The finale of theCheung Chau Bun Festival took place today, with thousands of Hongkongers and tourists heading to the island to experience its unique traditions first-hand.
Highlights included a colourful Grand Parade, and – later in the evening – the finals of the Bun Scrambling Competition.
Afternoon crowds were captivated by the parade, which set off from Pak Tai Temple Playground. It featured children, many dressed as deities, being carried aloft on steel frames, in addition to traditional lion dances.
The festival culminated with the finals of the annual Bun Scrambling Competition, with 12 competitors scaling a bamboo tower and attempting to snatch buns attached to it.
《Taiwan – Australia Economic Ties Field of Opportunity》
Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu and Mrs Wu were pleased to join the annual dinner of Australian Business Summit Council (ABSC), and they appreciated the invitation by its President, Dr. Frank Alafaci.
D.G. Wu received an honorary token at the ceremony to officially launch #EKONOMOS (Issue 6, 2025), in the article D.G. Wu contributed, he highlighted:
1. Taiwan will strengthen national defence
, improve economic security, enhance partnerships with democratic countries, and stablise the cross-strait leadership. Those “Four Pillars of Peace” are our action plan to maintain status quo. We adopt “Integrated Diplomacy” as our foreign policy, which encompasses Value Diplomacy, Alliance Diplomacy, and Economic Diplomacy.
2. Taiwan, from its status of the world’s 22nd-largest economy and 16th-largest exporter, will due develop the Five Trusted Industry Sectors – namely, semiconductors, security and surveillance, next-generation communications, Artificial Intelligence (Al), and military. In the meanwhile, Taiwan will seek to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050., via investments on green energy and recycling technologies.
3. Taiwan and Australia share a mutually complementary trade structure, with bilateral trade reaching US$23.4 billion in 2023. Australia is Taiwan’s 8th largest trading partner and biggest source of coal and iron ore imports. As Australia has had the experience of falling victim to China’s economic coercion, the challenges of risks followed by geopolitical instability makes Taiwan a valuable partner to Australia.
4. Taiwan’s membership application to CPTPP deserves careful consideration and support. Taiwan is an indispensable partner in global supply chains and remains committed to collaborating with Australia and its partners to safeguard democracy, shared values, and the rules-based international order in the region. Taiwan is ready to pursue FTA negotiations with Australia. We urge Australia’s further support for Taiwan’s bid.
In line with India’s commitment towards regional cooperation, INS Sharda arrived at Maafilaafushi Atoll, Maldives, for a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise planned from 04 to 10 May 25. This deployment is a testament to the strong defence and maritime cooperation between India and the Maldives. It aligns with India’s “MAHASAGAR” (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision, emphasising collaborative efforts to ensure peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.
This HADR exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). It will focus on actions like Disaster Response Coordination, Search and Rescue Operations, Medical Assistance, Logistical Support, Joint Drills, Training Sessions, and Community Engagement following a major natural disaster.
Through such collaborative efforts, India and the Maldives continue strengthening their partnership and ensuring readiness to respond effectively to natural disasters and other humanitarian challenges.
Forests Are Our Lungs, Forests Regulate Climate, Buffer Disasters, and Support the Marginalised, Says VP
The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, today said,“Forests are extremely important. Forests are our lungs. If a country’s forests are in good shape, its people will enjoy good health—because forests are the lungs. Agriculture is our lifeline. But we need forests as they regulate climate, they buffer disasters, and they support livelihoods—especially for the poor and marginalized.”
Forests बहुत महत्वपूर्ण हैं। Forest are our lungs, just as agriculture is our lifeline. #Forests regulate climate, buffer disasters, and support livelihoods, especially for the poor and marginalised.
Interacting with faculty members and students of the College of Forestry, Sirsi, during a special programme on the “Role of Forestry in Nation Building”, today, Shri Dhnakhar emphasised that,“We must pledge to protect our forests and contribute in every way possible, because climate change is a global challenge—a global menace. The situation is alarmingly cliff hanging, and we have no other planet to live on apart from Mother Earth,” he warned.
Highlighting India’s civilisational wisdom, the Vice-President said, “This land is a confluence of spirituality and sustainability. Sustainability is not just vital for the economy—it is vital for healthy living. Our Vedic culture has preached sustainability for thousands of years. And today, there is no alternative to sustainable development. We cannot engage in reckless exploitation of natural resources. We must restrict ourselves to what is minimally required. We all need to be aware of this.”
