Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
The Hong Kong Academy of Finance (AoF) announced the admission of 23 senior executives for the Financial Leaders Programme (FLP) 2025 today (March 27). The 23 participants come from a diverse spectrum of financial sub-sectors including banking, insurance, investment banking and asset management, professional services, fintech and financial regulatory bodies.
The AoF launched the FLP in 2022, with the aim to inspire and nurture the next generation of senior financial leaders for Hong Kong, equipping them with a mindset to lead, enhancing their understanding of financial issues from macro and systemic perspectives, and expanding their professional network.
The FLP offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage in dialogue with top leaders in financial services and other sectors. Each year, the FLP admits around 20 promising financial talents from a diverse background at around two levels below the chief executive officer position. The programme is conducted on a part-time basis. A total of 63 participants have graduated since the launch of the programme.
The 2025 Programme was open for application from November 5 to December 15, 2024, receiving enthusiastic response and many high-quality applications. Following a competitive selection process, the Membership Committee of the AoF approved the admission of 23 applicants.
Further information about the FLP and the 2025 cohort are available on the AoF website.
India’s bioeconomy has grown from $10 billion in 2014 to $165.7 billion in 2024, with a target of $300 billion by 2030.
The sector contributes 4.25% to GDP with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.9% over the past four years.
The government aims to make India a global bio-manufacturing hub driven by innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development.
BioE3 promotes regenerative biomanufacturing and supports a circular bioeconomy aligned with India’s net-zero goals.
The National Biopharma Mission, co-funded with the World Bank ($250 million), supports over 100 projects and 30 MSMEs.
India is among the top producers of vaccines globally and developed the world’s first DNA COVID-19 vaccine.
Ethanol blending increased from 1.53% in 2014 to 15% in 2024, with a target of 20% by 2025.
Introduction
India’s bioeconomy has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, growing sixteen-fold from $10 billion in 2014 to an impressive $165.7 billion in 2024. This exceptional expansion reflects the nation’s focused efforts to position biotechnology as a cornerstone of sustainable economic growth and innovation. Contributing 4.25% to the national GDP, the sector has demonstrated a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.9% over the past four years, reinforcing India’s emergence as a rising global force in biotechnology. With an ambitious target of $300 billion by 2030, the bioeconomy is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s future as a knowledge-driven, bio-enabled economy.
The bioeconomy is the use of renewable biological resources to produce food, energy and industrial goods, which supports sustainability and economic growth. Innovations like gene editing and bioprinting are driving progress, while integration across sectors strengthens long-term impact. By aligning biotechnology with digital tools and circular economy principles, the bioeconomy offers sustainable solutions to environmental challenges and promotes overall societal well-being.
India’s Vision for a Thriving Bioeconomy
India’s vision for the bioeconomy is rooted in innovation-led growth, sustainable development, and inclusive economic progress. The country aims to become a global hub for bio-manufacturing, backed by strong R&D infrastructure, cutting-edge technologies, and a skilled scientific workforce. The focus is on creating a resilient industrial ecosystem that promotes the development and commercialization of new biotech products, while unlocking opportunities in both urban and rural regions. With an ambitious target of achieving a $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030, India also seeks to lead globally in bio-pharma, including vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics. This strategy directly contributes to the broader goals of India@2047, emphasizing sustainability, economic self-reliance, and green growth.
Government Initiatives and Key Programmes
BioE3 Policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment)
BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy marks a significant leap in India’s biotechnology sector. Approved by the Union Cabinet on 24th August 2024, the policy aims to transform India into a global biotech powerhouse by fostering high-performance biomanufacturing and addressing key pillars of the economy, environment, and employment.
It aligns with the vision of a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous future by promoting regenerative biomanufacturing and a shift from chemical-based industries to sustainable bio-based models. This supports a circular bioeconomy and aligns with the goal of net-zero carbon emissions. This approach supports environmental sustainability and contributes significantly to the ‘Make in India’ initiative by fostering the development of biobased products with minimal carbon footprints.
Strategic Sectors and Key Initiatives
The BioE3 Policy introduces key initiatives such as advanced biomanufacturing facilities, bio-foundry clusters, and bio-AI hubs to support bio-based product development and commercialization. These centers will bridge lab-to-market gaps and foster collaboration across startups, SMEs, and industry. With a strong focus on employment, the policy aims to generate jobs in tier-IIand tier-III cities by leveraging local biomass. It also emphasizes ethical biosafety and alignment with global regulatory standards to boost India’s global biotech competitiveness.
Key Features
Innovation-driven support for R&D and entrepreneurship
Establishment of Biomanufacturing & Bio-AI hubs and Biofoundry
Focus on regenerative bioeconomy models for green growth
Expansion of India’s skilled workforce
Alignment with ‘Net Zero’ carbon economy and ‘Lifestyle for Environment’ (LiFE) initiatives
National Biopharma Mission
The National Biopharma Mission (NBM)-Innovate in India (i3), is a government-approved initiative led by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and implemented by BIRAC. It aims to boost India’s capabilities in biopharmaceuticals, vaccines, biosimilars, medical devices, and diagnostics by fostering collaboration between industry and academia. With a budget of $250 million, co-funded 50% by the World Bank, the mission supports 101 projects, involving over 150 organisations and 30 MSMEs. It has helped set up 11 shared facilities for testing, validation, and manufacturing—benefiting start-ups and MSMEs. These include GCLP labs for vaccine testing, GLP labs for biosimilar analysis, and cGMP facilities for manufacturing. The mission has also generated over 1,000 jobs, including 304 scientists and researchers. Additionally, the Genome India Programme, which involves sequencing 10,000 genomes, is expected to shape future global healthcare strategies, both in treatment and prevention.
