Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Shri. L Murugan chaired a Review Meeting in Mumbai today for the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025. Nodal officers for the event from Government of India and State Government of Maharashtra participated in the Review Meeting held at Jio World Convention Centre. The progress on the various activities under the four pillars of WAVES i.e. Broadcasting and Infotainment, AVGC-XR, Digital Media and Innovation and Films were discussed during the meeting. The work being undertaken under various initiatives such as WAVES Bazar, WAVEX, Bharat Pavilion, Create in India Challenges and others was assessed and the way forward was deliberated upon. Nodal officers for various verticals briefed the Minister regarding the progress of preparations. On the occasion Shri. L Murugan also assessed the on-ground preparations of the event at the Summit venue.
Union Minister of State for @MIB_India Shri @Murugan_MoS chaired a review meeting in Mumbai today for #WAVES2025 with nodal officers from the Govt of India and Maharashtra. He also reviewed on-ground preparations at the summit venue.Officials from various departments were present pic.twitter.com/ccXhWMMGA5
The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.
Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.
WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) and Extended Reality (XR).
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today hailed the inclusion of the Gita and Natyashastra in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register as a global recognition of our timeless wisdom and rich culture.
Responding to a post by Union Minister, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on X, Shri Modi said:
“A proud moment for every Indian across the world!
The inclusion of the Gita and Natyashastra in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register is a global recognition of our timeless wisdom and rich culture.
The Gita and Natyashastra have nurtured civilisation, and consciousness for centuries. Their insights continue to inspire the world.
@UNESCO”
A proud moment for every Indian across the world!
The inclusion of the Gita and Natyashastra in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register is a global recognition of our timeless wisdom and rich culture.
The Gita and Natyashastra have nurtured civilisation, and consciousness for… https://t.co/ZPutb5heUT
India takes part in Africa’s largest tech and startup show GITEX Africa 2025 Knowledge transfer and technology sharing, key pillars of collective growth, says MoS Jayant Chaudhary
Posted On: 18 APR 2025 10:35AM by PIB Delhi
Africa’s largest tech and startup show, GITEX provides platform for policy leaders, changemakers and visionaries to collectively discuss and deliberate on the opportunities to collaborate and further the imperative of inclusive and equitable growth of the global economy. The three-day event just concluded at Morocco capital Marrakesh.
Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (Independent Charge) and Minister of State for Education Shri Jayant Chaudhary represented Republic of India at the summit. He took part in high-level bilateral meetings, panel discussions and interacted with Indian startups showcasing their innovations.
In the discussions, Shri Jayant Chaudhary stated, “India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has driven transformative changes across areas, especially through developments of digital identity (Aadhaar), digital payments (UPI), e-commerce (ONDC), and healthcare. And we are increasingly integrating advanced technologies – AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and digital infrastructure – into our skilling ecosystem. Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH), a digital public infrastructure for the skilling ecosystem has onboarded more than one crore users in over one and a half years. These are areas, rich with potential, for collaboration with our African partners and we can collectively grow our economies through sustained partnerships.”
“India, where the pace of digitalization is higher relative to some other developing economies, with established open-source Digital Public Infrastructure systems, has the potential to catalyze speed of digitalization in other developing countries seeking to develop such systems through collaboration and knowledge sharing,” Shri Jayant Chaudhary added. In addition, India is a key resource talent hub for AI professionals leading the way with 33.39% YoY growth in AI talent hiring as per AI Stanford Index 2025, which is a clear indicator of the efforts of the government and the industry to nurture an environment for adoption on AI.
On the sidelines of the summit, the Minister held productive bilateral meetings with Ms Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform; Prof Azzedine EL Midaoui, Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation; Mr Younes Sekkouri, Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment and Skills; and Mr Mohammed Saad Berrada, Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports. In his discussions, Shri Jayant Chaudhary touched upon broadly on exploring synergies in AI, research and capacity; discussed insights on how Digital Public Infrastructure can be a catalyst for inclusion, innovation and equitable growth; and shared India’s experience in building scalable, inclusive technology for public good.
India’s participation at GITEX Africa 2025 reaffirmed its role as a global leader in skilling and digital innovation. Through pathbreaking initiatives like Skill India, Digital India, and the creation of scalable Digital Public Infrastructure such as Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker, Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) and DIKSHA, India has demonstrated how inclusive, technology-driven models can empower citizens at scale. These initiatives are increasingly being recognized as global best practices, offering adaptable frameworks for developing nations seeking to build resilient, future-ready societies.
