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Government Unveils National Framework to Strengthen ITDAs and ITDPs

New framework focuses on institutional reform, convergence, digital governance and outcome-based monitoring for tribal development

New Delhi: Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Shri Jual Oram and Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, Member, NITI Aayog, on Saturday jointly released the National Framework for Strengthening of ITDAs and ITDPs and the Operational Guidelines for Strengthening of ITDAs and ITDPs, marking a major step towards strengthening last-mile delivery of tribal development programmes across the country.

The two publications are the outcome of a comprehensive, consultative and evidence-based national exercise aimed at improving the functioning of Integrated Tribal Development Agencies and Projects (ITDAs/ITDPs), which serve as key field-level institutions connecting government programmes with tribal communities.

The release ceremony was attended by Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Smt. Ranjana Chopra; Additional Secretary Shri Manish Thakur; and senior officials of the Ministry.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Jual Oram said ITDAs and ITDPs have historically played an important role in translating government initiatives into outcomes for tribal communities. Their significance, he noted, has increased with the expansion of interventions under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) and PM-JANMAN.

Dr. R. Balasubramaniam said the principles of institutional ranking, real-time data-driven monitoring and convergence, which have helped improve outcomes in aspirational districts and blocks, have now been incorporated into the ITDA/ITDP reform architecture.

He said evidence-based administrative interventions can help transform regions that lag behind, and the new framework seeks to apply this approach to the tribal development ecosystem, with ITDAs serving as vehicles for achieving saturation of entitlements at the last mile.

The exercise was undertaken under the overall guidance of Secretary, Tribal Affairs, Smt. Ranjana Chopra, with a focus on moving beyond a uniform approach and developing context-specific and accountable field institutions.

The Ministry began the exercise in April 2026, covering 214 ITDAs/ITDPs across 17 States and Union Territories. The assessment involved Project Officers, State Tribal Welfare Departments and Tribal Research Institutes.

Unlike a desk-based assessment, the exercise incorporated State-level workshops, field visits and direct consultations with officials and institutions at the ground level. The process culminated in an Evidence-Weighted ITDA Diagnostic Scoring Framework, which assesses institutions across 15 parameters covering five institutional domains.

Structured consultation workshops were held across States and UTs during April and May 2026 under the leadership of Dr. Varnali Deka, Director, DAJGUA Division, and Shri Jafar Malik, Deputy Secretary, EMRS. The consultations enabled the Ministry to assess institutional capacity, identify challenges and document successful practices before validating the findings.

A major milestone in the exercise was the National Conclave on Strengthening of ITDAs and ITDPs, held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on June 3, 2026, in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu.

The newly released National Framework sets out the assessment methodology and broader strategic direction for institutional strengthening. The Operational Guidelines, meanwhile, translate the recommendations into actionable measures covering institutional restructuring, convergence of schemes, evidence-based planning, digital governance, outcome-based monitoring and capacity building.

For the first time, States will have access to a common institutional assessment methodology through which individual ITDAs can identify gaps and prepare Performance Improvement Roadmaps tailored to their local requirements.

Shri Oram emphasised that the exercise should not be viewed merely as a mechanism for ranking institutions. Instead, its objective is to establish a culture of continuous institutional improvement.

He urged States to conduct State-level reviews involving all ITDA/ITDP Project Officers, prepare institution-specific action plans and introduce quarterly monitoring of institutional performance, drawing on the monitoring approach followed under the Aspirational Districts Programme and Aspirational Blocks Programme.

The Minister also called for measures to strengthen the ITDA/ITDP ecosystem, including improving fund-flow mechanisms and examining the possibility of directly transferring funds to ITDAs. He also stressed the need to increase technical manpower to improve project execution.

Regular meetings of Governing Councils, with active participation from Panchayati Raj Institution representatives and senior State leadership, were also recommended to strengthen convergence, accountability and implementation.

The two publications are expected to provide States with a structured roadmap for transforming ITDAs and ITDPs into more responsive, data-driven and outcome-oriented institutions capable of delivering tribal welfare and development programmes more effectively at the grassroots level.