Key Achievements in India’s Pharma Sector:
India has emerged as a global hubfor affordable, high-quality medicines, ranking 3rdin pharmaceutical production by volume and 14th by value.
Developed the world’s first DNA vaccinefor COVID-19, showcasing innovation in global health.
Produces 65% of the world’s vaccines, significantly benefiting low- and middle-income countries.
The “Make in India”initiative is reducing dependency on imported Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) through strengthened domestic manufacturing.
Pharma industry has transitioned from a generic-focused model to developing biopharmaceuticals and biosimilars.
India is working on thefirst indigenous HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer in adolescent girls.
Every third tabletconsumed globally is manufactured in India, demonstrating global trust in Indian pharma.
Bio-agriculture
Agricultural biotechnology in India is advancing rapidly through innovations in genomics, transgenics, and gene editing under the Department of Biotechnology’s Agriculture Biotechnology programme.
Climate-Smart Crops: A drought-tolerant, high-yielding chickpea variety SAATVIK (NC 9) has been approved for cultivation.
Genome-Edited Rice: Loss-of-function mutations in yield-limiting genes have led to improved rice lines like DEP1-edited MTU-1010, showing higher yields.
Genotyping Arrays: India’s first 90K SNP arrays—IndRA for rice and IndCA for chickpea—enable DNA fingerprinting and variety identification.
Amaranth Resources: A genomic database, NIRS techniques, and a 64K SNP chip aid nutritional screening and development of anti-obesity amaranth varieties.
Biocontrol: A nano-formulation from Myrothecium verrucaria offers eco-friendly control of powdery mildew in tomato and grape.
Kisan-Kavach: An anti-pesticide protective suit enhances farmer safety from toxic exposure.
Biotech-KISAN is a scientist-farmer partnership programme launched to empower farmers, especially women and those in rural and tribal areas, through agricultural innovation and scientific interventions. It follows a hub-and-spoke model and is active across 115 Aspirational Districts in India.
State-wise Impact:
Chhattisgarh (Bastar region): Income rose by 40–50% through improved bio-fortified rice; 2173 farmers benefitted.
West Bengal:37,552 farmers (including 28,756 women) trained with 14 scientific farming practices; 14 FPOs and 134 FIGs formed.
Madhya Pradesh:67,630 farmers benefitted via technology adoption across 8 Aspirational Districts.
Jharkhand (Deoghar):69–100% increase in cocoon and compost production; 2100 families covered.
Meghalaya & Sikkim:18–20% yield increase in maize, turmeric, tomato; pest reduction by 50%.
Bioenergy
India’s bioenergy sector is playing a transformative role in strengthening the country’s bioeconomy. Ethanol blending has seen a significant rise—from 1.53% in 2014 to 15% in 2024, with a target of 20% blending by 2025. This shift has not only reduced crude oil imports by 173 lakh metric tons but also saved Rs. 99,014 crores in foreign exchange and cut 519 lakh metric tons of CO₂ emissions.
The economic ripple effect is substantial, with Rs. 1,45,930 crores disbursed to distillers and Rs. 87,558 crores to farmers, reinforcing rural incomes and agro-industry linkages. Fuel diversification is gaining momentum through the launch of E100 fuel at over 400 outlets and the availability of E20 fuel at over 15,600 retail stations.
Bioenergy is a form of renewable energy that is derived from recently living organic materials known as biomass, which can be used to produce transportation fuels, heat, electricity, and products.
Supportive policies have encouraged the use of varied feedstocks, including maize, damaged rice, and sugarcane byproducts, backed by structured incentives. Second-generation ethanol refineries are converting agricultural residues like Parali and bamboo into fuel, strengthening the circular economy and reducing pollution. These developments highlight how bioenergy contributes to energy security, sustainability, and rural development—key pillars of India’s expanding bioeconomy.
Boosting Biotech Innovation Through BIRAC Initiatives
The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), established by the Department of Biotechnology in 2012, plays a pivotal role in nurturing India’s biotech startup ecosystem. With 95 bio-incubation centres set up nationwide, BIRAC supports startups through funding, infrastructure, and mentorship.
Key schemes include:
Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG): Up to ₹50 lakh for 18 months to support early-stage startups; nearly 1,000 innovators supported.
SEED Fund: ₹30 lakh equity support for proof-of-concept stage startups.
LEAP Fund: ₹100 lakh equity support for commercialisation-ready innovations.
जनCARE – Amrit Grand Challenge: Supported 89 digital health tech innovations in AI, ML, telemedicine, and blockchain, with a focus on tier-II, tier-III cities and rural areas.
Towards a Bio-Enabled Future
India’s bioeconomy stands at a defining moment, with its integrated approach to innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development setting a global benchmark. Through robust policy frameworks, cutting-edge research, and a strong emphasis on collaboration across sectors, the nation is well on track to redefine its industrial and environmental landscape. The convergence of bio-manufacturing, bio-agriculture, and bioenergy not only strengthens national resilience but also signals India’s strategic intent to lead in the emerging global bioeconomy. As India moves forward, this cohesive and future-oriented vision lays the foundation for a more sustainable, self-reliant, and bio-enabled economy, firmly aligned with the aspirations of India@2047.
The Government of India, in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India, has finalised its borrowing programme for the first half (H1) of FY 2025-26.
Out of Gross Market borrowing of₹14.82 lakh crore budgeted for FY 2025-26,₹8.00 lakh crore (54.0%) is planned to be borrowed in H1through issuance of dated securities, including ₹10,000 crore of Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs).
