Month: April 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Harbour phase of Indian Navy’s maiden initiative ‘Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement exercise’ inaugurated by Minister of Defence and National Service of Tanzania & Raksha Rajya Mantri onboard INS Chennai at Dar es Salaam

Oneness & unity of purpose key to overcome maritime challenges and ensure a peaceful & prosperous future: Shri Sanjay Seth

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 9:26PM by PIB Delhi

The harbour phase of Indian Navy’s maiden initiative of Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement exercise (AIKEYME) was inaugurated by Minister of Defence and National Service of Tanzania Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax and Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth onboard INS Chennai at Dar es Salaam on April 13, 2025. AIKEYME, co-hosted by India and Tanzania, involves participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles and South Africa.

Raksha Rajya Mantri also joined the digital inauguration of Weapons Training Simulator facility established at Arusha and inauguration of Defence Expo. In the Defence Expo, 22 companies from India are participating with their key products on display.

In his address, Raksha Rajya Mantri emphasised on oneness, and unity of purpose to overcome the vast maritime challenges and to ensure a peaceful & prosperous future. He recalled the age-old relations between India & Africa and reiterated the principle of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across the Region) for further strengthening the bond with our friends in Africa.

Shri Sanjay Seth stressed on the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together,” highlighting the need for enduring partnerships in maritime security. He expressed gratitude to Tanzania for hosting AIKEYME 25, marking a significant step towards long-term collaboration.

Minister of Defence and National Service of Tanzania thanked India for co-hosting the Exercise and she termed the Exercise a strategic initiative to build strong maritime partnership. She underscored the necessity of a collective approach to address challenges such as piracy and trafficking.

Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to hosting future editions of AIKEYME and detailed the collaborative framework for regional maritime security, emphasizing innovation and information sharing. Her remarks firmly established that the relationship extends beyond military affairs, advocating for a broader regional cooperation.

Dignitaries present included the Chief of Defence Force, Tanzania People’s Defence Force, the Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, and the High Commissioner of India to Tanzania, reinforcing the importance of bilateral defence relationships. The event was punctuated by a parade of a 50-man guard and the stirring performance of the Indian Navy Band, embodying the spirit of maritime cooperation.

Raksha Rajya Mantri also briefly interacted with the crew of participating countries of the Exercise and IOS SAGAR ship. He did a walkaround of INS Chennai. He gifted 15 sets of Parachutes, books for NDC and a Tri-Services War Gaming Simulator to Tanzania as a token of strong bonds and friendship between the two countries.

The exercise represents commitment of the participating countries to a free, open and secure Indian Ocean. A new chapter has been added today to the growing relations between India and Africa. AIKEYME 25 and IOS SAGAR symbolize a transformative journey towards enhanced multinational collaboration in securing the seas, forging connections that transcend borders.

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VK/SR/VM/Savvy

(Release ID: 2121495) Visitor Counter : 88

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Officers of the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau and the Police Tactical Unit Headquarters (PTU HQ) of the Hong Kong Police Force reached new heights at the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva, which was held between April 9 and 13 in Geneva, Switzerland, and garnered the “International Press Prize” for the first time, the “Gold Medal with the Congratulations of Jury”, along with one Gold, one Silver, and one Bronze international award.

     Following a highly competitive judging process with international expert judges reviewing all the entries, the Force professionally presented the innovative technological solutions. The Force focused on the themes of “Building a Secure Cyberspace” and “Applying Technology”, demonstrating four solutions in the “Hardware, Software, Cybersecurity, Blockchain & Internet of Things (IoT)” category, winning five international awards, including:

     1) Scameter Series – A multi-layered public anti-scam initiative comprising a public-facing mobile app with real-time scam detection, open-data policies sharing threat intelligence with strategic stakeholders, and partnerships with banks to send public alerts on high-risk transactions (International Press Prize & Gold Medal);

     2) CryptoTrace – Jointly developed with the University of Hong Kong, this cutting-edge virtual asset analytics platform facilitates cryptocurrency tracing, fund flow analysis, and wallet correlation, accelerating fraud detection for frontline investigators (Gold Medal with the Congratulations of Jury);

     3) RAPID Engine – Through multilateral collaboration and proactive detection from various sources, RAPID Engine inspects newly registered suspicious websites. Utilising AI algorithms, RAPID Engine performs real-time analysis based on multidimensional rules such as domain characteristics and suspicious codes. Threat intelligence is simultaneously updated to the “Scameter Series” and sent to multiple internet service providers for blocking, effectively enhancing the public’s ability to resist phishing threats (Silver Medal);

     4) AI Visual Intelligence-enabled Glasses for Drone Operations – PTU HQ partnered with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, jointly developed an AI-powered image analysis system integrated with Augmented Reality (AR) smart glasses. This system enables real-time display of both flight footage and AI computational results directly on the AR glasses, allowing operators to receive critical AI insights without interrupting flight control (Bronze Medal);

The awards demonstrate the Force’s commitment to leveraging innovative technology to promote smart policing and improve operational efficiency. Additionally, the Force effectively employs AI to assist the public in combating fraud and enhancing law enforcement capabilities, particularly in tackling emerging types of crimes, including those related to virtual assets.

