Month: April 2025

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

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2025-04-23
President Lai pays respects to Pope Francis  
On the morning of April 23, President Lai Ching-te visited the Taipei Archdiocesan Curia to pay respects in a memorial ceremony for His Holiness Pope Francis. As officiant of the ceremony, President Lai burned incense and presented flowers, fruits, and wine to pay his respects to Pope Francis. At the direction of the master of ceremonies, the president then bowed three times in front of Pope Francis’s memorial portrait, conveying his grief and deep respect for the late pope. After hearing of Pope Francis’s passing on April 21, President Lai promptly requested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to express sincere condolences from the people and government of Taiwan to the Vatican. The president also instructed Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) to convey condolences to the Holy See’s Apostolic Nunciature in Taiwan.  

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2025-04-23
President Lai meets US CNAS NextGen fellows
On the morning of April 23, President Lai Ching-te met with fellows from the Shawn Brimley Next Generation National Security Leaders Program (NextGen) run by the Center for a New American Security (CNAS). In remarks, President Lai thanked the government of the United States for continuing its arms sales to Taiwan over the years, supporting Taiwan’s efforts to enhance its national defense capabilities and jointly maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The president pointed out that we will promote our “Taiwan plus one” policy, that is, new arrangements for Taiwan plus the US, and form a “Taiwan investment in the US team” to expand investment and bring about even closer Taiwan-US trade cooperation, allowing us to reduce the trade deficit and generate development that benefits both sides. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Ms. Michèle Flournoy, chair of the CNAS Board of Directors, is a good friend of Taiwan, and she has made major contributions to Taiwan-US relations through her long-time efforts on various aspects of our cooperation. I am happy to welcome Chair Flournoy, who is once again leading a NextGen Fellowship delegation to Taiwan. CNAS is a prominent think tank focusing on US national security and defense policy based in Washington, DC. Its NextGen Fellowship has fostered talented individuals in the fields of national security and foreign affairs. This year’s delegation is significantly larger than those of the past, demonstrating the increased importance that the next generation of US leaders attach to Taiwan. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome to you all. The Taiwan Strait, an issue of importance for our guests, has become a global issue. There is a high degree of international consensus that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are indispensable elements in global security and prosperity. Facing military threats from China, Taiwan proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we are actively implementing military reforms, enhancing whole-of-society defense resilience, and working to increase our defense budget to more than 3 percent of GDP. Second, we are strengthening our economic resilience. As Taiwan’s economy must keep advancing, we can no longer put all our eggs in one basket. We are taking action to remain firmly rooted in Taiwan while expanding our global presence and marketing worldwide. In these efforts, we are already seeing results. Third, we are standing side-by-side with other democratic countries to demonstrate the strength of deterrence and achieve our goal of peace through strength. And fourth, Taiwan is willing, under the principles of parity and dignity, to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China towards achieving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. This April 10 marked the 46th anniversary of the enactment of the Taiwan Relations Act. We thank the US government for continuing its arms sales to Taiwan over the years, supporting Taiwan’s efforts to enhance its national defense capabilities and jointly maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. We look forward to Taiwan and the US continuing to strengthen collaboration on the development of both our defense industries as well as the building of non-red supply chains. This will yield even more results and further deepen our economic and trade partnership. The US is now the main destination for outbound investment from Taiwan. Moving forward, we will promote our “Taiwan plus one” policy, that is, new arrangements for Taiwan plus the US. And our government will form a “Taiwan investment in the US team” to expand investment. We hope this will bring Taiwan-US economic and trade cooperation even closer and, through mutually beneficial assistance, allow us to generate development that benefits both our sides while reducing our trade deficit. In closing, thank you once again for visiting Taiwan. We hope your trip is fruitful and leaves you with a deep impression of Taiwan. We also hope that going forward you continue supporting Taiwan and advancing even greater development for Taiwan-US ties.  Chair Flournoy then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for making time to receive their delegation. Referring to President Lai’s earlier remarks, she said that it is quite an impressive group, as past members of this program have gone on to become members of the US Congress, leading government experts, and leaders in the think-tank world and in the private sector. She remarked that investing in this group is a wonderful privilege for her and that they appreciate President Lai’s agreeing to take the time to engage in exchange with them. Chair Flournoy emphasized that they are visiting Taiwan at a critical moment, when there is so much change and volatility in the geostrategic environment, a lot of uncertainty, and a lot of unpredictability. She stated that given our shared values, our shared passion for democracy and human rights, and our shared interests in peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, this is an important time for dialogue, collaboration, and looking for additional opportunities where we can work together towards regional peace and stability.

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2025-04-18
President Lai meets US delegation from Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific
On the afternoon of April 18, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Senator Pete Ricketts, chairman of the United States Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. In remarks, President Lai said we hope to promote our Taiwan plus one policy, that is, new industrial arrangements for Taiwan plus the US, to leverage the strengths of both sides and reinforce our links in such areas as the economy, trade, and technological innovation. The president said that by deepening cooperation, Taiwan and the US will be better positioned to work together on building non-red supply chains. He said a more secure and sustainable economic and trade partnership will allow us to address the challenges posed by geopolitics, climate change, and the restructuring of global supply chains. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome you all to Taiwan. I want to take this opportunity to especially thank Chairman Pete Ricketts and Ranking Member Chris Coons for their high regard and support for Taiwan. Chairman Ricketts has elected to visit Taiwan on his first overseas trip since taking up his new position in January. Ranking Member Coons made a dedicated trip to Taiwan in 2021 to announce a donation of COVID-19 vaccines on behalf of the US government. He also visited last May, soon after my inauguration, continuing to deepen Taiwan-US exchanges. Thanks to support from Chairman Ricketts and Ranking Member Coons, the US Congress has continued to introduce many concrete initiatives and resources to assist Taiwan through the National Defense Authorization Act and Consolidated Appropriations Act, bringing the Taiwan-US partnership even closer. For this, I want to again express my gratitude. There has long been bipartisan support in the US Congress for maintaining security in the Taiwan Strait. Faced with China’s persistent political and military intimidation, Taiwan will endeavor to reform national defense and enhance whole-of-society defense resilience. We will also make special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP, up from the current 2.5 percent, so as to enhance Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. We look forward to Taiwan and the US continuing to work together to maintain peace and stability in the region. We will also promote our Taiwan plus one policy, that is, new industrial arrangements for Taiwan plus the US. We hope to leverage the strengths of both sides and reinforce our links in such areas as the economy, trade, and technological innovation, jointly promoting prosperity and development. We believe that by deepening cooperation through the Taiwan plus one policy, Taiwan and the US will be better positioned to work together on building non-red supply chains. A more secure and sustainable economic and trade partnership will allow us to address the challenges posed by geopolitics, climate change, and the restructuring of global supply chains. In closing, I wish Chairman Ricketts and Ranking Member Coons a smooth and successful visit. Chairman Ricketts then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his hospitality. He said that he and his delegation have had a wonderful time meeting with government officials, industry representatives, and the team at the American Institute in Taiwan. Highlighting that Taiwan has long been a friend and partner of the US, he said their bipartisan delegation to Taiwan emphasizes long-time bipartisan support in the US Congress for Taiwan, and though administrations change, that bipartisan support remains. Chairman Ricketts stated that the US is committed to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and that they want to see peace across the Taiwan Strait. He also stated that the US opposes any unilateral change in the status of Taiwan and that they expect any differences between Taiwan and China to be resolved peacefully without coercion or the threat of force. To that end, he said, the US will continue to assist Taiwan in its self-defense and will also step up by bolstering its own defense capabilities, noting that there is broad consensus on this in the US Congress. Chairman Ricketts stated that they want to see Taiwan participate in international organizations and memberships where appropriate, and encourage Taiwan to reach out to current and past diplomatic allies to strengthen those bilateral relationships. He pointed out that the long economic relationship between the US and Taiwan is important for our as well as the entire world’s security and prosperity. He also noted that there are many opportunities for us to continue to grow the economic relationship that will help create more prosperity for our respective peoples and ensure that we are more secure in the world. Chairman Ricketts emphasized that they made this trip early on in the new US administration to work with Taiwan to develop three points: security, diplomatic relations, and the economy. He stated that in the face of rising aggression from communist China, the US will provide commensurate help to Taiwan in self-defense and that they will continue to provide the services and tools needed. In closing, Chairman Ricketts once again thanked President Lai for the hospitality and said he looks forward to dialogue on how we can continue these relationships. Ranking Member Coons then delivered remarks. Mentioning that their delegation also visited the Philippines on this trip, he said that there and in Taiwan, they have been focused on peace, stability, and security, and the ways for deepening and strengthening economic and security relations. He noted that 46 years ago, the US Senate passed the Taiwan Relations Act, adding that it was strongly bipartisan when enacted and that support for it is still strongly bipartisan today. Its core commitment, he said, is that the US will be engaged and will be a partner in ensuring that any dispute or challenge across the strait will be resolved peacefully, and that Taiwan will have the resources it needs for its self-defense. Ranking Member Coons said that between people, friendships are deepest and most enduring when they are based not just on interests but on values, and that the same is true between the US and Taiwan. Free press, free enterprise, free societies, democracy – these core shared values, he said, anchor our friendship and partnership, making them deeper. He remarked that they are grateful for the significant investment in the US being made by companies from Taiwan, but what anchors our partnership, in addition to these important investments and investments being made by Taiwan in its own security, are the values that mobilize our free-enterprise spirit and our commitment to free societies. In Europe in recent years, Ranking Member Coons said, an aggressive nation has tried to change boundaries and change history by force. He said that the US and dozens of countries committed to freedom have come to the aid of Ukraine to defend it, help it stabilize, and secure its future. So too in this region of the world, he added, the US and a bipartisan group in the US Senate are committed to stable, secure, peaceful relations and to deterring any unilateral effort to change the status quo by force. In closing, he said he is grateful for a chance to return to Taiwan after the pandemic and that he looks forward to our conversation, our partnership, and the important work we have in front of us. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.

