The seventh round of negotiations for the India-Peru Trade Agreement took place in New Delhi, India from April 8 to April 11, 2024. The discussions involved understanding priorities and concerns of each other and ensuring that the negotiations are rooted in mutual respect and benefit.

At the start of the seventh-round negotiations, Mr. Sunil Barthwal, Commerce Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, said that the history of India-Peru diplomatic relations dates back to the 1960s. He referred to the visit of H.E. Ms. Teresa Stella Mera Gomez, Vice Minister of Foreign Trade, Peru to India and the bilateral discussions held during the sidelines of the 9th CII India-LAC Conclave in August, 2023, which played a key role in resuming of the negotiations.

Mr. Barthwal stated that the basic principle of negotiations should be understanding strengths and respecting sensitivities of each other. The modalities of negotiation may emerge from appropriate stakeholder consultations, feedback from the industry and the negotiating teams should engage in gainful and explorative approach.

Mr. Rajesh Agrawal, Chief Negotiator & Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, said that holding two rounds of negotiation within two months is itself a testimony to the willingness between both the countries to have a deeper economic cooperation. He emphasized the need for effective and fast track negotiations.

Ambassador of Peru in India HE Mr. Javier Manuel Paulinich Velarde mentioned that the recent negotiations have laid down the ground work for a substantial foundation and exhibited confidence on the outcomes of negotiations towards fostering partnership.

Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, Republic of India, Mr. G. V. Srinivas appreciated the idea of lessening the negotiation period.

Peruvian Chief Negotiator, Mr. Gerardo Antonio Meza Grillo, Director for Asia, Oceania and Africa, Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism, Republic of Peru mentioned that resuming of negotiations after 2019 is significant and reflects commitment and interest of both the parties. He emphasized that the negotiating teams may show flexibility and pragmatism to reach mutual solutions.   

In this round of negotiations, discussions encompassed across the chapters which included Trade in Goods, Trade in Services, Movement of Natural Persons, Rules of Origin, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures, Technical Barriers to Trade, Custom Procedures and Trade Facilitation, Initial Provisions and General Definitions, Legal and Institutional Provisions, Final Provisions, Trade Remedies, General and Security Exceptions, Dispute Settlement and Cooperation.

Around sixty delegates together from both sides participated in the negotiations. The Peruvian delegation comprised of representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru. The Indian delegates comprised the officials from the Department of Commerce, Directorate General of Foreign Trade, Department of Revenue, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade and the legal and economic resource persons. Substantial convergence in the text of the agreement was achieved during the round and detailed discussions were held on the aspirations and sensitivities between both parties.

Peru has emerged as the third-largest trading partner of India in Latin American & Caribbean Region. In the last two decades, the trade between India and Peru has increased from US$ 66 million in 2003 to around US$ 3.68 billion in 2023.The trade agreement under negotiations shall play a pivotal role in future collaboration in various sectors, creating avenues for mutual benefit and advancement.

The next round expected in June, 2024 will be preceded by intersessional negotiations over VC to ensure that outstanding issues are resolved before the two parties meet again.

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 The Homoeopathy Symposium with call for Global Collaboration to Enhance the Efficacy and Acceptance of Homoeopathy Worldwide concluded at New Delhi today. The two-day event marked the presence of President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu and seven Padma awardees in the field of homeopathy and Ayush. The Homoeopathy Symposium was attended by a gathering of more than 6,000 participants, doctors, scientists, researchers, academicians, students, and faculty, all under one roof, having meaningful interactions for the cause of homoeopathy. In line with the theme of the event, “Empowering Research, Enhancing Proficiency the event featured deliberations on homoeopathic research, clinical practice, and market insights.

On second day Dr. Anil Khurana, Chairperson of the National Commission for Homoeopathy, stated, “Celebrating World Homoeopathy Day in India has been an opportunity to share clinical experiences and discuss policy issues for the growth of Homoeopathy. Over time, thanks to government patronage, Homoeopathy has developed a wide infrastructure, and India has become a global leader in this system of medicine. We believe that evidence-based research for translating into public benefit will further enhance the visibility of Homoeopathy.”

