Month: April 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is a question by the Hon Sunny Tan and a written reply by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, in the Legislative Council today (April 16):
 
Question:
 
     There are views that the fruitful results of Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) in attracting enterprises and investments last year demonstrate that overseas and Mainland enterprises have full confidence in Hong Kong. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
 
(1) as InvestHK indicated last year that it would first focus on attracting medium-sized Mainland enterprises that had needs to go global to invest in Hong Kong, and it has been reported that the number of micro, small and medium-enterprises on the Mainland exceeds 52 million, of the authorities’ deployment for the aforesaid work;
 
(2) as it has been reported that some enterprises face problems in aspects such as talents, supporting resources and financing in Hong Kong when establishing presence in Hong Kong, and the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry has pointed out the need for the entire Government to be involved in resolving such problems, whether the authorities have conducted an in-depth study on the problems and difficulties encountered by Mainland enterprises when establishing presence in Hong Kong; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
 
(3) as the 2024 Policy Address proposes that InvestHK and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council will set up a mechanism to provide one-stop, diversified professional advisory services for enterprises in Hong Kong looking to go global, whether the authorities have conducted a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of Mainland enterprises venturing overseas markets directly vis-a-vis doing so through Hong Kong, so as to grasp Hong Kong’s advantages; and
 
(4) whether it will consider identifying the problems faced by Mainland enterprises venturing overseas markets when establishing presence in Hong Kong, and strengthening cross-departmental collaboration among various policy bureaux and government departments having regard to the needs of enterprises in terms of products, production, talents, as well as financial, legal, dispute resolution and other professional services relating to venturing overseas markets, so as to formulate targeted relief policies and helping measures, such as providing more targeted talent and fund matching services; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
 
Reply:
 
President,
 
     According to the latest annual survey jointly conducted by Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) and the Census and Statistics Department, the number of companies in Hong Kong with overseas or Mainland parent companies rose to 9 960 in 2024, reaching a record high. The number of start-ups in Hong Kong also increased to a record high of almost 4 700 in the same year.
 
     In 2024, InvestHK assisted 539 Mainland or overseas enterprises in establishing and expanding their businesses in Hong Kong, representing an increase of over 40 per cent as compared with the full year figure of 2023. On a pro-rata basis, the figure well exceeded the performance indicator as set out in the 2022 Policy Address by the Chief Executive. Among those 539 companies, 273 of them were from the Mainland.
 
     The above fruitful investment promotion results fully demonstrate InvestHK’s work achievements and that Mainland and overseas enterprises continue to have full confidence in Hong Kong despite geopolitical impact. Those enterprises have selected Hong Kong as their base to expand regional businesses in Asia so as to leverage the commercial values that Hong Kong could offer as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” when assisting their global business expansion.
 
     In response to the Hon Sunny Tan’s question, our reply is as follows:
 
     The global trade landscape and geopolitics are rapidly changing, with parts of the supply chains shifting to the Global South and Belt and Road countries, while Mainland enterprises are also proactively establishing their presence abroad. According to statistics, there are currently more than 50 000 medium-sized manufacturing enterprises in the Pearl River Delta and the Yangtze River Delta alone, many of which involve overseas operations and have the need to go global with some of their manufacturing processes. Hong Kong’s rich experience in international trade and world-class professional services will be of assistance to such enterprises in seizing business opportunities when they plan to cope with the aforesaid changes.
 
     It was announced in the 2024-25 Budget that the Government’s goal was to develop Hong Kong into a multinational supply chain management centre. In his 2024 Policy Address, the Chief Executive further requested InvestHK and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) to set up a high value-added supply chain services mechanism for attracting Mainland enterprises to establish international or regional headquarters in Hong Kong for managing offshore trading and supply chain, and providing one-stop professional advisory services for enterprises in Hong Kong looking to go global. In December 2024, InvestHK and the HKTDC established the above mechanism. The two agencies are also proactively collaborating with relevant “Team Hong Kong” organisations, including the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation (ECIC), the Hong Kong Productivity Council, etc., to jointly support those Mainland enterprises in Hong Kong to go global.
 
     Despite that those Mainland enterprises would need to react to the United States’ tariffs imposed on different regions by re-constructing their supply chain networks, Hong Kong’s rich experience in international trade and world-class professional services allow it to become the destination for international or regional headquarters of those enterprises to manage offshore trading and supply chain. The enterprises could also leverage Hong Kong as a springboard for their multinational business development. On the one hand, through its Dedicated Teams for Attracting Businesses and Talents based in the Mainland Offices, InvestHK is proactively organising activities under the theme of multinational supply chain, so as to actively reach out to more Mainland enterprises for investment promotion work. As at end-February 2025, InvestHK had organised and co-organised around 20 relevant investment promotion activities in various Mainland cities, including Hangzhou, Nanjing and Xiamen, etc. within around one year’s time. InvestHK will identify Mainland enterprises wishing to go global through various activities and attract them to use Hong Kong as a platform for them to develop overseas businesses and establish supply chain.
 
