PIB Analysis 31-12-22

Multicopter (VTOL) Drones

The Indian Coast Guard has concluded maiden contract for 10 multicopter (VTOL) drones in accordance with Government of India’s policy of embracing Drone Technology.
This will provide a major boost to Marine Surveillance and Interdiction capabilities of Indian Coast Guard.
These drones are capable of being launched from both Ships whilst underway, as well as Shore Stations.
They will play a significant role in the reach of ICG unit during Surveillance & Security operations.
The drones are capable of assisting in Search and Rescue (SAR), both by day as well as night.
The ICG plans to induct 100 additional drones by 2025.

The Government of India is going to launch a Digital India Innovation Fund that will support Deeptech Startups.

The Prajjwala Challenge has been launched by Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
The aim of the challenge is to invite ideas, solutions and actions that can transform rural economy.
Individuals, Social Enterprises, Private Sector, Civil Society, Community Based Organization, Academic Institution, Start-ups, Incubation centres, Investors etc are invited to share their ideas on this platform.
The Mission is looking for ideas and solutions around Innovative Technology Solution, Inclusive Growth, Value Chain Interventions, Enhanced Women Entrepreneurship, Cost effective Solutions, Sustainability, place-based employment, localised models etc.

The broad contours fall into following categories:

Applications are open from 29th December, 2022 to 31st January, 2023.
Shortlisted ideas will be acknowledged by the Mission and will be provided mentorship support from an expert panel and incubation support to scale up.
The top 5 ideas will be rewarded with Rs. 2 Lakh each.
The Prajjwala Challenge will also be shared in the Manthan portal by the office of Principal Scientific Advisor and in the BIMTECH- Atal Innovation Mission Portal

DAY-NRLM is one of the flagship poverty alleviation programs of the Ministry of Rural Development.
Its aimed at creating efficient and effective institutional platforms of the rural poor, enabling them to increase household income through sustainable livelihoods enhancements and improved access to financial services.
The Mission so far has mobilised more than 87 Million women in to the Self Hep Groups and their federations.