The government has launched Mission MITRA, a major initiative to boost defence manufacturing in India. This mission aims to create an ecosystem that will support the growth of domestic defence industries and reduce the country’s dependence on foreign imports.
Under Mission MITRA, the government plans to set up six Defence Industrial Corridors across the country, which will provide a range of incentives to defence manufacturers, including subsidies, tax breaks, and access to land and infrastructure.
The corridors will focus on different areas such as aerospace, land, and naval systems, and will be located in states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh.
Puri Airport Clears Environmental Clearances
The Puri Airport in Odisha has cleared its environmental clearances, paving the way for its construction. The airport will be built at an estimated cost of Rs 200 crore and is expected to be completed within the next 30 months.
The airport will have a 2.5 kilometre runway and will be able to handle flights of up to 200 passengers. It will also have a terminal building, a cargo complex, and other infrastructure facilities.
The airport is expected to boost tourism in the state and provide employment opportunities to the local youth.
NSO’s Survey Reveals Decline in Poverty Rate
The National Statistical Office (NSO) has released its survey on poverty, which reveals that the poverty rate in India has declined significantly over the past few years. According to the survey, the poverty rate has declined from 22.8% in 2011-12 to 13.1% in 2019-20.
The survey also reveals that the poverty rate has declined more rapidly in rural areas than in urban areas. The poverty rate in rural areas has declined from 29.5% in 2011-12 to 15.9% in 2019-20, while in urban areas it has declined from 13.7% in 2011-12 to 9.5% in 2019-20.