     On the other hand, the HKTDC is providing one-stop professional advisory services for enterprises in Hong Kong. Towards enterprises with plans of going global, the HKTDC will, through its overseas offices, render on-site support services. These include assisting enterprises in establishing connections with overseas markets and understanding overseas laws and regulations; providing market research covering various emerging markets such as the Middle East, Central Asia and Latin America; as well as providing information on various areas including environmental, social and governance (ESG), testing and certification and export credit risk management. Furthermore, in view that Hong Kong’s business sector possesses rich knowledge and profound experience in compliance, labour protection and environmental protection of overseas markets, the HKTDC facilitates collaboration between enterprises and different organisations and industry stakeholders to provide ESG training, etc. for Mainland enterprises seeking to expand their reach to overseas markets. This will help them build goodwill with business partners and expand their markets.
 
     Besides, the ECIC will provide credit insurance for export services relating to multinational supply chain so as to render more comprehensive support for enterprises seeking to go global. To assist Hong Kong exporters in expanding into Mainland and emerging markets, the ECIC has also increased the number of free buyer credit checks from 12 to 20.
 
     In fact, Hong Kong’s advantages for assisting Mainland enterprises to go global are very obvious and important. Apart from possessing quality talents who have rich experience in offshore trading and supply chain management and the relevant network, Hong Kong has the distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world, as well as plays the important roles as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder”, under “one country, two systems”. All these make Hong Kong a two-way springboard for Mainland enterprises to go global and for attracting overseas enterprises. Hong Kong’s institutional fundamentals, including the exercise of the common law system, independent Judiciary, a favourable business environment with efficient and transparent markets, a regulatory regime in line with international rules, a simple and low tax system, world-class professional services, and free flow of goods and factors of production including talents, capital and information, as well as key national strategies, including the National 14th Five-Year Plan, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area development and the Belt and Road Initiative, provide Hong Kong with unlimited opportunities and make it the only economy in the world where the global advantage and the China advantage come together.
 
     In addition, Hong Kong’s advantages and experiences especially meet the needs of small and medium enterprises from the Mainland (Mainland SMEs). Mainland SMEs’ demand for high value-added supply chain services is also consistent with InvestHK’s observations. During the past year, the Department noted at various investment promotion events that many Mainland SMEs had, upon understanding the aforementioned advantages of Hong Kong and the professional services it could offer, concurred that it would be far more effective and convenient for them to go global via Hong Kong instead of venturing overseas markets direct by themselves. They also expressed interest in establishing headquarters in Hong Kong for managing their offshore trading and supply chain. InvestHK and the HKTDC will provide these enterprises with one-stop supply chain advisory services and other relevant assistance through the high value-added supply chain services mechanism.
 
     To further step up co-ordination between bureaux and departments, with the support of the Financial Secretary, InvestHK set up an inter-departmental/agency referral mechanism led by the Director-General of Investment Promotion last year. By proactively collecting Mainland and overseas enterprises’ concerns and pain points when they plan to establish presence in Hong Kong, InvestHK reflects them to relevant bureaux, departments or agencies accordingly for exploring suitable solutions as appropriate. Since the establishment of the mechanism more than half a year ago, various issues have been successfully addressed to meet the needs of the trade, including opening of bank accounts, application and work arrangements for imported workers, application for use of vacant land, thereby facilitating Mainland and overseas enterprises to set up and expand their businesses in Hong Kong.
 
     Looking ahead, InvestHK will ride on the good momentum of 2024 and make every effort in attracting more Mainland and overseas enterprises to invest in Hong Kong, so as to continue to implement the performance indicator as set out in the 2022 Policy Address. At the same time, the Department will continue to work with relevant “Team Hong Kong” organisations to further enhance the high value-added supply chain services mechanism in order to attract and assist more Mainland enterprises looking to go global to come to Hong Kong and make good use of the city as a springboard to develop their multinational businesses. This will be conducive to Hong Kong’s economic development on the one hand, and facilitate the deepening of its international exchanges and co-operation on the other hand, thus responding to meet Premier Li Qiang’s expectations for Hong Kong, as set out in his work report this year, integrating into the overall national development while making contribution to the country.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is a question by Dr the Hon Kennedy Wong and a written reply by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, in the Legislative Council today (April 16):
 
