PM Modi calls on President Kovind
Rashtrapati Bhavan:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on President Kovind and briefed him on the issues of national and international importance at Rashtrapati Bhavan today.
Let me wish you a very happy, innovatively ‘app’y Guru Purnima: VP Venkaiah Naidu at the launch of indigenously developed social media app – Elyments
M Venkaiah Naidu – @VPSecretariat:
- On the occasion of Guru Purnima, the Vice President, Shri M Venkaiah Naidu virtually launched an indigenously developed social media super app- Elyments.
- Guru has always held a reverential place in Indian culture. He has been compared to the Brahma, Vishnu, and the Shiva. He is the supreme spirit!
- In ancient times, India was known as Vishwa Guru because of such great Gurus. We should aspire to make the country a leading power in every field, be it science & technology, economy, defence or human development.
- India is passing through a crucial moment in the history. We are faced with a number of internal and external challenges. But we should remain resolute in our response to the challenges thrown at us.
- The Prime Minister has given a call for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’- a self-reliant India. It is a mission to galvanise the forces of growth across the country in various sectors of the economy.
- It is aimed at giving a new boost, a quantum jump to the economic potential of the country by strengthening infrastructure, using modern technologies, enriching human resource, and creating robust supply chains.
- ‘New India’ needs vibrant young thinkers who are willing to experiment and explore. We should innovate not just imitate. Innovation is the watchword for 21st Century. We have all the ingredients for success. We need to just connect the dots and create synergies of action.
- I am happy to note that more than one thousand IT professionals, who are also the volunteers of the Art of Living, have together created an indigenous app named Elyments. It’s appreciable that the app will be available in eight Indian languages.
- India is an IT powerhouse and we have some of the world’s best-known names in this field. With such a huge pool of talented professionals, I feel there should be many more such innovations coming out in future.
- I call upon every Indian to rise to the occasion and adopt this campaign as his or her own. We can certainly chase the dream of transforming “Local” India into a “Glocal” India by using our resources wisely and strategically.
- Let me wish you a very happy, innovatively ‘app’y Guru Purnima. May you all be inspired to scale new heights of human excellence.
Nod given by the Drug Controller General of India for the conduct of the human trial of indigenous Indian vaccines COVAXIN and ZyCov-D
- With the announcement of COVAXIN by Bharat Biotech and ZyCov-D Vaccine by Zydus Cadila the proverbial silver line in the dark clouds of COVID19 appears at the horizon.
- Now the nod given by the Drug Controller General of India CDSCO (The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation) for the conduct of the human trial for the vaccines, marks the beginning of the end.
- In the past years, India has emerged as one of the significant vaccine manufacturing hubs.
- Indian manufacturers account for 60% of vaccine supplies made to UNICEF.
- The vaccine for novel coronavirus may be developed anywhere in the world, but without Indian manufacturers involved the production of required quantity is not going to be feasible.
- More than 140 candidate vaccines are under various stages of development.
- One of the leading candidates is AZD1222 developed Jenner Institute of University of Oxford and licenced to AstraZeneca British-Swedish multinational pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Cambridge, England.
- The MRNA-1273 vaccine developed by Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Washington and taken up for production by the US-based Moderna pharmaceutical is just a step behind.
- Both these firms have already inked an agreement with Indian manufacturers for production of the COVID vaccines.
- Parallelly Indian institutions have also engaged in R&D for the development of vaccines in India. With the primary scientific inputs coming from institutions like Pune based ICMR institution National Institute of Virology and Hyderabad based CSIR institution Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology, six Indian companies are working on a vaccine for COVID-19.
- Along with the two Indian vaccines, COVAXIN and ZyCov-D, the world over, 11 out of 140 vaccine candidates have entered the human trials.
- Antigen from the pathogen and antibodies produced by the human immune cells can be thought of as matching the compatible pair.
- Every pathogen has specific molecular structures called as antigen. They are like the surface with a particular hue and design. Once infected by the germ, the human immune system develops antibodies that match the antigen.
- Just as the retailer of design matching material stockpile hundreds of design pieces of riots of colours and hues, our immune system has ten thousand types of antibodies.
- If the pathogen is a known enemy, the immune system can pull the matching design piece from the stock. Once the match is made the pathogen is inactivated. No longer it can infect.
- However, if the microorganism is unfamiliar, and mainly when it has evolved for the first time, there is no matching colour and hue in the repertoire.
- Nonetheless, unlike the textile, the antibody can evolve. At first, near matches are tried. After various cycles of antibody development, the best fit matures.
- The time lag between the identification of the main surface colour that is an antigen, and finding a pairing design piece, that is antibodies, is what makes the infection mild or severe. If only the immune system can neutralise the germ instantly, the infection can be prevented.