During the course of various sessions, renowned homoeopathic practitioners shared their experiences managing difficult cases with homoeopathy. The positive results of homoeopathy in animal cases were also showcased by veterinarians. Researchers and scientists shared the findings of key research activities undertaken by them. There were panel discussions on translational research, reforms in the education sector, global perspectives in homoeopathy, quality assurance in homoeopathic medicines, and interdisciplinary research. These discussions fostered a fruitful dialogue among experts, researchers, industry representatives, professional associations, and other stakeholders, sharing their experiences and challenges and discussing efforts required to overcome those challenges. The deliberations led to constructive recommendations on strategizing approaches for bringing about positive changes in these sectors.

The international experts present during the event shared their experiences in the field of homoeopathic research and practice. Clinical research findings were described by the Council's scientists, and the success stories of clinicians motivated the audience to apply the new learnings in their own practices. During the event, students were awarded STSH/MD Scholarships as well.

During the valedictory session, the dignitaries expressed solidarity among the homeopathic fraternity and shared key points and actions required to be undertaken in their respective fields. Dr. Raj K. Manchanda, Chairperson of the Homoeopathic Sectional Committee, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) & Former DG, CCRH, praised the efforts of the organisers, saying, “The symposium covered crucial aspects: regulatory insights, standards, exports, and government support. First, ensuring the quality of services involved standardizing and accrediting homoeopathic schools and hospitals with NABH. Secondly, maintaining the quality of homoeopathic medicinal products necessitated addressing the sourcing of high-quality raw materials and adopting additional quality parameters. Innovations and new developments in Homoeopathy were also explored.”

The symposium concluded successfully with a valedictory session attended by many eminent personalities, who reiterated the commitment to advancing the field of Homoeopathy. The gathering underscored the importance of continuous research, quality education, and global collaboration to enhance the efficacy and acceptance of Homoeopathy worldwide. The successful completion of the event not only highlighted the advancements in the field but also paved the way for future endeavours to promote Homoeopathy as a vital part of healthcare. The event culminated with a cultural evening featuring renowned performers.

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 The Convocation ceremony for the 79th Staff Course was conducted at Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington on 13 Apr 24. The ceremony was presided by Commandant, DSSC Lt Gen Virendra Vats. A total of 476 officers including 36 International Officers from 26 Friendly Foreign Countries graduated from the College.

In his Convocation address, the Commandant exhorted the Future Leaders to continue in their pursuit for knowledge and be the harbinger of change in the Armed Forces. He emphasised on the necessity of promoting  joint culture and ethos that has been imbibed by them while at the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington.

Meritorious Officers excelling in Military Studies and Groups achieving distinction in Exercises and Research Projects were awarded medals and felicitated during the Convocation Ceremony. The Manekshaw Medal was awarded to Maj BPS Mankotia of the Indian Army, Cdr Ravikant Tiwari of the Indian Navy and Wg Cdr T Mohan of the Indian Air Force for Overall Best in order of merit in their respective service. Maj C Teeneshwaran from the Republic of Singapore was awarded the Southern Star Medal, on being adjudged the Best amongst International Student Officers. Medals were also awarded for Academic Excellence and All Round Proficiency.

The aim of the Staff Course is to train selected officers of the three Services in command and staff functions in peace and war in their own service, inter-service and joint service environment, and to provide related general education to enable them to perform effectively in command and staff appointments.

Being one of the earliest institutions of its kind in the entire world to provide, under one roof, training to officers of three services, along with officers of the civil services, DSSC has acquired an enviable reputation both at home and abroad for its pursuit of academic excellence.

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 The first international workshop on ‘Emerging Technologies & Challenges for Exoskeleton’ is being held in Bengaluru on April 16-17, 2024. The workshop, which has been organised by the Defence Bio-Engineering & Electromedical Laboratory of Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), was inaugurated by Secretary, Department of Defence R&D & Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, in the presence of Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC) Lt Gen JP Mathew.