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2025-04-17
President Lai meets New Zealand delegation from All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan  
On the morning of April 17, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from New Zealand’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan. In remarks, President Lai thanked the government of New Zealand for reiterating the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait on multiple occasions since last year. He also stated that this year, the Taiwan-New Zealand economic cooperation agreement (ANZTEC) is being implemented in its complete form. The president expressed hope that deeper collaboration in such fields as smart agriculture, food manufacturing, biomedicine, the digital economy, and clean energy, as well as exchanges among our indigenous peoples, will allow our economies and industries to continue evolving as they adapt to the challenges arising from global changes. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a warm welcome to all of our guests. New Zealand’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan was established in 2023, marking a significant milestone in the deepening of Taiwan-New Zealand relations. I would like to thank Members of Parliament Stuart Smith and Tangi Utikere for leading this delegation, and thank all our guests for demonstrating support for Taiwan through action. We currently face a rapidly changing international landscape. Authoritarian regimes continue to converge and expand. Democracies must actively cooperate and jointly safeguard peace, stability, and the prosperous development of the Indo-Pacific region. Since last year, the government of New Zealand has on multiple occasions reiterated the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for these statements and demonstrations of support. This year, ANZTEC is being implemented in its complete form. We look forward to exploring even more diverse markets with New Zealand. Deeper collaboration in such fields as smart agriculture, food manufacturing, biomedicine, the digital economy, and clean energy, as well as exchanges among indigenous peoples, will allow our economies and industries to continue evolving as they adapt to the challenges arising from global changes. Taiwan and New Zealand share the universal values of democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights, and parliamentary diplomacy is a tradition practiced by democracies around the world. Looking ahead, our parliamentary exchanges and mutual visits are bound to become more frequent. This will enable us to explore even more opportunities for cooperation and further deepen and solidify the democratic partnership between Taiwan and New Zealand. Thank you once again for making the long journey to visit us. I wish you a fruitful and successful trip. I also hope that everyone can take time to see more of Taiwan, try our local cuisine, and learn more about our culture. I hope our guests will fall in love with Taiwan. MP Smith then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great pleasure and an honor to be received by President Lai. The MP, noting that President Lai already covered many of the points he planned to make, went on to say that New Zealand and Taiwan share many values. He indicated that both are trading nations that rely on easy access for imports and exports, and that is why freedom of navigation is so important. That is why New Zealand had a naval vessel sail through the Taiwan Strait, he said, to underline the importance of freedom of navigation and our mutual security. MP Smith said that they look forward to building stronger relationships and enhancing the trade between our two nations. He added that New Zealand has much to offer in the field of geothermal energy to assist Taiwan, and mentioned that New Zealand is third largest in terms of the number of rocket launchers for satellites, which could assist Taiwan with communications in the future. New Zealand has other products as well, he said, but looks for assistance from Taiwan’s technology and technological sector. Lastly, MP Smith stated that he looks forward to a long and prosperous relationship between Taiwan and New Zealand. MP Utikere then delivered remarks, indicating that like Taiwan, New Zealand is a nation that is surrounded by ocean, which means that they rely on strong partnerships with communities of interest all around the globe. He said that the all-party parliamentary friendship group that was established and that they are a part of goes a long way in ensuring that a secure relationship between our two parliaments can continue to prosper. The MP also thanked Taiwan’s Representative to New Zealand Joanne Ou (歐江安) and her team for their work, which has ensured the success of the delegation’s visit. He said that the delegation experienced meetings with ministers in Taiwan’s government, members of the legislature, and those from the non-government organization sector as well. He also said that they enjoyed the opportunity to visit Wulai, and that the strength of the connections between the indigenous peoples of Taiwan and the indigenous peoples of Aotearoa New Zealand is something that certainly landed with members of the delegation. MP Utikere noted that he will take up President Lai’s offer on experiencing more of Taiwan, and will spend a few extra days in Tainan, which he understands has a very special place in the president’s heart, adding that he looks forward to his time and experiences there. The MP concluded his remarks by saying that this will be a relationship that continues to go from strength to strength. After their remarks, the New Zealand delegation sang the Māori song “Tutira Mai Nga Iwi” to extend best wishes to Taiwan. Also in attendance at the meeting were New Zealand Members of Parliament Jamie Arbuckle, Greg Fleming, Hamish Campbell, Cameron Luxton, and Helen White.  

