Month: May 2025

Source: Government of India

It’s an incredible time for India to be the content hub of the world, says Shraddha Kapoor

India is experiencing an unprecedented surge in content creation: Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram

WAVES 2025 discusses Trends and Virality in Fireside Chat

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:43PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 2 May 2025

“Today, anyone with a smartphone can be a content creator and producer”, said noted actress Shraddha Kapoor, highlighting the democratization of content through platforms like Instagram. Known for her authentic presence on social media, Shraddha emphasized India’s deep-rooted legacy of storytelling. “We’ve grown up on stories — it’s part of who we are,” she remarked.

She described the current moment as a golden era for Indian content creators: “It’s an incredible time for India to be the content hub of the world,” she flagged, pointing to the convergence of digital technology, affordable data, and a vibrant youth population. Narrating her story of success on social media, Shraddha further stressed the power of authenticity in content. “When content comes from the heart, it naturally connects with people. I always try to post authentic content rather than being strategic,” she asserted.

Shraddha also touched upon the ever-growing influence of India’s meme culture, and how platforms like Instagram, with its trending audios and hashtags, play a pivotal role in engaging the Gen Z audience. “It’s remarkable to see how quickly trends form and evolve, with each generation finding its unique voice,” she said.

Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, Meta offered a global perspective, sharing his insights on the rapid transformation of digital content creation in India. He pointed to the revolution in digital infrastructure, noting how the decreasing cost of data and the widespread availability of high-speed internet have opened new doors for content creators. “India is experiencing an unprecedented surge in content creation,” Mosseri said, acknowledging the pivotal role technology has played in transforming how Indians engage with the digital world.

He also delved into the rise of visual content, particularly Reels, which have become a dominant mode of expression on Instagram. “Visual content is inherently more engaging and impactful. Reels have empowered individuals to tell stories in shorter and impactful manner, offering a creative platform to connect with a global audience,” Mosseri explained.

The In Conversation session on “Enabling Creative Expression: How Gen Z Consumes Content” was not just a conversation; it was a celebration of India’s boundless creative potential and the transformative role technology plays in empowering the next generation of digital storytellers. As digital platforms continue to democratize content creation, the session illustrated how the confluence of culture, technology, and creativity is shaping the future of content consumption for Gen Z.

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ Swadhin/ Lekshmipriya/ CShekhar | 149

(Release ID: 2126220) Visitor Counter : 66

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:39PM by PIB Delhi

A High level meeting was held on 02^nd May 2025 at Chennai, between Shri Vikram Dev Dutt, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Coal, Government of India and Shri N. Muruganandam, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu, on enhancing energy security in the State of Tamil Nadu.

Other dignitaries present included Shri Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, CMD, NLC India Limited, Shri Sanjeev Kumar Kassi, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Coal, Shri Mukesh Choudhary, Director (Marketing), Coal India Limited and Shri. Dr. Alby John Varghese, IAS, Managing Director, Tamilnadu Power Generation Corporation Limited.

The deliberations focussed on the State’s projected power demand, availability of lignite & coal, and proactive measures required to meet peak load conditions during the summer and monsoon seasons. The issues of NLCIL related land acquisition, facilitation required for promoting of Overburden to M-Sand in Neyveli mines, Land acquisition of Lignite Mines, starting operations of Neyveli airport and formation of JV between TNGECL & NIRL were also discussed, on which State Government would extend the necessary support.

The proactive and progressive approach taken by the State in today’s meeting is expected to significantly mitigate supply-side challenges and ensure reliable, affordable, and sustainable power for Tamil Nadu and resolve the issues of NLCIL.