- Like a new hue of design piece once acquired is stocked for future, once the new antibody matching the antigen evolves, it is retained in the immunological memory.
- Next time the same pathogen invades, immunological memory gets activated, and twinned antibody is released. The infection is nipped in the bud. We acquire immunity.
- A vaccine is a method to artificially inducing the immunological memory. Once the antigens of the nasty pathogen are introduced, the immune system is triggered into developing pairing antibodies and immunological memory.
- There are many ways in which one can artificially stroke the immune system to develop antibodies and memory.
- The bottom line is presenting the antigens of the novel coronavirus to the human immune system.
- From adenovirus-based live-attenuated virus to recombinant genetic technology is used to develop several types of vaccines.
- Two among the various possibilities produced in India are inactivated virus vaccine and DNA plasmid vaccine.
- We can inactivate a whole virus with heat or formaldehyde (that is ‘killed’), yet keep the antigen molecular structures still intact.
- However, the inactivated virus will not be able to infect or cause disease, as it is no longer functional.
- The Bharat Biotech’s COVAXIN uses the virus isolated from an Indian patient by the National Institute of Virology to develop the inactivated virus vaccine.
- Novel coronavirus infects the human cells with the help of its spike proteins. The spike protein of the virus binds with the ACE2 receptors on the surface of the human respiratory tract cells.
- Once the virus fuse, the viral genome is slipped into the human cell where around a thousand copies of the virus are made in just ten hours. These baby viruses emigrate to nearby cells.
- Infection can be arrested if only we can deactivate the spike protein of the novel coronavirus. Thus the antigen on the spike protein is a crucial vaccine target.
- If the antibody blocks the spike protein, then the virus cannot bind the cell and multiply.
- The genomic code of the spike protein is spliced into a harmless DNA plasmid. This modified plasmid DNA with the genetic code of viral spike protein is introduced into the host cells.
- The cellular machinery translates the DNA and produces the viral protein encoded in the genome.
- The human immune system recognises the alien protein and develops a matching antibody. After this vaccination, if at any time, we are infected by the novel coronavirus, then sensing the spike protein antibodies are released instantly.
- The immune killer cells seize deactivated viruses. Contagion is arrested even before infection sets in.
Indian scientists have made a key finding which can help to conserve the ice mass of the western Himalayan glaciers: Dr Harsh Vardhan
Dr Harsh Vardhan – Union Science & Technology Minister:
- Indian scientists have made a key finding which can help to conserve the ice mass of the western Himalayan glaciers, that biomass-derived carbon could be the only primary driver of carbon-induced glacier melting in this region.
- The research supported by @IndiaDST, Climate Change Program Grant and Science & Engineering Research Board (SERB) showed that the source of organic carbon in the glaciers of Western Himalayas is more from local biomass sources and not from fossil fuel sources.
- The glaciers in the Himalaya are melting at an increased rate because of the well-established long-term increase of the near-surface temperature and due to the presence of surface impurities such as dust and organic carbon particles
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The take aways from my column that appeared today: P Chidambaram
1. 60 per cent of arrests are unnecessary and an abuse of power.
2. Release most under-investigation and under-trial prisoners languishing in jail when they should be on bail.
Six months in judicial custody must be the maximum in such cases.
3. Take away the power of arrest from most authorities and agencies.
4. Justice Ravindra Bhat’s judgement in the SC and Justice Anup Bhambhani’s judgement in the Delhi HC are bold declarations of the law.
Visited Holy Cross COVIDー19 Hospital in Kalyan this morning: Devendra Fadnavis
Devendra Fadnavis – Former CM – Maharashtra:
- Visited Holy Cross COVIDー19 Hospital in Kalyan this morning on Day 2 of my visits in MMR region, where COVID19 situation is becoming critical.
- Interacted with healthcare officials & congratulated entire staff for their service.
- LoP @mipravindarekar @DombivlikarRavi too joined.
- Also reviewed situation with the Municipal Commissioner.
- In KDMC, the infection rate is around 40% and cases increased by 469% in June.
- There’s tremendous pressure on health infrastructure & Govt needs to give immediate attention.
- Patients are suffering due to lack of ICCU beds.
- State Govt also needs to look into lack of isolation facilities, shortage of healthcare workers, delayed testing results and also need to ramp up testing to stop the spread of virus.
Bhilai Steel Plant for the first time delivered R-260 Rails to be used by Indian Railways: Piyush Goyal
- Make in India Powers Rail Manufacturing:
- Fulfilling the requirements of higher speed & load on train tracks,
- Bhilai Steel Plant for the first time delivered R-260 Rails to be used by Indian Railways.