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2025-04-15
President Lai meets delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister Panapasi Nelesone 
On the afternoon of April 15, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Development Panapasi Nelesone and his wife. In remarks, President Lai thanked Tuvalu for its staunch and long-term backing of Taiwan’s international participation. The president said he looks forward to our nations deepening bilateral ties in such areas as agriculture, medicine, education, and information and communications technology and working together toward greater peace, prosperity, and development in the Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a very warm welcome to Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and Madame Corinna Ituaso Laafai as they lead this delegation to Taiwan. Our distinguished guests are the first delegation from Tuvalu that I have received at the Presidential Office this year. During my visit to Tuvalu last year, I met and exchanged views with Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and the ministers present. I am delighted to meet you again today and thank you once again for the hospitality you accorded my delegation. The culture of Tuvalu and the warmth of its people are not easily forgotten. Tuvalu’s support for Taiwan has also touched us deeply. I want to take this opportunity to thank Tuvalu for staunchly backing Taiwan’s international participation over the past several decades. Our two countries have supported each other like family and have together made contributions in the international arena. Last Tuesday, I received the credentials of Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae and expressed my hope for Taiwan and Tuvalu continuing to deepen bilateral relations. This visit by Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone is an important step in that regard. Our two countries will be signing a labor cooperation agreement and an agreement concerning the recognition of training and certification of seafarers. This will expand bilateral cooperation at multiple levels and bring our relations even closer. Taiwan and Tuvalu are maritime nations and share the values of democracy and freedom. Our two countries have stood shoulder to shoulder to protect marine resources and address the challenges posed by climate change and authoritarianism, and we aspire to work toward greater peace, prosperity, and development in the Pacific region. Our nations have produced fruitful results in such areas as agriculture, medicine, education, and information and communications technology. I anticipate that, with the support of Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and our distinguished guests, we can continue to employ a more diverse range of strategies to begin a new chapter in our diplomatic partnership. Together, we can make even greater and more concrete contributions to regional development. Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his kind words of welcome and the warm hospitality extended to his delegation. On behalf of the government and people of Tuvalu, he conveyed their gratitude to the president and the people of Taiwan for the generous support, as well as for the enduring friendship we share. He said that Taiwan’s steadfast commitment to our bilateral relationship has been instrumental in advancing our shared values of democracy, resilience, and sustainable development. From vital development assistance to cooperation in health, education, and climate change resilience, he added, Taiwan’s contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of the people of Tuvalu.  For Taiwan’s recent generous donation of shoes for Tuvaluan primary school students, Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone expressed thanks to President Lai. He commented that these gifts, which underscore a deep commitment to the welfare of their youth, transcend mere material support; they are symbols of care, friendship, and hope for the future generations. Noting that our bilateral relationship is built on mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for sustainable development in the Pacific, he expressed confidence that this partnership will continue to flourish and will serve as a beacon of cooperation and solidarity within our region.  The delegation also included Tuvalu Minister of Foreign Affairs, Labour, and Trade Paulson Panapa; Minister of Public Works, Infrastructure Development and Water Ampelosa Tehulu, and was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Tuvalu Ambassador Faavae.

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2025-04-06
President Lai delivers remarks on US tariff policy response
On April 6, President Lai Ching-te delivered recorded remarks regarding the impact of the 32 percent tariff that the United States government recently imposed on imports from Taiwan in the name of reciprocity. In his remarks, President Lai explained that the government will adopt five response strategies, including making every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations, adopting a support plan for affected domestic industries, adopting medium- and long-term economic development plans, forming new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements, and launching industry listening tours. The president emphasized that as we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and expressed hope that all parties, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: My fellow citizens, good evening. The US government recently announced higher tariffs on countries around the world in the name of reciprocity, including imposing a 32 percent tariff on imports from Taiwan. This is bound to have a major impact on our nation. Various countries have already responded, and some have even adopted retaliatory measures. Tremendous changes in the global economy are expected. Taiwan is an export-led economy, and in facing future challenges there will inevitably be difficulties, so we must proceed carefully to turn danger into safety. During this time, I want to express gratitude to all sectors of society for providing valuable opinions, which the government regards highly, and will use as a reference to make policy decisions.  However, if we calmly and carefully analyze Taiwan’s trade with the US, we find that last year Taiwan’s exports to the US were valued at US$111.4 billion, accounting for 23.4 percent of total export value, with the other 75-plus percent of products sold worldwide to countries other than the US. Of products sold to the US, competitive ICT products and electronic components accounted for 65.4 percent. This shows that Taiwan’s economy does still have considerable resilience. As long as our response strategies are appropriate, and the public and private sectors join forces, we can reduce impacts. Please do not panic. To address the reciprocal tariffs by the US, Taiwan has no plans to adopt retaliatory tariffs. There will be no change in corporate investment commitments to the US, as long as they are consistent with national interests. But we must ensure the US clearly understands Taiwan’s contributions to US economic development. More importantly, we must actively seek to understand changes in the global economic situation, strengthen Taiwan-US industry cooperation, elevate the status of Taiwan industries in global supply chains, and with safeguarding the continued development of Taiwan’s economy as our goal, adopt the following five strategies to respond. Strategy one: Make every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations using the following five methods:  1. Taiwan has already formed a negotiation team led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君). The team includes members from the National Security Council, the Office of Trade Negotiations, and relevant Executive Yuan ministries and agencies, as well as academia and industry. Like the US-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement, negotiations on tariffs can start from Taiwan-US bilateral zero-tariff treatment. 2. To expand purchases from the US and thereby reduce the trade deficit, the Executive Yuan has already completed an inventory regarding large-scale procurement plans for agricultural, industrial, petroleum, and natural gas products, and the Ministry of National Defense has also proposed a military procurement list. All procurement plans will be actively pursued. 3. Expand investments in the US. Taiwan’s cumulative investment in the US already exceeds US$100 billion, creating approximately 400,000 jobs. In the future, in addition to increased investment in the US by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, other industries such as electronics, ICT, petrochemicals, and natural gas can all increase their US investments, deepening Taiwan-US industry cooperation. Taiwan’s government has helped form a “Taiwan investment in the US” team, and hopes that the US will reciprocate by forming a “US investment in Taiwan” team to bring about closer Taiwan-US trade cooperation, jointly creating a future economic golden age.  4. We must eliminate non-tariff barriers to trade. Non-tariff barriers are an indicator by which the US assesses whether a trading partner is trading fairly with the US. Therefore, we will proactively resolve longstanding non-tariff barriers so that negotiations can proceed more smoothly. 5. We must resolve two issues that have been matters of longstanding concern to the US. One regards high-tech export controls, and the other regards illegal transshipment of dumped goods, otherwise referred to as “origin washing.” Strategy two: We must adopt a plan for supporting our industries. For industries that will be affected by the tariffs, and especially traditional industries as well as micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises, we will provide timely and needed support and assistance. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) and his administrative team recently announced a package of 20 specific measures designed to address nine areas. Moving forward, the support we provide to different industries will depend on how they are affected by the tariffs, will take into account the particular features of each industry, and will help each industry innovate, upgrade, and transform. Strategy three: We must adopt medium- and long-term economic development plans. At this point in time, our government must simultaneously adopt new strategies for economic and industrial development. This is also the fundamental path to solutions for future economic challenges. The government will proactively cooperate with friends and allies, develop a diverse range of markets, and achieve closer integration of entities in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of industrial supply chains. This course of action will make Taiwan’s industrial ecosystem more complete, and will help Taiwanese industries upgrade and transform. We must also make good use of the competitive advantages we possess in such areas as semiconductor manufacturing, integrated chip design, ICT, and smart manufacturing to build Taiwan into an AI island, and promote relevant applications for food, clothing, housing, and transportation, as well as military, security and surveillance, next-generation communications, and the medical and health and wellness industries as we advance toward a smarter, more sustainable, and more prosperous new Taiwan. Strategy four: “Taiwan plus one,” i.e., new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements: While staying firmly rooted in Taiwan, our enterprises are expanding their global presence and marketing worldwide. This has been our national economic development strategy, and the most important aspect is maintaining a solid base here in Taiwan. We absolutely must maintain a solid footing, and cannot allow the present strife to cause us to waver. Therefore, our government will incentivize investments, carry out deregulation, and continue to improve Taiwan’s investment climate by actively resolving problems involving access to water, electricity, land, human resources, and professional talent. This will enable corporations to stay in Taiwan and continue investing here. In addition, we must also help the overseas manufacturing facilities of offshore Taiwanese businesses to make necessary adjustments to support our “Taiwan plus one” policy, in that our national economic development strategy will be adjusted as follows: to stay firmly rooted in Taiwan while expanding our global presence, strengthening US ties, and marketing worldwide. We intend to make use of the new state of supply chains to strengthen cooperation between Taiwanese and US industries, and gain further access to US markets. Strategy five: Launch industry listening tours: All industrial firms, regardless of sector or size, will be affected to some degree once the US reciprocal tariffs go into effect. The administrative teams led by myself and Premier Cho will hear out industry concerns so that we can quickly resolve problems and make sure policies meet actual needs. My fellow citizens, over the past half-century and more, Taiwan has been through two energy crises, the Asian financial crisis, the global financial crisis, and pandemics. We have been able to not only withstand one test after another, but even turn crises into opportunities. The Taiwanese economy has emerged from these crises stronger and more resilient than ever. As we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and I hope that all parties in the legislature, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. Let us join together and give it our all. Thank you.

