President Pranab Mukherjee has invited Norwegian companies to join Indian counterparts in the “Make in India” initiative of the new government. Addressing a banquet hosted by the King of Norway Harald V in the Royal Palace in Oslo yesterday evening, Mr. Mukherjee said Government of India is presently simplifying the procedures to facilitate the participation of foreign companies in India’s growth story.
The President said, Government of India invites investors and entrepreneurs from Norway to explore possibilities of investment in infrastructure sector. Mr. Mukherjee said that the new Government is taking a number of measures to encourage investments, revive the manufacturing sector in India, promote skill development, develop smart cities and engage closely with all interested partners and investors in India and abroad to make this happen. He said in India business sentiments are positive and strong.
AIR Correspondent reports that during the visit to Norway President also visited Fram Museum, dedicated to the story of Norwegian polar expeditions. He spoke using a visual link with Indian scientists working at Himadri–the country's first Arctic research station located at Svalbard. He also interacted with Indian PhD students studying at the University of Svalbard. External Affairs Secretary (West) Navtej Sarna briefed about the President’s interaction with scientists and PhD students.
Initial reports indicate that the cyclone affected over 5 lakh 82 acres of agriculture land in the worst ravaged Visakhapatnam, Srikakulam, Vizianagram and East Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh. Crops like paddy and horticulture crops like cashew, mango and coconut have been the worst affected.
State government said, 21 persons died and 32 injured in cyclone related incidents. About 2 thousand cattle killed and 6 thousand 8 hundred houses were damaged.
Restoration works are underway at the war footing level. Major roads in Visakhapatnam have been cleared of uprooted trees and collapsed electricity polls, while work is underway to restore 15 kilometre-long railway track near Elamnchali.
In a major operation to rescue 1800 stranded people at Konda Chakrapalli is Srikakulam District, the Army teams have rescued 126 persons including women and children till last evening. An official release said the rescue operation is in progress and additional teams have been moved to the spot.