Tributes Paid to Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on Death Anniversary

Bhubaneswar, Aug. 16 (UDN): Tributes were paid to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary, remembering him as a distinguished nationalist, visionary statesman and exceptional orator who made significant contributions to India’s development and democratic traditions.

 Pic credit : x.com/MohanMOdisha

Vajpayee’s life and political legacy continue to inspire citizens across the country. His tenure in public life was marked by a strong emphasis on good governance, national development and India’s global stature.

His visionary outlook, unwavering faith in democratic values and commitment to inclusive development remain important chapters in India’s political history.

Vajpayee was also remembered for his exceptional dedication to public service and nation-building. His approach to politics and governance continues to be regarded as a source of inspiration for generations.

On the occasion, tributes highlighted his contribution to national unity, democratic values and the country’s development, with his ideals continuing to inspire the younger generation.

His enduring commitment to nation-building and public service remains deeply etched in the collective memory of the country.

CATL and Quinbrook Build on Supernode Partnership Following Stage 2 and Stage 3 Major Milestones

BRISBANE, Australia, Aug. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Quinbrook’s Supernode battery energy storage project has completed Stage 2 commercial operation and reached financial close on A$469 million financing for Stage 3, marking a further milestone in the phased development of Australia’s largest operational BESS campus.

With planned capacity expected to exceed 3 GWh, Supernode is supported by CATL as its core energy storage system supplier for all three stages, providing advanced storage solutions and lifecycle support to enable reliable long-term operation.

Located at Brendale, north of Brisbane, Supernode is adjacent to the South Pine substation, a key hub in the Queensland power system and the regional reference node for marginal loss factors (MLFs). This location provides a favourable MLF position and approximately 4,000MW of available connection capacity for phased expansion. The project’s development coincides with Queensland’s accelerating energy transition and the infrastructure investment cycle.

Stage 3 has reached financial close on A$469 million in debt financing, bringing total project financing across Supernode Stages 1, 2 and 3 to approximately A$1.2 billion. Across its first three stages, Supernode is set to reach 780MW / 3,074MWh. Capacity across the three stages has been contracted under long-term offtake arrangements. 

The long-term value of such assets depends on the continued availability, operational efficiency, safety and reliability of their energy storage systems. CATL has provided EnerC Plus systems for Stages 1 and 2 and will supply TENER S systems for Stage 3, establishing a consistent technology platform across the campus.

In close collaboration with Quinbrook, CATL has supported project-specific design optimisation to enable high-density deployment within the constraints of available industrial land. EnerC Plus supports back-to-back installation, reducing the required site footprint by approximately 20% compared with EnerC. Its integrated liquid-cooling system maintains an internal container temperature differential within 5°C and is designed to deliver reliable operation over a 20-year lifecycle.

CATL’s contribution extends beyond equipment supply. Under a Long-Term Service Agreement (LTSA), CATL will further support the full lifecycle of the energy storage asset through condition monitoring, performance tracking, fault response and preventive maintenance to help ensure reliable long-term operation. CATL’s proven product performance, scalable delivery capabilities and lifecycle service model provide greater confidence in the long-term reliability and performance of the energy storage asset.

Tim Hornemand, Managing Director and Regional Lead, Australia, at Quinbrook, said:

“Achieving commercial operations for Stage 2 means we’ve successfully delivered both Origin-contracted stages on schedule, an outcome we’re incredibly proud of given the complexity of commissioning utility-scale battery storage projects in Australia. With Stage 3 now fully financed, we’ve reached another important milestone in Supernode’s continuing development. The ongoing support of our banking partners also reflects confidence in the Supernode project, our delivery track record and the long-term outlook for battery storage in Australia.”

Tan Libin, CCO and Co-President of Sales & Marketing at CATL, said:

“Energy storage is evolving from a standalone technology deployment into a strategic energy asset. The next stage of industry development will depend not only on technological advancement, but also on the ability to create long-term value through collaboration, innovation and scalable deployment. At CATL, we are committed to working with partners to unlock the full potential of energy storage assets and support the transition toward a more flexible and resilient energy system.”

CATL and Quinbrook are also working together on EnerQB, an eight-hour battery storage solution being considered for future stages of the Supernode development. The initiative builds on CATL’s role as energy storage system supplier across Supernode’s first three stages. CATL will continue to work with partners worldwide to deliver reliable technologies, scalable solutions and lifecycle support.