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(Release ID: 2126217) Visitor Counter : 80

Source: Government of India

WAVES Explores India’s Evolving Role in the Global Streaming and Film Economy

“For content to truly travel across borders, India must invest in studio infrastructure, production hubs, and technology-driven ecosystems”, says Shibasish Sarkar

While taking creative risks is essential, content portfolios must be balanced and structured: Ektaa Kapoor

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:29PM by PIB Mumbai

 

Mumbai | May 2, 2025

The breakout session on “India’s Evolving Role in the Global Film and Streaming Economy” held at Mumbai today brought together key voices shaping the future of media and content, including Shri Vikram Tanna, CEO, Eros Now and Mzaalo (Xfinite Global); Shri Shibasish Sarkar, President, Producers Guild of India; Smt. Ektaa R. Kapoor, Joint Managing Director, Balaji Telefilms; and Ms. Shalini Govil Pai, Vice President & General Manager, Android TV, Google.

Highlighting India’s deep-rooted tradition of storytelling, Shri Shibasish Sarkar spoke about the evolution of Indian cinema from a century ago to today’s dynamic streaming platforms. He stated that streaming has enabled Indian stories to find global audiences. However, for content to truly travel across borders, India must invest in infrastructure studios, production hubs, and technology-driven ecosystems. He also called for a focused, pan-India approach to institutional capital support.

Underlining that compelling storytelling lies at the heart of global success, Ms. Ektaa R. Kapoor emphasised that the more relatable and emotionally resonant a story is, the more likely it is to connect with international audiences. She said that emotions such as pain, passion, and hope are universal. She noted that while taking creative risks is essential, content portfolios must be balanced and structured to de-risk investments and ensure long-term viability in a competitive ecosystem.

Ms. Shalini Govil Pai stated that globalization is the most transformative trend in content today. She pointed out that technology has broken distribution barriers and made it easier to scale stories globally. Artificial Intelligence (AI), she added, is reshaping content creation by making production faster, more efficient, and data-driven. She urged Indian creators to leapfrog traditional methods and lead in the use of AI and technology to deliver stories that resonate across geographies. She noted that content discovery is becoming crucial, and the next wave of success will hinge on smart navigation, discoverability, and tech-led storytelling.

Observing that India’s digital-first audience behaviour requires a shift in storytelling formats, Shri Vikram Tanna said that with shorter attention spans and increased mobile consumption, content must evolve to be voice-driven, opinion-led, and immersive. He outlined three key drivers for success: redefining technology, crafting experience-led narratives, and building IPs that command loyal fandom. He identified Generative AI as a game-changing opportunity for creators and platforms alike, offering new ways to engage, monetise, and personalise storytelling.

The session concluded with a vision that India is well-positioned to become a global content powerhouse. With strategic investment in infrastructure, bold use of technology, and a commitment to authentic storytelling, India can lead the next phase of global media innovation.

 

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 Rajith/Navin Sreejith/Lekshmipriya/Cshekhar |148

(Release ID: 2126210) Visitor Counter : 18

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

　　The Government announced today (May 2) the extension of the Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme to include 12 additional medical institutions in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), with a view to offering more convenience for eligible Hong Kong elderly persons to use Elderly Health Care Vouchers (EHCVs) in the GBA. The number of pilot medical institutions under the Pilot Scheme will be significantly increased from the current seven to 19, covering all the nine Mainland cities in the GBA. Together with the two existing service points operated by the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH), a total of 21 service points in the GBA will be allowed to use EHCVs, benefitting more than 1.78 million eligible Hong Kong elderly persons.

　　All the 12 medical institutions newly included in the Pilot Scheme (see Annex for details) are Tier III Class A hospitals providing integrated healthcare services (including dental services). They are:
 

GBA city	Name of medical institution
Guangzhou	Guangdong Clifford Hospital
	Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine
Shenzhen (including the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Co-operation Zone)	Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University
	Peking University Shenzhen Hospital
Zhuhai	The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
	Zhuhai People’s Hospital
Foshan	The First People’s Hospital of Foshan
	The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University (Previously: Shunde Hospital of Southern Medical University)
Huizhou	Huizhou Central People’s Hospital
Zhongshan	Zhongshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Jiangmen	Jiangmen Central Hospital
Zhaoqing	The First People’s Hospital of Zhaoqing

