Implement Indian projects in Saarc region expeditiously: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday directed government officials to expeditiously implement projects, launched by India, in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) region.

During a review, Modi assessed the progress of Indian projects in Afghanistan, including the parliament building and the Salma dam.

Salma Dam is an under construction hydroelectric and irrigation dam project located on the Hari River in Afghanistan's Herat province.

The prime minister asked all concerned departments to "ensure that development projects being implemented by India in the Saarc region, are implemented expeditiously".

Chairing his sixth interaction through PRAGATI, the prime minister also reviewed the progress of key infrastructure projects in railway, metro rail, coal and iron ore mining, road, power and aviation sectors, spread over several states.

PRAGATI is an information and communication technology (ICT)-based, multi-modal platform for pro-active governance and timely implementation.

Evaluating the progress of development of solar energy parks in 17 states across the country, Modi said: "states should work pro-actively towards creating conducive policy frameworks to enable speedy implementation of solar power projects."

Expressing concern at the undue delay in processing of requests for patents and trademarks, the prime minister directed these processes to be brought in line with global standards, within a reasonable time frame.

He also called for an overhaul of the patent application filing process, and a drastic reduction in the number of forms required for this process.

The prime minister also reviewed the progress of implementation of National Food Security Act, 2013 and Aadhar card enrolment across the country and emphasized on speedy implementation so that citizens can avail the benefits of these initiatives.

Modi also took stock of the progress of the new Pakyong airport in Sikkim, describing it as a crucial project for connectivity and development of tourism in the state, and urged the state to work pro-actively for its timely implementation.