Technology

New Delhi, March 18 (IANS) Aadhaar has emerged as the world’s largest biometric identity system, with around 134 crore live users and over 17,000 crore authentication transactions completed so far, the Parliament was told on Wednesday.

Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Jitin Prasada told the Lok Sabha, in a written reply to a question, that the Aadhaar ecosystem -- maintained by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) -- plays a key role in enabling identity verification for service delivery.

The UIDAI provides Aadhaar authentication services to authorised entities, allowing verification of an individual’s identity using one-time password (OTP), biometrics such as fingerprint, iris and face, or demographic details, he said.

He added that Aadhaar-based face authentication, used by authorised entities, is powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to enable accurate verification.

According to the minister, entities seeking to use Aadhaar authentication services must be onboarded as Authentication User Agencies (AUA) or KYC User Agencies (KUA) in line with provisions of the Aadhaar Act.

On data access and retention, Prasada said authentication logs are maintained for two years by AUAs and KUAs and can be accessed by Aadhaar holders or used for grievance redressal. These logs are subsequently archived for five years before being deleted.

He also said that the Aadhaar ecosystem has been designed with strong privacy safeguards, with demographic data encrypted both at rest and in transit, along with legal restrictions on its collection, storage and usage.

The minister also highlighted that the UIDAI follows a three-tier audit framework, including self-compliance audits, annual information security audits and governance, risk, compliance and privacy (GRCP) audits to ensure system integrity.

Further, detailed standard operating procedures mandate informed consent of users, restricted use of authentication for specific purposes, secure data storage, use of certified devices and prohibition on retention of biometric data by entities.

The government said Aadhaar data is stored and processed within India, with safeguards in place to prevent any breach of these provisions.

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 18 (IANS) India’s data centre capacity has expanded more than fourfold to over 1,500 MW in 2025 from 375 MW in 2020, Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Jitin Prasada told the Parliament on Wednesday.

In a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha, the minister said the growth reflects the government’s focus on strengthening digital infrastructure and expanding access to technology.

“In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, the government is democratising the development and usage of technology,” he said.

Prasada added that efforts are being made to facilitate the establishment of data centres across the country to improve the delivery of digital services.

According to the data shared, Mumbai and Navi Mumbai account for the largest share of operational data centre capacity at 790 MW, followed by Chennai (305 MW), Bengaluru (182 MW), Hyderabad (152 MW), and Delhi-NCR/Noida (76 MW). Other cities, including Pune and Kolkata, account for a smaller share.

Prasada also said that four submarine cable systems are currently under commissioning at various cable landing stations by telecom service providers. These include India Europe Xpress by Reliance Jio, SEA-ME-WE-6 and 2Africa by Bharti Airtel, and the Raman Cable by Sify Technologies, with landing stations primarily in Mumbai and Chennai.

In addition, three more submarine cable systems are under planning, including projects by Tata Communications, Reliance Jio, and Sify Technologies, for which applications have been submitted to the Department of Telecommunications.

The minister clarified that the government is not planning to establish new sub-sea gateways at present.

He further noted that the Reserve Bank of India has mandated that all payment system data must be stored within India, as part of efforts to ensure a safe and trusted digital ecosystem.

The government’s policies are aimed at building adequate data storage capacity within the country and strengthening cybersecurity, he added.

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 18 (IANS) Calling it a “big boost to India’s manufacturing push”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the Union Cabinet has approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojna (BHAVYA), a major initiative to develop 100 plug-and-play industrial parks across the country.

The scheme is aimed at strengthening industrial infrastructure, attracting fresh investments, and creating large-scale employment opportunities while improving ease of doing business through faster approvals and single-window systems.

"A landmark step towards accelerating India’s industrial growth," PM Modi said in a post on X.

PM Modi stated that the Union Cabinet has approved Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojna (BHAVYA), which will enable the development of 100 plug-and-play industrial parks, boosting manufacturing, investment and jobs across the nation.

"The scheme will significantly enhance ease of doing business through streamlined approvals and single-window systems. It will boost logistics and services sectors too," he said.

At its core, BHAVYA focuses on improving ease of doing business by simplifying regulatory processes and introducing streamlined approvals through robust single-window systems.