Question:
 
     Regarding measures to attract inward investment, will the Government inform this Council:
 
(1) of the respective numbers of applications received, approved and rejected by the authorities under the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES) since its enhancement measures took effect on the first of last month, together with a breakdown by the applicants’ place of domicile and total investment amount; and the reasons for rejecting applications under New CIES;
 
(2) whether it has compiled statistics on, among the approved applications mentioned in (1), the number of successful applicants who have already made investments in Hong Kong; whether it has assessed the effectiveness of the enhancement measures for New CIES in promoting the development of family offices in Hong Kong;
 
(3) as it has been reported that the delegation of Hong Kong deputies to the National People’s Congress has proposed to establish a dedicated remittance mechanism called “Property Purchase Capital Connect” to allow residents of the Mainland and Hong Kong to make cross-‍boundary remittances for purchasing properties in Hong Kong or on the Mainland, with a view to further facilitating the flow of talents and economic integration between the two places, whether the authorities will look into this proposal and communicate with the relevant Mainland authorities in this regard; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
 
(4) as it has been reported that even though the policies adopted by some countries to combat investment immigrants’ money laundering are more stringent compared to Hong Kong, such money laundering still exists in those countries, how the authorities strike a balance between anti-money laundering on the one hand and facilitating the entry of and attracting investment immigrants to Hong Kong on the other; and
 
(5) as it is learnt that while persons who have been granted visas under New CIES may apply to become Hong Kong permanent residents after meeting the relevant requirements and having resided in Hong Kong continuously for seven years, there is no such arrangement for the major asset managers of family office who have also come to Hong Kong for investment, whether the authorities will consider putting in place an identical arrangement for the aforesaid major asset managers with reference to New CIES; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:
 
President,
 
     In consultation with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, the Immigration Department (ImmD) and Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), the reply to various parts of the question is as follows:
 
(1) and (2) Since the implementation of the enhancement measures for the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (the Scheme) from March 1, 2025 up to end-March, a total of 174 applications have been received. The applications are being processed and no application has been rejected so far. Under the Scheme, applicants must invest a minimum of HK$30 million in the permissible investment assets. If all the aforementioned applications are approved, it is estimated that they will bring more than HK$5.2 billion to Hong Kong. Besides, since the Scheme opened for application from March 2024, a total of 1 092 applications have been received, having a positive impact on attracting more new capital to Hong Kong and strengthening the development of our asset and wealth management business, financial services and related professional services.
 
     In accordance with the application procedures under the Scheme, after InvestHK has verified that the applicant fulfills the net asset requirement, he/she may submit to the ImmD an entry application for a visa/entry permit to enter Hong Kong for residence (entry application). Upon “approval-in-principle” after assessment from the immigration perspectives, the ImmD will grant a visa/entry permit to the applicant for entering Hong Kong as a visitor for not more than 180 days for making the committed investment within the period. Among the 174 applications received in March, InvestHK has approved 99 applications for Net Asset Assessment, and the ImmD has received 65 entry applications. The ImmD will generally complete the assessment of “approval-in-principle” in around three weeks, upon receipt of all needed documents. Since no application has been granted “approval-in-principle” so far, applicants have yet to commence their investments in Hong Kong. The detailed breakdown of the 65 entry applications received by the ImmD is set out in the table below:
 

	Entry applications received by the ImmD
Guinea-Bissau	41
Vanuatu	15
Hungary	2
New Zealand	2
Australia	1
Canada	1
France	1
Greece	1
Malta	1
Total	65

 
     Since the enhancement measures under the Scheme have only been implemented for a short period of time, the Government will continuously review the applicants’ investment arrangement and suitably evaluate its effectiveness.
 
(3) The Government has maintained communication with financial regulatory authorities in the Mainland on various cross-boundary remittance arrangements to seek to provide more facilitation arrangements for the convenience and benefit of the public and the business sector while ensuring that the risks are manageable. On facilitation for cross-boundary property purchases, the facilitative payment arrangement for Hong Kong and Macao residents purchasing properties in the Mainland cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), announced in January 2024, has been implemented. This arrangement applies to both newly built and second-hand residential properties purchased by individual Hong Kong and Macao residents, and allows them to remit funds in Renminbi or foreign currencies from outside the Mainland for property purchases and repayment of mortgage loans in the Mainland following the relevant procedures for settlement and payment.
 