　　The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, said, “The main purpose of implementing the Pilot Scheme is to offer more convenience and flexibility for eligible Hong Kong elderly persons by providing more service points for them to better use their EHCVs for primary healthcare services to improve their health. The service points of the Pilot Scheme are meticulously planned to extend to GBA cities that are not yet covered, namely Zhuhai, Foshan, Huizhou, Jiangmen and Zhaoqing, as well as to set up additional service points in the GBA cities that are already covered. The extension of the Pilot Scheme also includes Chinese medicine hospitals for the first time to provide eligible elderly persons with additional choices in healthcare services.

　　”I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Health Commission of Guangdong Province (GDHC) and the health authorities of relevant cities for providing us invaluable advice and tremendous help on selecting suitable medical institutions and the regulations relevant to the monitoring of healthcare quality and fee level, among others, during the implementation of the Pilot Scheme.”

　　The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address announced the extension of the Pilot Scheme to cover nine Mainland cities in the GBA last October. The Health Bureau (HHB) and the Department of Health (DH) have thereafter promptly taken forward the relevant work proactively, including seeking advice and recommendations from the GDHC, inviting medical institutions to briefing sessions, and conducting site visits.  

　　The service scope eligible for claims for the EHCVs at medical institutions under the Pilot Scheme will be largely the same. The arrangements for shared use of EHCVs between spouses and the EHCV Pilot Reward Scheme are also applicable. Moreover, eligible elderly persons have to register with eHealth. The “Cross-boundary Health Record” and “Personal Folder” functions of the eHealth mobile application will also be applicable to the medical institutions under the Pilot Scheme, with a view to offering convenience for Hong Kong citizens to self-carry their electronic health records for cross-boundary uses. 

　　To ensure the proper use of public money, the DH adopts a robust monitoring mechanism for checking and auditing EHCV claims, including routine checking, monitoring and investigating in respect of aberrant transactions, and investigations into complaints. In the monitoring issues and investigations of the Pilot Scheme, apart from the above measures, the DH has established a mechanism with the health authorities of the Mainland, through which the health authorities of the Mainland will provide assistance to the DH when necessary, with a view to enhancing its monitoring capabilities and ensuring the proper reimbursement of EHCV claims to the participating medical institutions under the Pilot Scheme. 

　　The HHB and the DH are working on the follow-up arrangements with various new pilot medical institutions, such as personnel training, financial arrangements and system configuration. It is expected that the new pilot medical institutions will gradually launch the relevant arrangements by the fourth quarter of this year.

　　Launched by the Government in 2009, the Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme (EHVS) currently subsidises eligible Hong Kong elderly persons aged 65 and above with an annual voucher amount of $2,000 (with the accumulation limit set at $8,000) for them to choose in their own community private primary healthcare services that best suit their health needs. The Government launched the Pilot Scheme last year to extend the coverage of EHCVs to suitable medical institutions in the GBA. As at September of the same year, the coverage of EHCVs has been extended to seven integrated medical/dental institutions located in Guangzhou, Zhongshan, Dongguan and Shenzhen. 

Members of the public may refer to the EHVS website (www.hcv.gov.hk) or call the hotline (2838 2311) for more information on EHVS.

Source: Government of India

TERRORISM POSES A PROFOUND GLOBAL CHALLENGE AND ALL DEMOCRATIC NATIONS WILL HAVE TO COME TOGETHER TO ELIMINATE IT: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF JAPAN H.E. MR. NUKAGA FUKUSHIRO STRONGLY CONDEMNS TERRORIST ATTACK IN PAHALGAM, ASSURES JAPAN’S FULL SUPPORT TO INDIA IN FIGHT AGAINST TERRORISM

IN THE CURRENT GLOBAL SCENARIO, FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN INDIA AND JAPAN IS ESSENTIAL FOR GLOBAL PEACE, PROSPERITY AND STABILITY: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