In his keynote address, the DRDO Chairman emphasised the importance of the transformational exoskeleton technology and its immense applications in military & civilian environments. He urged the diverse stakeholders including the R&D community, the Armed Forces, industry, and academia to work together to address the challenges and chalk out the roadmap for the future of Exoskeletons.

Speaking on the occasion, the CISC traced back the history of exoskeleton research, its earlier prototypes, and challenges. His address traversed through the challenges which are being currently addressed by the R&D Community. He underscored the significance of exoskeleton technologies in rehabilitation, occupational therapy, and augmentation. He also brought out that the exoskeleton technology being a dual use technology has tremendous commercial potential.

Informative in-depth technical talks were delivered by Prof Robert Reiner of ETH, Zurich and Prof Arun Jayaraman of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois. Director General (Life Sciences) Dr UK Singh spoke about the imminent challenges and requirements from the Armed Forces. He urged the community of researchers to collectively address the challenges in their endeavour for future exoskeleton technologies to meet the requirements of all stakeholders.

The two-day workshop is being attended by more than 300 participants from DRDO, Services, Industry, Academia, and Researchers. Exoskeleton technology involves wearable structures which enhance the capabilities of the human body.

 

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 88 Parliamentary Constituencies in 12 states are scheduled for polling on 26th April, 2024 in which 89 General Observers, 53 Police Observers and 109 Expenditure Observers have been deployed. All have reported in constituencies before the last date of nomination i.e. 3rd April, 2024. Sh. Rajiv Kumar, Chief Election Commissioner accompanied with Sh. Gyanesh Kumar, Election Commissioner and Sh. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, Election Commissioner asked all the observers to strictly ensure that polling stations contain all amenities for voters especially to combat heat, no inducements are offered close to voting of second phase, forces are optimally utilised and law and order is kept under strict watch.

 

  

 

 Central Observers were inter alia directed to ensure:

 

1. The preparedness for polling in all the constituencies well in advance and ensure the level playing field for all the stakeholders i.e. candidates and political parties
2. To remain physically available within the Parliamentary Constituency they are allotted during the entire election process.

• III. Wide publication of mobile/landline/email/place of stay and circulation amongst candidate and political parties so that they are available on the designated numbers/addresses on daily basis to general public/candidate and political parties,
• IV. Randomization of deployment of forces in their presence

5. That Central Forces/State Police Forces are being utilized judiciously and maintaining neutrality and their deployment is not favouring any political party/candidate

• VI. Randomization of EVMs/VVPATs and polling personnel in their presence

7. Smooth process of home voting for 85+ and PwDs and Postal Ballot for persons on election duty, essential duties and Service Voters
8. That the Electoral Rolls are supplied to the political parties and contesting candidates

• IX. The Vulnerability Mapping has been fairly done by the district administration and transportation and communication plan prepared accordingly

10. Deployment of Micro Observers

• XI. Commissioning of EVM/VVPAT before all candidates / their representatives

12. Oversee robust security arrangements at the EVM Strong Rooms and ensure presence of authorised agents of all candidates
13. All complaint redressal mechanisms are in place
14. That integrated Control Rooms have been set up in districts under overall charge of an officer authorised to take timely corrective action
15. 100% distribution of voter information slips has been done in advance before the polling day
16. All the IT applications such as C-vigil, Voter Helpline App, Saksham App, ENCORE, Suvidha App etc, are being used by the election staff and they are properly trained to use these apps
17. The training of all the polling personnel including the counting staff, Micro Observers etc. are been/have been organized in orderly manner
18. Visiting the polling stations in the constituency and ensure that Assured Minimum Facilities are in place at all the polling stations
19. Setting up of Voter Assistance Booth at all the polling stations for convenience of voters, special facilitation for differently abled, physically challenged, women, elderly and leprosy affected voters etc
20. Facilities of drinking water, sheds/shamyanas for voters waiting in queue and proper sitting arrangements outside the polling stations during polling
21. That Flying Squads, Statistics Surveillance Teams, Video Viewing Teams, Border Check Posts, Nakas etc. are doing their work round the clock and the efforts are being made so that there is no movement and distribution of cash, liquor, freebees, drugs/narcotics
22. Proper working by Media Certification and Monitoring Committees for pre-certification of political advertisement and paid news
23. Timely curbing of fake news/mis-information, and pro-active dissemination of information to steer positive narrative.