Source: Government of India

Very good morning all of you. 

I was Governor of the state of West Bengal and had the good fortune to be at a place where Britishers ruled for long so an Indian mind had the great occasion to occupy that place. I had the good fortune at the invitation of the Hon’ble President, the first tribal woman to hold that position to be at Rashtrapati Bhavan. I had the good fortune in 1990 to be sworn in as a Union Minister at Rashtrapati Bhavan but something was missing. What happened for 20 years, two decades, it was from this place. 

Boys and girls and those in the last bench, you are not backbenchers. You happen to be sitting at the end but you are more significant for everyone. I am always not superstitious, but careful about the seating arrangement. I keep on my right as I do in Rajya Sabha, the Government. So Yogesh Singh and Prakash but on my left, we always have the Opposition Professor Balaram Pani. जिस नाम ने भगवान श्री कृष्ण को ताकत दी वह आपकी लेफ्ट साइड में है, कुछ गलत नहीं हो सकता।  It will be the right check on the right side. The left is very powerful and that is why in our body heart is on the left side.

Distinguished members of the faculty and everyone associated with the management and dear friends, but let me start with one observation imparted by your Vice-Chancellor. He reflected rightly that a distinguished judge, a jurist, H.R. Khanna was your alumnus. That reminds me and should remind us always, why in this country we are celebrating two days and those two days are :-

One is ‘Constitution Day’ and; 

The second is ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’. 

Why do we do that? We do it with a purpose because on 26th November 1949, the Constitution was adopted. Young boys and girls need to be reminded because that Constitution was tested, strained, mauled, ravaged on 25th June 1975. That was the darkest period in human history of democratic world. I say darkest because the highest court of the land held ignoring verdict of nine High Courts. Nine High Courts were uniform that in democracy fundamental rights can never be put on hold. Access to judiciary cannot be moderated, much less denied being a Fundamental Right under Article 32 of the Constitution but that was done. I would not go more on that but what was held by the Supreme Court? Executive of the day is sole arbiter of Fundamental Rights. It can suspend them for as much time as it likes. There was one dissent voice and that emanated from an alumnus of this place. 

Boys and girls, remember what was written at that point of time in the New York Times editorial. I quote from the editorial “If India ever finds its way back to the freedom and democracy that were proud hallmarks of its first eighteen years as an independent nation, someone will surely erect a monument to Justice H.R. Khanna”

So boys and girls, I am at the right place and reminding you that each one of you must always bear in mind why for the last 10 years we are celebrating Constitution Day and why we have started remembering ‘Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas’. Because by virtue of your age, you may not have seen what went through. 

Imagine in a democracy, lakhs of people are put behind the bars, tortured, traumatised, with no hope. The tunnel for them was dark, there was no light. Therefore it is befitting, particularly at this place, to start this series and look at the nomenclature of it ‘KARTAVYAM’ a Sanskrit word that defines all. And I am sure it will be game-changing for the nation to be enlightened on these aspects. 

In our country, iconization is taking place frequently. We iconize people without testing them. We accord them elevated status on parameters that are baffling. Sometimes it is managed, event managed, and suddenly you will find in a particular field one becomes a leader. Time for us to challenge such things, we must be discerning. We cannot allow these people who have no claim justifiably to influence our minds. Before believing them, we must test them. 

Therefore, I am saying unhesitatingly that Campus Law Centre is iconic. It has been tested all throughout. The reputation is well-earned, well-recognised. And why? Because it has been, as indicated by the Vice Chancellor, a great place of ideation. I am so glad you are starting this ideation now in a different mode. By all standards, Campus Law Centre and its alumni have shaped the destiny of the nation. Let me recall my good friend who is no more, Arun Jaitley, and the contributions he has made, and many more.

Therefore, I can say it is a crucible of change and as was reflected in pre-Socrates era by a philosopher, Heraclitus, the only constant in life is the change. This change will emanate now from here on what is our constitution, what are our obligations, and our belief, supreme belief, unrestricted, unregulated, in nothing but truth, absolute truth, because truth is sanctified by our civilisational ethos, our Vedic culture, and is a demand of our constitutional core values. 

Therefore, boys and girls, for me it is an absolute honour and privilege to be in this great enormous talent with huge potential, human laboratory of ideation that can catalyse big change and innovation and so my greetings to all of you. ‘KARTAVYAM’ duty in Sanskrit perfectly embodies the gazing that is before me. It is a word rooted in action, obligation, and the moral force that sustains civilisations. 

Our father of the constitution, people of great eminence, gave us a constitution thoughtfully, working painstakingly, engaging in dialogue, discourse, debate, deliberation, avoided confrontation, always went for consensus. They had boys and girls divisive issues before them, highly contentious issues, but they gave us a constitution that represents our identity, values, and nation’s aspirations but according to our constitution, our civilisational values, and for any democracy, every citizen has a pivotal role. 

I find it inconceivably intriguing that some have recently reflected that constitutional offices can be ceremonial ornamental. Nothing can be far distanced from a wrong understanding of role of everyone in this country, constitutional functionary or a citizen.  

According to me, a citizen is supreme because a nation and democracy are built by citizens, every one of them has a role. The soul of democracy resides and pulsates in every citizen. Democracy will blossom, its values will get heightened when citizen is alert, citizen contributes. And what a citizen contributes, there is no substitution of that but boys and girls, if a citizen is the soul of democracy, this soul gets practical dimensions. It becomes fully meaningful. There is ground realisation when a citizen performs duties. 

Individual obligations in society are fundamental to sustaining a society and for upkeep of its values and that is reflected in our constitution’s preamble. Before that, those who are law students, let me tell you, in one case, Golaknath, Supreme Court said the preamble is not part of the constitution. Later on, in another bench, Kesavananda Bharati, it is part of the constitution. 

Let me tell you, notwithstanding all this, the constitution is encapsulated its essence, its worth, its nectar in preamble of the constitution. And what does it say! ‘We the People of India’, the supreme power is with them. No one is above the people of India and ‘We the People of India’, under the constitution have chosen to reflect their aspirations, their desire, their will through their public representatives. And they hold these representatives accountable, severely accountable on occasions, through elections. 

A prime minister who imposed emergency was held accountable in 1977. Therefore, let there be no doubt about it.  Constitution is for the people, and its repository of safeguarding it is that of elected representatives. They are the ultimate masters as to what constitutional content will be. There is no visualisation in the constitution of any authority above parliament, Parliament is supreme. And that being the situation, let me tell you, it is as supreme as every individual in the country. Part of ‘We the People’, is an atom in democracy and that atom has atomic power. That atomic power is reflected during elections and that is why we are a democratic nation. 

Democracy is not only for the government to govern, it is participatory democracy. Just not laws, but also culture and ethos. Citizenship demands action, not merely status. Already Dr. Ambedkar has been quoted, but I will reiterate. Dr. Ambedkar recognised freedom requires responsibility and that is why we have in our constitution Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Duties. To the students of law, and everyone in general, let me tell you, Fundamental Duties were not there originally in the constitution but constitution is a dynamic document. It has to reflect the aspirations of the people. Take note of contemporary situations, so we had by the 42nd Constitution Amendment Act, a new part added to the Indian constitution, Part IV-A. And that introduced an article 51A, that initially gave Ten Fundamental Duties but then it was felt one more duty needs to be added. And that, if I’m not wrong, was brought about by the 86th Constitution Amendment Act. 