On the solemn occasion of Good Friday, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today reflected on the profound sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He emphasized that this day serves as a reminder to embrace kindness, compassion, and generosity in our lives.
In a post on X, he said:
“On Good Friday, we remember the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This day inspires us to cherish kindness, compassion and always be large hearted. May the spirit of peace and togetherness always prevail.”
On Good Friday, we remember the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This day inspires us to cherish kindness, compassion and always be large hearted. May the spirit of peace and togetherness always prevail.
Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh concluded a two-day visit to London from April 16–17, 2025, leading a high-level Indian delegation for the annual bilateral defence dialogue with the United Kingdom. During the visit, he co-chaired the 24thIndia-UK Defence Consultative Group meeting with Mr. David Williams, Permanent Under Secretary of State for Defence.
Both sides reviewed the evolving regional and global geopolitical landscape and reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening defence ties. The discussions were held in the context of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership announced in 2021 and the Roadmap to 2030, which continues to steer cooperation between the two nations. The Defence Secretary also interacted with the UK’s National Security Adviser, Mr. Jonathan Powell, with talks focused on expanding tri-service military engagements and strengthening collaboration between the two countries’ defence industries.
Addressing participants at the India-UK Defence Industry Roundtable, organised by the UK India Business Council, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh highlighted the growing capabilities of Indian start-ups across key defence domains such as naval systems, drones, surveillance, defence space and aviation. He encouraged UK companies to explore partnerships with these agile innovators, noting their potential to deliver cost-effective and cutting-edge solutions.
The Defence Secretary also said that India is working closely with the UK Ministry of Defence to develop an Industrial Cooperation Roadmap to guide future industry engagement. He invited UK firms to invest in India’s dedicated Defence Corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, where they can take advantage of state-level incentives and a rapidly evolving defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal hosted ‘Rongalir Enajori’, a vibrant celebration to mark Rongali Bihu and the Assamese New Year at his official residence in Delhi on Thursday.
The event was graced by Chief Minister of Delhi, Ms. Rekha Gupta as Chief Guest and Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju as Guest of Honour, and several dignitaries, artists, and members of the Assamese and Northeastern communities residing in the national capital region.
Extending his heartfelt wishes, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Rongali Bihu brings new energy and inspiration for all of us to move forward for the nation’s progress. This festival is not just about celebration — it is about unity, tradition, and our shared cultural identity.”
Shri Sonowal added that despite being far from home, the celebration in Delhi reflects the deep connection every Assamese holds with their roots. “As nature bursts into colours, the sound of the Bihu songs with the rhythmic beats from Dhols (traditional drums) fills the air with joy and pride. This Bihu connects us with our heritage and fills us with new hope and enthusiasm,” he said.
He further emphasised that festivals like Bihu are symbols of India’s cultural unity and urged the youth to preserve and carry forward this rich legacy. Quoting Bhupen Hazarika, Shri Sonowal remarked, “Spring is the soul of the people. It inspires us to dedicate ourselves to the progress of our nation.”
He also highlighted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’, stating, “We must take a pledge during this spirited season to play an active role in building a developed and self-reliant India.”
Chief Minister Ms. Rekha Gupta lauded Shri Sonowal for organising the event and said, “Rongali Bihu carries the message of harmony and goodwill. It showcases the beauty of India’s cultural diversity while reinforcing the strength of unity. I extend my best wishes to the people of Delhi as well as from Assam on this festive season as we pray for peace and prosperity to all.”
Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju also addressed the gathering and praised the cultural synergy between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. “The strong bonds among the communities of Northeast India are empowering the engine of national development. The region’s rich artistic and cultural heritage adds vibrant hues to India’s collective identity,” Rijiju said.
The evening featured musical performances by noted Assamese singers including Nilutpal Bora, Surekha Chetri, and Jutimala Buragohain, among others, who captivated the audience with traditional melodies and rhythms.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong Customs shuts down drug manufacturing centre and seizes suspected crack cocaine and suspected cocaine worth about $1.2 million (with photo) During an anti-narcotics operation conducted in Tai Po yesterday afternoon, Customs officers intercepted a 34-year-old local man and seized about 570g of suspected crack cocaine inside a cross-body bag carried by him. The man was subsequently arrested. Customs officers later escorted him to a premises nearby for a search and further seized about 560g of suspected cocaine, about 30g of suspected crack cocaine and a batch of suspected drug manufacturing and packing paraphernalia.