This land is a confluence of spirituality and sustainability. Sustainability is vital not only for economy, but also for a healthy life.
Sustainability has been preached in our Vedic culture for thousands of years.
Calling for deeper ecological consciousness, he remarked, “We must develop a sense of self-realisation—that Mother Earth, this environment, the forests, the ecosystems, the flora and fauna—we are their trustees, not consumers. We are duty-bound to pass this on to future generations.”
“Environment is that aspect of life which touches every living being on Earth. When the environment is challenged, the challenge is not just to humanity—it affects everything that exists on this planet. Today, we face a critical test: to protect and preserve the environment, and to find ways to overcome the grave crisis that is unfolding,” he observed.
Stressing the role of education in building a sustainable future, the Vice-President said, “Today, no institution can function as a standalone entity. There was a time when medical education, engineering education, management education, environmental education, and forest education all existed in silos. But now, everything has become interdisciplinary. And therefore, we must adopt an inclusive approach to learning.”
आज के दिन कोई भी संस्था अपने आप में standalone नहीं हो सकती।
एक ज़माना था जब Medicine, Engineering, Management, Environment Education सारे standalone थीं।
आजकल सब कुछ interdisciplinary हो गया है, and therefore, you will have to have an inclusive approach to learning.… pic.twitter.com/BGbt812vis
Encouraging young minds, Shri Dhankhar said, “Be inquisitive—have yearning and desire for new knowledge. The academic pursuit you are engaged in holds immense possibilities—far beyond imagination. In our cultural heritage, wherever you look, you will find a treasure trove. The more you study, the more you will be able to serve creation. The very subject you are pursuing today holds the key to remedies and production. You can truly become an effective crucible of research, especially when it comes to forest produce.”
Applauding the natural setting of the institution, the Vice-President noted, “Sirsi, nestled in the lap of the majestic Western Ghats—is one of the richest biodiversity regions not just in Bharat, but in the entire world. Such an environment transforms the very concept of a classroom. Here, the classroom doesn’t end at four walls; it extends beyond them. This is an open classroom, breathing and brimming with life. The College of Forestry is, fortunately and uniquely, surrounded by nature—in its most pristine form. The view here is truly extraordinary; the atmosphere fills one with joy and celebration.”
Sirsi lies in the lap of the majestic Western Ghats—one of the richest biodiversity regions, not only in Bharat but in the entire world.
College of Forestry, fortunately and uniquely, is surrounded by nature in its most pristine form. यहाँ का नज़ारा ही कुछ और है, वातावरण… pic.twitter.com/EzmZ4L0TOt
Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, Governor of Karnataka, Shri Basavaraj S. Horatti, Speaker of Legislative Council, Govt. of Karnataka, Shri Mankal S. Vaidya, District-in-Charge Minister (Uttara Kannada), Shri Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri, Member of Parliament, Dr. P.L.Patil, Vice Chancellor of University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
“Phulera Ka Panchayati Raj” : A Digital Hit with a Self-Reliant Heart Final Episode of the Three Part Series “Alhua Vikas” Highlights Local Taxes Fuel Local Progress
Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 1:13PM by PIB Delhi
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj’s “Alhua Vikas”, the third and final film of the three-part extension series “Phulera Ka Panchayati Raj”, is enthusing digital audiences widely and sensitising them about the issues that affect gram panchayats across India. The third and final episode was released earlier on the occasion of the National Panchayati Raj Day (24th April, 2025) and has since then received a phenomenal response on Youtube with over 6M+ views so far.
“Alhua Vikas” highlights the critical importance of generating Own Sources of Revenue (OSR) by Rural Local Bodies that helps in strengthening the self-reliance of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) across rural India. This film promotes citizen awareness on timely payment of local taxes, highlighting how such contributions enable improved service delivery and sustained village development. The film features renowned actors including Neena Gupta, Faisal Malik, Chandan Roy, Durgesh Kumar, and others from the original “Panchayat” cast, and has received significant public attention with emphasizes on the message “जमाकरकेकर,बनाईयेअपनीपंचायतकोआत्मनिर्भर” to encourage citizens to pay local taxes promptly, thereby supporting development works in their villages. The release of the film that coincided with the conferring of awards on the Panchayats by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on the National Panchayati Raj Day to recognize the outstanding contributions in the areas of self-reliance in mobilization of Own Sources of Revenue (OSR), reaffirms the resolve of the Ministry towards making the rural local bodies financially self-reliant and “Atmanirbhar”. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj aims to make OSR a household term and encourage capable citizens to pay relevant taxes. These contributions are essential for making Panchayati Raj Institutions financially sustainable and self-sufficient entities of grassroots governance in rural India.