Early in this century, to give great impetus on education, we must always give precedence to our duties above our rights because this nation is ours. Nationalism requires commitment that is unadulterated. A commitment that is emanating voluntarily and that this will not be superseded by any other consideration, partisan, personal or otherwise. 

Now our constitution, as a matter of fact, boys and girls, reflects our civilisational ethos of thousands of years. We are so unique in the world, unparalleled. The world is recognising our might now. The world is understanding India, Bharat, as it was 1300th centuries ago. 

Therefore, we can cull out from Vedic dharm, our constitutional vision and that vision is, democracy is shaped not by governments, democracy is shaped by individuals. Because individuals bear the responsibility to uphold our symbols, preserve our heritage, defend sovereignty, foster brotherhood. This has happened during the emergency. People gave their supreme sacrifice, but did not bargain for the fundamentals of our civilisation, reflected in our constitution. But then boys and girls, what is democracy? We have to understand. Democracy thrives through expression and dialogue. अभिव्यक्ति और संवाद, यह प्रजातंत्र के मूल मंत्र हैं।

If your right of expression is thwarted or regulated, as was done during the emergency, democracy nosedives but if your right of expression, and that right of expression is reflecting arrogance, ego that my expression is ultimate, I will not look at any different point of view. I will not look at the other point of view that again is also not expression, as per our civilisation. Because every expression demands respect for dialogue, respect for the other point of view. You must ever be prepared to be challenged because to challenge is not a physical challenge, it is a challenge of an idea, a thought, that I disagree with you. That does not mean I am disagreeable. There must always be room and therefore expression and dialogue, both are complementary and define democracy. 

If we go into our civilisational wealth, इसको वैदिक काल में अनंतवाद कहा जाता था, वाद-विवाद की परंपरा थी। वाद-विवाद का मतलब अहं और अहंकार से दूर था। वाद-विवाद अहं और अहंकार को खत्म करता है, क्योंकि यदि अगर मैं ही सही हूं, मेरे अलावा कोई सही नहीं है यह अहं और अहंकार व्यक्ति को ही नहीं, संस्था को भी धीरे-धीरे खत्म कर देता है। इसलिए प्रजातंत्र के लिए जरूरी है अभिव्यक्ति और संवाद।

Democracy, boys and girls, lives in conversation and everyone is equal when it comes to conversation. I cannot claim a higher pedestal by virtue of my position, that what a boy and girl will say, different than what I say, cannot be right. I cannot be a judge in my own course, to the students of law. Read any book on administrative law, Indian or foreign…  you will find this will be repugnant to the fundamentals of natural justice. That being the situation, expressing thoughts fulfils a democratic duty, not just exercising rights. Every young mind, boys and girls, must be activated. Fortunately, on account of technological advancement and our Bharat the technological penetration has stunned the entire world. It has reached the last person, everyone is benefiting. 

Boys and girls, the power is in you. You have to project your own ideas, you have to protect the idea which you believe is correct and you have to neutralise the pernicious idea, which you think is wrong because democracy’s health reflects. If you want to know the health of democracy, like the health of an individual, if you want to analyse how healthy is our democracy, then you will have to find out discourse quality, the kind of discourse we have.

Is our discourse moderated? Is our discourse manipulated? Is our discourse controlled by moneybags, by muscle power, by foreign interests, by people working against the interests of this nation? You will have to discern. The quality of discourse defines our democracy and in this, I have no doubt, our youth must elevate beyond partisanship to thoughtful deliberation. 

Our youth cannot afford this critical juncture when Bharat is rising. The rise is unstoppable. We are destined to be a global power. We will be a developed nation, you cannot be tied down to partisan interests. You have to believe only in national interests. In India, if we examine our background, there was a time when individuals had profound moral and social standing. Respect was only for those who had high moral and ethical standing, who had everything to give back to society. If I quote Upanishad, “Yatha Pinde Tatha Brahmande” As is the individual, so is the universe. That is why people have narrowly construed the great inclusivity of Bharat, Dharm of Bharat. 

Our silenced boys and girls may be very dangerous as thinking minds, as privileged minds getting education in such a great university. You have to be contributors for preserving our national legacy, our thought process and ensure sustainability of it. We cannot afford this to be thwarted by forces inimical to Bharat that have structured sinister designs, pernicious motivations to run down institutions, be that of the presidency, tarnishing individuals. Every word that is spoken by a constitutional functionary is guided by the supreme sublime interest of the nation but the expectation is that our youth, our young minds, and when I say our youth, our youth demographic dividend is envy of the world. 

Our youth has catalysed big change. Rise of our economy to that level will be third largest very shortly. It is on account of everyone working in togetherness. Government has a role that it does not become a handicap. Government has a role that it must have affirmative policies. Government is like giving you a good stadium, a good football ground. Goals have to be scored by individuals. You are the people who have to deal. 

The ancient wisdom, if you carefully go through our constitutional prescriptions, I’m particularly addressing law students, you will find powerful resonance of our constitutional values. As a matter of fact, high ethical standards, welfare of all, ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ these are deeply, indelibly embedded in our DNA. We as a nation are different than any other nation on the planet. 

We must legitimately take pride. हम भारतीय हैं। भारतीयता हमारी पहचान है, राष्ट्रीयता हमारा धर्म है, राष्ट्र के प्रति समर्पण करना हमारा सर्वोपरि कर्तव्य है और हमें इसको आगे बढ़ाना चाहिए, सृजन करना चाहिए, इसका संकल्प लेना चाहिए। 

Boys and girls, our national transformation stands on five Pillars. 

One – Social harmony. समरसता, भाईचारा हो, एक-दूसरे की बात को समझे, यह हमारी सांस्कृतिक धरोहर है। हमें इसको उपजाना है, इसका संरक्षण करना है। 
Unifying Diversity, We have always believed in inclusivity. Family nurtured patriotism. बच्चों को शुरू से ही संस्कार सीखना, इसके बहुत दूरगामी परिणाम हैं। यह हमारी संस्कृति का एक अभिन्न अंग है। स्वदेशी, Self-Reliance महात्मा गांधी ने कहा था – ‘स्वदेशी’। Prime Minister ने कहा, ‘Vocal for Local’, पर अब ईसका फायदा देखिए। 

Economic nationalism, boys and girls, is a fundamental aspect of economy. When we get in this country items that can be made here, not only are we draining out our foreign exchange, we are depriving our people of work. We are blunting entrepreneurship. We can make भारत आत्मनिर्भर by each individual consciously contributing for it. Be it natural resources. Reckless consumption is not in our traditions because we are trustees. Our fiscal power, our money power cannot entitle us to make a demand on our natural resources which belong to one and all. Beyond human beings to all living beings, civic duties is the Fifth Pillar of it. 

Every individual, if he or she decides, we can inculcate a new fervour of nationalistic spirit. By integrating individual responsibility, traditional values, environmental consciousness, in our journey of cultural pride and self-reliance. 

लोकसंग्रह हमारे वैदिक कल्चर में है। इसको कह सकते हो कि हर किसी की भागीदारी, हर किसी का योगदान। अपने भारतीय संस्कृति में यदि आप देखोगे और जाओगे पुराने कल्चर में, कन्या दान क्या होता था? व्यक्ति अपनी बेटी की शादी करता था, पर कन्यादान हर कोई देता था। दुनिया के अंदर आज तक इससे बड़ा अजूबा उदाहरण नहीं है की यह क्यों है। यह क्या सीखता है। 

Public order stems not from force, not from coercion, from voluntary discipline. National growth depends on citizens’ pervasive attitude. Public order thrives when every individual acts as guardian of law and justice. Just imagine the scene we have faced. Youth must infuse mindsets, How can our democracy can tolerate disruption, property destruction, constitutional challenges, and assault on civilization ethos. Public property, our property are being burnt. Public order being disrupted even when rule of law is taking its own course. We must neutralise these forces. First by counselling, and if counselling does not work, then sometimes a bitter pill has to be given, even to the body to keep it in shape. 

