Create in India Challenge Season 1: Shaping India’s Creative Future WAVES 2025 honours winners of 32 creative challenges under Create in India Challenge; over 750 finalists from 60+ countries converge to celebrate innovation and talent
“The journey has just begun, and we are committed to empowering India’s creative minds with initiatives like the Indian Institute of Creative Technology:” Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
“This platform is a beautiful example of how young minds are fusing creativity with technology:” MoS Dr. L. Murugan
Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 8:08PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, 2 May 2025
The much-anticipated Create in India Challenge (CIC) Season 1, an initiative that has captured the imagination of creators across the globe, culminated in a spectacular ceremony at WAVES 2025, marking a significant milestone for India’s creative landscape. This monumental event honoured the winners of 32 distinct challenges, spanning every domain of the media and entertainment industry, from animation, gaming, and filmmaking to AI, music, and digital art.
Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw addressed the young creators and visionaries, calling this a historic moment. “For the first time, an award is being given purely for creativity. This journey has only just begun. With this initiative, you are stepping into a world of new opportunities. We are also launching the Indian Institute of Creative Technology like an IIT, but for training in creativity, to build a strong foundation for innovation and expression.”
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, congratulated the participants, highlighting the dynamic energy and technological prowess of the youth. “Best wishes to all of you. This platform is a beautiful example of how young minds are fusing creativity with technology. It also reflects the strength of Nari Shakti and the future of Indian content creation,” he remarked.
Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju, reflected on CIC’s evolution. “When we began in August, there were 25 challenges across the M&E spectrum. After Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi spoke about CIC in Mann Ki Baat in September, the participation surged. The number of challenges grew to 32. We received nearly one lakh registration. Today, 750 finalists are here and each of them is a winner,” said Shri Jaju.
The Create in India Challenge (CIC) was launched to provide a global platform for emerging talent and to showcase the vibrant creativity of young minds. The challenges spanned a wide range of categories, giving creators the opportunity to explore and push boundaries across various forms of media. From the Anime Challenge to the AI Film Making Competition, XR Creator Hackathon, each category encouraged innovative expression, bringing together creators, technologists, and storytellers from around the world.
CIC has garnered significant attention, both domestically and internationally. With entries pouring in from over 60 countries, including more than 1,100 international participants, CIC has proven to be a global success. The response underlined the ever-growing demand for opportunities to engage with creative technologies and develop new forms of media that are both innovative and influential.
The prestigious awards were presented by a stellar lineup of industry legends, including Aamir Khan, Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, Akkineni Nagarjuna, Vikrant Massey, Prasoon Joshi, and Aroon Purie, alongside other dignitaries and officials.
The 32 challenges were conducted in collaboration with leading industry bodies, allowing the CIC to reach its full potential by bringing together a wide array of creative disciplines, technology-driven projects, and future-ready content.
This initiative served as a launchpad for the next generation of creators who are redefining India’s position in the global entertainment and technology ecosystem. It stands as a testament to the importance of fostering homegrown talent and celebrating innovative content creation across various media formats.
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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/Lekshmipriya/Nikhitha/ Darshana | 152
“Stories that touch hearts Around the World” – WAVES 2025 propels a global Dialogue on the Future of Storytelling Streaming, Cinema and Literature intersect at WAVES 2025
Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 7:40PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, 2 May 2025
The second day of the maiden WAVES 2025 Summit featured an exceptional lineup of speakers in the Panel discussion on “Stories that touch hearts around the World”: Kaitlin Yarnall, Chief Storytelling Officer at National Geographic Society; Justin Warbrooke, EVP and Head of Corporate Development at The Walt Disney Company; Kelly Day, Vice President of International at Amazon Prime Video; Phil Hardman, Executive Vice President & General Manager of BBC Studios Asia; Rajkumar Hirani, one of India’s most celebrated film directors; and Amish Tripathi, bestselling author and diplomat, serving as the moderator.
This session brought together visionary leaders and master storytellers from across the global media, entertainment, and literary landscapes to explore the transformative power of storytelling. From streaming platforms and broadcasting giants to cinema and literature, the panelists shared insights into how compelling narratives can transcend borders, shape cultures, and connect people worldwide. The discussion highlighted the strategic, creative, and emotional forces that drive global storytelling and its profound impact on perceptions, cultures, and social change.