     For cross-boundary remittance arrangements (including that for property purchases) for Mainland residents or Mainland talents admitted to Hong Kong, since it involves different regulatory regimes (including requirements for capital inflows and outflows), the Government has been, with regard to their practical needs, exploring facilitation arrangements with the Mainland authorities concerned, with an aim to explore a gradual approach for seeking suitable policies and solutions through close collaboration between the two places within their regulatory framework and existing practices. Any facilitation arrangements will be announced in due course.
 
(4) Under the Scheme, an applicant is required to appoint eligible financial intermediary(ies) to manage the permissible investments in his/her designated account(s). The appointed financial intermediary(ies) is/are required to carry out customer due diligence and fulfill relevant anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing obligations under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Cap. 615), and report to InvestHK on the applicant’s continuous compliance with the Scheme Rules. When processing the applications for Assessment on Investment Requirements, InvestHK will also check the fund flow and investment arrangement of the applicant, and examine contract notes/reference letters, etc as provided by the applicant or issued by the appointed financial intermediary(ies). If necessary, InvestHK will also request the applicant to provide other supporting documents and information to certify that the applicant’s investment complies with the requirements of the Scheme.
 
(5) Since the enhancement measures to the Scheme effected in March 2025, applicants may make investments through eligible family-owned investment holding vehicles or family-owned special purpose entities. The Government has included experienced management professionals in asset and wealth management under the Talent List to promote the development of Hong Kong as an asset and wealth management hub. Outside talents who meet the eligibility criteria for the relevant profession (including family office professionals and asset managers) may apply for entry under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, the General Employment Policy or the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals. Persons admitted under the above various talent admission schemes who have ordinarily resided in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) for a continuous period of not less than seven years may apply for the right of abode in the HKSAR in accordance with the law.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 11:09AM by PIB Delhi

Sanitary waste management remains a major challenge across India, with improper disposal leading to environmental and health hazards. However, Karad, a small city in Maharashtra’s Satara district, has emerged as a role model in tackling this issue. With 100% segregation, collection, and processing of sanitary and biomedical waste, Karad has set a benchmark for effective and sustainable waste management. Ensuring the proper disposal of sanitary waste—such as sanitary napkins, diapers, and other hygiene products—has helped prevent health risks, environmental harm, and social stigma in Karad.

In Karad, approximately 300 to 350 kg of sanitary waste is collected daily from hospitals, clinics, households, and other facilities. One of the key steps taken by the administration was to break the taboo surrounding sanitary waste. This involved raising awareness and educating the community about the importance of proper sanitary waste management and the potential health risks associated with improper disposal. The city has adopted innovative strategies to educate residents on waste segregation via initiatives like workshops, community outreach programs, and public service announcements which played a key role in promoting responsible waste segregation and disposal.

Karad Municipal Council (KMC) collaborated with female residents, leading to the formation of women groups that played a pivotal role in raising awareness on proper sanitary waste disposal and segregation in the residential areas. To facilitate this, separate red bins have been installed in public toilets across the city, making it easier for women to dispose of sanitary waste responsibly.

 

Schools are also encouraged to install sanitary pad vending machines and disposal systems. Additionally, the city’s IEC team promote hygienic disposal practices, such as wrapping used sanitary pads in paper before discarding them. This initiative has led many schools to install incinerators, ensuring proper processing of sanitary waste, with the remaining residue sent to the biomedical waste treatment plant. 

 

 

The Garbage Collection Vehicle in the city carries a separate bin for collection of sanitary waste. To ensure proper disposal, sanitation staff collect this waste separately, allowing only suitable materials to be incinerated. The sorted waste is then processed at a high-temperature incinerator, operated by the Karad Hospital Association, where it is burned at high temperatures. During incineration, organic materials are oxidized, generating heat, gas, and ash. To minimize environmental impact, the gases produced are filtered to remove harmful substances. The facility’s emissions are continuously monitored to meet air quality standards, with real-time data linked to the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) monitoring system for regulatory oversight.

To enhance sanitary waste disposal, the Karad Municipal Council (MC) has partnered with the Karad Hospital Association for the treatment of sanitary and biomedical waste. Under this agreement, KMC has allocated land for the construction of a biomedical waste treatment plant, which the hospital association is responsible for operating and maintaining. As part of the arrangement, the hospital association established the 600 kg/day ‘Common Biomedical Waste Treatment Facility’ (CBWTF) where the sanitary waste collected by the municipal council free of charge is processed. All sanitary waste in the city is incinerated at this facility, which houses a centralized incinerator capable of reaching temperatures up to 1200°C. This high-temperature incineration effectively minimizes contamination risks and health hazards, ensuring a safer working environment for sanitation staff.