Boys and girls, no one has greater stakes than you have. Your stakes are the highest because you are the future of this country. If Viksit Bharat will be attained, which it will be, it will be with your mindset contributing 100%. As they say, the engine must fire on all cylinders in full throttle. We have to understand what is meant by nationalism. It is not jingoistic aggression, but profound love for the nation. Profound belief in our culture and heritage. We have to celebrate our great achievements, take them to greater heights, at the same time being fully cognisant of our shortcomings. Everyone will have shortcomings and failures, these are natural. 

A failure is not a failure. It is another stepping stone for success and in that perspective, we have to believe that true nationalism manifests through several elements. 

One, give your very best to the nation. Excellence, integrity, conservation, compassion, and not sloganeering. We must keep away from it. 

Keeping the nation first, keeping national interest uppermost. We can never have national interest subservient to partisan interest. That is not an option, it is the only way out because we are proud Indians and already quoted by Dr. Ambedkar, forget about everything else. I quote him the relevant part. Ambedkar’s wisdom is, ‘Be Indians first, Indians last, Nothing but Indians.’ And his second one, I quote, ‘Educate, Organise, and Agitate’ was meant for you boys and girls. 

Students and the cream is before me and I’m sure students all over the country will be listening to me. Be a responsibility to national unity. Progress, it is your obligation to neutralise divisive voices through active engagement in social media. You have to focus on governance. Improve its quality because you are the foot soldiers for our journey to reach Bharat in 2047, if not before. Nations are built not by governments. Nations are not built by industrialists. Nations are built by individuals. 

The power of the individual, as I said, an atom. The power is atomic. You have that power, you only have to realise it but the greatest impact comes, boys and girls, when you excel in integrity. In ethical standards in your field and always aim to serve a public purpose, a public cause. New India would emerge and is emerging only through citizens performing duties with dedication. 

Let me warn you on certain things, choosing integrity over expediency. Many people take shortcuts, believe me a shortcut is the longest distance between two points. When you are in trouble, when you are in difficulty. If you take a shortcut with the rule of law. If you take a shortcut with financial discipline. There may be momentary success but when you get into the rut of it, you are never out of it. Therefore, never choose expediency over integrity. Our national character should be that we are honest people because a nation can be honest with honest people only. 

Democracy’s quality depends on participation. Voting informed opinions, civil society engagement. Constructive different point of view. Democracy has to be vibrant in our procedure. Educated youth must evaluate politics beyond partisanship. You must learn to demand accountability from everyone including the one speaking to you. You must be highly critical and judgemental. If you think what I say is wrong, I am subject to correction but if you think I am right and still you observe silence, trust me. You will be silenced forever.

सही बात, सही समय, सही समूह को और  सही व्यक्ति को कहने में हिचकिचाहट करोगे, तो खुद को तो दुर्बल करोगे ही, उन सकारात्मक शक्तियों को भी आप गहरी चोट पहुँचाओगे। इसलिए, अभिव्यक्ति और संवाद सर्वोपरि है।

Thank you so much.

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JK/RC/SM

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 23 APR 2025 4:44PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) is conducting special training sessions under the Rastriya Karamyogi Jan Seva Programme, in collaboration with the CBC. The programme aims to equip officials with the values and mindset of a true Karamyogi. Officers are being guided by Master Trainers in this transformative journey.

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SS/MS

(Release ID: 2123831) Visitor Counter : 17

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 23 APR 2025 4:40PM by PIB Delhi

IMF projects India’s economy to grow at 6.2% in 2025 and 6.3% in 2026

Introduction

India is poised to lead the global economy once again, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projecting it to remain the fastest growing major economy over the next two years. According to the April 2025 edition of the IMF’s World Economic Outlook, India’s economy is expected to grow by 6.2 per cent in 2025 and 6.3 per cent in 2026, maintaining a solid lead over global and regional peers.

The April 2025 edition of the WEO shows a downward revision in the 2025 forecast compared to the January 2025 update, reflecting the impact of heightened global trade tensions and growing uncertainty Despite this slight moderation, the overall outlook remains strong. This consistency signals not only the strength of India’s macroeconomic fundamentals but also its capacity to sustain momentum in a complex international environment. As the IMF reaffirms India’s economic resilience, the country’s role as a key driver of global growth continues to gain prominence.

 

Overview of IMF’s World Economic Outlook Report

The World Economic Outlook (WEO) is the International Monetary Fund’s key report on global economic trends and policy challenges. Published twice a year with interim updates, it provides projections for the near and medium term, covering advanced, emerging, and developing economies. The report supports the IMF’s economic surveillance and guides discussions on policy among member countries.

The April 2025 edition notes that after several years of overlapping shocks, the global economy has entered a phase of cautious stabilisation. Growth remains modest and projections for global output have been revised downward from the January 2025 update. This reflects a steep rise in tariff rates, policy uncertainty, and slowing progress in international cooperation. Global inflation is expected to decline, although at a slower pace than previously anticipated, and downside risks such as trade tensions and volatile financial markets continue to weigh on the outlook.

For India, however, the growth outlook is relatively more stable. The IMF projects steady expansion for the Indian economy, supported by firm private consumption, particularly in rural areas. In a global environment marked by uncertainty and subdued growth, India’s resilience stands out, reinforcing its role as a key driver of global economic activity.

 

India’s Growth in Global Context

India is projected to remain the fastest-growing large economy for 2025 and 2026, reaffirming its dominance in the global economic landscape. The country’s economy is expected to expand by 6.2 per cent in 2025 and 6.3 per cent in 2026, outpacing many of its global counterparts. In contrast, the IMF projects global economic growth to be much lower, at 2.8 per cent in 2025 and 3.0 per cent in 2026, highlighting India’s exceptional outperformance.

The IMF has also revised its growth estimates for other major global economies. China’s GDP growth forecast for 2025 has been downgraded to 4.0 per cent, down from 4.6 per cent in the January 2025 edition of the World Economic Outlook. Similarly, the United States is expected to see a slowdown, with its growth revised downward by 90 basis points to 1.8 per cent. Despite these revisions, India’s robust growth trajectory continues to set it apart on the global stage.

Conclusion

India’s economic outlook for 2025 and 2026 remains one of the brightest among major global economies, as highlighted by the IMF. Despite global uncertainties and downward revisions in growth forecasts for other large economies, India is set to maintain its leadership in global economic growth. Supported by strong fundamentals and strategic government initiatives, the country is well-positioned to navigate the challenges ahead. With reforms in infrastructure, innovation, and financial inclusion, India continues to enhance its role as a key driver of global economic activity. The IMF’s projections reaffirm India’s resilience, further solidifying its importance in shaping the global economic future.

Reference:

Click here to see PDF.

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Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Saurabh Kalia

(Release ID: 2123826) Visitor Counter : 40

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     This year’s April 23 marks the second Hong Kong Reading for All Day. The Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL) of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) today (April 23) collaborated with stakeholders to set up reading locations for “Read Together for Half an Hour” activities to promote reading among the public.
 
     The Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Manda Chan, attended the “Read Together for Half an Hour” activity at the Hong Kong Central Library to share her reading experience with the participating students, remarking that reading while broadening one’s horizons is also life-enriching. She encouraged students to keep reading.
 
     The HKPL also invited renowned online content creator SaiDorSi to explore the relationship between reading and creativity with the participating students.
 
     “Read Together for Half an Hour” is one of the highlight activities of the Hong Kong Reading Week 2025 (HKRW). The LCSD provided a variety of books at different reading locations today, including the Hong Kong Museum of Art, the Hong Kong Science Museum, the Oil Street Art Space, the Hong Kong Railway Museum, Choi Hung Road Sports Centre, Tsuen Wan Sports Centre, Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park and individual public libraries, for public participation in reading together.
 