Kaitlin Yarnall (National Geographic) leads the strategic vision for creating powerful narratives that intertwine science, exploration, and visual storytelling to engage audiences worldwide. In the discussion, she emphasized the importance of authenticity and excellence in storytelling, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities involved in crafting content that truly resonates.
Justin Warbrooke (Walt Disney) highlighted the Indian market as a top priority describing it as the world’s most populous and one of the fastest-growing media and entertainment markets. He also spoke about Disney’s collaborations with Indian companies, emphasizing how such partnerships are helping to bridge cultures and bring global audiences closer together through storytelling.
Kelly Day (Amazon Prime Video) oversees global expansion and content strategy, working to bring diverse and locally resonant stories to audiences across continents. When asked how the platform determines which stories succeed financially in domestic and international markets, she clarified that there’s no set algorithm—success is rooted in strong storytelling, understanding local audiences, and choosing the right formats and genres.
Phil Hardman (BBC Studio, Asia) leads the delivery of premium British content tailored for Asian audiences. He spoke about the enduring power of quality content, emphasizing the BBC’s core mission to educate and inform. He noted that their focus remains firmly on finding and sharing meaningful stories that align with that mission.
Rajkumar Hirani, one of India’s most acclaimed film directors, Rajkumar Hirani is known for creating emotionally powerful and socially impactful films that resonate with audiences both in India and around the world. In the discussion, he highlighted that storytelling is inherently subjective—what resonates varies from person to person. He also shared his optimism about the potential of AI, calling it a valuable tool for filmmakers to enhance creativity and storytelling.
Amish Tripathi, bestselling author and diplomat brings a unique fusion of mythological narrative and cultural depth to his storytelling. As moderator, he expertly guided the panel discussion, bridging diverse perspectives and emphasizing the universal power of stories to connect people across borders.
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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/Aparajita/ Darshana | 151
States and UTs Conclude Day-2 of NAM Conclave with Renewed Push for Public Health Delivery Experiential knowledge exchange and constructive deliberations inspire fresh momentum in Ayush quality standards, regulation, and investment
Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 6:26PM by PIB Mumbai
Pune/Mumbai, 2 May 2025
LONAVALA, MAHARASHTRA – Day-2 of the second edition of National Ayush Mission (NAM) Conclave 2025, being held at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala, featured comprehensive discussions on enhancing quality services under Ayush facilities, strengthening regulatory mechanisms, and exploring investment opportunities in the Ayush sector.
The day began with Session IV on “Quality Services Under Ayush Facilities Including Medicinal Plants,” coordinated by Dr. A. Raghu, DDG (Ayush), Ayush Vertical DGHS. The session highlighted the implementation of Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) for Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) and Ayush hospitals, with states expected to achieve 30% compliance by June 2026, 40% by 2028, and 50% by 2029.
Dr. Mahesh Kumar Dadhich, CEO of the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), outlined the vital role of medicinal plants in conservation, biodiversity, and climate change mitigation under the “Central Sector Scheme for Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants.”
Dr. Saketh Ram Thrigulla presented on the Ayush Grid initiative, a dedicated Digital Health Platform that aims to transform operational efficiency and service delivery in the Ayush sector. Representatives from Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Manipur, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands shared their respective best practices and innovations in Ayush healthcare delivery.
Session V focused on “Regulatory Mechanism with Respect to Quality Assurance of Ayush Medicines and Monitoring of Misleading Advertisements,” coordinated by Dr. Raman Kaushik. The session addressed the challenges in uniformly implementing regulatory provisions across states and the need for strengthened coordination between central and state authorities. Dr. Galib from AIIA, Delhi, discussed strategies for monitoring misleading advertisements through the Pharmacovigilance program. Representatives from Gujarat, Assam, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu presented their best practices in regulatory compliance and quality assurance.
The final session of the day explored “Investment Opportunities in Ayush Sector,” coordinated by Shri Indroneel Das from Invest India. Dr. Suruchi Mittar, Sr. Vice-President & CIO, Invest India, highlighted the sector’s remarkable growth from USD 2.85 billion in 2014 to USD 23 billion by 2023 in manufacturing, with an ambitious target of USD 200 billion by 2030.