The improved sanitary waste management system in Karad City has had a significant positive impact on both public health and environmental sustainability. The agreement with the Karad Hospital Association has notably reduced the financial burden on the Karad Municipal Council, as it only bears the cost of waste collection and transportation. This partnership highlights the effectiveness of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in solid waste management. The high-temperature incineration of sanitary waste has greatly minimized health risks and contamination, particularly safeguarding sanitation workers who handle the waste. By eliminating the open dumping of sanitary waste, the city has also prevented environmental degradation and curbed the spread of diseases.

By implementing proper waste segregation, increasing awareness, and developing more effective infrastructure, Karad prevented the public health and environmental hazards posed by inadequate sanitary waste management. This is not only contributed to the city’s cleanliness but also helped to improve the quality of life for the residents, particularly women, who are most directly affected by the challenges surrounding sanitary waste disposal.

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(Release ID: 2122026) Visitor Counter : 49

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 11:01AM by PIB Delhi

In a significant step toward enhancing international cooperation and fostering global investment in India’s vibrant North East, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER)  organized Ambassadors’ Meet  in New Delhi on April 15, 2025.  Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and senior diplomatic representatives from over 80 countries participated . The event was aimed at showcasing the immense potential of the North Eastern Region (NER) and strengthening bilateral ties for sustainable development.

The Ambassadors’ Meet was graced by Hon’ble Minister of Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, who emphasized the strategic importance of the region, both economically and geopolitically. In his keynote address, the Hon’ble Minister highlighted Indian Government’s commitment to transforming the North East into a hub of connectivity, trade, and innovation. He also underlined that each of the eight states of the North East embodies unique strengths, resources and opportunities, making the region an invaluable asset in India’s growth story. From its rich cultural diversity to its natural beauty and strategic location, the North Eastern Region holds immense potential to emerge as one of the country’s leading economic powerhouses. Its proximity to Southeast Asia also positions the North Eastern Region as a gateway to South East Asian countries, aligning with India’s Act East Policy. Hon’ble Minister extended an invitation to the participating countries to explore opportunities in NER, capitalizing on the region’s rich resources and craftsmanship.

Hon’ble Minister of State, MDoNER, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, in his address highlighted the immense potential of North Eastern region. Sharing the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister, he explained how North Eastern States offers great aspects for investment opportunities and building a “Viksit Bharat” together. He highlighted the major development initiatives in the infrastructure sector that have taken place in the North Eastern Region under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister during the last 10 years, inter-alia, including expanding air, road and rail connectivity, waterways etc. He also underlined that Hon’ble Prime Minister emphasized North East as India’s Asthalakshmi, a key economic asset poised for rapid industrialization. He stated that with ample opportunities across multiple sectors, North East India welcomes investors to explore its vast potential and be part of its growth journey.

Shri Pema Khandu, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, spoke about the unique strengths of Northeast Region including Arunachal Pradesh.

Hon’ble Minister of External Affairs, Shri S. Jaishankar, through a video message highlighted that NER has been at the forefront of India’s development policies. He mentioned about the importance of Kaladan multi-modal transit project and NER’s potential to be the gateway for south east Asian markets.

Secretary, MDoNER, Shri Chanchal Kumar delivered a detailed presentation on the investment opportunities in NER and highlighted untapped potential  of the region. He also highlighted the opportunities available in the region in across various sectors like IT & ITES, Healthcare, Agri and allied, Education & Skill Development, Sports & Entertainment, Tourism & Hospitality, Infrastructure and logistics; Textiles, Handlooms and Handicrafts and Energy. He stated that with ample opportunities across multiple sectors, North East India welcomes investors to explore its vast potential and be part of its growth journey. He stated that MDoNER is committed to work closely with diplomatic missions, international development agencies, and global investors to channel resources and expertise toward projects that will boost employment, infrastructure, and human capital in the North Eastern Region.

Secretary(East), Ministry of External Affairs Shri Periasamy Kumaran in his address stated that the North Eastern Region shares international borders of with neighboring countries Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Nepal and Myanmar making it a strategic location and the Gateway to Southeast Asia for India. Therefore, the region can be developed as a base for India’s growing economic links not only with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) but also with neighbouring countries, viz. Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. He underlined that North Eastern Region is a treasure trove of diverse cultures, traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty. He stated that Ambassadors Meet is a crucial platform for engaging in constructive dialogues, building partnerships, and attracting investments that will drive inclusive growth and prosperity. This platform is an opportunity to come forward and explore the diverse opportunities offered by the Northeast.

