INS Sunayna, designated as Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR ship, entered the Port of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania on 12 Apr 25. The ship had sailed from Karwar, Goa, on 05 Apr with 44 naval personnel from nine Friendly Foreign Nations (FFNs) of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), embarked as part of the ship’s crew. The FFN include Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and South Africa.
IOS SAGAR was accorded a warm welcome by RAdm AR Hassan, Chief of Tanzania Navy, Rear Admiral Nirbhay Bapna, ACNS (FCI) and Commodore Agyapal Singh, Defence Attaché for Tanzania, alongside dignitaries from the Indian High Commission and Tanzania People Defence Force. During this port call, the ship will also participate in the harbour phase of Exercise AIKEYME, a key naval exercise which will be inaugurated by Hon’ble Minister of State for Defence Shri Sanjay Seth on 13 Apr 25. The exercise will focus on enhancing operational coordination, refining joint strategies and improving interoperability in maritime operations. Two of the Indian Navy ships, INS Chennai (Destroyer) and INS Kesari [Landing Ship Tank (Large)], will also be participating in the exercise alongside INS Sunayna.
The participation of personnel from FFNs onboard INS Sunayna further underscores the significance of this initiative in promoting global maritime cooperation. Through such exercises and engagements, the Indian Navy remains committed to advancing collective maritime security, fostering goodwill and ensuring the free and safe movement of shipping lanes in the region.
The ship will depart Dar-es-Salaam on 15 Apr 25 for next port of call, Nacala, Mozambique to continue with IOS SAGAR mission.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Opening remarks by SITI at Tech-Driven Industry and Economy Conference of InnoEX (English only) Ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning. It is my honour to welcome you to the Tech-Driven Industry and Economy Conference, the very first international exchange session at the 2025 InnoEX which opens officially just now.
I would like to first thank our close partners, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, for organising this event, with Mr Duncan Chiu, our legislative councillor representing the technology and innovation (I&T) sector of Hong Kong, as the moderator. My warm greetings also go to the esteemed speakers from different continents who join us today in Hong Kong and make this conference happen.
Today, we gather under the theme “Empowering Industry for a Connected Global Economy” a reminder of the transformative power of technology in shaping our future.
As we navigate an increasingly complex world, with the looming revival of unilateralism and protectionism, it is essential that we continue to harness innovation and embrace collaborative spirit to sustain the competitive edges of the tech-driven economies, while pushing the technological boundaries for the well-being of people.
The conference today serves as a timely platform for government officials, industry leaders and experts to engage in meaningful and constructive dialogue about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead simultaneously.
Hong Kong, the host city of the conference is an international hub of I&T centre. With the unwavering support of our motherland and unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong is leveraging our strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and diverse talent pool, driven by our five world’s top 100 universities, to drive progress. With internationally acclaimed research capabilities, a vibrant start-up ecosystem, and the dynamic flow of ideas, capital and entrepreneurship, Hong Kong is the ideal destination for innovators, investors and decision-makers like you.
In a short while, you will hear from distinguished speakers their unique insights and international perspectives. Together, we explore the emerging trends that drive I&T, shape economic landscape, and create more possibilities of the future.
The enlightening conference will certainly be amongst the many rewards awaiting you in InnoEX. So, please enjoy and I sincerely invite you to join us again next year. Thank you. Issued at HKT 11:56
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today paid homage to the martyrs of Jallianwala Bagh. He remarked that the coming generations will always remember their indomitable spirit.
He wrote in a post on X:
“We pay homage to the martyrs of Jallianwala Bagh. The coming generations will always remember their indomitable spirit. It was indeed a dark chapter in our nation’s history. Their sacrifice became a major turning point in India’s freedom struggle.”
We pay homage to the martyrs of Jallianwala Bagh. The coming generations will always remember their indomitable spirit. It was indeed a dark chapter in our nation’s history. Their sacrifice became a major turning point in India’s freedom struggle.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The Hospital Authority (HA) spokesperson today (April 13) announced that the HA will activate service demand surge special measures tomorrow (April 14) to cope with the service need and to alleviate pressure on Accident & Emergency Departments (A&Es) during the Easter holidays (April 18 to April 21). Eighteen general out-patient clinics (GOPCs) will provide public holiday services (see Table 1) in the period. Members of the public can make appointments through the telephone appointment system or the “Book GOPC” function in the “HA Go” mobile application.