The gross market borrowing of ₹8.00 lakh crore shall be completed through 26 weekly auctions.The market borrowing will be spread over 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 30, 40 and 50 year securities. The share of borrowing(including SGrBs)under different maturities will be: 3-year (5.3%), 5-year (11.3%), 7-year (8.2%), 10-year (26.2%), 15-year (14.0%), 30-year (10.5%), 40-year (14.0%) and 50-year (10.5%).
The Government will carry out switching/buyback of securities to smoothen the redemption profile.
The Government will continue to reserve the right to exercise greenshoe option to retain an additional subscription of up to ₹2,000 crore against each of the securities indicated in the auction notifications.
Weekly borrowing through issuance of Treasury Bills in the first quarter (Q1) of FY 2025-26 is expected to be ₹19,000 crore for 13 weeks with issuance of ₹9,000 crore under 91 day T-bill, ₹5,000 crore under 182 day T-bill and ₹5,000 crore under 364-day T-bill.
To take care of temporary mismatches in Government accounts, the Reserve Bank of India has fixed the Ways and Mean Advances (WMA) limit for H1 of FY 2025-26 at ₹1.50 lakh crore.
More details may be seen in the detailed Press Releases available on the websites of the Finance Ministry and the Reserve Bank of India.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) strongly disapproved of and must resolutely refute the untruthful remarks, slanders and smears against various aspects of the HKSAR in the so-called six-monthly report on Hong Kong: July to December 2024 of the United Kingdom (UK) today (March 27).
A spokesman for the HKSAR Government said, “The HKSAR Government strongly condemns and rejects the UK’s attempt through a so-called six-monthly report to make misleading and irresponsible remarks about Hong Kong matters, wantonly put politics above the rule of law and attempt to interfere in Hong Kong’s law-based governance by despicable political manoeuvres. The HKSAR is an inalienable part of the People’s Republic of China, and as a local administrative region that enjoys a high degree of autonomy under the principle of ‘one country, two systems’, comes directly under the jurisdiction of the Central People’s Government. The core essence of the Sino-British Joint Declaration is about China’s resumption of the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong. It did not authorise the UK to interfere in Hong Kong’s affairs after its return to the motherland. The UK has no sovereignty, jurisdiction or right of supervision over Hong Kong after its return to the motherland. The HKSAR Government strongly urges the UK again to discern facts from fallacies, respect the international law and basic norms governing international relations, and immediately stop interfering in Hong Kong matters, which are purely China’s internal affairs.”
Laws safeguarding national security
The HKSAR Government spokesman said, “The HKSAR Government strongly opposes the absurd and false contents in the UK’s so-called six-monthly report with regard to the laws safeguarding national security in the HKSAR. While the ‘black-clad violence’ and the Hong Kong version of ‘colour revolution’ back in 2019 have severely damaged the social stability of Hong Kong, with the promulgation and implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL), its effect in stopping violence and curbing disorder as well as quickly restoring social stability in the Hong Kong community was immediate. With the concerted efforts of the HKSAR Government, the Legislative Council and all sectors of the community, the HKSAR fulfilled its constitutional duty by enacting the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) last year to improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security, enabling Hong Kong’s transition from chaos to order and its advancement from stability to prosperity.” However, the UK Government vilified the HKSAR law enforcement, prosecutorial and judicial authorities’ performance of their duties in accordance with the law as an ‘erosion of rights and freedoms’, and continued to unscrupulously distort the facts to criticise, which just shows its bullying act are utterly ugly and despicable.
“In accordance with international law and international practice based on the Charter of the United Nations, it is each and every sovereign state’s inherent right to enact laws safeguarding national security, and it is also an international practice. With at least 14 pieces of laws safeguarding national security in the UK, those remarks by the UK are not only totally distorting and confounding right and wrong, but they also entirely disregard the constitutional duty and practical needs of the HKSAR to legislate, and the positive effects brought by the enactment of the relevant national security legislation on economic development and protection of human rights.” “The offences endangering national security stipulated by HKNSL and SNSO target acts endangering national security with precision, and define the elements and penalties of the offences with clarity. The HKSAR law enforcement agencies have been taking law enforcement actions based on evidence and strictly in accordance with the law in respect of the acts of the persons or entities concerned, which have nothing to do with their political stance, background or occupation. Any suggestion that certain individuals or organisations should be immune from legal consequences for their illegal acts is no different from advocating a special privilege to break the law, and this totally runs contrary to the spirit of the rule of law.” Improved electoral system
The HKSAR Government spokesman pointed out, “The improved electoral system of the HKSAR puts in place legal safeguards to ensure the full implementation of ‘patriots administering Hong Kong’. Keeping political power in the hands of patriots is a political rule commonly adopted around the world. No one in any country or region in the world will ever allow political power to fall into the hands of forces or individuals who do not love, or even sell out or betray, their own country. In Hong Kong, regardless of one’s background, whoever meets the requirements and criteria of patriots can participate in elections in accordance with the law and serve the Hong Kong public by entering into the governance structure of the HKSAR after getting successfully elected.” “The Department of Justice, by virtue of Article 63 of the Basic Law, controls criminal prosecutions, makes independent prosecutorial decisions in accordance with the law, free from any interference. Prosecutions would be instituted by the Department of Justice only if there is sufficient admissible evidence to support a reasonable prospect of conviction, and if it is in the public interest to do so.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, attended the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) 2025 Conference and Exhibition in Delhi, India, on March 27 (Delhi time) and received the APAIE flag from the President of the APAIE, Professor Venky Shankararaman, officially announcing that the next APAIE Conference and Exhibition will be held in Hong Kong.