INDIA AND JAPAN ARE CLOSE ALLIES ON MULTILATERAL FORUMS LIKE QUAD, G20 AND INTERNATIONAL SOLAR ALLIANCE: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

SHRI BIRLA WELCOMES PROPOSAL TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES TO OVER 50,000 SKILLED MANPOWER OF INDIA IN VARIOUS SECTORS IN JAPAN

 JAPANESE PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION CALLS ON LOK SABHA SPEAKER AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE COMPLEX

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:29PM by PIB Delhi

 Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today asserted that all democratic nations—bound by a shared commitment to peace, security, and the rule of law – will have to come together to eradicate the menace of terrorism. He stressed that terrorism poses a profound global challenge that transcends national borders and threatens the very fabric of peaceful societies. He called for a collective and resolute response, grounded in mutual trust and respect for international norms, to effectively combat terrorism and uphold the values that define democratic societies.

Shri Birla made these observations during his meeting with Japanese Parliamentary Delegation led by the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Japan H.E. Mr. Nukaga Fukushiro at Parliament House complex today.

H.E. Mr. Nukaga Fukushiro strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and reaffirmed Japan’s steadfast support for India’s fight against terrorism. Shri Birla appreciated the leadership of Japan for expressing solidarity with India on the Pahalgam terrorist attack and emphasised that in the current global scenario, friendship between India and Japan is essential for global peace, prosperity and stability.

Referring to partnership between India and Japan in multilateral forums like QUAD, G20 and International Solar Alliance, Shri Birla said that we have common concerns and thoughts on regional and global issues. Our relations based on mutual understanding are extremely important for co-beneficial progress as well as for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, he further said. In the changing context, the friendship has now taken the form of strategic and global cooperation, he added.

Shri Birla noted that the friendship between India and Japan is based on civilisational contacts, shared heritage of Buddhism and shared commitment to democratic values. He also expressed happiness that every year a large number of Japanese tourists and pilgrims visit India to go to places related to Buddhism which promotes People to People Connect between the two countries.

Shri Birla also welcomed the Japanese proposal to provide opportunities to more than 50,000 skilled human resources of India in various sectors in Japan. He appreciated Japan for providing more opportunities to Indian students in the country. He also thanked Japan for its assurance of support in infrastructure development of India’s North East region.

Noting that last year, India completed the golden journey of 75 years of Constitution, Shri Birla mentioned that constitution has played an important role in India’s journey of progress and development. Under the guidance of the Constitution, the country has made large scale socio-economic changes after independence and has kept public welfare at top priority, he added.

Referring to legislations like ‘Disability Rights Act-2016’ and ‘The Transgender Persons Act, 2019’, Shri Birla opined that these laws have made a significant contribution in connecting the last person of the society to the mainstream. To increase the participation of women in our legislative process to build a modern, balanced and progressive society, ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’ has been passed which provides for reservation of seats for women in the Union and State Legislatures, he informed the Delegation.  He also informed that the Indian Parliament has increased the use of Digital Technology and AI to bring transparency in its functioning and make it accessible to the public and more efficient, which has yielded positive results. He expressed eagerness to share these experiences with the Parliament of Japan.

On this occasion, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh; Rajya Sabha MP Shri Sanjay Jha, Lok Sabha MPs Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab, Shri Deepender Singh Hooda and Ms. Kamaljeet Sehrawat  were present.

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(Release ID: 2126209) Visitor Counter : 44

Source: Government of India

India’s Science Push Enters High Gear: Dr. Jitendra Singh Bats for Industry-Led Innovation on DST’s 55th Foundation Day

India’s Science Strategy Shifts Focus: Innovation, Industry Collaboration, and Talent Retention in Spotlight

India Gross Expenditure in R&D (GERD) has doubled in last one decade from Rs 60,196 Cr. to 1,27,38 Cr.