The arrestee has been charged with one count of manufacture of a dangerous drug, one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug and one count of resisting a member of the Customs and Excise Service and he will appear at the Tuen Mun Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (April 19).
According to the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, the manufacture of a dangerous drug and trafficking in a dangerous drug are serious offences. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hkIssued at HKT 18:45
International Space mission carrying Indian astronaut scheduled for next month: Dr Jitendra Singh India poised to script a defining chapter in its space journey
Indian Astronaut Set for Historic Space Mission as ISRO Charts Bold New Frontiers
India’s Space Dreams Soar Higher with Gaganyaan Prep, ISS Mission, and a Summer of Launches
Posted On: 18 APR 2025 4:28PM by PIB Delhi
NEW DELHI, April 18 : India is poised to script a defining chapter in its space journey, international Space mission carrying Indian astronaut has been scheduled for next month.
Announcing this after a high-level meeting held to review major future plans of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in the coming months, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh said, the mission will mark the visit of first Indian ever to visit the International Space Station (ISS) and the first Indian astronaut to travel to Space in over four decades after Rakesh Sharma’s iconic 1984 flight aboard a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft.
The announcement comes amid a flurry of activity in India’s space sector, which is gearing up for an ambitious slate of missions in the coming months.
Dr. V. Narayanan, Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman of ISRO, made a presentation elaborating the status of various upcoming Space missions.
Chairman ISRO informed that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force is all prepared to fly to the International Space Station (ISS) next month as part of Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission.
Group Captain Shukla’s mission, scheduled for May 2025, marks a milestone in India’s expanding international space collaborations. A decorated test pilot with the Indian Air Force, he was shortlisted under ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Program (HSP) and is among the top contenders for the Gaganyaan mission, India’s first indigenous crewed orbital flight. His journey aboard the Ax-4 mission is expected to provide critical hands-on experience in spaceflight operations, launch protocols, microgravity adaptation, and emergency preparedness — all essential for India’s crewed space ambitions.
What sets Shukla’s mission apart is its strategic importance. Unlike the symbolic undertones of India’s first human spaceflight, this time the focus is on operational readiness and global integration. His participation underscores India’s growing engagement with public-private international partnerships in space and its resolve to emerge as a serious contender in human space exploration.
“India is ready for its next space milestone,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh, underscoring the significance of the upcoming human spaceflight and a series of critical ISRO missions. He noted that the collaboration with international partners and the strategic momentum of projects like Gaganyaan reflect India’s commitment to becoming a global leader in space technology. The Minister emphasized that these efforts are not only scientific in nature but also aligned with the vision of a developed and self-reliant India.
During the meeting, ISRO updated Dr. Jitendra Singh on several key developments since January 2025. These include the public release of data from the Aditya L1 solar mission, successful demonstration of docking and undocking technologies, testing of the highest thrust liquid engine developed in India, and the historic 100th launch (GSLV-F15) from Sriharikota. ISRO also supported national events like the Kumbh Mela 2025 through satellite-based monitoring and announced a successful demonstration of restarting the Vikas Engine, crucial for future launch vehicle recovery missions.
Among the major missions lined up for May to July 2025, ISRO will launch the PSLV-C61 mission carrying the state-of-the-art EOS-09 satellite. Equipped with a C-band synthetic aperture radar, EOS-09 will be capable of capturing high-resolution images of Earth’s surface under all weather conditions, day or night. Another significant milestone will be the Test Vehicle-D2 (TV-D2) mission, designed to simulate an abort scenario and demonstrate the Gaganyaan Crew Escape System. The mission includes sea recovery operations for the Crew Module, mimicking procedures planned for India’s first human spaceflight.
June will see the highly anticipated launch of the NISAR satellite aboard the GSLV-F16. This NASA-ISRO collaboration aims to study Earth’s ecosystems and natural hazards through dual-frequency radar data, combining NASA’s L-band payloads with ISRO’s S-band contributions. The LVM3-M5 mission, scheduled for July, will cater to a commercial contract with AST SpaceMobile Inc., USA, launching BlueBird Block-2 satellites under NewSpace India Limited’s commercial program.