The plug-and-play model will allow industries to begin operations quickly, supported by pre-approved land, ready infrastructure, and integrated services, significantly reducing entry barriers for investors.

Under the scheme, industrial parks spanning 100 to 1,000 acres will be developed with financial assistance of up to Rs 1 crore per acre. This will cover core infrastructure such as internal roads, utilities, drainage systems, and common facilities, along with value-added infrastructure like factory sheds, testing labs, and warehousing.

Social infrastructure, including worker housing and essential amenities, will also be part of the development plan. In addition, support of up to 25 per cent of the project cost will be provided for external infrastructure to ensure seamless connectivity.

Projects under BHAVYA will be selected through a competitive challenge mode, ensuring that only high-quality, investment-ready proposals move forward. The industrial parks will be designed as future-ready ecosystems aligned with PM GatiShakti principles, enabling efficient multimodal connectivity and improved logistics.

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 18 (IANS) Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Wednesday said the development of an indigenous 4G telecom stack for Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited marks a major step towards India’s self-reliance in telecom equipment, placing the country among a select group of nations with such capabilities.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Scindia said India is steadily moving towards technological independence in the telecom sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“The development of an indigenous 4G telecom stack for BSNL represents a strategic move towards domestic manufacturing of critical telecom equipment, placing India among a select group of nations with such capabilities,” he stated.

The minister also highlighted the revival of BSNL, saying the public sector telecom company has posted quarterly net profits for the first time in nearly 18 years in FY 2024–25.

He added that BSNL’s subscriber base has increased from 8.55 crore to 9.27 crore, showing growing consumer trust.

“Around 1 lakh 4G towers have already been rolled out, and 5G services will be introduced after the 4G network stabilizes,” the minister stated.

Scindia further informed the House about the government’s efforts to expand mobile connectivity, especially in border and remote areas.

He said villages within 50 kilometres of the international border are now being seen as the “first villages” of the country under the Vibrant Villages Programme, reflecting a shift in development thinking.

The government is also supporting telecom expansion through the Digital Bharat Nidhi, which funds connectivity projects in rural and difficult areas.

In Rajasthan, he said, over 97 per cent of border villages already have mobile coverage.

Highlighting progress in Uttarakhand, the minister said 684 out of 705 border villages have already been connected, with efforts ongoing to cover the rest.

“India now has one of the world’s largest telecom networks, supporting services like digital payments and direct benefit transfers,” Scindia added.

He also pointed to the success of the BharatNet programme, under which more than 2.15 lakh Gram Panchayats have been connected with broadband.

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 18 (IANS) Zero customs duty on import of goods for nuclear power projects will accelerate development, lower overall project and per‑unit electricity costs and improve viability for projects with high import content, the government said on Wednesday.

The exemption on nuclear fuels and reactor components up to the year 2035 will reduce project and electricity generation costs, thereby improving the economic viability of nuclear power projects, MoS, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh said in Lok Sabha.

The Minister informed that Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has taken several steps to strengthen the domestic supply chain for the ten newly approved 700 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) units.

The steps include placing bulk orders to ensure continuity, expanding the vendor base with necessary support, promoting indigenous equipment for import substitution, reserving certain equipment for class-1 local suppliers, and organising vendor meets with a focus on encouraging MSMEs and giving them preference in bids.

Regarding enhanced funding for research and development at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), the minister said that the increased allocation is being utilised for multidisciplinary technology development aimed at achieving self-reliance.

“The focus areas include development of new research reactors, isotope production facilities especially for cancer treatment, advanced reactor technologies including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and hydrogen production, accelerator technologies, laser-based applications, and advanced materials and manufacturing technologies,” the statement said.

The minister informed that, there is no proposal currently to integrate the PM Gati Shakti framework with the construction and logistics of upcoming nuclear parks in coastal States.

India’s nuclear expansion is still expected to remain gradual and to increase to around 22 Giga Watt (GW) by FY2032, considering projects under implementation and planning, the firm forecasted, a recent report from credit ratings agency Infomerics Ratings said.

SHANTI Bill 2025 replaced the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, with a unified legal framework governing development, safety, security, safeguards, and nuclear liability.