     In addition, “Read Together for Half an Hour” activities were held today at 2025 Hong Kong Reading+ at New Town Plaza in Sha Tin, as well as at individual community libraries and community centres. The HKPL, in collaboration with the Hans Andersen Club, also carried out the “Read together for Half an Hour” event and carnival at Lok Fu Place, featuring storytelling sessions, game booths and handicraft workshops. A reading area with selected books was set up to promote reading.
 
     The HKRW is being held from April 19 to 27. Under the theme “Zoom/LIBRARY”, the HKRW offers about 450 online and on-site events to encourage members of the public to develop the reading habit. Activities include fun days, sharing sessions, videos and audio clips in which celebrities share their reading experiences and more. QR codes for selected e-books are available at different government venues for easy public access.
　　
     All HKRW activities are free of charge, with seat reservations required for individual events. For details, please visit the website: www.hkpl.gov.hk/hkrw.

Source: Government of India

Special Category National Panchayat Awards-2025 to Be Conferred  on April 24th, National Panchayati Raj Day,  in Bihar

In a First,  Ministry of Panchayati Raj Institutionalises Special Category Awards to Recognise Panchayats’ Efforts in Climate Action and Self-Reliance

Posted On: 23 APR 2025 4:30PM by PIB Delhi

This year’s National Panchayati Raj Day  (NPRD) will mark a special moment with the presentation of the Special Category National Panchayat Awards–2025 at the National event of NPRD-2025 to be held at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat, District Madhubani, Bihar on 24th April, 2025. It is for the first time, that the Ministry of Panchayati Raj has institutionalised dedicated Special Category Awards to incentivize and acknowledge exemplary efforts of Gram Panchayats in the key national priorities of Climate Action and Atmanirbharta (Self-Reliance) through augmentation of Own Sources Revenue (OSR). In addition the awards for best Institutions for Capacity Building of Panchayats aligned with the Localisation of Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs) will also be conferred on the occasion.

The following Special Category National Panchayat Awards have been introduced to acknowledge outstanding contributions by Panchayats/ Institutions in key national priority areas:

Climate Action Special Panchayat Award (CASPA) – to encourage Panchayats to act as climate-responsive local governments;

Atma Nirbhar Panchayat Special Award (ANPSA) – to promote Atmanirbharta through augmentation of Own Source Revenue (OSR) by Panchayats;

Panchayat Kshamta Nirman Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar (PKNSSP) – to recognize excellence in capacity building and training of Panchayati Raj representatives and functionaries. This award was instituted by the Ministry in 2023 and first awards were conferred in 2024.

The Awardees for Special Categories of National Panchayat Awards–2025 are:

Climate Action Special Panchayat Award (CASPA)

• Rank 1: Dawwa S Gram Panchayat, Gondia District, Maharashtra
• Rank 2: Biradahalli Gram Panchayat, Hassan District, Karnataka
• Rank 3: Motipur Gram Panchayat, Samastipur District, Bihar

Atma Nirbhar Panchayat Special Award (ANPSA)

• Rank 1: Mall Gram Panchayat, Rangareddi District, Telangana
• Rank 2: Hatbadra Gram Panchayat, Mayurbhanj District, Odisha
• Rank 3: Gollapudi Gram Panchayat, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh

Panchayat Kshamta Nirman Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar (PKNSSP)

• Rank 1: Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA), Kerala
• Rank 2: State Institute for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Odisha
• Rank 3: State Institute of Panchayat and Rural Development, Assam

Each award includes a financial incentive of Rs.1 crore (Rank 1), Rs.75 lakh (Rank 2), and Rs.50 lakh (Rank 3) respectively. The awardees will be presented with specially designed trophies and certificates. Notably, 3 of the 6 awardee Gram Panchayats – from Bihar (Motipur Gram Panchayat), Maharashtra (Dawwa S Gram Panchayat), and Odisha (Hatbadra Gram Panchayat) – are headed by women Sarpanches.

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Aditi Agrawal

(Release ID: 2123817) Visitor Counter : 21

Source: Government of India

Building Champions: On the field, Off the field

Welfare and Support Schemes for Sportspersons in India

Posted On: 23 APR 2025 4:24PM by PIB Delhi

Summary:

• Government schemes support athletes at every stage of their careers.
• The past decade has been a golden era for Indian sports, highlighted by historic achievements and global recognition. .
• ₹3,794 crore allocated to the Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry for FY 2025-26 — a 17% rise from the revised FY 2024-25 allocation.
• Key allocations include ₹1,000 crore for Khelo India, ₹400 crore for NSFs, and ₹830 crore for SAI.
• Initiatives like Khelo India and Panchayat Yuva Krida Aur Khel Abhiyan (PYKKA) focus on mass participation from atheletes from rural areas, building infrastructure, and nurturing talent in rural and grassroots settings.
• Schemes like Sports And Games for the Disabled promotes inclusive and participative sports among persons with disabilities at the grassroots level.
• Schemes like the Pandit Deendayal Fund, Pension Scheme, and RESET Programme offer financial aid, medical support, and career transition help to current and retired athletes.
• National Sports Awards honor outstanding achievements and sportsmanship in various categories.

Introduction

It is rightly said that champions are not born overnight, but they are built with years of dedication, discipline, and, most importantly, support. Support from families, support from coaches and support from the government play a crucial role in bringing the talent from every corner of the country to the forefront. The Government of India is working tirelessly to bring the best of the world to Indian athletes through its schemes and initiatives. These schemes aim to identify and encourage talent at the grassroots, support sportspersons during and after their active careers, and create a sustainable ecosystem for sporting excellence.

A Decade of Achievements

The last decade has been a golden chapter in Indian sports history, marked by record-breaking achievements and rising global recognition. From historic Olympic and Paralympic medal hauls to standout performances in world championships across athletics, badminton, wrestling, and boxing, Indian athletes have consistently pushed boundaries.

Government Spending on Sports

In a bold move to fuel India’s sporting future, the government has made a record allocation of Rs. 3794 crores to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for FY 2025–26. This is a big jump from last year’s revised budget of ₹3,232.85 crore.

A major portion, that is ₹2,191.01 crore, has been allocated to Central Sector Schemes, with the flagship Khelo India Programme receiving ₹1,000 crore (up from ₹800 crore allocated in FY 2024-25). Funding for National Sports Federations has also been raised to ₹400 crore, while the Sports Authority of India (SAI) gets ₹830 crore to enhance athlete training and facilities.

Schemes and Programmes to Support Sports in India

India’s support for its athletes is now more structured and focused than ever. The approach is holistic—covering every stage of an athlete’s journey. From spotting raw talent in villages to backing Olympic medallists, the government has stepped up in a big way. A wide range of schemes now exist to meet the real needs of sportspersons—training, funding, facilities, and life after sport. Each step is designed to help athletes rise and stay at the top.

Khelo India

​The Khelo India – National Programme for Development of Sports is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at revitalizing the sports culture at the grassroots level and transforming India into a global sporting powerhouse. Launched in 2016-17 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Khelo India programme aims to revive the sports culture in India at the grassroot level by building a strong framework for all sports played in our country and establish India as a great sporting nation.

Retired Sportsperson Empowerment Training (RESET) Programme

The Retired Sportsperson Empowerment Training (RESET) Programme, launched in 2024, empowers retired athletes to reinvent themselves. This initiative provides tailor-made education, internships, and skill-building opportunities to retired sportspersons. Its goal is to address both the employment needs of retired athletes and the human resource gaps in India’s sports sector—offering careers in coaching, administration, mentoring, and beyond.

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons (PDUNWFS)

The Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons offers one-time ex-gratia aid of up to ₹5 lakh, a monthly pension of ₹5,000, medical assistance up to ₹10 lakh, and support up to ₹10 lakh for injuries sustained during training or competitions. Families of deceased sportspersons and support personnel like coaches, referees, and physiotherapists may also receive financial aid, with a maximum of ₹5 lakh and ₹2 lakh respectively.