As India’s space strategy matures, Group Captain Shukla’s upcoming mission stands as a symbol of a confident, forward-looking nation ready to reclaim its place in the global space race. His journey is more than just a flight — it’s a signal that India is stepping boldly into a new era of space exploration.
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Reviews Functioning of Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) in Dhanbad, Jharkhand Union Minister Stresses Good Governance and Coordination with States to Boost Occupational Safety and Health Services in Mining Sector
Posted On: 18 APR 2025 4:24PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, visited the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) headquarters in Dhanbad, Jharkhandtodayto review its functioning and to ensure the continuation of effective safety practices in the mining sector. The visit aimed to assess and strengthen India’s mine safety framewodrk, ensuring that key initiatives are in place to safeguard the welfare of miners across the country.
Ms. Deepika Kachhal, Joint Secretary, along with other officials from the Ministry of Labour and Employment accompanied the HLEM. A comprehensive review meeting was held at the DGMS Headquarters which was attended by senior officers from DGMS.
Shri Ujjwal Tah, Director General of DGMS, extended a formal welcome, followed by a presentation highlighting the structure, objectives, capacity building, and operational framework of DGMS.
Union Minister emphasized the importance of good governance and coordination with state governments to improve Occupational safety and health services in mining sector. He suggested to acquaint with world-class mining technologies to enhance the technological upgradation of DGMS officers, thereby benefiting the industry and those employed in the mines.
The DGMS organized a mock demonstration of rescue operations, which captured the Union Minister’s attention, showcasing preparedness and commitment to ensuring miner safety in case of emergencies.
Following the meeting a plantation activity was also undertaken by Dr. Mandaviya at DGMS office.
This visit highlights the Government’s, commitment to enhancing safety standards and operational efficiency in the mining industry, ensuring a safer working environment for all miners.
SECL to Become First Coal PSU to Use Paste Fill Technology for Mining ₹7040 Crore Agreement Signed Between SECL and TMC Mineral Resources
Posted On: 18 APR 2025 3:01PM by PIB Delhi
South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) is set to become the first coal PSU in India to adopt paste fill technology for coal mining—marking a major step toward sustainable and environmentally friendly mining practices.
To implement this innovative underground mining technology, SECL has signed a ₹7040 crore agreement with TMC Mineral Resources Private Limited.
Under this agreement, large-scale coal production will be undertaken using paste fill technology in the Singhali underground coal mine located in SECL’s Korba area. Over a period of 25 years, the project is expected to produce approximately 8.4 million tonnes (84.5 lakh tonnes) of coal.
What is Paste Fill Technology?
Paste filling is a modern underground mining method that eliminates the need to acquire surface land. After coal extraction, the mined-out voids are filled with a specially prepared paste made from fly ash, crushed overburden from opencast mines, cement, water, and binding chemicals. This process prevents land subsidence and ensures the structural stability of the mine.
Importantly, the paste utilizes industrial waste materials, making the process environmentally sustainable and promoting waste recycling.
Background of Singhali Mine
The Singhali underground mine was approved in 1989 for a production capacity of 0.24 million tonnes per year and commenced operations in 1993. Presently, the mine has 8.45 million tonnes of extractable reserves of G-7 grade non-coking coal. It was developed using the Bord and Pillar method, employing Load Haul Dumpers (LHDs) and Universal Drilling Machines (UDMs) for underground operations.
However, the surface area above the mine is densely occupied—with villages, high-tension electricity lines, and a Public Works Department (PWD) road—rendering traditional caving methods unfeasible due to safety and environmental concerns.
New Opportunity for Singhali Mine
With the introduction of paste fill technology, mining activities in this area can now proceed without disturbing the surface infrastructure.
The successful implementation of this technology in Singhali is expected to pave the way for resuming operations in other underground mines where similar land constraints exist.
A Step Towards Green Mining
With a total investment of ₹7040 crore, the project is a major initiative to promote green mining technologies in India. It aims to enhance coal production while significantly reducing environmental impact.
Speaking on the occasion, SECL CMD Shri Harish Duhan said “I firmly believe that paste fill technology will not only secure the future of underground mining but also offer an innovative, eco-friendly solution. This project is a landmark step toward green mining and will shape the future of the coal industry in the years to come.”