In her speech at the closing ceremony of the Conference, Dr Choi said that Hong Kong, as Asia’s world city, offers a unique confluence of global connectivity, world-class infrastructure and rich cultural experiences for all APAIE Conference participants. Dr Choi also noted that the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) forms a world-class innovation hub, providing vast opportunities for academic collaborations. She sincerely invited overseas partners to attend the APAIE Conference next year in Hong Kong to build connections in teaching and research collaboration with representatives from the city and around the globe.
The APAIE Conference and Exhibition is the largest education conference in Asia-Pacific region. The conference in 2026 will be held from February 23 to 27 by the Chinese University of Hong Kong with support from the other University Grants Committee (UGC)-funded universities. The conference will gather leaders and representatives from the higher education sector worldwide in Hong Kong and offer local post-secondary institutions an opportunity to further enhance co-operation and exchanges with their counterparts around the world. Coinciding with the 2025 ranking of the world’s most international universities published by the Times Higher Education last week, in which four UGC-funded universities claimed all top four spots, the holding of the next APAIE Conference and Exhibition in Hong Kong highlights the city’s image as an international hub for post-secondary education.
At the Conference this year, Dr Choi also delivered a speech under the theme “Study in Hong Kong”. She said that Hong Kong is renowned for its vibrancy, high quality of life and safety, making it an exceptional study destination. With Hong Kong’s aspirations to become an international hub for post-secondary education, as well as its pursuit of excellence in teaching and research, five publicly funded universities of Hong Kong rank among the world’s top 100.
The Secretary-General of the UGC, Professor James Tang, also spoke at a seminar of the Conference to elaborate on Hong Kong’s edges in higher education, among which, around one in every four students and around 70 per cent of academic staff of UGC-funded universities come from outside Hong Kong. The institutions have also signed over 2 600 student exchange agreements with their counterparts worldwide, underscoring their achievement in enhancing diversity in higher education and strengthening collaboration with institutions from other places.
Dr Choi visited the Hong Kong Pavilion, which was set up by the Heads of Universities Committee Standing Committee on Internationalisation and funded by the UGC, to learn about the proactive work of the UGC-funded universities in expanding their international network as well as their promotion for recruiting students from more places to undertake further studies and exchanges in Hong Kong. In addition, she toured various booths at the Exhibition and exchanged views with representatives from different countries and regions on the development and promotion of post-secondary education.
On March 28 (Delhi time), Dr Choi will pay a courtesy call on the Chinese Ambassador to India, Mr Xu Feihong, to introduce Hong Kong’s latest education policy. She will then conclude the visit and return to Hong Kong.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The third session of the 14th National People’s Congress and the third session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) (“two sessions”) were successfully held in March this year. The Chief Executive’s Policy Unit (CEPU) and the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies (CAHKMS) today (March 27) co-organised a seminar titled “The Spirit of ‘Two Sessions’ and Hong Kong’s Integration into National Development in the New Era”. The event facilitated in-depth exchanges and interactive discussions on the key takeaways of this year’s “two sessions” and their implications for Hong Kong’s future development.
The President of the CAHKMS, Dr Deng Zhonghua, delivered the opening address, while Vice Chairman of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges Dr Wang Yiming and Deputy Director of the CPPCC Economic Affairs Committee Dr Yin Yanlin served as keynote speakers. The Head of the CEPU, Dr Stephen Wong, gave the closing remarks. Nearly 120 representatives from various sectors attended the seminar, including members of local think tanks, research institutes of universities, professional organisations, chambers of commerce, CEPU Expert Group, as well as vice presidents, council members and advisors of the CAHKMS. During the Q&A session, participants actively engaged with the speakers, and they had in-depth and lively exchanges and discussions.
Dr Wong said, “I am very grateful to the CAHKMS, especially President Deng Zhonghua, for facilitating this collaboration between the CEPU and the Association, allowing us to collectively study the spirit of the ‘two sessions’ from a research and think-tank perspective. I also extend my sincere gratitude to Dr Wang Yiming and Dr Yin Yanlin for their insightful presentations on macroeconomics and industrial development respectively.”
“This year marks the conclusion of the national 14th Five-Year Plan and the commencement of preparation for the 15th Five-Year Plan. The CEPU will continue to strengthen our research efforts, incorporating the spirit of the ‘two sessions’ into our work to support the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government in leveraging the institutional advantages of ‘one country, two systems’, enhancing Hong Kong’s role as a bridge connecting domestic and global markets, and uniting society to further deepen reforms comprehensively,” he added.
Established in December 2022, the CEPU serves as an in-house research unit of the HKSAR Government, tasked with enhancing the Government’s capabilities in research and advocacy on long-term and strategic issues, thereby providing the Chief Executive with multifaceted perspectives and basis for research. The CAHKMS, established in December 2013, is a national civil academic organisation under the administration of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. It aims to organise and co-ordinate research on the theory and practice of “one country, two systems”, strengthen academic exchanges and co-operation among Hong Kong, Macao, and the Mainland in relevant fields, and perform the functions as a civil think tank.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Department of Health (DH) today (March 27) is investigating a case of illegal sale of slimming products containing undeclared controlled drug ingredients on the Internet and urged the public not to buy or consume the products concerned (see photo).
Acting upon intelligence, the DH purchased on a social media platform some slimming products, reportedly obtained from overseas, for analysis. The laboratory test results revealed that the samples of some products contained frusemide, metformin and thyroxine. All of them are Part 1 poisons under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap. 138) (PPO).
The packages of the products concerned have Thai, Chinese and English characters, and are suspected to be unregistered pharmaceutical products. The DH will continue to follow up and investigate the case.
Frusemide is used for the treatment of heart diseases and its side effects include low blood pressure and electrolyte imbalance. Metformin is used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and its side effects include nausea and diarrhoea. Thyroxine is used for the treatment of hypothyroidism and its side effects include arrhythmia and hypertension. Medicines containing these ingredients should be used under a doctor’s directions and be supplied on the premises of an Authorized Seller of Poisons (i.e. pharmacy) under the supervision of a registered pharmacist upon a doctor’s prescription.