‘Digitalisation of Mind’ Marking India’s Quiet Socio-Scientific Shift: Dr. Jitendra Singh

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:21PM by PIB Delhi

Marking the 55th Foundation Day of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), 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 outlined India’s evolving scientific landscape, emphasizing the need for increased industry involvement to the extent of industry led innovation, changes in approach and long-term innovation to position the country among leading global players.

Addressing a packed audience that included leading innovators, academicians, researchers and former Secretaries, Dr. Jitendra Singh traced the DST’s journey since its inception on May 3, 1971, crediting it with catalyzing India’s evolution into a science and technology powerhouse.

“The founding of DST mirrors the march of post-independence India in the field of science,” he said, highlighting how the department has bridged research and governance, turning vision into verifiable outcomes’.

The Minister hailed DST’s efforts in nurturing a nationwide research ecosystem, particularly through mission-mode programmes such as the National Supercomputing Mission, Cyber-Physical Systems, and the recent National Quantum Mission. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that DST’s interventions have not only advanced science but also driven grassroots development, with focused efforts on women, children, and marginalized communities.

The Minister spotlighted India’s rising global rankings as a measure of DST’s impact — from a dramatic leap in the Global Innovation Index (from 81st in 2015 to 39th in 2024), to securing the 3rd spot globally in start-up numbers, PhDs in science and engineering, and research publications. India is now also ranked 6th worldwide in intellectual property filings.

But the core of Dr. Jitendra Singh’s message was forward-looking: science must align with market forces. Advocating for “industry-determined innovation research,” he argued that sustainable innovation must be both driven and funded by private players. “In India, knowledge partnerships alone don’t work — industry must have skin in the game,” he quipped, underlining that private sector buy-in is essential for enduring scientific success.

He also highlighted the role of the newly formed statutory body, ANRF (Anusandhan National Research Foundation), as a transformative force aimed at democratizing research funding and boosting university participation. Two major schemes — the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation Fund and the National Geospatial Mission — are now housed under DST’s leadership.

Calling out a quiet revolution, Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed to the “digitalisation of mind” that has ignited India’s scientific temper, reshaped India’s socio-scientific fabric. “Even a semi-literate person today prefers WhatsApp over writing down a number — that’s the extent of behavioural change,” he said, stressing that the real transformation lies not only in numbers but in the rise of aspiration and confidence among ordinary Indians.

The Minister didn’t shy away from calling for a strategic return of talent from abroad, urging scientists to plan their overseas journeys with a return timeline. “India today has everything to offer. It’s time we built a reverse pipeline for global talent,” he said.

Concluding on a note of optimism, Dr. Jitendra Singh declared, “This is one of the best times for science and research in India — and the best is yet to come.” The Foundation Day celebrations saw participation from Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, DST Secretary Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Dr. Sharad Sharma of iSPIRT, and Adil Zainulbhai, Chairman, CBC reflecting a strong convergence of scientific, institutional, and industry leadership.

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(Release ID: 2126203) Visitor Counter : 74

Source: Government of India

WAVES 2025 discusses Accessibility in Media and Entertainment Sector: Experts Call for Inclusive Innovation and Policy Reform

Accessibility must be viewed not as a compliance checkbox but as a creative, ethical, and strategic imperative

India is not just catching up; in many ways, we are leading the conversation on inclusive design: Brij Kothari

We’re laying the groundwork for systemic change in how accessibility is implemented”: Christopher Patnoe, Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion, Google

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:20PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 2 May 2025

A thought-provoking panel discussion on “Accessibility Standards in the Media & Entertainment Sector” took center stage at WAVES 2025 today. The session brought together leading voices from academia, technology, policy, law, and journalism to explore how accessibility in content creation and distribution is evolving—and why it must be prioritized in India’s digital transformation journey.

Opening the session, Prof. Brij Kothari of IIT Delhi emphasized India’s leadership in redefining accessibility. “India is not just catching up; in many ways, we are leading the conversation on inclusive design,” he stated. He said that the scale, diversity and accessibility are no longer just a solution for the visually or hearing impaired—it’s a universal design philosophy that benefits over 1.4 billion citizens.