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National Council for Senior Citizens Reviews Key Measures for Elderly Welfare and Healthcare

New Delhi, August 15, 2026: Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar chaired the fifth meeting of the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSrC) in New Delhi, where the government and stakeholders reviewed a range of issues related to the welfare, healthcare, social security and empowerment of India’s elderly population.

The meeting brought together officials from the Centre and states, Council members, experts, NGOs and senior citizen organisations. Discussions focused on improving the implementation of welfare programmes and ensuring that senior citizens have access to healthcare, social protection and opportunities for active participation in society.

Dr. Virendra Kumar said ensuring a life of dignity, security, good health and meaningful participation for senior citizens remains an important priority. He described elderly welfare as an integral part of the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision and called for closer coordination between ministries, states and other stakeholders.

The Council reviewed the implementation of the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY), assessing its reach and effectiveness. It also discussed the expansion of Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) health insurance coverage to all senior citizens aged 60 years and above, irrespective of their economic status.

Another issue considered was a proposal to include geriatric caregiver services in the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) rate card. The Council also reviewed action taken on recommendations from its previous meeting and considered suggestions concerning social security, institutional care, active ageing and community participation.

A major highlight of the meeting was the launch of “SNEHA – Stories of Nurturing, Engagement, Happiness & Active Ageing”, an e-book documenting major initiatives and achievements for senior citizens between October 2024 and June 2026. The publication captures the government’s efforts towards healthy ageing and greater participation of elderly citizens in community and nation-building activities.

The meeting also highlighted two technology-driven initiatives. The JEEVAN (Joint Elderly Empowerment & Virtual Assistance Network) App is designed to provide senior citizens and their families with easier access to welfare schemes and services, while SHATAYU (Senior Holistic Care Assistance and Training for Your Utility) aims to connect people with trained geriatric caregivers and promote the concept of ageing in place.

The Council concluded with a renewed focus on inter-ministerial coordination, digital governance and improved service delivery, with the broader objective of enabling senior citizens across India to lead healthier, more active and dignified lives.

President’s Medal for Distinguished Service Awarded to Railway Security Officer

New Delhi, August 15, 2026: On the occasion of Independence Day 2026, the President of India has conferred the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM) and Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM) on officers and personnel of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF).

Rajesh Lal, Assistant Security Commissioner at the Railway Board, has been awarded the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service, recognising his distinguished contribution to railway security and service.

Another 15 officers and personnel from the RPF and RPSF have received the Medal for Meritorious Service for their dedicated service and professional commitment.

The recipients of the MSM are:

• Satya Prakash, Principal Chief Security Commissioner, North Eastern Railway
• C. S. Chengappa, Assistant Security Commissioner, Southern Railway
• Krishna Kumar Mishra, Assistant Security Commissioner, North Eastern Railway
• Vivek Verma, Assistant Security Commissioner, North Central Railway
• Moni Taro, Inspector, Railway Protection Special Force
• Barun Prasad Laheri, Inspector, Railway Protection Special Force
• H. K. Doddaiah, Sub Inspector, South Western Railway
• Kailash Prasad, Sub Inspector, North Eastern Railway
• Naresh Kumar, Sub Inspector, Northern Railway
• Guru Prasad Nagarikanti, Sub Inspector, South Central Railway
• Ram Prasad Meena, Assistant Sub Inspector (MT), Railway Protection Special Force
• E Arun Moli, Assistant Sub Inspector, Southern Railway
• Vikas Kumar, Assistant Sub Inspector, North Central Railway
• Niraj Ahlawat, Assistant Sub Inspector, Northern Railway
• Shankar Shivswami Edle, Head Constable, Central Railway

The Independence Day honours recognise the contribution of railway security personnel who work to protect passengers, railway infrastructure and the wider railway network. The awards also acknowledge sustained professionalism and commitment to duty across different zones and units of the RPF and RPSF.

PM Modi Remembers Sri Aurobindo, Highlights His Enduring Influence on India and the World

New Delhi, August 15, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to Sri Aurobindo on his birth anniversary, recalling his contribution as a philosopher, nationalist, poet and thinker who devoted his life to India’s freedom and the broader advancement of humanity.