Watch the Three Part Series “Phulera Ka Panchayati Raj” Showcasing Key Themes of Grassroots Governance in Rural India : Links Given Below :-
Sl. No.
Title of sketch / film
Premiered on
Theme
YouTube link
1.
Asli Pradhan Kaun?
4th March, 2025
“Asli Pradhan Kaun?” draws attention to the issue of proxy representation and advocates for strengthening the leadership of elected women representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions.
“Phulera Mein Chori” highlights the impact of the SVAMITVA Scheme and digital governance tools such as Meri Panchayat App, showcasing how rural communities are gaining access to transparent, efficient services.
“Alhua Vikas” promotes the idea of enhancing Own Sources of Revenue (OSR) through citizen participation, enabling Panchayats to become financially self-reliant and development-ready.
Jammu, May 4, 2025 – In a landmark achievement for Indian student innovation, Japteg Singh Bamrah, a Class 12 student from Dalhousie Public School, has won the prestigious HonorsGradU 2025 Scholarship, securing the coveted “Build a Better Future” Award for his groundbreaking invention—the Solar Mech Engine.
Japteg Singh Bamrah and his Mentor, Dr. Nasir Ul Rasheed, demonstrating the Solar Mech Engine project executed under the Jigyasa Hackathon initiative.
Mentored by Dr. Nasir Ul Rasheed, Senior Scientist at CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Jammu, under the Jigyasa Hackathon initiative, Japteg emerged as one of five global winners out of thousands of entries from around the world. He has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship for his undergraduate education in the United States, along with an additional $5,000 grant for further development and scaling of his innovation. Notably, his project was recognized as the top technology among this year’s winners.
Organized by Honors Graduation, a U.S.-based non-profit supporting student-led sustainability and innovation projects, the HonorsGradU Scholarship is highly competitive, offering only five awards annually across the globe. Japteg is the first and only student from India since the program’s inception in 2012 to top the list, marking a moment of pride for the nation.
During the National Startup Festival held on February 22–23, 2025, at CSIR-IIIM, Jammu, Japteg presented his Solar Mech Engine to Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of Science and Technology and Vice President of CSIR, who graced the event as Chief Guest. The festival highlighted India’s growing support for grassroots innovation under the “Start-Up India, Stand-Up India” campaign, originally launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2015 and spearheaded by Dr. Singh.
The Solar Mech Engine, which earlier won the CSIR Jigyasa Hackathon 2024, is a standalone solar thermal system that operates on Concentrated Heat and Power (CHP) technology. It utilizes the principles of cyclic air expansion and contraction due to temperature differences to convert heat energy into mechanical energy. A key feature is its low-resistance generator, which employs electromagnetic induction for direct mechanical-to-electrical energy conversion. Its unique selling proposition lies in its ability to function as a reversible heat pump, making it a highly efficient and sustainable energy solution.
CSIR-IIIM’s incubation and mentoring of Japteg’s project underscores its commitment to empowering young innovators and transforming their ideas into practical, scalable technologies.
In recognition of his innovation and academic excellence, Japteg has received offers from over ten top universities across the USA, Australia, and Canada, with additional scholarships amounting to $16,000 annually for his undergraduate studies.
With a total grant of $31,000, Japteg Singh Bamrah plans to refine his Solar Mech Engine further and pursue his higher education at a leading global university. His journey from a school innovator to a global sustainability advocate stands as a testament to the power of mentorship, vision, and grassroots innovation in building a better future.
The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) announced the selection of seven e-Nodes for support under its “Mission for Advancement of High-impact Areas on Electric Vehicles” (MAHA-EV). The current program launched under the umbrella of ANRF’s national mission, aims to address the critical challenges and drive innovation in India’s electric vehicle ecosystem.