The Ambassadors’ Meet was the one of the pre-summit activities of the North East Investors Summit to be organized by MDoNER on 23^rd and 24^th  May, 2025. The event received an overwhelming response, with Ambassadors and diplomatic envoys expressing keen interest in partnering with Indian stakeholders to explore the possibilities offered by the North Eastern states – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.  The event not only fostered meaningful dialogue but also laid the groundwork for future partnerships, driving economic growth and sustainable development in the region.

The event was  seniors officials Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region  and State Government  of NER.

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Samrat

(Release ID: 2122025) Visitor Counter : 26

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 2:39PM by PIB Delhi

The 6^th edition of India- Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK-VI commenced today, at Foreign Training Node, Aundh (Pune). The Exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 16 to 28 Apr 2025.

Indian contingent comprising of 60 personnel is being represented by a Battalion of JAT Regiment and IAF. The Uzbekistan contingent is being represented by personnel from Uzbekistan Army. Joint Exercise DUSTLIK -VI is an annual training event conducted alternatively in India and Uzbekistan. Last edition was conducted in Termez District, Uzbekistan in April 2024.

The theme of the exercise will be based on the theme of Joint Multi Domain Sub Conventional operations in Semi-Urban Scenario. It will focus on responding to a terrorist action involving the capture of a defined territory. It will also include the establishment of a Joint Operations Centre at the battalion level for continuous joint operations, the execution of counterterrorism missions such as population control measures, raids, search-and-destroy operations, and the employment of firepower, including air assets, to neutralise terrorists. Special forces from the Army and Air Force, during the Exercise, will secure a helipad for use as a mounting base for further operations. The Exercise will also cover the deployment of drones, counter-UAS measures, and logistics support by the Air Force to sustain forces in hostile areas. Additionally, helicopters will be utilised for reconnaissance and observation, special heliborne operations (SHBO), small team insertion and extraction (STIE) and other associated missions.

Joint Exercise DUSTLIK -VI will enable both sides to share best practices in Tactics, Techniques and Procedures of conducting Joint Sub Conventional operations. It will facilitate developing inter-operability, bonhomie and camaraderie between the two armies. The Joint Exercise will also enhance defence cooperation, further augmenting bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.

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(Release ID: 2122061) Visitor Counter : 105

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

With the continuous acceleration of global digital transformation, data has become an important resource driving economic growth and innovative development, as well as a new production factor in the digital economy era. The Digital Policy Office (DPO) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Data continue to jointly organise the Hong Kong/Shanghai Co-operation Open Data Challenge 2025 (HSODC 2025) this year to inspire more innovative applications and collaborations in open data through the competition.

Under the theme “Co-creating a Data Industry Platform for the Two Cities,” the HSODC 2025 invites participants to harness the extensive open data resources available in the two cities. The goal is to inspire innovative projects and develop advanced applications that emphasise four key areas: Smart Mobility, Smart Living, Smart Environment, and Smart Economy, thereby jointly driving deeper integration and fostering synergy between the digital economies of the two cities.

Besides the competition, the organisers also hosted a forum titled “Hong Kong/Shanghai Data Co-operation – Our data Stories”. The forum brought together data scientists, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs from both cities to share their expertise in transforming complex data analyses into intuitive and compelling narratives. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong/Shanghai Data Co-operation Pavilion at the InnoEX showcased innovative data applications of the two cities across various sectors including transportation, environment, healthcare and education. These exhibits highlighted how data-driven solutions help tackle real-world challenges, create social value, and unlock new opportunities. The Pavilion also serves as a unique platform for visitors to gain an in-depth understanding of the open data resources of the two cities and the potential for groundbreaking business collaborations.

Registration for HSODC 2025 is now open until June 16. The competition is not only aimed at advancing the robust development of open data ecosystems in the two cities but also cultivating data talent. Participants will benefit from professional training to deeply explore the distinctive features and strengths of urban data resources in both cities. Shortlisted teams will receive specialised technical training from June to mid-August, culminating in an opportunity to present their innovative and unique data technology solutions at the grand finale in Shanghai this August. Exceptional projects may even be recommended to participate in the National Data Administration’s “Data Element x” national level competition. For more details, please visit the official website: www.eng.hkshadata.org.
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The DPO orchestrated an impressive lineup of flagship innovation and technology (I&T) flagship events in April, spotlighting Hong Kong’s dynamic and thriving I&T ecosystem. Highlights include the Smart Hong Kong Pavilion at the InnoEX, the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit, hosted in Hong Kong for the first time, and the highly anticipated HSODC 2025.