Highlights of the Day-1
The NAM Conclave 2025 commenced on May 1 with the participation of several State and UT Ministers, including Dr. Prem Chand Bairwa, Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan; Dr. Dayashankar Mishra ‘Dayalu’ from Uttar Pradesh; Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal from Chhattisgarh; Shri Yadvinder Goma from Himachal Pradesh; Smt. Pi Lalrinpuii from Mizoram; and Shri G.T. Dhungel from Sikkim.
In his inaugural address, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, highlighted that the number of beneficiaries of Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) has risen dramatically from 1.5 crore in 2021 to more than 11.5 crore in 2025. Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, noted that the NAM budget has increased from ₹78 crore in 2014 to ₹1275 crore in 2025-26.
Dr. Dayashankar Mishra from Uttar Pradesh reported that the state currently has 3,959 operational Ayush hospitals with varying bed capacities. Shri Prem Chand Bairwa mentioned that Rajasthan is preparing a comprehensive Ayush policy for integrated growth of all Ayush systems, while Shri Yadvinder Goma highlighted Himachal Pradesh’s integrated model combining traditional knowledge with modern technology.
Dr. Atul Mohan Kocchar, CEO of NABH, emphasized the importance of accreditation in enhancing trust and regulatory compliance in Ayush facilities. The session also featured insights from specialized institutions like the National Homoeopathy Research Institute in Mental Health (NHRIMH) and the Institute of Applied Dermatology (IAD). Representatives from Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Tripura, and Maharashtra shared their initiatives to attract investments in the Ayush sector.
Ms. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, shared additional key achievements: “5.6 crore beneficiaries have availed services at Ayush tertiary care institutions. NABH entry-level certification for 1,372 Ayush Health and Wellness Centres, and the establishment of 189 Integrated Ayush Hospitals reflect our commitment to quality and accessibility.”
A key highlight of Day-1 was the release of Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) on Metabolic Disorders in Ayush Systems of Medicine, covering five major metabolic disorders—Diabetes Mellitus, Obesity, Gout, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), and Dyslipidemia.
The conclave continues to serve as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, policy discussions, and collaborative planning to further strengthen the Ayush healthcare system across India.
About National Ayush Mission
The National Ayush Mission (NAM), launched in 2014, plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting India’s traditional systems of medicine and their integration into the mainstream healthcare system. It aims to enhance the availability, accessibility, and quality of Ayush healthcare services across the country through Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) as part of the Government of India’s Ayushman Bharat scheme.
The outstanding balance of ‘7.72% GS 2025’ is repayable at par on May 23,2025(May 24 and 25, 2025 being Non-working Saturday and Sunday respectively). No interest will accrue thereon from the said date. In the event of a holiday being declared on repayment day by any State Government under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, the Loan/s will be repaid by the paying offices in that State on the previous working day.
As per sub-regulations 24(2) and 24(3) of Government Securities Regulations, 2007 payment of maturity proceeds to the registered holder of Government Security held in the form of Subsidiary General Ledger or Constituent Subsidiary General Ledger account or Stock Certificate, shall be made by a pay order incorporating the relevant particulars of his bank account or by credit to the account of the holder in any bank having facility of receipt of funds through electronic means. For the purpose of making payment in respect of the securities, the original subscriber or the subsequent holders of such Government Securities, shall submit the relevant particulars of their bank account well in advance.
However, in the absence of relevant particulars of bank account / mandate for receipt of funds through electronic means, to facilitate repayment of the loan on the due date, holders may tender the securities, duly discharged, at the Public Debt Offices, Treasuries/Sub-Treasuries and branches of State Bank of India (at which they are enfaced / registered for payment of interest)20 days in advance of the due date for repayment.