According to the PPO, all pharmaceutical products must be registered with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong before they can be sold in the market. Illegal sale or possession of unregistered pharmaceutical products or Part 1 poisons are criminal offences. The maximum penalty for each offence upon conviction is a fine of $100,000 and two years’ imprisonment.
The DH strongly urged members of the public not to buy or consume products of doubtful composition or from unknown sources. All registered pharmaceutical products should carry a Hong Kong registration number on the package in the format of “HK-XXXXX”. The safety, quality and efficacy of unregistered pharmaceutical products are not guaranteed.
People who have purchased the products concerned should stop consuming them immediately and consult healthcare professionals if in doubt or if they feel unwell after consumption. They may submit the products to the Drug Office of the DH at Room 1804-06, 18/F, Wing On Kowloon Centre, 345 Nathan Road, Kowloon, during office hours for disposal.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (March 27) announced that the winter influenza season, which started in early January 2025, has come to an end. The relatively low number of severe and death cases this season is believed to be the result of the concerted and comprehensive efforts of various stakeholders in the community and the public to increase the seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) rate. On the other hand, the CHP anticipates the activity of other respiratory infectious diseases, including COVID-19, to become more active as Hong Kong enters spring and summer. Members of the public are reminded to remain vigilant, and high risk groups should receive COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible to minimise the risk of serious complications and death after infection.
Influenza season is over
___________________
“The CHP has been closely monitoring the local seasonal influenza activity through a series of indicators. Since the start of the winter influenza season in early January this year, the seasonal influenza activity in Hong Kong has continued to increase and remained at the highest level from late January to early February and then gradually declined. According to surveillance data as of March 22, the percentage of respiratory specimens testing positive for seasonal influenza viruses was 2.3 per cent, and the public hospital admission rate related to influenza was 0.12 per 10 000 population. Both dropped below the baseline levels. The weekly number of influenza-like illness outbreaks in schools and institutions also dropped from more than 20 in January to February to an average of 12 in the last two weeks. As various indicators suggest that the influenza virus is at a low activity level, the CHP assesses that the influenza season is over,” the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui said.
He noted that the current influenza season lasted for about 11 weeks, about the same length as in the past. Since only one influenza virus strain, i.e. influenza A (H1), predominated during the period, the influenza season was not prolonged due to a shift in virus strains.
“As in the past, severe or death cases related to seasonal influenza continued to affect primarily the elderly and children. Compared to the 2018/19 influenza season prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, which was also dominated by influenza A (H1), the 488 severe cases involving adults recorded this season was about 20 per cent lower than the 2018/19 influenza season, when 601 cases were recorded. For children, 10 cases of severe influenza-associated complications were recorded this season (without deaths), which was nearly 60 per cent lower than 24 cases (including one death) recorded in the 2018/19 influenza season. We believe that this is the result of the general public’s willingness to receive the seasonal flu vaccine,” Dr Tsui said.
With the concerted efforts of all sectors of the community (including the medical sector, schools, parents and residential care homes), as of March 23 this year, a total of about 2.07 million doses of vaccine were administered under various SIV programmes in the year 2024/25, representing an increase of about 12.2 per cent over the same period of the last influenza vaccination season and exceeding the total number of doses (about 1.87 million doses) administered last season, which is a record high. The coverage rates exceeded 50 per cent in most age groups, ranging from 51.3 per cent to 73.8 per cent. The coverage rates increased in all relevant age groups compared with the same period last season. The Hospital Authority (HA) also actively dovetails with the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme of the Government in providing free influenza vaccination to eligible persons under the programme at its general and specialist out-patient clinics. As of March 23 this year, the HA has administered a total of about 580 000 doses of vaccine to the above-mentioned persons, representing an increase of about 18.4 per cent compared with the previous influenza vaccination season. In addition, to better protect patients, staff and their families, approximately 60 500 HA staff have received seasonal influenza vaccines. This number also increased by 11.8 per cent compared with the previous season.
The number of schools participating in the SIV School Outreach Programme has also increased significantly this year. About 1 020 kindergartens/child care centres (97 per cent), about 640 primary schools (98 per cent) and about 490 secondary schools (98 per cent) have completed or will conduct SIV school outreach activities, which is higher than the participation rates in year 2023/24 (80 per cent of kindergartens/child care centres, 95 per cent of primary schools and 70 per cent of secondary schools).
“On March 21, 2025, the Scientific Committee on Vaccine Preventable Diseases (SCVPD) under the CHP issued recommendations on the seasonal influenza vaccines to be used and the priority groups for receiving vaccination for the upcoming 2025/26 influenza season in Hong Kong, after reviewing the scientific evidence, local data, the latest World Health Organization recommendations and overseas practices. The Government is proactively planning for the 2025/26 SIV Programmes, including liaising with vaccine suppliers on the availability of vaccines for the upcoming season in preparation for vaccine procurement, planning for the provision of nasal live-attenuated influenza vaccines to all schools, and allowing all schools to choose between injectable inactivated influenza vaccine and nasal live-attenuated influenza vaccine at the same or different outreach vaccination activities, in order to provide further facilitation and encourage all schools to participate in the SIV School Outreach Programme in the coming season,” Dr Tsui added.
Regarding the 2025/26 SIV Programmes, the Government will also explore the feasibility of procuring some influenza vaccines for participating private doctors participating in the Vaccination Subsidy Scheme and is obtaining information from suppliers about the market supply situation. An announcement will be made at an appropriate time.