Source: Government of India

Kashi Ringing the Bells of Progress

Building Modern India

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 2:28PM by PIB Delhi

Introduction

On April 11, PM Modi launched development projects worth ₹3,880 crore in Kashi. The ancient city is getting a modern makeover. Roads are being widened; schools are being upgraded and new power stations are coming up. Kashi is growing while keeping its roots alive. From 2014 to March 2025, 580 projects were taken up under Kashi Development with a total investment of ₹48,459 crore. The aim is to improve infrastructure, preserve heritage and support tourism in Varanasi.

Kashi’s Development Journey: Key Milestones

From Pilgrimage to Premium Experiences

Tourism in Varanasi is more than just travel, it’s a journey through history, faith and vibrant culture. Below are key initiatives that are reshaping the tourism experience in the city:

1. MV Ganga Vilas: World’s Longest River Cruise

Launched by PM Narendra Modi on January 13, 2023, the MV Ganga Vilas is the world’s longest river cruise, starting from Varanasi and culminating in Dibrugarh on 28th February 2023.

 

2. Tent City: Riverside Luxury Experience

The Tent City was inaugurated on January 13, 2023 on the opposite bank of the Ganga from the city ghats. Open from October to June annually, the Tent City helps manage the increasing tourist flow by providing a unique and peaceful riverside stay experience.

 

3. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Corridor

Inaugurated on December 13, 2021, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor is a transformative ₹355-crore project that spans an area of 5.5 acres. It connects the Kashi Vishwanath Temple directly to the Ganges River via a four-lane pathway, making the temple more accessible to pilgrims.

 

4. Monument Illumination Projects

To enhance the visual appeal of Varanasi’s historic monuments, several illumination projects have been undertaken: In 2015, ₹5.12 crore was sanctioned for lighting up monuments like Dhamekh Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Tomb of Lalkan, and Man Mahal. In 2017, ₹2.93 crore were sanctioned to illuminate Dashashwamedh to Darbhanga Ghat, Tulsi Manas Mandir, and the Sarnath Museum.

 

Kashi’s Infrastructure Boost

Kashi’s infrastructure development has seen major progress from 2021 to 2025. The Varanasi-Gorakhpur NH-20 (Package-2), a 72.16 km road was inaugurated on October 25, 2021. The project cost was ₹3,509 crore. The redevelopment of Namo Ghat (Khidkiya Ghat) was completed on November 15, 2024. The cost of the redevelopment was ₹95.2 crore. The ghat now features a cafeteria, viewing platforms and heritage murals. The construction of the jetty at Rajghat costed approximately Rs.10 crore. Each cruise boat was procured at a cost of Rs.20 crore. Furthermore, the tourism circuit along the riverfront will feature the construction of a walkway, a viewing deck, and a food court. The operation of cruise boats started in March, 2023.  Additionally, over ₹980 crore is allocated for flyovers, road bridges, and an airport underpass on April 11, 2025.

Urban Transformation in Kashi

Varanasi is undergoing a major urban makeover with focus on sustainability and civic upgrades. To reduce pollution in the Ganga, diesel/petrol boats were converted to CNG. This project, worth ₹29.7 crore, was inaugurated by the Prime Minister on July 7, 2022. It is being executed by Varanasi Smart City Ltd. and GAIL. The Goitha Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), with a capacity of 120 million litres per day (MLD), was inaugurated on February 19, 2019. Built at a cost of ₹217.57 crore, it was aimed at treating sewage and reducing pollution in the Ganga. Under the Namami Gange scheme, a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) with a capacity of 55 million litres per day (MLD) is also being built at a cost of ₹300 crore. On April 11, 2025, ₹345 crore has been allocated under Jal Jeevan Mission for rural drinking water schemes. Varanasi connected 55,000 houses to sewer lines under AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation), using ₹105 crore, by March 2017. For better parking and traffic flow, the Godowlia Multilevel Two-wheeler Parking, a four-storey facility for 375 vehicles, was built for ₹19.55 crore and operates 24/7 with full security.

Varanasi’s Handloom and Handicraft Revival

Varanasi is renowned not just for its spiritual aura, but also for its rich tradition of handlooms and handicrafts. Generations of artisans have mastered the art of silk weaving, wood and stone carving, metalwork, pottery and jewellery making. Their creations reflect incredible skill and cultural heritage. Many of these crafts, like Banarasi sarees, Soft Stone Jali work, Banaras Gulabi Meenakari and Wooden Lacquerware & Toys etc, have received Geographical Indication (GI) tags, marking their authenticity and excellence.