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 The top annual conferences in the USA cover a wide range of industries, fields, and interests. Here are some notable conferences across various sectors:

1. CES (Consumer Electronics Show): Held annually in Las Vegas, CES is one of the largest and most influential tech events worldwide, showcasing the latest innovations in consumer electronics, technology trends, and emerging technologies.

2. SXSW (South by Southwest): Taking place in Austin, Texas, SXSW is a renowned conference and festival that celebrates the convergence of music, film, interactive media, and technology. It features keynote speakers, panels, workshops, screenings, and performances.

3. TED Conference: TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) conferences bring together leading thinkers, innovators, and visionaries to share "Ideas Worth Spreading." Held in various locations worldwide, TED conferences cover a wide range of topics, from science and technology to culture, art, and social issues.

4. Dreamforce: Hosted by Salesforce in San Francisco, Dreamforce is one of the largest software conferences globally, focusing on cloud computing, customer relationship management (CRM), and digital transformation. It features keynote speakers, workshops, training sessions, and networking opportunities.

5. NAB Show (National Association of Broadcasters Show): Held in Las Vegas, NAB Show is the premier event for professionals in the media, entertainment, and technology industries. It showcases the latest innovations in broadcasting, content creation, production, and distribution.

6. RSA Conference: RSA Conference is a leading cybersecurity event held annually in San Francisco, bringing together cybersecurity professionals, industry experts, and thought leaders to discuss current threats, best practices, and emerging trends in cybersecurity.

7. Adobe MAX: Adobe MAX is an annual creativity conference hosted by Adobe, featuring keynote presentations, workshops, and hands-on labs focused on design, photography, video, web development, and digital marketing. It takes place in various locations, including Los Angeles and Las Vegas.

8. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition: AAP's annual conference is a premier event for pediatricians, healthcare professionals, and researchers, offering educational sessions, scientific presentations, and networking opportunities in pediatric medicine and child health.

9. American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting: ASCO's annual meeting is the world's largest gathering of oncology professionals, featuring presentations on the latest research, clinical trials, treatment advances, and trends in cancer care. It takes place in Chicago.

10. National Retail Federation (NRF) Big Show: NRF's annual conference in New York City is the largest retail event globally, bringing together retailers, industry experts, and technology providers to discuss retail innovation, trends, and strategies for the future of retail.

These conferences represent just a few examples of the top annual events in the USA, each offering valuable insights, networking opportunities, and inspiration for professionals across different industries and fields.

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Top 5 Benefits of Attending Conferences

 Attending conferences offers numerous benefits for personal and professional development. Here are five key advantages:

1. Networking Opportunities: Conferences provide an excellent platform to network with professionals, experts, and peers in your field. You can meet potential collaborators, mentors, and clients, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships that can lead to future opportunities.

2. Knowledge and Skill Development: Conferences feature presentations, workshops, and panel discussions by industry leaders and experts, offering valuable insights, trends, and best practices in your field. Attending these sessions can enhance your knowledge, skills, and expertise, keeping you updated on the latest developments in your industry.

3. Career Advancement: Conferences offer opportunities to showcase your expertise, present your research or projects, and gain recognition within your industry. Engaging with fellow professionals and thought leaders can also open doors to career advancement, job opportunities, and professional growth.

4. Exposure to New Ideas and Perspectives: Conferences bring together diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds, exposing you to new ideas, innovations, and approaches to solving problems. This exposure stimulates creativity, encourages critical thinking, and inspires you to explore new directions in your work.

5. Personal and Professional Growth: Beyond the tangible benefits, attending conferences can contribute to your personal and professional growth. It provides a platform for self-reflection, self-discovery, and personal development, fostering confidence, resilience, and adaptability in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in your career.

Overall, attending conferences offers a valuable opportunity to connect, learn, and grow professionally, making it an essential investment in your personal and career development.

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