In a message shared on social media, Modi said Sri Aurobindo’s writings on a wide range of subjects continue to influence and inspire people across the world. He also highlighted the spiritual leader’s strong belief in India’s future and in humanity’s capacity for transformation.

The Prime Minister noted that Sri Aurobindo’s vision remains relevant even today, particularly his belief in the country’s potential and the possibility of human progress.

Sri Aurobindo remains an important figure in India’s intellectual and spiritual history. His ideas brought together nationalism, philosophy, spirituality and social thought, leaving a lasting influence on generations of Indians and readers worldwide.

The Prime Minister’s tribute comes as the nation remembers the legacy of a thinker whose writings continue to shape discussions on India’s civilisational identity, national development and human evolution.

Government Removes 12-Minute Ad Cap for Television Channels

New Delhi, August 15, 2026: The government has decided to remove the long-standing 12-minute-per-hour limit on television advertisements, marking a significant change in the regulatory framework governing India’s broadcasting industry. The decision was announced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on August 14.

The advertising cap was introduced in 2006 under the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994, when India had only 62 television channels. The sector has since expanded to more than 900 channels, while digitalisation has transformed the distribution landscape through DTH, digital cable, HITS and IPTV platforms.

The government said the earlier restriction needed to be reconsidered as television broadcasters face growing competition from digital media, which does not operate under a comparable advertisement-duration ceiling. The move is intended to provide broadcasters greater commercial flexibility, promote fair competition and improve ease of doing business.

The change is expected to give television networks greater scope to optimise advertising inventory and revenue, although it could also lead to longer or more frequent commercial breaks for viewers.

The revised rule will take effect once the amendment to the Cable Television Networks Rules is formally notified in the Gazette.

Amit Shah Begins Rajasthan Visit, Rs.667 Crore Aid to Benefit 66.74 Lakh Farmers

Jaipur, August 15, 2026: Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah begins a two-day visit to Rajasthan today, with a major focus on farmer support, employment generation and infrastructure development across the state.

A key highlight of the visit will be the transfer of ₹667 crore to 66.74 lakh farmers under the sixth instalment of the Mukhyamantri Kisan Samman Nidhi. The government will also release around ₹152 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, providing financial support to eligible farmers.

Shah is also scheduled to participate in the state-level Mukhyamantri Rozgar Utsav, where appointment letters will be handed over to 10,548 newly recruited personnel. The programme is expected to underline the government’s emphasis on expanding employment opportunities for Rajasthan’s youth.

The minister’s itinerary includes the inauguration and foundation-laying of a large number of development projects. In Nimbahera, Shah will unveil a statue of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and dedicate 944 projects worth ₹5,659 crore spread across 15 districts.

The visit will also take Shah to Alwar, where he is scheduled to address a public gathering and dedicate additional development works valued at around ₹6,453 crore.

With agriculture, jobs, infrastructure and cooperative development featuring prominently on the agenda, Shah’s Rajasthan visit is set to highlight the government’s broader push to strengthen rural incomes while accelerating development across the state.

PM Modi Highlights Self-Reliance, Youth and Developed India Vision in Independence Day Address

New Delhi, August 15, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on India’s 80th Independence Day, calling for a renewed national resolve to build a developed and self-reliant India by 2047. He paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, freedom fighters and the nation’s security personnel.

In his address, the Prime Minister placed strong emphasis on manufacturing, agriculture and food processing, technology and innovation, infrastructure, defence, the green and blue economy, and India’s soft power. He described these seven areas as key pillars of national strength and growth.

Youth empowerment and technology emerged as major themes. Modi announced plans to provide AI training to one crore young Indians over the coming year, along with free online coaching initiatives for competitive examinations. He also highlighted the importance of domestic manufacturing, energy security and innovation in strengthening India’s economic resilience.

The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of Make in India, Swadeshi and Vocal for Local, urging citizens and businesses to contribute to a stronger domestic production ecosystem. The address came as India marked 80 years of Independence, with the national song Vande Mataram being rendered at the Red Fort as part of celebrations marking its 150th anniversary.