To support and promote these traditional arts the government announced the establishment of a Trade Facilitation Centre and Crafts Museum in the 2014-15 Union Budget. This initiative aimed to help weavers, artisans, and entrepreneurs market their products. The complex was built over 7.93 acres with a total cost of ₹300 crore, providing a space for showcasing, training and selling local crafts. The Centre was inaugurated on September 22, 2017 and today stands as a key step in preserving Varanasi’s artistic legacy.

Kashi’s Education and Health Drive

Kashi is witnessing rapid growth through major investments in research, healthcare, energy, and education. The Inter-University Teacher Education Center (IUTEC) at BHU, Varanasi, was inaugurated on December 23, 2021. Built at a cost of ₹107.36 crore, it will offer a two-year M.Ed. program for 1,000 students. In February 2019, PM inaugurated the PARAM Shivay Supercomputing Center at BHU, with a peak performance of 3.3 petaflops and a cost of ₹32.5 crore. In agriculture, ₹105 crore bonus was transferred to Banas Dairy milk suppliers in April 11, 2025. In the power sector, ₹1,820 crore has been allocated for new substations and transmission upgrades. The redevelopment of Sports Stadium in Sigra is an ambitious project with a total budget of ₹180.03 crore (Phase 1: ₹90.01 crore, Phase 2: ₹90.02 crore). It was designed as a world-class hub for sports. It was inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on October 20, 2024.

Conclusion

Kashi stands today as a shining example of how heritage and modernity can thrive together. With transformative projects in infrastructure, tourism, health, education, and culture, the city is not just preserving its spiritual essence but also creating a vibrant, future-ready identity. From ghats to gateways of development, Kashi is truly ringing the bells of progress.

References

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Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kamna Lakaria/ Kritika Rane

(Release ID: 2122058) Visitor Counter : 54

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 2:01PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 16 April 2025

 

Last Saturday, the city of Hyderabad witnessed an explosion of creativity & fandom as the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) Cosplay Championship Meetup unfolded at Mindspace Social. Organized by MEAI, Indian Comics Association, and Creators Street, powered by Epiko-con, and in collaboration with Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, TVAGA and Forbidden Verse, the event was a massive success, becoming a trending topic across cosplay communities and anime forums throughout the weekend.

Now, after an intensive nationwide hunt and a series of high-energy meetups across Hyderabad and Mumbai, the organizers have unveiled 29 of the most talented cosplayers who have earned their place on the final stage of the WAVES Cosplay Championship. These finalists will showcase their skills and creativity at Creatosphere during WAVES 2025.

Ajay Krishna, Founder of Forbidden Verse and one of the organizers for the Cosplay event, said that what makes this championship different from other such contests is that it is specially designed to shift the focus to Indian mythology and pop culture apart from the other popular characters that are portrayed regularly in other such events.

The next in line before the main championship at WAVES is the Mumbai Wildcard Meetup on 19th April. At this event, a select number of Wildcard Entries will be added to the finalists, bringing unexpected talent and raising the competition to an entirely new level. Prepare for a championship filled with surprises, intensity, and world-class cosplay!

Official Finalists:

1. KaizadSheshbaradaran – Mumbai
2. Puneeth V – Bengaluru
3. Shaikh Sameer Kalim – Latur
4. Tejal Sanjay Mulik – Mumbai
5. Anup Bhatia – Pune
6. Navdeep Singh Pannu – Mumbai
7. Akashi Gautam – Lucknow
8. Aditya Kalebere – Pune
9. Swaraj Kalebere – Pune
10. Shreeharsh Narwade – Pune
11. Vivek Dilip Mane – Pune
12. Esha Joshi – Mumbai
13. Kedar Pandit – Mumbai
14. ArshyDeori – Guwahati
15. Marshy Deori – Guwahati
16. Md Piyal Shaikh – Mumbai
17. Pranay Panpatil – Mumbai
18. Gaurav Vishwakarma – Pune
19. Akhil – Hyderabad
20. Staya – Hyderabad
21. Nupur Munda – Hyderabad
22. Nakshatra – Hyderabad
23. Ruchira Corolin – Hyderabad
24. Sonali – Hyderabad
25. Neeraj Kumar – Hyderabad
26. Sravani – Hyderabad
27. Akhil C.H. – Hyderabad
28. Nayana Sai Sree – Hyderabad
29. Leeladhar – Hyderabad

The finalists were selected based on their craftsmanship, originality, performance, and dedication to character authenticity.

 

About WAVES

The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit, a milestone event for the media & entertainment 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).

Have questions? Find answers here

Stay updated with the latest announcements from PIB Team WAVES

Come, Sail with us! Register for WAVES now

 

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Riyas Babu/ Darshana | 94

 

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