Tag: Atmanirbhar Bharat

EduConnect

NIO Goa to Host Open Day on 26th September, Students Invited to Marine Resources Exhibition

Tanisha Cardozo

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO), Goa, is gearing up to celebrate its 84th Foundation Day with a special Open Day event on the 26th of September. The event will take place at the NIO campus in Dona Paula, from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm, and promises to be an engaging experience for students and the wider community interested in the fascinating field of oceanography.

As part of the celebrations, the institute has extended a warm invitation to students from across the state to take part in an exhibition dedicated to marine resources and scientific instruments. This exhibition will highlight the latest scientific endeavors in ocean research, showcasing the tools and techniques used by scientists to study and preserve the ocean environment.

In addition to the exhibition, students will have the opportunity to watch a series of films related to ocean sciences, providing an immersive and educational insight into marine ecosystems, oceanography, and the importance of sustainable marine resource management.

A key highlight of the day will be a talk titled ‘Careers in Oceanography,’ designed to inspire and inform young minds about the various career paths available in this dynamic and critical field. The talk aims to encourage students to consider oceanography as a viable and exciting career option, emphasizing the role of scientific research in addressing global challenges such as climate change, marine biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.

The CSIR’s mission to enhance the quality of life in India through innovative, competitive, and sustainable scientific solutions is deeply embedded in the institute’s work. By promoting awareness and education through events like the Open Day, CSIR-NIO continues to support the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, fostering self-reliance through scientific and technological advancements.

This Open Day presents a unique opportunity for students and the public to connect with leading oceanographers, explore cutting-edge research, and understand the critical role oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. The event underlines CSIR-NIO’s commitment to nurturing scientific curiosity and empowering the next generation of ocean scientists and researchers.

All students, educators, and marine science enthusiasts are encouraged to participate in this free event to celebrate science, innovation, and the vast mysteries of the ocean.

TechPulse

BSNL Extends “Freedom Plan” by 15 Days Following Overwhelming Demand

allycaralgoa

01 Sept 2025 | PIB Delhi

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has announced the extension of its much-celebrated Freedom Plan till 15 September 2025, following an overwhelming response from customers across India.

The plan, originally launched on 1 August 2025 at a token charge of just ₹1, offers complimentary 4G mobile services for 30 days to new customers. Initially set to end on 31 August, the offer window will now remain open for new activations until 15 September 2025.

Key Benefits of the Freedom Plan:

  • Unlimited voice calls (as per plan T&C)
  • 2 GB/day high-speed 4G data
  • 100 SMS/day
  • Free SIM card (issued post-KYC as per DoT guidelines)

Statement from CMD, BSNL

Shri A. Robert J. Ravi, CMD of BSNL, stated:
“BSNL has recently deployed a Make-in-India, state-of-the-art 4G mobile network across the country, advancing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The Freedom Plan—absolutely free of service charges for the first 30 days—gives customers a proud opportunity to experience our indigenously developed 4G network. We’re confident that the service quality, coverage, and the trust associated with the BSNL brand will encourage customers to stay with us well beyond the introductory period.”

How to Avail the Freedom Plan

  1. Visit the nearest BSNL Customer Service Centre (CSC) with valid KYC documents.
  2. Request the Freedom Plan at ₹1 activation.
  3. Complete KYC and collect your free SIM.
  4. Insert SIM and activate; complimentary benefits start immediately.

For assistance, customers may call 1800-180-1503 or visit bsnl.co.in.

With the Freedom Plan, BSNL not only provides cost-effective telecom solutions but also strengthens its mission of empowering India’s digital ecosystem with homegrown technology.

Human Interest

Fifth Fast Patrol Vessel ‘Achal’ Launched by Goa Shipyard Ltd for Indian Coast Guard

allycaralgoa

Goa | June 2025 — In a significant stride toward bolstering India’s coastal defense capabilities, Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) successfully launched the fifth Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) named ‘Achal’ for the Indian Coast Guard. The ceremonial launch took place at the shipyard’s facility in Goa and was graced by Mrs. Kavita Harbola, who performed the traditional naming and launching rites. The event was held in the presence of Additional Director General Anil Kumar Harbola, Indian Coast Guard.

The Achal is part of an advanced fleet of eight FPVs being constructed by GSL under a contract awarded by the Ministry of Defence. These high-speed vessels are designed for coastal surveillance, anti-smuggling operations, search and rescue (SAR), and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) patrolling.

Each vessel is equipped with cutting-edge navigation and communication systems, fast interception capability, and state-of-the-art onboard facilities, enabling rapid response to emerging maritime threats.

  • 🔧 Total Project Cost: ₹473 crore
  • 🏭 Make in India Boost: Built entirely in India, the project supports local industry and aligns with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) mission.
  • 👷‍♂️ Employment Generation: The construction has created hundreds of skilled and semi-skilled jobs and engaged over 200 MSMEs across India in the supply of equipment and services.
  • 🚢 Sustainable Engineering: The vessels follow eco-friendly design principles and adhere to international maritime safety norms.

A GSL spokesperson remarked,

“The launch of Achal marks a proud milestone in our longstanding partnership with the Indian Coast Guard. With each vessel we deliver, we reaffirm our commitment to national security, indigenous manufacturing, and maritime innovation.”

With Achal now successfully launched, outfitting and sea trials will proceed before the vessel is formally inducted into the Indian Coast Guard. The remaining three ships in the series are progressing on schedule, with deliveries expected over the next 12–18 months.

The Indian Coast Guard’s growing fleet of indigenous patrol vessels significantly enhances its ability to protect India’s 7,500 km coastline and offshore assets, ensuring peace and security in the region.