Christopher Patnoe, Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion for EMEA at Google, offered a global perspective, noting that while few countries like the U.S. have strong legislation, enforcement often falls short. He said that the European Accessibility Act is showing promise, and the next decade will be transformative. “We’re laying the groundwork now for systemic change in how accessibility is implemented”, he stated.

Ashay Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, CEO of Kintel, highlighted the creative dimensions of accessibility in media. “Content is shaped through the unique lens of its creator, especially in film. To make content truly accessible, we must preserve that creative perspective—not dilute it with generic, automated solutions,” he explained. He emphasized on translating the director’s vision meaningfully for all audiences, including those with disabilities.

Journalist Priti Salian spotlighted how technology and AI are accelerating accessibility efforts. “We’ve launched an AI-based channel featuring sign language interpreter avatars, and with advancements in audio description, what once took weeks now takes just 30 hours,” she said. She further stressed that technology alone isn’t enough as greater governmental support, public-private partnerships, and tendering mechanisms to scale accessible entertainment in India is required.

Rahul Bajaj, lawyer and advocate for inclusive content across platforms such as theatre, OTT, and television emphasized the need for stronger legal frameworks and industry collaboration.

Danish Mahajan, Founder of Radio Udaan called for stricter implementation of existing policies and increased representation of persons with disabilities in policymaking and regulatory bodies. “Representation ensures that accessibility isn’t an afterthought—it’s embedded in the system,” he noted.

Together, the panel underscored a collective call to action: accessibility must be viewed not as a compliance checkbox but as a creative, ethical, and strategic imperative. As India stands at the crossroads of a content revolution, accessibility will be key to unlocking its full potential for every citizen.

 

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ Swadhin/ Lekshmipriya/ CShekhar |147

(Release ID: 2126205) Visitor Counter : 34

Source: Government of India

The Art of Storytelling: Farhan Akhtar Shares His Journey at WAVES 2025

Farhan Akhtar reflects on storytelling, self-belief, and evolving with the craft

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:19PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 2 May 2025

 

Acclaimed filmmaker, actor and writer Farhan Akhtar took centre stage at WAVES 2025 in a masterclass titled “The Craft of Direction”, moderated by Gaurav Kapur. The session offered an intimate glimpse into Akhtar’s journey as a storyteller, exploring the evolution of cinema, the challenges of direction, and the need for authenticity in filmmaking.

Opening the conversation, Farhan called WAVES “a very empowering event” and reflected on his creative roots. When asked whether he preferred any particular facet of his multifaceted career from singing and acting to directing, he likened it to “choosing a favourite child,” acknowledging that while there may be a quiet preference, every role carries its own joy.

Revisiting the making of Dil Chahta Hai, a film that redefined contemporary Hindi cinema, Farhan said, “I wanted to write something real, about friendship, about people like us. You shouldn’t imitate others. Audiences can sense when something lacks integrity.” He credited honesty and empathy as essential traits for any writer, encouraging young creators to stay focused and embrace setbacks as part of the journey.”

The session was filled with anecdotes, from the difficulties of casting his debut film to the use of sync sound, which was a new experience for most of the actors in the film. “They were used to dubbing. Sync sound made them nervous,” he said, emphasizing the importance of adapting to new technology in filmmaking.

Talking about Lakshya, Farhan described the physical and emotional toll of shooting in Ladakh and the heartbreak of discovering technical issues post-filming. “We had to go back. But when we did, we got some of the most stunning shots,” he recalled, adding, “Everything happens for a reason.”

On Don, he shared how the idea came while listening to the original score on a train ride. The challenge was not remaking the film, but reimagining it. “What new meaning could I give to Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahi…? That was the real test.” He said he wrote the film with Shah Rukh Khan in mind, noting that he himself was a big fan of the original.

He spoke fondly of his father Javed Akhtar and sister Zoya Akhtar, both key sounding boards for his scripts. “My dad is the most brutal. He’ll just ask, ‘Why are you making this?’” When asked about his father’s favourites, Farhan mentioned Dil Chahta Hai and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara among others.