Sri Sri at Sunrise
Love is that phenomenon of dissolving, disappearing, merging, becoming one with the infinite. Love is that phenomenon of total letting go:
@SriSri
Efforts are on to encourage start-ups related to agriculture, especially ones that encourage usage of latest technology in the sector: PM Modi
PM Narendramodi:
- Reviewed extensively the progress of research in agriculture.
- Also reviewed aspects relating to education of agriculture during today’s meet.
- Ensuring farmer welfare is one of our key priorities.
- Commendable work has happened in developing varieties that cater to specific requirements of agro-climatic zones.
- Various varieties have also been developed that will further our endeavour of a nation free from the menace of malnutrition.
- India is working towards increased organic farming as well as farming on a cluster based approach.
- Efforts are also ongoing to encourage start-ups related to agriculture, especially ones that encourage usage of latest technology in the sector.
- Emphasised on the need to spread awareness on including millets such as Jowar, Bajra and Ragi as a part of people’s diet.
- Also emphasised on ensuring extensive awareness programmes on water use efficiency and water conservation.
- Other aspects relating to ICAR which we discussed included research on indigenous breeds of dogs and horses, mission mode approach for vaccination to cure Foot and Mouth disease, study of grasses and local fodder crops and ensuring easy access to farm equipment.
- India is placing great importance to education in the agricultural sector that benefits the farmers.
- India is proud of its traditional agro knowledge and will complement it with latest technology to ensure a boost to the income of farmers.
We want to focus on connectivity to Buddhist sites : PM Modi
PM Narendra Modi addressing the Dharma Chakra Diwas/ Asaadh Poornima function :
- Let me begin by conveying my greetings on Ashadha Poornima. It is also known as Guru Purnima. This is a day to remember our Gurus, who gave us knowledge. In that spirit, we pay homage to Lord Buddha.
- The eight-fold path of Lord Buddha shows the way towards the well-being of many societies and nations. It highlights the importance of compassion and kindness. The teachings of Lord Buddha celebrate simplicity both in thought and action.
- Buddhism teaches respect. Respect for people. Respect for the poor. Respect for women. Respect for peace and non-violence. Therefore, the teachings of Buddhism are the means to a sustainable planet.
- In his very first sermon in Sarnath, And his teachings after that, Lord Buddha spoke on two things- hope and purpose. He saw a strong link between them. From hope comes a spirit of purpose.
- I am very hopeful about the 21st century. This hope comes from my young friends. Our youth. If you want to see a great example of how hope, innovation and compassion can remove suffering, it is our start-up sector led by our youth.
- Bright young minds are finding solutions to global problems. India has one of the largest start-up eco-systems. I would urge my young friends, to also stay connected with the thoughts of Lord Buddha. They will motivate and show the way ahead.
- Today the world fights extra-ordinary challenges. To these challenges, lasting solutions can come from the ideals of Lord Buddha. They were relevant in the past. They are relevant in the present. And, they will remain relevant in the future.
- We want to focus on connectivity to Buddhist sites. A few days back the Indian cabinet announced that Kushinagar airport will be an international one. This would bring so many people, pilgrims and tourists.
- May the thoughts of Lord Buddha further brightness, togetherness and brotherhood. May his blessings inspire us to do good.
PM Modi launches Aatmanirbhar Bharat Innovation Challenge to identify the best Indian Apps
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has launched Aatmanirbhar Bharat Innovation Challenge, to identify the best Indian Apps that are already being used by citizens and have the potential to scale and become world class Apps in their respective categories.
“Today there is immense enthusiasm among the tech & start-up community to create world class Made in India Apps. To facilitate their ideas and products GoI_MeitY and AIM to Innovate are launching the Aatmanirbhar Bharat App Innovation Challenge.
This challenge is for you if you have such a working product or if you feel you have the vision and expertise to create such products. I urge all my friends in the tech community to participate”, the Prime Minister said.
Sharing my thoughts in my @LinkedIn post :
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/let-us-code-aatmanirbhar-bharat-narendra-modi/?published=t
For more details, visit – https://innovate.mygov.in/app-challenge/
Our workers distributed 22 crore food packets during the lockdown. 5 crore ration kits have been distributed by BJP workers. We’ve also distributed over 5 crore face-covers : JP Nadda
PM Narendra Modi reviews the relief work done by BJP Karyakartas during corona crisis at the ‘Seva Sangathan’ Abhiyan through video conference.
BJP National President JP Nadda speaking at the event :
- While the world is following your steps closely, India stands safely under your leadership. You’ve not just strengthened the nation in the fight against the pandemic, you’ve also inspired the party.
- We’ve done nearly 4,000 video conferences during the lockdown, reaching out to 2.5 lakh karyakartas. We also did 700 audio bridges, connecting 70 lakh karyakartas pan-India. These acts boosted our workers in the several initiatives we performed.