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the State Level Cooperative Conference in Bhopal as the Chief Guest

Since the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation, there has been a significant change in the cooperative sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and now this sector is moving forward rapidly

MoU signed between NDDB and MPCDF to increase the contribution of cooperative dairy societies in milk production in Madhya Pradesh

MOU will expand cooperative dairy to every village of Madhya Pradesh

Setting up of cooperative milk producing societies in villages will increase milk processing capacity manifold, this will also make farmers prosperous

The Modi government, in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh government, is committed to take every possible step for the welfare of the farmers of the state

During the time of opposition government, the cooperative sector in MP had collapsed, now it is a golden opportunity to revive the cooperative sector

Three multi-state cooperatives created by the Modi government are providing farmers a fair price for their produce, a platform for export and profits are reaching directly to their bank accounts

PACS, which earlier used to provide only short-term agricultural loans, are now providing more than 20 types of services, which has increased their income

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 7:12PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today addressed the State Level Cooperative Conference organized in Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, as the Chief Guest. Many dignitaries including Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, State Cooperation Minister Shri Vishwas Sarang and Secretary of the Union Ministry of Cooperation Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani were present on the occasion.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that there are a lot of possibilities in the three sectors of agriculture, animal husbandry and cooperatives in Madhya Pradesh and a lot of work is required to exploit them to the fullest. He said that for years the cooperative movement in the country was becoming moribund and was divided at different levels in the country. The reason for this was that the cooperative laws did not change as per the times.

Shri Amit Shah said that in our Constitution, except for multi-state cooperatives, all cooperatives are a state subject. He said that no initiative was ever taken to make laws according to the rapidly changing conditions in the country. Keeping in mind the geographical conditions, rainfall conditions, rural development, agricultural development and animal husbandry dimensions of each state, no thought was ever given at the national level. Shri Shah said that no thought was ever given, because there was no Cooperation ministry at the national level.
Shri Shah said 75 years after independence, the Prime Minister of the country, Shri Narendra Modi, established the Cooperation Ministry and he got the privilege of becoming the first Cooperation minister.

Union Minister of Cooperation said that Since the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation, there has been a significant change in the cooperative sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and now this sector is moving forward rapidly. He said that the limits that were in our Constitution are still there. Even today, cooperation is a state subject. Shri Shah said that the Government of India cannot make any legal changes in the field of cooperation. However, efforts have been made to revive the Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), promote the dairy sector, cooperation in the field of production, smooth management of urban cooperative banks, district cooperative banks and rural banks. He said that the Ministry of Cooperation first worked on creating model by-laws for PACS and sent it to the state governments for approval. Today the whole of India has accepted these model by-laws. Expressing gratitude to the states for accepting the model by-laws, Shri Shah said that this step has brought new life to the cooperative sector. He said that unless PACS is strengthened, the three-tier cooperative structure cannot be strengthened. He said that earlier PACS used to provide only short-term agricultural loans, in which they used to earn about half a percent income. But today PACS are providing more than 20 types of services and the new reforms will also increase the income of PACS.

Shri Amit Shah said that today PACS have been allowed to provide services like Jan Aushadhi Kendra, water distribution, common service centers. He said that today more than 300 schemes are available to the people on PACS computers. One does not need to go out of the village to get railway tickets, electricity bills, water bills, birth and death certificates, all these facilities are now available in PACS. Shri Shah said that many PACS have earned income from these services. PACS can now also become fertilizer dealers, start petrol pumps, distribute cooking gas and also manage the ‘Har Ghar Nal’ scheme.

Union Minister of Cooperation said that under the new bylaws, work was done to create Multi Purpose PACS (MPACS) by merging PACS, dairy cooperative societies and fishery cooperative societies. He said that the Government of India has computerized all the PACS in the country at a cost of Rs 2500 crore. Madhya Pradesh ranks first in the country in computerization of PACS. Now the District Cooperative Bank and State Cooperative Bank are connected to NABARD due to computer network. Along with this, transparency has also come in the field of cooperation due to the arrangement of online audit.

Shri Amit Shah said that the computerized PACS are working in 13 languages ​​of India. The Government of India has developed such software for PACS that will work for farmer in his language to open a bank account, i.e. it will work

Source: Government of India

Lighting Up Kashi

Sacred City, Smart Future

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 6:58PM by PIB Delhi

“India today is carrying forward both development and heritage together, Our Kashi is becoming the best model for this.”