VICTORINOX INDIA WELCOMES ABHAY DEOL AS A FRIEND OF THE BRAND

SHARED VALUES. AUTHENTICITY. CHARACTER.

MUMBAI, India, Aug. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Victorinox India today announced actor Abhay Deol as a Friend of the Brand for its watch portfolio for the coming 18 months. Known for his authenticity, independent spirit and thoughtful approach to life, Deol reflects values that have guided Victorinox for more than 140 years.

The association will bring Abhay Deol across Victorinox’s watch portfolio, all collections including I.N.O.X., Maverick, Concept One Solar, Air Pro, Dive Pro and Concept One Automatic. Throughout this term, Deol will feature across all media touch touchpoints including digital, outdoor and retail touchpoints, celebrating a shared commitment to character, quality and enduring craftsmanship.

SPEND YOUR TIME WISELY, CELEBRATED THROUGH AN INDIAN LENS

At the Heart of the Collaboration Is Victorinox’s Global Watch Campaign – Spend Your Time Wisely. a Belief That Time Is Our Most Valuable Resource, and That How We Choose to Spend It Says Something About Who We Are.

For India, Victorinox is bringing this global philosophy to life through Abhay Deol, whose distinctive approach to life reflects the idea of making thoughtful, individual choices. Through his journey with the brand, Abhay will introduce audiences to Victorinox watches not simply as timepieces, but as companions to the moments that make time meaningful.

The campaign brings Spend Your Time Wisely to life across the most important festive occasions in India, from Diwali, Raksha Bandhan and the wedding season. Highlighting the importance of time during celebrations and milestones. Each occasion captures a different way of spending time with family, with loved ones, celebrating traditions, pursuing passions or simply being present in the moment.

In doing so, the Swiss heritage and craftsmanship of Victorinox embraces Indian festivities by being ‘The Ideal Gift – Time’ during these occasions and milestone moment.

Commenting on the campaign, Avirup Mukhopadhyay, Head of Marketing, Victorinox India, said:

“With Spend Your Time Wisely, we are bringing Victorinox’s iconic Swiss heritage and craftsmanship into the heart of Indian celebrations. Our ambition is to make Victorinox watches the ideal gift for every festive occasion and the important moments that define our lives, creating a meaningful bridge between Swiss excellence and the traditions of India.“

SHARED VALUES, MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS

Commenting on the announcement, Debraj Sengupta, Managing Director, Victorinox India, said:

“At Victorinox, every partnership is guided by shared values. Abhay Deol represents authenticity, thoughtful choices and quiet confidence – qualities that closely reflect our brand philosophy. As we continue strengthening our presence in India, this collaboration marks an important step in building deeper connections with consumers while staying true to our Swiss heritage and commitment to quality.”

More than a brand partnership, this collaboration brings together two philosophies rooted in authenticity, independence and long-term thinking. Throughout his career, Abhay Deol has been recognized for forging his own path, making deliberate choices and remaining true to his convictions. It is an approach that closely mirrors Victorinox’s enduring commitment to quality, purpose and staying true to its values.

Commenting on the collaboration, Abhay Deol said:

“I’ve always believed that the choices we make define who we become. What resonates with me about Victorinox is its authenticity, its strong sense of purpose and the integrity with which it has stayed true to its values for generations. There is a timeless quality to the brand that goes beyond products. I’m delighted to be part of this journey and to share that message with Indian audiences across the world.”

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ABOUT VICTORINOX  

140+ YEARS OF BEING BEST PREPARED.

The origins of Victorinox date back to 1884, when Karl Elsener opened a knifemaking workshop in a village in central Switzerland. Elsener delivered his first soldier’s knife to the Swiss Army in 1891. Six years later, he created the Swiss Officer’s and Sports Knife – now known as the original Swiss Army Knife™ – which would lay the foundation for a thriving global company.

Victorinox is now a fourth-generation family business operating in over 120 countries. In addition to its iconic pocket knives, Victorinox produces premium household and professional knives, watches and travel gear. Victorinox products embody the brand and ensure consumers are best prepared for everyday challenges by offering smart and masterful solutions. The enterprising spirit of the founder and a commitment to strong, values-based corporate governance live on until today.

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