The details of the procedure for receiving the discharge value may be obtained from any of the aforesaid paying offices.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works worth over Rs 58,000 crore in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh The development works launched today will strengthen infrastructure and accelerate the growth of Andhra Pradesh: PM
Amaravati is a land where tradition and progress go hand in hand: PM
NTR Garu envisioned a developed Andhra Pradesh, Together, we have to make Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, the growth engine of developed India: PM
India is now among the countries where infrastructure is rapidly modernising: PM
Viksit Bharat will be built on four pillars – poor, farmers, youth and Women power: PM
The Navdurga Testing Range to be built in Nagayalanka will strengthen the country’s defense power just like Maa Durga, I congratulate the country’s scientists and the people of Andhra Pradesh for this: PM
Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 6:44PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated, laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth over Rs 58,000 crore in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh today. The Prime Minister expressed that standing on the sacred land of Amaravati, he does not see just a city but a dream coming true—a new Amaravati, a new Andhra. “Amaravati is a land where tradition and progress go hand in hand, embracing both the peace of its Buddhist heritage and the energy of building a developed India”, remarked the Prime Minister. He added that today, foundation stones and inaugurations have been laid for projects, and these projects are not just about concrete structures but the strong foundation of Andhra Pradesh’s aspirations and India’s vision for development. Prime Minister Modi extended his greetings to the people of Andhra Pradesh, offering prayers to Bhagwan Veerabhadra, Bhagwan Amaralingeshwara, and Tirupati Balaji. He also conveyed his best wishes to Chief Minister Shri Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Shri Pawan Kalyan.
Remarking that Indra Lok’s capital was once called Amaravati, and now Amaravati is the capital of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Modi emphasized that this is not a mere coincidence but a positive sign for the creation of ‘Swarna Andhra’, which will strengthen India’s path toward development. The Prime Minister highlighted that Amaravati will energize the vision of ‘Swarna Andhra’, making it a center for progress and transformation. “Amaravati is not just a city, it is a force, it is the strength that will transform Andhra Pradesh into a modern state and a power that will transform Andhra Pradesh to an advanced state”, stated Shri Modi in Telugu.
Envisioning Amaravati as a city where the dreams of Andhra Pradesh’s youth will come true, the Prime Minister highlighted that in the coming years, Amaravati will emerge as a leading city in Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Green Energy, Clean Industry, Education, and Healthcare. The Prime Minister remarked that the Central Government is fully supporting the State Government in rapidly developing the necessary infrastructure to accelerate growth across these sectors.
Shri Modi lauded Shri Chandrababu Naidu’s acumen for envisioning future tech on a large scale and implementing it swiftly. He recalled that in 2015, he had the privilege of laying the foundation stone for Praja Rajadhani, emphasising that over the years, the Central Government has extended comprehensive support for Amaravati’s development, ensuring all necessary steps for basic infrastructure. He remarked that with Shri Naidu’s leadership, the new state government has accelerated development efforts. He highlighted that key institutions, including the High Court, Assembly, Secretariat, and Raj Bhavan, are now being prioritized for construction.
“NTR Garu envisioned a developed Andhra Pradesh”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, urging collective efforts to make Amaravati and Andhra Pradesh the growth engine of a developed India, reaffirming the commitment to fulfilling NTR Garu’s dream. Addressing the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, the Prime Minister said in Telugu that it is our responsibility and something we must achieve together.
Emphasising that over the past 10 years, India has focused extensively on physical, digital, and social infrastructure, Shri Modi highlighted that India is now among the fastest-modernizing infrastructure nations in the world, and Andhra Pradesh is benefiting significantly from this progress. He noted that thousands of crores worth of road and rail projects have been allocated to Andhra Pradesh, accelerating its development. “Andhra Pradesh is witnessing a new era of connectivity, which will enhance district-to-district links and improve connectivity with neighboring states”, he stated, stressing that farmers will find it easier to access larger markets, and industries will benefit from improved logistical efficiency. Shri Modi also highlighted that the tourism and pilgrimage sectors will also gain momentum, making key religious sites more accessible. He cited the Renigunta-Naidupeta Highway as an example, stating that it will significantly ease access to Tirupati Balaji shrine, allowing devotees to visit Lord Venkateswara Swami in much less time.