The HA spokesperson reminds the public to stay vigilant to personal and environmental hygiene during the holidays to avoid spreading disease. Members of the public who develop respiratory symptoms should wear masks and seek medical advice promptly. Non-emergency patients should avoid using A&E services and instead seek treatment at GOPCs, private doctors or 24-hour outpatient services at private hospitals to reduce pressure on public hospital A&Es. Members of the public can visit the Health Bureau’s (HHB) Primary Care Directory (www.pcdirectory.gov.hk). The HHB has also collated information of private hospitals, healthcare facilities, family doctors and Chinese medicine clinics that will be in operation during the Easter holidays across all 18 districts. In collaboration with the Development Bureau’s Spatial Data Office and the Lands Department, the information (including addresses, phone numbers and operation hours) of the relevant hospitals and clinics have been uploaded to the online portal (www.map.gov.hk/gm/s/hhbclinic/all?lg=en) for public reference.
The HA will implement special refund arrangements in the A&Es again, starting from April 14, to provide stable patients with flexibility in choosing alternative medical institutions. Patients waiting for a doctor consultation at A&Es who choose to seek medical advice at other medical facilities can request a refund of their A&E fees directly from duty staff at the registration counter. “HA Go” members can also submit applications through the mobile application. This arrangement only applies to patients who have not yet been seen by a doctor and must be requested within 24 hours of registration. Eligible applicants will receive refunds via mailed cheque, credit card, or electronic wallet within approximately one month.
Additionally, the Chinese Medicine Clinics cum Training and Research Centres (CMCTRs) located in the 18 districts will enhance their services before and after the Easter holidays, with four CMCTRs providing services during the Easter holidays (see Table 2). Patients can make appointments either by phone during service hours or through the “18 CM Clinics” mobile app (applicable to patients who have registered for 18 CMCTRs service). The public can also visit the HA Chinese Medicine website (cmk.ha.org.hk/services/notice/easter-holidays-2025) for the latest information on Chinese Medicine services.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
According to the Environmental Protection Department (EPD)’s forecast, the health risk category of Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) at some air quality monitoring stations will reach the “Serious” level later today (April 13).
Under the influence of a dusty air stream associated with the northeast monsoon, the level of suspended particulates in background pollutants has been recorded higher than normal since 10pm last night (April 12). With the monsoon moderating gradually, winds in Hong Kong are expected to weaken and unfavorable to pollutant dispersion in the region, leading to increase in pollution levels. It is anticipated that the pollutant level will remain relatively high in the following one or two day(s). The EPD will keep in view the change in air quality, and release update on the latest situation in due course.
With a health risk category in the “Very High” range or above, children, the elderly and persons with existing heart or respiratory illnesses are advised to reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities to a minimum or avoid such activities. The general public is advised to reduce, or reduce to a minimum, outdoor physical exertion, and to reduce time outdoors, especially in areas with heavy traffic. As health effects of air pollutants may vary for individuals, persons who are in doubt or experience discomfort should seek advice from healthcare professionals. The public may visit the Centre for Health Protection’s website (www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/460/3557.html) for more information on health effects of air pollution and relevant health advice.
When the AQHI is at the “Very High” level, employers of outdoor workers performing heavy manual work are advised to assess the risk of outdoor work and take appropriate preventive measures to protect the health of their employees, such as reducing outdoor physical exertion and the time of their stay outdoors, especially in areas with heavy traffic. At the “Serious” level, employers of all outdoor workers are advised to assess the risk of outdoor work and take appropriate preventive measures to protect the health of their employees.
Members of the public can check the current AQHI readings at the EPD’s website (www.aqhi.gov.hk/en.html) or by calling the hotline 2827 8541.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Transport Department (TD) today (April 13) said that, following the dispersal of the concert spectators from Kai Tak Stadium of the Kai Tak Sports Park last night (April 12), the overall local and cross-boundary traffic conditions have mostly been smooth.
The MTR Tuen Ma Line service has been further enhanced during dispersal, which basically met the passenger demand. In response to the passenger queue for taxi service at the Sung Wong Toi Road Taxi Pick-up/Drop-off Area during the peak period, the TD has made all-out efforts to mobilise the taxi trade for picking up passengers and the passenger queue has dissipated. Further, the 11 special bus routes provided services for the outflux of spectators departing for major districts across the territory in an orderly manner.
In addition, the railway, special bus route, Lok Ma Chau-Huanggang cross-boundary shuttle bus (Yellow Bus), Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge shuttle bus (Gold Bus) and cross-boundary coach services have mostly been normal, providing convenience for cross-boundary travellers.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses 75th Foundation Day celebration of the Gujarati weekly ‘Chitralekha’ in Mumbai The journey of ‘Chitralekha’ over the last 75 years is a reflection of Gujarat’s literature, society, life and the problems of Gujarat and the country
When there is purity of purpose than mere consideration of profit, dedication towards literature and a desire to solve the problems of society, only then one can connect with the readers
An awakened weekly has a deep impact on our society and life
During many movements in Gujarat, when the society was falling apart, ‘Chitralekha’ took the torch in its hands to keep the society united
Gujarati literature’s magazines and newspapers played a big role in the building of the country
Nagin Das, Tarak Mehta and Gunwant Shah became popular from the platform of ‘Chitralekha’, the President honoured all three with Padma awards
Posted On: 12 APR 2025 9:31PM by PIB Delhi
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today addressed the 75th Foundation Day celebration of the Gujarati weekly ‘Chitralekha’ in Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra. On this occasion, several distinguished dignitaries were present, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal, and State Deputy Chief Minister Shri Eknath Shinde among others.