 

~Prime Minister Narendra Modi

 

Kashi isn’t just a city—it’s a living soul. It breathes through the ripples of the Ganga and the quiet strength of its people. Here, ancient stones whisper stories of the past while glass-fronted buildings reflect the promise of tomorrow. The city where life and death meet at Manikarnika Ghat, now welcomes wide roads, smart lighting and modern corridors. This is Kashi’s journey—where the sacred and the smart co-exist, not in conflict, but in harmony. A place where every street holds a story and every step leads to a blend of soul and structure.

On April 11, the ancient city of Kashi witnessed a moment of progress. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth over ₹3,880 crore in Varanasi.It was a celebration of growth—what PM Modi called a true “festival of development.”

Ten years ago, a trip through Varanasi meant endless traffic and dusty detours. Today, the city is rewriting that story. Projects like the Phulwariya flyoverand theRing Road are easing traffic woes, saving precious time for daily commuters and lakhs of pilgrims. Travel between districts like Jaunpur, Ghazipur, Balliaand Mau has become faster and more connected than ever before.

PM Modi also laid foundation stone for—a road bridge connecting Varanasi Ring Road and Sarnath, long-awaited flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih, and a highway underpass road tunnel on NH-31 at the Varanasi International Airport worth over Rs 980 crore. These projects aren’t just concrete and steel; they’re the backbone of a growing city opening up to the world.

To brighten up lives and lighten up the city, Prime Minister Modi gave a major push to Kashi’s power network. He inaugurated two400 KV and one 220 KV substations—projects worth over ₹1,045 crore. Add to that a ₹775 crore boost with new substations in Chaukaghat and Ghazipur.

But real power lies not just in wires, but in wisdom. Staying true to his vision of “education for all,” the Prime Minister opened new doors of learning. Rural education got a lift with 356 libraries and 100 Anganwadi centres. He also laid the foundation for revamping 77 primary schools under the Smart City Mission.

One of the most heartwarming transformations in Purvanchal has come through Banas Dairy. It has helped turn thousands of small dairy farmers into confident entrepreneurs. Over ₹105 crore in bonuses were distributed to livestock-rearing families—most of them women.These women, now proudly known as “Lakhpati Didis”, are a shining symbol of real empowerment.

PM Modi also highlighted how schemes like the Kisan Credit Card, free vaccinations for livestock, and the Rashtriya Gokul Mission are helping farmers. They’re raising healthier animals and finding better markets for their produce.

Once, people from Purvanchal had to travel far for good medical care. Through the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, lakhs of families in Uttar Pradesh have received free treatment and saving lives.PM Modi personally handed out Ayushman Vay Vandana cards to elderly citizens—ensuring free medical care for all above 70, regardless of income.

Development in Kashi is not just about roads and hospitals—it’s about dreams too. With new stadiums and a world-class sports complex, young athletes from Varanasi are now getting the platform they need to shine. PM Modi reminded everyone that if India wants to host the 2036 Olympics, our youth need to begin their journey now—and Kashi is making sure they’re ready.

From the rhythmic beats of the tabla to the intricate designs of zardozi, Varanasi’s rich culture is gaining international fame. Over 30 local products from Varanasi and surrounding districts now carry the prestigious GI (Geographical Indication) tag, including the famous thandai, red stuffed chilli, tiranga barfi and even Jaunpur’s imarti and Pilibhit’s flute.

PM Modi also announced the creation of an Ekta Mall, a space where the diverse crafts and products from across India will be showcased under one roof—right here in Kashi.

As Varanasi stands at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, the city proves one simple truth: development is most meaningful when it touches lives and preserves the soul of a place.With folded hands and firm resolve, Kashi moves forward—proud of its past, and prepared for its future.

 

References

Lighting Up Kashi

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Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kamna Lakaria

(Release ID: 2121462) Visitor Counter : 103

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives in a factory mishap in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh

PM announces ex-gratia from PMNRF

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 6:54PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today condoled the loss of lives in a factory mishap in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured.

The Prime Minister’s Office handle in post on X said:

“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in a factory mishap in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.

An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi”

 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2121460) Visitor Counter : 107

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

​To promote the National Security Education Day, the Government Flying Service (GFS) held an open day today (April 13) at the GFS Kai Tak Division, taking the opportunity to raise public awareness of national security and deepen their understanding of the GFS’s services, as well as its work and achievements in safeguarding national security.
 
The open day featured interactive exhibition boards, national security-themed game booths, as well as virtual-reality and augmented-reality games to give members of the public a better understanding of GFS operations. The Hong Kong Air Cadet Corps performed a Chinese-style foot drill and gave a pipe band performance during the open day. As a concluding performance, a search-and-rescue flight demonstration was performed by a helicopter simulating a marine rescue operation, illustrating emergency response efforts by the GFS during life-saving missions.
 