Prime Minister emphasized that countries that have rapidly developed have given immense importance to their railway networks. He highlighted that the past decade has been a transformational period for Indian Railways, with the Government of India allocating record funds for railway development in Andhra Pradesh. The Prime Minister pointed out that between 2009 and 2014, the combined railway budget for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana was less than ₹900 crore, whereas today, Andhra Pradesh alone has a railway budget exceeding ₹9,000 crore, marking an increase of more than tenfold. “With the enhanced railway budget, Andhra Pradesh has achieved 100% railway electrification”, stated the Prime Minister, noting that the state now operates eight pairs of modern Vande Bharat trains, along with the Amrit Bharat train, which passes through Andhra Pradesh. He further highlighted that over the past 10 years, more than 750 rail flyovers and underpasses have been constructed across the state. Additionally, the Prime Minister stated that over 70 railway stations in Andhra Pradesh are being modernized under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, ensuring world-class infrastructure for passengers.
Underscoring the multiplier effect of infrastructure development, highlighting its direct impact on the manufacturing sector, Shri Modi noted that raw materials such as cement, steel, and transportation services benefit significantly from large-scale infrastructure projects, strengthening multiple industries. He stressed that infrastructure development directly benefits India’s youth, creating more employment opportunities. He remarked that thousands of young people in Andhra Pradesh are gaining new job prospects through these ongoing infrastructure projects.
“The foundation of a developed India rests on four key pillars—the poor, farmers, youth, and women empowerment”, the Prime Minister reiterated his statement from his address at Red Fort. He emphasised that these pillars remain central to their government’s policies, with special priority given to farmers’ welfare. He highlighted that to reduce the financial burden on farmers, the Government of India has spent nearly ₹12 lakh crore over the past 10 years to provide affordable fertilizers. He remarked that thousands of new and advanced seed varieties have been distributed to farmers, boosting agricultural productivity. The PM said that under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, farmers in Andhra Pradesh have received claim settlements worth ₹5,500 crore. Additionally, under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, more than ₹17,500 crore has been directly transferred to the accounts of lakhs of farmers in Andhra Pradesh, ensuring financial support for their livelihoods, he added.
Emphasising that India is rapidly expanding irrigation projects across the country, along with launching river-linking initiatives to ensure water reaches every farm and farmers do not face water shortages, Shri Modi underlined that with the formation of the new state government, the Polavaram Project has gained fresh momentum. He stated that millions of people in Andhra Pradesh will see their lives transformed by this project. He reaffirmed that their government is fully supporting the state government to accelerate the completion of the Polavaram Project.
Underlining Andhra Pradesh’s pivotal role in establishing India as a space power over the decades, the Prime Minister said that every mission launched from Sriharikota fills millions of Indians with pride, inspiring the country’s youth toward space exploration. He announced a major development in India’s defense sector, stating that a new defense institution has been established. He also mentioned that the foundation stone has been laid for DRDO’s new missile testing range. The Prime Minister emphasized that the Nava Durga Testing Range in Nagayalanka will serve as a force multiplier for India’s defense capabilities, drawing strength from Maa Durga’s divine power. He extended his congratulations to the nation’s scientists and the people of Andhra Pradesh for this landmark achievement.
“India’s strength lies not just in its weaponry but in its unity”, said the Prime Minister, highlighting that this spirit of unity is further reinforced through Ekta Malls, which are being set up in cities across the country. He announced that Visakhapatnam will soon have its own Ekta Mall, where artisans and craftsmen from across India will have their products showcased under one roof. He noted that these malls will connect people with India’s rich diversity, while boosting the local economy and strengthening the “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” vision.
The Prime Minister announced that this year’s International Day of Yoga (21st June) marking the 10th edition will be celebrated at Andhra Pradesh and he would also attend it. He urged the people to undertake more activities on Yoga in the next 50 days and set a world record. Remarking that Andhra Pradesh neither has shortage of dreamers nor achievers, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the state is on the right path and has picked up the right speed for growth. He urged for sustained momentum in accelerating Andhra Pradesh’s progress and concluded by reassuring his unwavering support, stating that he will stand shoulder to shoulder with them.
The Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Syed Abdul Nazeer, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, Union Cabinet Ministers were present among other dignitaries at the event.