“The SIV coverage rates for children aged 6 months to under 2 years and people aged between 50 and 64 remained relatively low at about 26.8 per cent and 25.3 per cent respectively. Although slightly higher than that of the same period last season, it was still lower than that of other age groups. Targeting these two age groups with relatively lower vaccination rates, the Government will strengthen targeted publicity in the coming season and enhance collaboration with family doctors to encourage their clients in the community to receive seasonal influenza vaccines to safeguard the health of the public,” Dr Tsui added.
Prevention of other respiratory infectious diseases
________________________________________
Although the winter influenza season is over, members of the public should not overlook the presence of those respiratory pathogens that will become more active in spring and summer, including rhinovirus/enterovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, human metapneumovirus and summer influenza season.
Furthermore, there has been a recent increase in the activity of COVID-19 in the local community. In the past three weeks, the load of SARS-CoV-2 virus from sewage surveillance, the percentage of specimens tested positive and the average consultation rate of COVID-19 cases in general out-patient clinics have continued to rise from low levels. As of March 22, the viral load per capita of SARS-CoV-2 virus was around 260 000 copy/litre, which was significantly higher than the previous week ending March 15, when it was 85 000 copy/litre.
“The public should maintain good personal, hand and environmental hygiene. Furthermore, high-risk persons should receive COVID-19 booster doses at appropriate times to lower the risks of serious illness and death. Genetic analysis has shown that the most predominant circulating strains in Hong Kong are still JN.1 and its descendant lineages, and the vaccines currently used in Hong Kong can effectively prevent the related variant,” Dr Tsui said.
“Scientific data shows that timely booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine for high-risk persons help lower the risk of severe illness and death. Members of the public who have not received the initial dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (including infants and children) should get vaccinated as soon as possible. Those at high risk (particularly the elderly and persons with underlying comorbidities) should receive a booster dose as soon as possible for effective prevention against COVID-19,” he added.
Dr Tsui reminded members of the public that anyone with symptoms of a respiratory infection, even if the symptoms are mild, should wear a surgical mask and seek medical advice promptly to lower the risk of spreading the disease to high-risk persons.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, chaired the 18th meeting of the Youth Development Commission (YDC) today (March 27).
At the meeting, members were briefed by government representatives on the latest implementation progress of the Youth Development Blueprint since its release in December 2022. Members were pleased to note that bureaux and departments have been promoting youth development work at full steam in accordance with the guiding principles as stated in the Blueprint. Apart from implementing some 160 specific actions set out in the Blueprint and nearly 60 measures that were introduced in 2023, various policy bureaux have also introduced over 30 youth-related new measures in the past year in response to the latest social situation and needs of young people. This ensures that the Blueprint is progressing with the times and can continue to respond to the changing needs of young people.
At the meeting, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) also reported on the latest developments of the Youth Link, which was established in September 2023. Members appreciated that the HYAB would continue to organise or provide a variety of activities for Youth Link members, covering youth dialogue sessions, exchange visits to the Mainland, participation in international affairs, volunteer services, special visits, etc, offering them opportunities to develop diverse talents and contribute to the community, and at the same time strengthening their communication and mutual trust with the Government. The Youth Link currently has over 18 000 youth members, effectively linking up participants of various government youth development programmes.
Mr Chan said, “Over the past two years, the Government has been implementing and actively updating the Blueprint measures on an ongoing basis. This clearly demonstrates the Government’s commitment and determination to promoting long-term youth development. I extend my gratitude to all members for their active participation in the implementation and promotion of the Blueprint, as well as their collaboration with bureaux and departments to transform the vision of the Blueprint into reality – creating a fostering environment where our young people can flourish and unleash their full potential.”
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, replies to the discussion on the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha, After the discussion, the lower house passed the Bill It is essential for national security to know who enters the country, when, for how long, and for what purpose
India is not a Dharamshala where anyone can come and settle for any reason, the Parliament has the authority to stop those who pose a threat to national security
Those who come to contribute to India’s economy are welcome, but those who come to spread unrest will face strict action
Now, there will be a complete, systematic, integrated, and up-to-date record of every foreign national coming to India
The new immigration law will be Transparent, Tech-driven, Time-bound, and Trustworthy
Since independence, India’s soft power has made a mark across the world, and this bill will give it new momentum and energy
The Modi government has framed the immigration policy with compassion, sensitivity, and awareness of threats to the nation
DMK MPs have never raised the issue of Tamil refugees
The “Immigration, Visa, and Foreigners Registration and Tracking” (IVFRT) system has been given a legal framework to monitor illegal immigrants and those overstaying beyond permitted durations
After three years of intensive deliberation, this bill will make the immigration system Simplified, Streamlined, Secure, and Systematic
District Police Module (DPM), known as the Foreigners Identification Portal, has been launched in over 700 districts of the country
Earlier, immigration checks used to take an average of 4-5 minutes per person at checkpoints; now it takes hardly 1-2 minutes
We have started a 360-degree screening of every foreigner across 24 parameters before allowing them entry into India
Posted On: 27 MAR 2025 9:24PM by PIB Delhi
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today replied to the discussion on the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha. After the discussion, the House passed the Bill.
Replying to the discussion, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah spoke about the importance of the bill and said that it will strengthen the country’s security and economy, pave the way to make our education system and universities global, lay a strong foundation for research and investigation in the country and make India number one in the world in every field by 2047.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that immigration is not an isolated issue but many issues of the country are directly or indirectly linked with it. He said that it is very important for the security of our country to know who are entering our borders, when are they entering, for how long will they stay and the purpose for which they are here. Shri Shah said that after the passage of this bill, a complete, systematic, integrated and up-to-date account of every foreign citizen coming to India will be maintained and through this we will be able to ensure the development of the country. He said that those who endanger the security of the country will be kept under strict surveillance and can also be monitored. He said that this bill will prove to be fulfilling all our objectives.