Recalling his transformation for Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, he said it was Milkha Singh’s spirit that inspired him. “Milkha ji wanted the story to tell the next generation to work hard and focus on skill. That energy pushed all of us.”

To a packed audience, Farhan’s advice was clear and resonant: “Don’t be a character in someone else’s story. Write your own. And never underestimate the value of discipline.”

The session ended with questions from the audience, rounding off an engaging, honest, and inspiring masterclass that celebrated not just cinema, but the courage it takes to carve one’s own path.

 

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ Lekshmipriya/ Poushali/ Nikhitha/ Darshana | 146

(Release ID: 2126204) Visitor Counter : 30

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:17PM by PIB Delhi

Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari PVSM AVSM VM took charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, IAF on 02 May 25.

The Air Marshal completed his schooling at Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) in Dehradun before joining the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasala, He passed out from NDA in Jun 1985 with the President’s Gold Medal. He was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in the Indian Air Force on 07 Jun 1986. The Air Marshal has over 3600 hours of flying experience on various types of aircraft. Besides being a Qualified Flying Instructor and an Experimental Test Pilot, the Air Marshal is a graduate of the Air Command and Staff College, USA. He has also served as Directing Staff at the IAF Test Pilots’ School and the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington. His extensive field experience encompasses operational testing of various weapons and systems, including a key role in operationalising the ‘Litening’ Laser Designation Pod during the Kargil Operations in 1999. He was actively involved in the flight testing of the LCA from 2006 to 2009 and later in 2018-19, wherein, as the Project Director (Flight Test) at the National Flight Test Centre, he was involved in the Final Operational Clearance of the aircraft. The Air Marshal served as the Air Attache at Paris from 2013 to 2016. He has also held appointment Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air HQ (VB).

Prior to assuming charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, he was the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief at South Western Air Command. In recognition of his distinguished service, the Air Marshal was awarded the Presidential Award of Param Vishisht Seva Medal in 2025, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2022, and Vayu Sena Medal in 2008.

He is married to Mrs. Richa Tiwari, a postgraduate in Cytology. The couple is blessed with two daughters.

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VK/JS/SM

(Release ID: 2126201) Visitor Counter : 21

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR, arrived at Port Victoria, Seychelles on 01 May 25, marking another important milestone in her ongoing operational deployment across the South-West Indian Ocean Region. The ship’s arrival follows the successful completion of an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance mission of Mauritius, undertaken in coordination with National Coast Guard Mauritius.

The ship was accorded a warm welcome and received by the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), the High Commissioner of India to Seychelles, and the Defence Adviser. The port call will feature a host of professional and cultural exchanges, including cross-deck visits involving multinational crew, and interactions with the CDF and senior officers of the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) and a joint Yoga session.

These engagements aim to reinforce longstanding defence ties and mutual trust between India and Seychelles while deepening the spirit of cooperation among regional maritime partners.

INS Sunayna, designated as IOS Sagar, has embarked a multinational crew comprising 44 naval personnel from 09 friendly foreign nations of the South-West Indian Ocean Region. The deployment exemplifies India’s commitment to fostering regional maritime cooperation and capacity-building in the spirit of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).

Earlier, the ship made port calls at Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Nacala (Mozambique), and Port Louis (Mauritius), engaging with local navies and maritime security stakeholders to train together, exchange best practices, and enhance interoperability and mutual understanding.

The ship is scheduled to depart Port Victoria on 02 May 25 for her final port of call, Male, Maldives, where she will continue her collaborative maritime security and regional outreach mission.

INS Sunayna, a state-of-the-art Saryu class NOPV is equipped with medium and close-range gunnery weapons and modern electronic warfare suites, including missile defence measures. She can also carry a helicopter, which enhances her operational and surveillance capability.

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VM/SKS                                                                                                        97/25

(Release ID: 2126198) Visitor Counter : 49