Background
In line with his commitment to ensure world-class infrastructure and connectivity across the country, Prime Minister inaugurated 7 National Highway projects in Andhra Pradesh. These Projects include widening of various sections of National Highways, construction of Road over bridge and subway among others. These projects will further enhance road safety; create employment opportunities; provide seamless connectivity to religious and tourist places like Tirupati, Srikalahasti, Malakonda and Udayagiri Fort among others.
Prime Minister also dedicated to the nation railway projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting capacity. These projects are doubling of the rail line between Bugganapalle Cement Nagar and Panyam stations, enhancing connectivity between Rayalaseema and Amaravati and construction of a third rail line between New West Block Hut Cabin and Vijayawada stations.
Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of 6 National Highway projects and one Railway project. These Projects include widening of various sections of National highways; construction of elevated corridor, half clover leaf and Road over bridge among others. These projects will improve connectivity, inter-state travel, reduce congestion and improve overall logistics efficiency. Construction of Rail over Rail between Guntakal West and Mallappa gate stations aims to bypass freight trains and reduce congestion at the Guntakal Junction.
Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for multiple infrastructure projects that include the Legislative Assembly, High Court, Secretariat, other administrative buildings and housing buildings for over 5,200 families, worth over Rs 11,240 crore. It will also include trunk infrastructure and flood mitigation projects featuring a 320 km world-class transport network with underground utilities and advanced flood management systems, worth over Rs 17,400 crore. The Land Pooling Scheme Infrastructure projects will cover 1,281 km of roads equipped with central medians, cycle tracks, and integrated utilities across the capital city of Amaravati, worth over Rs 20,400 crore.
Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of Missile Test Range at Nagayalanka in Andhra Pradesh worth around Rs 1,460 Crore. It will comprise a launch center, technical instrumentation facilities, Indigenous Radars, Telemetry and Electro-Optical systems enhancing the country’s defence preparedness.
Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of PM Ekta Mall at Madhurawada in Visakhapatnam. It has been envisioned with the objective of fostering national integration, supporting the Make in India initiative, promoting One District One Product, generating employment opportunities, empowering rural artisans, and enhancing the market presence of indigenous products.
A meeting was held under the chairmanship of Home Secretary, Government of India at New Delhi today to discuss the issue of implementation of decision of Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) for release of extra 4500 cusecs of water to Haryana for 08 days for meeting urgent water needs of Haryana and some parts of Rajasthan. The meeting was attended by senior officers of Government of India, the partner states of BBMB viz. Punjab, Rajasthan and Haryana and BBMB.
The matter was discussed/deliberated and it was advised to carry out the decision of BBMB to release 4500 cusecs of extra water from Bhakra Dams to Haryana for next 08 days to meet their urgent water requirements. It was also agreed that during the filling period of Dams, BBMB will provide this excess water to Punjab to fulfil their any additional requirements. The BBMB will immediately convene a meeting of the Board to work out the modalities of implementing the release of extra water to Haryana.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
CHP investigates two food poisoning clusters A preliminary investigation by the CHP revealed that the affected persons had consumed common food, including marinated goose and smoked goose. Staff of the CHP and the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) and Environmental Hygiene Branch of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department have conducted an investigation at the restaurant, examined the cooking process and food hygiene, and taken food and environmental samples for testing. The investigation of the CHP and CFS is ongoing. Issued at HKT 20:50
India and Denmark signs renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today. India and Denmark Strengthen Energy Sector Cooperation Through Renewed Partnership
The renewed MoU supports India’s ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070
Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 6:08PM by PIB Delhi
India and Denmark have reinforced their long-standing energy cooperation by signing a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today.
The MoU was signed by Shri Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power, Government of India, and H.E. Mr. Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen, Ambassador of Denmark to India, in the presence of Shri Manohar Lal, Hon’ble Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs. This agreement reflects both countries’ continued commitment to accelerating clean energy transitions.
The renewed MoU supports India’s ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. It aims to foster knowledge exchange and technological collaboration between the two countries, particularly in the area of clean and sustainable energy solutions. This agreement follows five years of successful collaboration under the original MoU, signed on June 5, 2020, and initially set to expire on June 5, 2025. The proactive renewal ensures continuity in dialogue and cooperation, allowing for a seamless extension of joint efforts in energy sector development.