Shri Amit Shah said that India’s track record regarding migrants has been “spotless” for thousands of years, hence there is no need for a separate refugee policy. He said that such a policy is needed by the countries which are formed by geographical boundaries, whereas India is a geo-cultural country and our boundaries have been created by our culture. He said that India has a history towards refugees. He said that it is India where the world’s largest micro minority lives with utmost respect. He said that recently, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, citizens of 6 persecuted communities from neighboring countries have been given shelter under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Shri Shah said that India has always discharged its duties towards humanity and the need for a law was never felt for doing our duty. He said that our tradition and culture taught us the mantra of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ and gave us its values.
Union Home Minister said that India has the largest diaspora in the world which spreads across 146 countries. He said that Indian diaspora wants to contribute to the culture, education, science and economy of the whole world. He said that today the number of Indian NRIs is about 1 crore 72 lakh and this bill has been brought to ensure smooth movement of all these people and to address their concerns.
Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, our economy has moved from 11th to 5th position in the last 10 years and India has emerged as a bright spot in the economies of the world. He said that India is going to become a hub of manufacturing and in such a situation it is very natural for people from all over the world to come here, due to which the scale and size of our immigration has increased a lot. Shri Shah said that along with this, the number of people who take refuge and make the country unsafe for their vested interests has also increased. He said that all those who come here to contribute to the economy of India in a smooth manner according to the laws are welcome, but if any illegal person comes here to create unrest, they will be dealt with very strictly. Shri Shah said that there is strictness along with generosity in this policy and this policy has been made by keeping compassion, sensitivity in the heart and alertness towards the dangers to the country.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that Prime Minister Modi has placed two resolutions before the 130 crore people of the country, to become the third largest economy of the world by 2027, and a fully developed nation by 2047. He said that to achieve both these goals, a system of simple, strong and contemporary laws is essential and that is why many new and historic laws have come in this House in the 10 years of Modi government. He said that works like three new criminal laws, CAA, abolition of 39,000 compliances for ease of doing business, IBC code in 2016, bank merger and ending NPA through it, and GST rollout by integrating 32 sales taxes in 2017 have been done in the 10 years. He said that the Modi government amended the UAPA law and the NIA Act and abolished Section 370 from Kashmir. He said that in these 10 years, the Modi government has done the work of strengthening every law in every sector.
Shri Amit Shah said that this bill will fulfil our dream of becoming the third largest economy and making our universities global as in the new education policy. He said that this will provide a good environment to those doing R&D in the field of research to work with a liberal mind and credibility, the dream of making the country the centre of excellence in sports across the world will be fulfilled, India will also become an international centre for mediation and arbitration. He said that this bill will create a very good environment for all these things. Shri Shah said that at present this entire system is spread under the purview of four Acts, but there is overlap among them and also there are many gaps. He said that this single bill will repeal these four Acts and bring a law which will fill all the gaps and will help in fulfilling our goal of making India a developed country by 2047 by eliminating repetition.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that a strong immigration policy will be of great importance in our goal of building a fully developed India by the year 2047. He said that this bill will make our system simple, streamlined, systematic, and secure. He said that along with this, this bill will also be transparent, track driven, time bound and reliable. Shri Shah said that this bill has been designed in the Home Ministry after three years of deep consideration on all aspects. He said that this bill should not be opposed for political reasons. Shri Shah said that under this bill, not only will a database of passengers coming to India be created, but it will also increase tourism a lot by exploiting all types of tourism potential here, which will greatly help in increasing India’s global branding. He said that this will be very beneficial in increasing employment and GDP. The Home Minister said that after 75 years of independence, today India’s soft power has made its mark in the whole world. He said that soft power means our Yoga, Ayurveda, Upanishads, Vedas and our organic farming system and today the whole world look up to India with hope.
Shri Amit Shah said that from the security point of view, this bill envisions ending drug cartels, illegal immigration cartels, arms and hawala trade from abroad which are weakening the country’s economy. He said that along with legal provisions, punitive actions for violations have been laid. He said that the three old bills were made in the British Parliament in 1920, 1939 and 1946 before the country got independence and today our entire immigration policy is going to be made in the new Parliament of New India, which is a historic thing. Shri Shah said that such an important policy of our country which ensures the security, trade and development of the country was made in a foreign parliament. He said that the old laws were made in the chaos of the First and Second World Wars and to protect the British government. He said that this bill has been made in the first phase of Amritkaal with a vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and in the interest of India.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that there were many overlaps in the old laws which we have eliminated we have also eliminated the lack of coordination between agencies and the complexity of data management and verification. He said that clarity of jurisdiction has been brought in this bill by eliminating contradictory provisions of the old laws. He said that a single bill will eliminate the legal confusion of passengers and officials and this comprehensive law will also greatly reduce the burden of compliance. Shri Shah said that we have fulfilled the need for mandatory documents for entry, stay and exit from India. He said that we have also given powers to arrest any person violating these. Shri Shah said that powers have also been given to deport any foreigner from India. The Home Minister said that in a way, work has been done with an open mind to make provisions as per today’s time. He said that there were a total of 45 sections in the old laws, but now this law will have 36 sections, 26 old and 10 new. Shri Shah said that our country is not a ‘Dharamshala’ where anyone can come and stay for any purpose. He said that if someone comes legally to spread prosperity in our country, then he is welcome, but if there is a threat our security, then our Parliament has the right to make a provision to stop him. He said that we cannot leave sensitive places and army establishments on our borders open for everyone.
Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah, said that the introduction of online tourist visas began in 2010 for citizens of five countries. He mentioned that till the previous government, this facility was limited to only 10 countries, but now it has been extended to 169 countries. He stated that the government’s goal is to promote tourism, but it is also important to ensure that foreign nationals stay here only for the designated period. They cannot stay permanently, nor can they become citizens of the country.
Shri Amit Shah said that the government has also introduced the ‘Visa on Arrival’ facility at 31 international airports and 6 major ports. In 2023, a new category called ‘Ayush Visa’ was also launched. Now, there will be a total of 9 categories of e-visa, which include e-Tourist Visa, e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa, Medical Attendant Visa, e-Ayush Visa, e-Conference Visa, e-Student Visa, and e-Student Dependent Visa. He mentioned that by introducing e-visas in all these categories, the government has simplified the process for foreigners to come to India.
The Union Home Minister stated that the aim is to stop only those individuals whose intentions are not correct, and it is the right of the Government of India to make such determinations. He mentioned that the number of categories under the Ayush Visa has also been increased. To monitor illegal immigrants and those staying beyond the designated time frame, the “Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration, and Tracking” (IVFRT) system has been given a legal basis. The integration of all immigration posts with Indian Missions, Foreign Regional Registration Offices (FRRO), and Foreign Registration Offices (FRO) through an end-to-end integrated system has been completed. Shri Shah also stated that the District Police Module (DPM), known as the Foreigners Identification Portal, has been launched in over 700 districts across the country.
Shri Amit Shah stated that till 2014, there were 83 immigration posts, which have now increased to 114, marking a 37 per cent growth. The government has implemented several plans to modernize immigration posts. Previously, the average time for checking each individual at immigration checkpoints was 4-5 minutes, but now it takes hardly 1-2 minutes. He mentioned that the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Program (FTI-TTP) has been implemented at eight major airports, where if a traveler has already filled in all the required information, the screening process is completed in just 30 seconds.
The Union Home Minister said that initially, there were 743 Integrated Check Post (ICP) counters, but now they have increased by 206 per cent to 2,278. He mentioned that during the previous government, the number of people arriving in India was 2.49 crore, whereas under the Modi government, till 2024, 4 crore people arrived in India. He added that during the previous government, 2.59 crore people left India, while under their government, the number has increased to 4.11 crore. He said that overall, the number of people coming to and leaving India was 5.08 crore before, but now it has risen to 8.12 crore, marking a 69 per cent increase. He emphasized that this is the highest growth in a single decade, and when considering all decades, this growth is more than 50 per cent in just one decade.
Shri Amit Shah said that individuals with malafide intentions will certainly be prevented from entering the country, as this is directly related to national security. He emphasized that our laws already provide authorities with the power to deny entry to foreign nationals. Authorities also have the right to allow visa holders to travel to any designated point within the country. However, the fact that authority has the power to deny entry does not mean they will act arbitrarily. The Home Minister clarified that the decision to stop someone will be made based on inputs from multiple agencies. Shri Shah mentioned that since 2014, a process has been established where, before stopping anyone, a thorough 360-degree investigation is conducted across 24 points.
Union Home Minister said that the interpretation of a damaged passport changes from time to time due to various incidents. While rules can be adjusted based on such incidents, the law itself cannot be altered. Therefore, the government has granted the authority to make rules under Section 30. Section 33 will apply to individuals who pose a threat to India’s security. He further emphasized that the Indian government has the right to gather information regarding the number of foreign teachers teaching and the number of foreign students studying at a university, and this information should be provided.
Shri Amit Shah said that our border with Bangladesh is 2,216 kilometers long, of which 653 kilometers have been fenced. Roads have also been constructed near the fence, and checkpoints have been established. The length of the Sage fencing is 563 kilometers, but of this, 112 kilometers are in areas where border fencing is not possible due to streams, rivers, and uneven terrain, where fencing cannot be erected. Fencing has been completed over 450 kilometers, and for the remaining 450 kilometers, the central government has written DO letters and issued 10 reminders, but the West Bengal government is not providing the land. Shri Shah mentioned that the Union Home Secretary had held seven meetings with the Secretary of Bengal, but they are unwilling to provide the land. He added that where the fencing work is to be started, members of the ruling party come and create disturbances. He said that the main reason for halting the 453 kilometers of fencing is the West Bengal government’s lenient approach towards infiltrators. Shri Shah further stated that after the 453 kilometers of fencing, 112 kilometers of the border will remain open. This 112 kilometers includes rivers, streams, and difficult geographical conditions, through which people infiltrate.
Union Home Minister said that during the previous government, illegal infiltrators used to enter through Assam, and now they enter through Bengal. Shri Shah mentioned that once his party forms the government in Bengal, the infiltration from there will also be stopped. He emphasized that the refugees who came to India during the time of independence are not considered infiltrators; they are true refugees. Those who came here to protect their religion and family are the real refugees. This is why we brought the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which does not discriminate. Shri Shah stated that Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Parsis, Christians, and Jains—any individual from these communities who comes to India will be welcomed. However, those who come for infiltration will definitely be stopped. Citizenship will be granted only to those who suffered persecution, who endured the horrors of partition, and whose families faced atrocities. While replying to the question posed by one of the members, Shri Amit Shah said none of the DMK MPs have ever raised the issue of Tamil refugees to him.
Union Home Minister stated that this bill has been introduced to replace four existing laws. All the shortcomings in these laws have been addressed, and the overlaps have been removed. He emphasized that in today’s world, international cooperation is essential to strengthen India’s economy, education, healthcare system, research, and legal framework, and we must also contribute to global progress. The Home Minister further explained that this bill has been designed with these objectives in mind, but foremost, it has been introduced with the security of the country as the top priority.