More than 1 600 visitors joined the GFS Open Day. The Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, and the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, toured the open day and recognised the efforts and contributions by the GFS in safeguarding national security.

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu has greeted fellow-citizens on the eve of the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

In a message, the President has said, “On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the architect of our Constitution, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all fellow citizens.

In his inspiring life, Babasaheb created a distinct identity of his own despite facing extreme difficulties and earned respect around the world with his extraordinary achievements.

A man of prodigious abilities and multifaceted personality, Babasaheb was an economist, educationist, jurist and a great social reformer. He was an ardent advocate of an egalitarian society and he waged a lifelong struggle for economic and social rights of women and deprived classes. He considered education as an important tool for social change and empowerment of the downtrodden. His contributions in various fields will continue to inspire future generations to work with commitment for nation-building.

On this occasion, let us pledge to adopt the ideals of Dr. Ambedkar in our lives and work to build a nation that embodies the spirit of social harmony and equality”.

Please click here to see the President’s message – 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2121445) Visitor Counter : 128

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Minister-President of the German State of Bavaria, Markus Söder called on Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences; reiterates strong collaboration between the two nations

Long – standing Indo-German cooperation in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI), underlines the potential for bilateral cooperation, says Dr Jitendra Singh

India and Germany to Deepen Cooperation in AI, Quantum Tech, Clean Energy, and Biotechnology

Dr. Jitendra Singh Hails Indo-German 2+2 University and Industry Collaboration

Highlights India emergence in Space, Nuclear and Biotech and next generation technologies such as AI, Quantum technologies

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 4:21PM by PIB Delhi

In a significant diplomatic and scientific engagement, Minister-President of the German State of Bavaria, Markus Söder called on Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, and reiterated strong collaboration between the two nations.

One to one bilateral between the two leaders, was followed by high-level delegation level meeting led by the two Ministers

Welcoming the high-level German delegation, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the long-standing Indo-German cooperation in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI), underlining the potential for bilateral cooperation in priority areas including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technologies, Biotechnology, Clean Energy, Electric Mobility, Cyber-Physical Systems, and Green Hydrogen.

“India has embarked on mission-mode programs under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. We seek economic and sustainable solutions through scientific and technological interventions, and Germany is a natural partner in this endeavor,” stated Dr. Jitendra Singh.

Dr. Jitendra Singh applauded the Indo-German 2+2 collaboration model involving joint efforts between academia and industry from both countries, calling it a landmark step toward creating future-ready, innovation-driven ecosystems.“The 2+2 collaboration is a futuristic model. It brings together universities and industries from both countries to solve global challenges through innovation, co-development, and commercialization,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh recalled the Golden Jubilee of Indo-German S&T Partnership celebrated last year, adding that the recent Indo-German S&T Governing Body Meeting in Germany further reinforced the commitment to deepen scientific engagement. He highlighted the shared cultural and intellectual legacy between the two nations, mentioning Max Mueller’s pioneering translation of the Upanishads and the Rigveda, which laid the foundation for Indo-European scholarly ties.

Dr. Jitendra Singh spotlighted India’s remarkable progress in the biotech sector, boasting over 3000 startups and leading globally as the largest vaccine manufacturer. He noted the significance of the recently approved BIOe3 policy, which focuses on Energy, Economy, and Employment to drive the next wave of biotech innovation.

Dr. Jitendra Singh outlined India’s emergence as a biotech powerhouse with over 3000 startups and the recent launch of the BIOe3 policy, aimed at driving Energy, Economy, and Employment through biotech innovation.

The Science and Technology Minister states that India’s Space-Tech and Nuclear sectors, now open to private players, offer tremendous collaborative opportunities. He further stated that India ranks 3rd globally in startups and unicorns, making it a vibrant destination for tech partnerships.

“India’s academic outreach to Germany continues to deepen, with over 50,000 Indian students enrolled in German universities—mostly in STEM disciplines—a number that has tripled in the last seven years”, says Dr. Singh

Dr. Jitendra Singh called for a reciprocal increase in German students studying in India, particularly in the areas of Oriental Studies, Indian Culture, and Traditional Knowledge Systems.

“Germany has emerged as a favoured academic destination for Indian youth. Now we hope to see more German students exploring India’s intellectual heritage and scientific capabilities,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh fondly recalled his recent visit to Berlin, observing the growing popularity of Indian cuisine and culture, with locals enthusiastically embracing Indian flavours in more than a dozen Indian food outlets.

The German side was represented by Dr. Markus Söder, along with Dr. Philipp Ackermann, German Ambassador to India, and other senior delegates. From the Indian side, Dr. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST); Dr. Praveen Somasundaram, Head of International Cooperation, and Dr. Alka Sharma, Senior Advisor,Department of Biotechnology, also participated in the deliberations.

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NKR/PSM

 

(Release ID: 2121439) Visitor Counter : 85