The renewed agreement broadens the partnership to cover advanced areas such as power system modeling, integration of variable renewable energy, cross-border electricity trading, and development of EV charging infrastructure. It also emphasizes increased knowledge exchange through expert interactions, joint training sessions, and study tours. Shri Manohar Lal, Hon’ble Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs said that the renewed energy cooperation expresses the mutual commitment of India and Denmark to foster sustainable development.
Pan-Indian Cinema is Not a Myth; Film Industry Veterans Emphasize Unity in Indian Cinema Anupam Kher Highlights Shifting Cinema Consumption Trends Post-COVID
When you honour our shared heritage, our songs, our stories, our soil, your film becomes Indian cinema: Khushboo Sundar
Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:57PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, 2 May 2025
The World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit, WAVES 2025, being held at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai, hosted an inspiring panel discussion titled “Pan-Indian Cinema: Myth or Momentum.” Moderated by Sh. Naman Ramachandran, the session brought together four distinguished personalities from the Indian film industry, Sh. Nagarjuna, Sh. Anupam Kher, Sh. Karthi, and Ms. Khushboo Sundar, for an engaging conversation.
Ms. Khushboo Sundar reminded the audience that cinema’s power lies in its emotional resonance. She emphasized that there should be no perceived divide between Bollywood and regional film industries, as Indian films are created with the intent of resonating with all Indians. “When you honour our shared heritage, our songs, our stories, our soil, your film stops being regional or national, it becomes Indian cinema and that is what makes everything fall into place,” she observed.
Sh. Nagarjuna echoed this sentiment by celebrating the rich cultural tapestry that weaves together India’s filmmaking traditions. He spoke of the myriad languages, customs and landscapes that inspire storytellers, and he reminded attendees that pride in one’s roots does not constrain creativity, it liberates it and that is the true essence of Indian cinema.
Sh. Anupam Kher spoke about how COVID-19 pandemic changed the behavior of cinema consumption. He recounted how audiences started consuming films from different sources and it is not about cinema from different regions, but cinema from India alone. He also stressed about one must be true and honest in their craftsmanship, “Whether you are broadcasting a mythic saga on the big screen or streaming a slice-of-life drama, honesty in storytelling is your greatest ally. Audiences may crave spectacle, but they will always applaud sincerity and that is what works in films.”
Further adding to this, Sh. Karthi reflected on the enduring appetite for larger-than-life experiences. He expressed that while audiences today have access to diverse content, they still flock to theatres for the magic of song-and-dance extravaganzas and heroic epics.
Throughout the discussion, the panelists spoke about the importance of evolving beyond the notion of “regional” films and embracing the idea of Indian films. They emphasized on the importance of emotions, sincerity and that Indian cinema’s true strength lies not in divisions, but in unity, rooted in our soil, and it is that momentum that will carry Indian cinema forward.
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The Government has set up an inter-departmental team to ensure cases concerning the recent suspected closure of a private healthcare facility are handled as soon as possible and people affected by it are provided with assistance.
The dedicated team comprises representatives from the Security Bureau, the Commerce & Economic Development Bureau, the Customs & Excise Department, Police, the Department of Health and the Consumer Council.
The Department of Health said that the parents of children affected by the incident that have been registered with Maternal & Child Health Centres (MCHCs) may make an appointment by calling the registered MCHCs for advice on the vaccinations the children need to receive.
For a small number of children who have not been registered with MCHCs, parents may call 2125 1188, which will operate from tomorrow from 9am to 5pm daily until further notice. Parents can also send emails or messages to 6170 8006 for enquiries.
Meanwhile, the Customs & Excise Department is conducting investigations into offences under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance regarding unfair trade practices. If there is any violation of the ordinance, Customs will take enforcement action.
As at 4pm today, Customs and Police received 312 reports and the Consumer Council received 157 complaints on the incident. The Consumer Council urges those responsible for the private healthcare facilities to provide an explanation as soon as possible to address consumers’ concerns. Consumers can call the council’s hotline at 2929 2222 if in doubt.
Members of the public may report any suspected violation of the ordinance to Customs on the 24-hour hotline 182 8080, email its crime-reporting account or fill out an online form.