Scheme of Human Resources Development in Sports

The Human Resources Development in Sports (HRDS) Scheme focuses on upgrading skills, encouraging research, and promoting knowledge in key areas like sports science, medicine, and coaching. The scheme offers financial aid for fellowships, training, and global exposure in sports, along with support for research, expert visits, and developing quality sports literature and e-resources.

Sports And Games for the Disabled

To ensure that no talent is left behind, the Government of India launched the Scheme of Sports & Games for the Disabled. This Central Sector Scheme aims to promote inclusive and participative sports among persons with disabilities at the grassroots level. While high-performing para-athletes receive separate support through the Scheme of Assistance to National Sports Federations, this initiative focuses on broad-basing sports participation across schools, communities, and districts.

Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Khel Abhiyan

Panchayat Yuva Krida Aur Khel Abhiyan (PYKKA), a flagship Indian government initiative designed to bolster grassroots sports. This programme provides financial assistance for developing sports infrastructure and procuring equipment at village and block levels. PYKKA also supports annual sports competitions across block, district, and state levels, alongside operational funding for activities and volunteer honorariums.

Assistance To National Sports Federations

Under the scheme of Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSF) financial assistance is given to National Sports Federations (NSFs) for the training of athletes, which includes all requisite support for training, participation in international events, conduct of National Championships, conduct of international tournaments in India, engagement of Foreign Coaches/support staff, scientific & medical support etc.  

National Sports Development Fund

The National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) is a key initiative by the Government of India to support excellence in sports. Created in response to India’s sub-par performance in international events, NSDF aims to mobilize resources from both government and private sectors to bridge critical gaps in infrastructure, training, and athlete support. It offers financial assistance to outstanding athletes and institutions for training under expert coaches, access to international competitions, and development of sports infrastructure.

Pension to Meritorious Sportspersons

Athletes devote the prime years of their lives to the pursuit of excellence, often sacrificing education, career stability, and family life. The Sports Fund for Pension to Meritorious Sportspersons offers a life-long safety net to those who brought glory to the nation.

Pension Structure:

• ₹20,000/month for Olympic/Para-Olympic/Deaflympic medallists
• ₹16,000/month for Gold medallists in World Cup/Championships
• ₹14,000/month for Silver/Bronze in World events & Gold in Asian/Commonwealth
• ₹12,000/month for Silver/Bronze in Asian/Commonwealth Games

Awards and Recognition

The National Sports Awards stand as the highest sporting honours in India, celebrating the exceptional achievements of athletes who have put India on the global sporting map. Presented annually, these prestigious awards recognize extraordinary performances at national and international events, while also fostering a spirit of sportsmanship that transcends borders. There is total six categories of awards that are given to sportspersons in India.

Conclusion

The Government of India has demonstrated a strong commitment to elevating sports across the nation by creating a comprehensive framework of support for athletes at every stage of their journey. The last decade has been a golden era for Indian sports, with record-breaking performances on international platforms like the Olympics, Paralympics, and Asian Games. Through initiatives like Khelo India, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund, and various welfare schemes, the government is not only identifying and nurturing talent from the grassroots but also ensuring that athletes are supported throughout their careers and beyond. With substantial investments in infrastructure, training, and athlete well-being, India is on a promising path to becoming a global sports leader, offering its athletes the resources and opportunities to excel on the world stage.

References:

Click here to see PDF.

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Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Priya Nagar

(Release ID: 2123815) Visitor Counter : 49

Source: Government of India

VP to preside over Annual Conference of Vice-Chancellors in Ooty

VP to visit Muthanad Mund Toda Temple in Ooty

VP to address the gathering at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University in Coimbatore

Posted On: 23 APR 2025 3:54PM by PIB Delhi

The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar and Dr. Sudesh Dhankhar will be on a three day visit to Tamil Nadu. During the visit, the Vice-President will preside as Chief Guest at the Annual Conference of Vice-Chancellors in Ooty on 25th April, 2025.

On 26^th April, 2025, Shri Dhankhar will visit the Muthanad Mund Toda Temple in Ooty.

Subsequently, he will address the students and faculty members of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University in Coimbatore on Sunday, 27th April, 2025.

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JK/RC/SM

(Release ID: 2123787) Visitor Counter : 64

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to address Gram Sabhas Nationwide on 24th April, National Panchayati Raj Day from Madhubani, Bihar

Prime Minister to also confer Special Category National Panchayat Awards 2025, Dedicate Infra Projects worth ₹ 13,500 Crores on the occasion

Posted On: 23 APR 2025 3:53PM by PIB Delhi

The nation will commemorate National Panchayati Raj Day (NPRD) on 24th April 2025, marking thirty-two years of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, which gave constitutional status to Panchayats as institutions of rural local self-government. The main function will be organized in the august presence of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat, Jhanjharpur Block in  Madhubani District of Bihar. The Prime Minister will address Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Gram Sabhas across the country and also confer Special Category National Panchayat Awards 2025 on this occasion. This year, National Panchayati Raj Day is being observed as a major national programme through a “Whole-of-Government” approach, involving participation of six Union Ministries: the Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ministry of Power, Ministry of Railways, and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will dedicate to the nation and  lay foundation stone for several key infrastructure and welfare projects linked to these Ministries on this occasion. These include LPG bottling plants, electrification projects, housing schemes, railway infrastructure, and road development, amounting to approximately Rs.13,500 crores. Financial assistance under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin and Urban) and DAY–NRLM will also be disbursed during the program. With these initiatives, Grameen Bharat, particularly rural regions of Bihar, stand to benefit immensely through enhanced connectivity, services, and economic opportunity.

The event will be attended by several dignitaries including Shri Nitish Kumar, Chief Minister of Bihar; Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Union Minister of Panchayati Raj; Shri Samrat Choudhary and Shri Vijay Kumar Sinha, Deputy Chief Ministers of Bihar; Shri Kedar Prasad Gupta, Panchayati Raj Minister, Bihar; Shri Amrit Lal Meena, Chief Secretary, Bihar; and Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, along with other senior officers from the participating Ministries and representatives from across Panchayats. The observance of NPRD 2025 from the Gram Panchayat level emphasizes the Government’s commitment to ensuring that Viksit Panchayats form the solid foundation of Viksit Bharat.

About the Special Category National Panchayat Awards 2025

These awards include the Climate Action Special Panchayat Award (CASPA), Atma Nirbhar Panchayat Special Award (ANPSA), and Panchayat Kshamta Nirman Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar (PKNSSP). The awards aim to recognize Gram Panchayats and institutions that have demonstrated exemplary performance in areas such as climate resilience, fiscal self-reliance, and capacity building. Awardees have been selected from States including Bihar, Maharashtra, Odisha, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, and Assam. It is noteworthy that three of the six awardee Gram Panchayats – Motipur (Bihar), Dawwa S (Maharashtra), and Hatbadra (Odisha) – are led by women Sarpanches, reflecting inclusive leadership at the grassroots.

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Aditi Agrawal

(Release ID: 2123786) Visitor Counter : 90

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 22 APR 2025 10:35PM by PIB Delhi

Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Shri Anil Malik chaired the Programme Approval Board (PAB) meeting with Senior Officers of Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman & Diu (UT), Nagaland, Assam, Haryana, Chandigarh (UT), Manipur, U.P & Karnataka to review progress of welfare schemes & projects of Mission Shakti & Mission Vatsalya.

Mission Shakti is a scheme in mission mode aimed at strengthening interventions for women safety, security & empowerment.

The Mission Vatsalya Scheme is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme which is implemented by the States/ Union Territories with the aim to support children.

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SS/ MS

(Release ID: 2123783) Visitor Counter : 24