—IANS

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Ahmedabad, March 18 (IANS) The Adani University on Wednesday signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Mandi to boost academic and research collaboration between the two institutions.

Under this partnership, both institutions will work together on joint research projects, co-author academic papers, and offer opportunities for student and faculty exchange.

The agreement also includes internships, collaborative research funding, and the organisation of seminars and conferences.

“The agreement covers joint research initiatives, co-authored publications, academic exchanges and internship opportunities,” according to an official statement.

As part of the initiative, the two institutes will develop short-term academic programmes such as executive education courses, summer schools, and digital learning modules.

The aim is to provide students and faculty with access to better resources, shared expertise, and wider learning opportunities.

“Both institutions will also explore collaborative research funding, co-host seminars and conferences, and develop short-term programmes including executive education, summer schools and digital courses,” it added.

The five-year collaboration is expected to strengthen research capabilities and promote innovation-led learning.

“It is expected to provide students and faculty access to broader resources, shared expertise and cross-institutional learning opportunities,” as per the statement.

For the Adani University, this partnership reflects its efforts to expand its research ecosystem by working closely with leading academic institutions.

"The MoU supports its objective of integrating industry-linked learning with academic research, while creating pathways for innovation and applied knowledge," the statement said.

The move also highlights a growing trend in higher education, where institutions are increasingly joining hands to tackle complex challenges through interdisciplinary research and shared learning models.

"The partnership also aligns with a broader trend in higher education, where institutions are increasingly collaborating to address complex challenges through interdisciplinary research and shared learning models," the statement added.

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 18 (IANS) The government on Wednesday announced that it has offered States and UTs an additional 10 per cent allocation of commercial LPG linked to reforms supporting transition from LPG to PNG.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said that all the oil refineries in India are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories and domestic LPG production has been increased by about 40 per cent.

"There is sufficient production of petrol and diesel in India and no imports of these fuels are required to meet domestic demand," the ministry said in an official statement.

"LPG supply continues to be monitored in view of the prevailing geopolitical situation. Domestic LPG cylinder deliveries continue as normal and no dry-outs have been reported at distributorships, it added.

Online LPG bookings have increased from 83 per cent to 93 per cent while Delivery Authentication Code coverage has expanded from 53 per cent in February to about 81 per cent at present in order to prevent diversion.

"An additional allocation of 48,000 KL of kerosene has also been provided to States and UTs as an alternative cooking fuel. These states have been requested to identify distribution points," the ministry stated.

Supplies of petrol and diesel continue to be maintained regularly and no cases of fuel dry-outs have been reported at retail outlets by oil marketing companies.

"Citizens are advised not to resort to panic buying as adequate stocks are available," the statement said.

Priority sectors continue to receive protected gas supplies, including 100 percent supply to domestic PNG and CNG transport, while supplies to industrial and commercial consumers are being regulated at around 80 per cent.

Commercial LPG consumers are encouraged to switch to PNG, and establishments such as hotels, restaurants, hospitals and hostels can obtain PNG connections from authorized City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities.

CGD companies including IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas and BPCL are offering incentives to promote domestic and commercial PNG connections.

The Government is expanding the CGD network to promote clean and efficient PNG usage, and businesses are encouraged to approach authorised CGD entities for connections. CGD entities have been advised to ensure maximum gas supply to critical sectors such as seed drying units and cold storages, the statement said.

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 18 (IANS) The government on Wednesday said that the Bharat Taxi platform has generated over Rs 35 crore in income for drivers with a modest investment of around Rs 5 crore so far, while creating employment opportunities for nearly 20,000 drivers and 200 support staff.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that Bharat Taxi, India’s first cooperative-led ride-hailing platform, is emerging as a major step towards empowering drivers and promoting inclusive growth in the mobility sector.

In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, the minister said the initiative is designed to put drivers, referred to as ‘Sarathis’, at the centre of ownership and decision-making.

“Unlike traditional app-based cab services, Bharat Taxi operates on a cooperative model where drivers are members and stakeholders, allowing them to retain full earnings from rides,” HM Shah stated.

