 

Florida: 13th November 2020: (Seven Seas News)::

Airmen watch a test of an unmanned ground vehicle at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., Nov. 10, 2020. Tyndall plans to use the “computerized canines” to aid in reconnaissance and enhanced security patrolling operations across the base.

The future of work in the automotive industry:

 Technical meeting on 19-23 October 2020 (TBC)

Courtesy Photo

Type: Meeting

When: 19 - 23 October 2020

Where: Geneva, Switzerland

The Governing Body is considering the suspension of the program of sectoral meetings for the remainder of 2020 and early 2021 and will review the dates of the meetings in the light of the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The meeting will discuss future needs for skills and vocational education and training in the automotive industry in the context of the ILO Centenary Declaration for the Future of Work (adopted at the 108th Session (2019) of the International Labour Conference), with the aim of adopting conclusions, including recommendations for future action.

Nebraska Guard Transitions COVID-19

Defense Feature              23rd July 2020 at 5:57 PM

Testing to Civilian Health Care Workers

23rd July 2020//By Army Staff SGT. HEIDI MCCLINTOCK

After months of support, the Nebraska National Guard is transitioning its COVID-19 testing mission to civilian health care workers throughout the state.

As of July 1, full Nebraska National Guard testing teams are no longer activated to provide testing throughout Nebraska, but a small group of soldiers and airmen is still activated to provide training and knowledge to hos pitals for the Test Nebraska campaign. Another small team is supporting the Omaha area.

A man puts on full body protective gear.

''The transition has been going very well,'' said Army Maj. Angela Ling, the coordinator between the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Resources and the Nebraska National Guard. ''The current process is: if a hospital/clinic/health department is interested in running a Test Nebraska site, they contact DHHS, and together they get a contract signed. Once the contract is signed, my team receives the contract, and we call the hospital directly.''

''When we call the hospital, we work out their training needs, test kit, and [personal protective equipment] delivery and scheduling plan,'' Ling added. ''Once these details are solidified, we send an update to the Test Nebraska team to get them loaded into the scheduling system.''

The transition was put in place after several hundred Nebraska National Guard soldiers and airmen were activated in late March to support testing teams that traveled across the state for weeks on end.

Three Nebraska National Guardsmen wearing face masks stand in grass.

''The civilian hospitals are doing a wonderful job with this transition,'' Ling said. ''They are eager to support this need for their communities.''

Over the past few months, the guard testing teams have been able to provide Test Nebraska sites wherever needed, including nursing homes, corrections facilities, meat processing plants, smaller towns and large cities alike.

The teams have helped to collect more than 80,000 samples for testing during the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting 53 counties and all 19 health departments.

''It's been a great honor for the governor to entrust his confidence in Nebraska National Guard soldiers and airmen to provide the testing for COVID-19 these past few months,'' said Army Maj. Gen. Daryl Bohac, Nebraska adjutant general. ''I couldn’t be more proud of the team we have had on orders to provide the support and capabilities for such an important mission. It goes without being said we have great soldiers and airmen in the state of Nebraska that are ready to respond at a moment's notice.''

A woman in protective gear stands next to a car.

Throughout the pandemic, the guard has always pushed to ensure the safety of the soldiers and airmen supporting the COVID-19 response missions as well as their fellow citizens.

''I have three directives: [to] preserve the health of the force, protect our families in our communities and stay ready,'' Bohac said. ''If we take care of everyone, we take care of the other two, and that’s the direction we’re following.''

As the mission begins to wind down, the soldiers and airmen know that their hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed, and they are proud of their contributions during this time.

''Our team has enjoyed working with numerous agencies and filling a need for the state during this pandemic,'' Ling said.

(Army Staff Sgt. Heidi Mcclintock is assigned to the Nebraska National Guard.)

WHO urges: not to let COVID-19 eclipse other health issues

Public health systems in Africa are coming under severe strain

Brazzaville:23rd April 2020:: (WHO Media//Seven Seas News)::

Public health systems in Africa are coming under severe strain as the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic persists. But as countries battle to bring the outbreak under control, efforts must also be maintained on other health emergencies and progress made against diseases such as malaria or polio preserved, the World Health Organization (WHO) urged today.

Prior to the arrival of the novel coronavirus in Africa, WHO was stressing the need for countries to ensure the continuity of routine essential health services. An overburdened health system not only undermines the effectiveness of the response to COVID-19 but may also undermine the response to a whole host of preventable threats to human health. Even brief interruptions of vaccination make outbreaks more likely to occur, putting children and other vulnerable groups more at risk of life-threatening diseases. 

“I urge all countries to not lose focus on their gains made in health as they adapt to tackle this new threat,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “We saw with the Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in West Africa that we lost more people to malaria, for instance than, we lost to the Ebola outbreak. Let us not repeat that with COVID-19.”

Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Africa continue to rise, now exceeding 25 000. WHO is supporting countries in all aspects of the COVID-19 response and has recently published guidelines for ensuring the continuation of critical health services, including immunization and anti-malaria campaigns. The guidelines stress the need for countries to take a dynamic approach that mitigates any unavoidable pause in vaccination campaigns. 

The consequences of disrupting efforts to control malaria in Africa could be particularly grave. Current estimates suggest that sub-Saharan Africa accounted for approximately 93% of all malaria cases and 94% of deaths, mainly among children under five. A new analysis by WHO and partners suggests that in a worst case scenario if malaria prevention and treatment services were severely disrupted as a result of COVID-19, the number of malaria deaths in 2020 in sub-Saharan Africa could rise to double the number in 2018.

“Africa has made significant progress over the past 20 years in stopping malaria from claiming lives. While COVID-19 is a major health threat, it’s critical to maintain malaria prevention and treatment programmes. The new modelling shows deaths could exceed 700 000 this year alone. We haven’t seen mortality levels like that in 20 years. We must not turn back the clock,” said Dr Moeti.

There are countries like Benin, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone, Chad, Central African Republic, Uganda and Tanzania which are continuing with their insecticide treated bed net campaigns and other important malaria prevention activities. Countries are adapting their malaria strategies to the current complex situation.

Another essential health service is immunization. The response to COVID-19 has already disrupted vaccination efforts on the continent. Despite considerable progress on immunization, one in four African children remain under-immunized. Measles vaccination campaigns in Chad, Ethiopia, Nigeria and South Sudan have already been suspended because of COVID-19, leaving approximately 21 million children who would have otherwise been vaccinated unprotected. In response to the introduction of physical distancing measures, WHO has published guidelines on immunization in the context of COVID-19.