- Our workers distributed 22 crore food packets during the lockdown. 5 crore ration kits have been distributed by BJP workers. We’ve also distributed over 5 crore face-covers.
- Our workers started a helpline centre in every state. Our workers received problems via the helpline number and solved several such problems.
- It is very satisfying that children from Northeast, who were paying guests in several states, were facing difficulties in paying rents. Our workers talked to them and arranged for their food and accommodation.
- 3.9 lakh karyakartas have served the elderly and sick people. They’ve ensured that medicines are delivered to such people regularly, to ensure they stay healthy. Maharashtra workers helped in sanitation and cleaning
PM Narendra Modi performed the traditional ‘Sindhu Darshan’ puja at Nimu, yesterday
Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed Sindhu Darshan Puja on his arrival at Nimu the forward brigade place in Ladakh, yesterday.
West Bengal’s Unemployment Rate for the month of June 2020 which stands at 6.5%, far better than that of India at 11% : Mamata Banerjee
Mamata Banerjee – Chief Minister of West Bengal :
- We’ve implemented a robust economic strategy to tackle COVID19 & the devastation caused by Amphan.
- Proof lies in West Bengal’s Unemployment Rate for the month of June 2020 which stands at 6.5%, far better than that of India at 11%, UP at 9.6% & Haryana at 33.6%, as per CMIE.
Rasagola Dibasa – Greetings to all the die-hard fans of Rasagola: Dharmendra Pradhan
Dharmendra Pradhan _ Union Minister:
- Best wishes to everyone on Niladri Bije, the concluding ritual of Rath Yatra.
- This marks the return of Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and Mahaprabhu Sri Jagannath into the sanctum sanctorum of Srimandir.
- As per traditions, Mahaprabhu Jagannath offers Rasagola to pacify Ma Laxmi, who is angry for being ignored during her visit to Gundicha Temple.
- This auspicious day of Niladri Bije is also celebrated as Rasagola Dibasa in Odisha. Greetings to all the die-hard fans of Rasagola.
‘The tragedy was foretold’
It is difficult to believe that a trained police force will go after sunset to arrest a notorious criminal in his bastion. The tragedy was foretold : P Chidambaram
P Chidambaram, Former Union Finance Minister :
- UP is so backward in every respect that those who rule UP must hang their heads in shame. Congress was last in the government in UP in 1985-1989, that is 30 years ago.
- The BJP cannot blame the Congress and is wondering who can be blamed.
- It is difficult to believe that a trained police force will go after sunset to arrest a notorious criminal in his bastion. The tragedy was foretold.
- I offer my condolences to the families of the unfortunate victims
Some serious questions need to be answered : Sitaram Yechury
A vaccine would be the most decisive redemption from the Pandemic…. But, scientific advances can never be ‘made to order’ : Sitaram Yechury
Sitaram Yechury, Comrade, Communist Party of India (Marxist) :
- A vaccine would be the most decisive redemption from the Pandemic. The World is waiting for a safe vaccine, which is universally accessible.
- But…scientific advances can never be ‘made to order’. Forcing the development of an indegenous vaccine as a cure for Covid-19, bypassing all health & safety norms, to be announced by PM Modi on Independence Day is fraught with horrendous human costs.
Some serious questions need to be answered: - How can ICMR decide on vaccine launch date without regulator DCGI evaluating evidence of safety and efficacy? What liability is ICMR assuming in aggressively pushing the trial of a vaccine produced by a private company?
- How can ICMR compel institutions to start trials without giving time to their Institutional Ethics Committees to examine the trial protocol, consent procedures and liability?
- How has ICMR selected the institutions which will conduct the trial? Three of them are private institutions, including a private practitioner who has no institutional address!
- Why is ICMR using threats to get institutions to fall in line? Some of the institutions like NIMS in Hyderabad are State government institutions. Has permission been given by the Government of Telangana?
- What is the number of people who will be studied in this trial? Will phase 1, 2 and 3 trials be completed and analysed by August 14? Who are the members of the independent Data Safety Monitoring Committee (DSMC)?
My Brahmamuhurta friendly advice to China : Subramanian Swamy
Subramanian Swamy – Rajya Sabha MP
- My Brahmamuhurta friendly advice to China: Withdraw unconditionally back to your side of the mutually agreed 1993 LAC and return to friendship and cooperation.
- You Chinese have poor prospect of holding on to areas where you are today if India decides to evict your Army.
Watch the Dynamic Tamping Express maintain tracks: Piyush Goyal
Piyush Goyal – Union Railway Minister :
- Maintenance Work in Full Swing:
- Watch the Dynamic Tamping Express maintain tracks between Bengaluru-Dharmavaram railway section.
- Working through COVID-19, safety is the highest priority for Indian Railways.