The platform does not charge any commission from drivers. Instead, it follows a subscription-based model, ensuring that drivers get fair and transparent income.

Passengers, on the other hand, are charged only the trip fare based on distance and time, without additional convenience fees or surge pricing.

Bharat Taxi was established on June 6, 2025, under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002, and was officially launched on February 5, 2026.

It has been set up by eight national-level cooperative institutions as part of the government’s broader push to strengthen the cooperative sector under the vision of ‘Sahkar se Samriddhi’.

Currently, the service is operational in Delhi-NCR, including Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad, as well as in cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Somnath, and Dwarka in Gujarat.

The government said expansion to other states and Union Territories will be done in phases, depending on approvals and operational readiness.

To become a member, drivers must own a vehicle and hold a valid driving licence. They are required to buy at least one share in the cooperative, which has an authorised share capital of Rs 300 crore.

The structure ensures democratic participation, where members are involved in key decisions related to operations and management.

The government said the project has not only boosted driver incomes but also created a sustainable and dignified alternative to aggregator-based models.

--IANS

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Jaipur, March 17 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief Secretary V. Srinivas stated that the thoughtful integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the education system can significantly strengthen foundational learning in government schools. ​

He was addressing a dialogue programme on ‘The Role of AI in Rajasthan’s Education’, organised at the Rajasthan International Centre by the Sampark Foundation.​

Highlighting the transformative potential of AI, Srinivas said it can play a crucial role in improving teaching methodologies, enabling informed decision-making in education, and enhancing overall learning outcomes.

He emphasised that the state government is committed to adopting innovative approaches that empower teachers, increase student engagement, and ensure greater accountability in the education system.​

He further noted that AI provides a powerful platform for integrating technology, pedagogy, and policy, thereby improving educational outcomes for children. ​

Secretary, School Education Department, Krishna Kunal, underscored the growing importance of AI in school education. ​

He stated that technology can significantly support efforts to strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy, provided it is tailored to teachers' and students' needs.​

Encouraging educators to embrace new technologies, he said, teachers should not only use AI tools but also guide students to think critically, moving beyond simply seeking answers to learning how to ask meaningful questions. ​

During a panel discussion, officials from Samagra Shiksha and experts from education, technology, and policy sectors shared insights on the role of AI in government schools.​

The event was organised to mark 20 years of the Sampark Foundation’s work in technology-driven education. ​

It was attended by Ravi Kumar Surpur (Secretary, DoIT), Vineet Nayar, and Shri Rajeshwar Rao, along with senior education officials, academic experts, and technology specialists. ​

Deputy Commissioner Akashdeep emphasised the need to integrate AI within inclusive education frameworks, while Deputy Commissioner Santosh Kumar Meena highlighted its practical applications and benefits in the education sector. ​

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 17 (IANS) Experts from the Defence Forces, academia, industry, and start-ups deliberated on technological advancements and innovative solutions in the areas of Cognitive Spectrum Management and Quantum Technologies at a seminar organised by the Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), an official said on Tuesday.​

The Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) conducted the Second Niche Technology Nexus (NTN) Seminar on Monday, said the official in a statement.​

Addressing the participants, the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC), Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, emphasised the increasing importance of efficient spectrum utilisation, adaptive communication networks, and emerging quantum capabilities in modern warfare.​

He highlighted that Cognitive Spectrum Operations, enabled by Artificial Intelligence and advanced analytics, can significantly enhance dynamic spectrum access, electromagnetic spectrum awareness, and electronic warfare capabilities for the Defence Forces.​

Emphasising the transformative potential of Quantum Technologies, particularly in areas such as secure communications, quantum sensing, navigation, and timing systems, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit underscored the critical role it can play in strengthening national Defence capabilities in the coming years.​

He also stressed the need for strong collaboration across all stakeholders to accelerate innovations and develop indigenous solutions in these niche domains.​

The Second Niche Technology Nexus Seminar facilitated insightful discussions on emerging trends, operational applications, and technological challenges associated with Cognitive Spectrum Operations and Quantum Technologies.​

The deliberations also highlighted the importance of developing secure, resilient, and intelligent communication ecosystems to support the operational requirements of future theatre-based Defence forces.​

--IANS

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