ANRF MAHA-EV call for proposal focussed on three strategically defined Technological Verticals (TV) are Tropical EV Battery and Battery Cells (TV-I), Power Electronics, Machines and Drives (PEMD)- (TV-II) and EV Charging Infrastructure (TV-III).
The each selected electric mobility nodes (e-nodes) will execute the project in consortia mode involving academic institutions/R&D laboratories with the mandatory industry participation, in order to contribute to and establish the R&D in the EV sector of the country.
The seven e-Nodes are selected under the ANRF’s MAHA-EV mission are: Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials Hyderabad, National Institute of Technology Surathkal, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Indian Institute of Technology-BHU, CSIR- Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute, Pilani and Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, respectively.
The call noticed wide enthusiasm among all stakeholders and 227 proposals were received in consortia mode from academic institutions, R&D laboratories and the industrial section.
The selectedseven e-Nodes, twoof whichwill focus on Tropical EV batteries and Cell technologies (TV-I) three of which will work on Power electronics machines and drives (TV-II) and the remainingtwo e-Nodes will focus on Charging Infrastructure under TV-III.
The MAHA-EV Mission leads to catalyze India’s leadership in next-generation electric mobility solutions, aligned with the goals of sustainability, innovation, and self-reliance.
Record Production in Mining in FY 2024-25 Significant Growth in Production of Key Minerals and Non-Ferrous Metals
Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 12:14PM by PIB Delhi
Production of some key minerals in the country witnessed strong growth in FY 2024-25, after reaching record production levels in FY 2023-24. Iron ore accounts for 70% of the total MCDR mineral production by value. As per provisional data, production of iron ore at 289 million metric ton (MMT) in FY 2024-25 has broken the production record of 277 MMT achieved in FY 2023-24, with a 4.3% growth. Similarly, production of manganese ore has also surpassed the production record of 3.4 MMT achieved in FY 2023-24, increasing by 11.8% to 3.8 MMT in FY 2024-25. Production of bauxite has also risen by 2.9% to 24.7 MMT in FY 2024-25 from 24 MMT in FY 2023-24. During the same period, lead concentrate production rose from 381 thousand tonne (THT) to 393 THT, with a 3.1% growth.
In the non-ferrous metal sector, primary aluminium production in FY 2024-25 has broken the production record of FY 2023-24. Primary aluminium production increased from 41.6 lakh ton (LT) in FY 2023-24 to 42 LT during FY 2024-25. Refined copper production saw a robust growth of 12.6%, increasing from 5.09 LT in FY 2023-24 to 5.73 LT in FY 2024-25.
India is the 2nd largest Aluminium producer, among top-10 producer in refined copper and 4th largest iron ore producer in the world. Continued growth in production of iron ore in the current financial year reflects the robust demand conditions in the user industry viz. steel. Coupled with growth in aluminium and copper, these growth trends point towards continued strong economic activity in user sectors such as energy, infrastructure, construction, automotive and machinery.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
In support of Hand Hygiene Day, the Department of Health (DH) today (May 5) launched the 2025 Hand Hygiene Day campaign, and appealed to members of the public to develop habits of cleaning hands properly at the right moments with a view to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Hand Hygiene Day is a global initiative led by the World Health Organization held annually on May 5. Using the tagline “Clean Properly—Every Surface, Every Time” this year, the DH aims to promote the critical role of proper hand hygiene techniques in both the healthcare and community settings, and will roll out a series of publicity activities, which include displaying posters and visual cues in hospitals, clinics under the DH and Hospital Authority (HA), health centres, residential care homes for the elderly and public toilets to raise public awareness about proper hand hygiene techniques.
“Hand hygiene is a seemingly small but powerful act to prevent the spread of infections. About 80 per cent of infectious diseases are transmitted by not thoroughly cleaned hands after touching contaminated surfaces, and a single bacterium can multiply into 16 million bacteria in just six hours. Hand-washing can prevent approximately 30 per cent of diarrhea-related illnesses and about 20 per cent of respiratory infections,” the Controller of the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health, Dr Edwin Tsui said.
In the healthcare settings, the DH and the HA have conducted regular hand hygiene audits among healthcare workers. In the past decade, the overall compliance rate has continuously improved, reaching over 90 per cent since 2021. To build a healthier and safer community, the public should commit to cleaning hands properly—every surface, every time and adopt it as a daily habit.