While addressing the event, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that the 75-year journey of ‘Chitralekha’ has been a mirror of Gujarati literature, society, lifestyle, and the issues faced by Gujarat and the nation. He said that in my life so far, I have changed three houses, the furniture in those houses, even the addresses — but ‘Chitralekha’ has continued to arrive faithfully at all three homes.
Shri Amit Shah said that the way ‘Chitralekha’ has maintained its connection with the readers is rarely seen. This is possible only when there is purity of purpose than mere consideration of profit, dedication towards literature and the desire to solve the problems of the society. He said that ever since I learned to read, I have been reading ‘Chitralekha’. He shared sometimes while reading Harkishan Mehta’s novel, sometimes Tarak Mehta’s Ulta Chashma and sometimes while reading the cartoon published on the front page, I did not know when I started getting the urge to read the issues of the society and try to find their solution.
Union Home Minister said that an awakened weekly impacts our society and life in many ways. In the English speaking era when it was difficult to keep Gujarati literature alive, Vajubhai founded ‘Chitralekha’. Today, there is a greater need than ever to fearlessly represent all the problems of the society and not only question the problem but also to give suggestions for its solution. He said that at the time of Anamat movement in Gujarat, the society was disintegrating, but at that time ‘Chitralekha’ had taken the torch in its hands to keep the society united. It is because of its fact-based efforts of 75 years that ‘Chitralekha’ has gained credibility.
Shri Amit Shah said that literature cannot progress without the support of society. Literature is the need of society. Gujarati literature magazines have played a very important role in the development of the country. Gujarati Sahitya Parishad started a magazine named ‘Budhi Prakash’ in 1855. At that time, everyone started a front against customs with the inspiration of ‘Budhi Prakash’. In the year 1876, Nanalal started ‘Satya Vihar’ and spread amazing awareness in the society. Mahatma Gandhi started ‘Navjeevan’ in 1919 and worked to serve the bitterest truth to the people. In the year 1950, after India gained independence, ‘Chitralekha’ was launched, and since then, it has played a significant role in presenting both societal issues and literature with great precision and clarity to the people.
Union Home Minister said that a successful effort was made to keep the society united through the novels published in ‘Chitralekha’. This inspired the youth studying Gujarati to study. He said, very few of you would have met Tarak Mehta in person. Even the saddest person in the world cannot stay without laughing if he goes to meet him. Spontaneous humor was a gift from God to him. He ran ‘Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’ from the same chawl for years. Those who watch the serial would find it very beautiful, but those who have read Tarak Mehta would understand what these people have done to the Tarak Mehta series. He used to make entire Gujarat forget all its sorrows in four pages.
Shri Amit Shah said that ‘Chitralekha’ gave many such special issues which can never be forgotten. Its Narmada Yojana special issue had shaken the whole of Gujarat. He said that no one would have given such an accurate and true presentation of the 26/11 terrorist attack on Mumbai as ‘Chitralekha’ did. It gave such a presentation that widespread awareness spread about the problem of terrorism.
Union Home Minister said that ‘Chitralekha’ also published three special issues on the issue of Ram Mandir. He said that he has been a supporter of Ram Mandir since childhood, fought for it and even went to jail, but no one has presented it as beautifully as ‘Chitralekha’. He said that Nagin Das, Tarak Mehta and Gunwant Shah became popular from the platform of ‘Chitralekha’ and finally the President of India honoured them with the Padma Award. Hardly any magazine in the country has produced three writers honoured with the Padma Award.
In view of the communal violence reported in Murshidabad district in West Bengal, the Union Home Secretary held a video conference with Chief Secretary and DGP of West Bengal today. The DGP, West Bengal briefed that the situation was tense but under control and was being monitored closely. DGP further stated that he is taking the assistance of BSF posted locally, and that more than 150 persons have been arrested.
The Union Home Secretary stated that apart from nearly 300 BSF personnel locally available in Murshidabad, additional 5 Companies have been deployed at the request of the State Government.
The Union Home Secretary advised the State administration to keep a close watch on other sensitive districts also, and to put in place adequate steps to ensure normalcy at the earliest. Union Home Secretary stated that the Centre is also closely monitoring the situation and assured the State all possible assistance including deployment of additional manpower, if necessary.