For effective protection, it is important to clean hands with appropriate hand hygiene techniques at the right moments. When hands are visibly dirty, wash them with liquid soap and water. A 70-80 per cent alcohol-based handrub is an effective alternative when hands are not visibly soiled. Clean your hands for at least 20 seconds following the 7 Steps of Hand Hygiene (see Annex) to thoroughly clean every surface of the hands including the palms, the backs of the hands, the fingers webs, the backs of the fingers, the thumbs, the fingertips, and the wrists. The public and healthcare workers should clean their hands at the following moments:
Before and after touching one’s eyes, nose, or mouth;
Before eating or preparing food;
After using the toilet;
After hands are contaminated by respiratory secretions, such as after coughing or sneezing;
After changing diapers for children or the sick, or handling soiled items;
After touching animals, poultry, or their droppings;
After handling garbage;
After touching public installations or equipment, such as escalator handrails, elevator buttons, or door handles;
Before and after visiting hospitals, residential care homes, or caring for the sick; and
India’s MICE Industry Set to Be a Major Economic Driver, Generating High-Quality Jobs: Union Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat ‘Meet in India Conclave 2025 organized in Jaipur, Rajasthan
Strong focus on state-led promotion, public-private partnerships, and seamless connectivity to support the MICE sector
MICE tourism is recognized as a key driver for economic growth and job creation in India
Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 8:33AM by PIB Delhi
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), organized the Meet in India Conclave on 4th May 2025 at Jaipur, Rajasthan on the sidelines of the 14th Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB).
Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, addressed the conclave and said that India’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) Industry is set to be a major economic driver, generating high-quality jobs. Speaking at the conclave, Shri Shekhawat said, India’s MICE industry is rapidly emerging as a global powerhouse, fuelled by robust economic growth, world-class infrastructure, and strong government backing. States across the country are unlocking tourism opportunities in their own unique ways — and now, it’s time for India to position itself firmly on the global MICE map.
With iconic venues like Bharat Mandapam, Yashobhoomi, Jio World Centre etc. and with special focus on MICE, we aim to elevate at least 10 Indian cities into the world’s top MICE destinations. Guided by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, and with states like Rajasthan leading through legacy and innovation, India is poised to become the world’s most admired tourism and events destination,” the Tourism Minister added while highlighting the growing potential of the country in the MICE segment.
More than 300 delegates and participants attended the event consisting of International MICE Companies/Operators, Domestic MICE Companies/Professional Conference organizers, Speakers, Foreign Tour Operators specialized in MICE invited for GITB, Secretaries from States / UTs, Media, Stakeholders from various Tourism and Hospitality Associations, Local Stakeholders (Hotels, DMCs, Associations, GITB, officials from States / UTs, exhibitors etc.) etc.
The India MICE market generated a revenue of USD 49,402.6 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 103,686.5 million by 2030 while registering a growth of 13% CAGR. This growth is fuelled by the recent developments in MICE-ready destinations coming up in cities like Varanasi, Khajuraho, Kochi etc. Over the last decade, India has shown a tremendous growth curve in infrastructure with be it the construction of roads over 1,50,000 km, new railway stations, semi high-speed trains, inland waterways, more than 150 operational airports and over 2.48 million hotel rooms. Further, India’s hosting of G20 nations has reinforced India’s growing venue network and regional tourism potential.
Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog, Shri Suman Bery, emphasized, “The vision laid by Hon’ble PM during India’s G20 presidency has opened new pathways. It is now up to states to build on this momentum. From deregulation to concert tourism, India has the opportunity to become a global hub for events and experiences.”
Highlighting Rajasthan as an emerging MICE destination, Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ms. Diya Kumari, said, “Rajasthan is not just a heritage destination — it is a vibrant, future-ready hub for MICE tourism. With state-of-the-art convention centres, seamless connectivity, digital infrastructure, and world-class hospitality, we are building a dynamic ecosystem that blends tradition with transformation”Elucidating Rajasthan’s commitment to MICE not as a short-term effort, but as a strategic priority to drive growth, innovation, and global visibility, the Deputy CM of Rajasthan said, “Rajasthan is ready — not just to welcome conferences, but to offer an unforgettable, enriching experience.”
Deputy Chief Minister, Smt. Pravati Parida, while addressing the gathering said, whether it’s conferences or exhibitions, India is ready to welcome the world—and Odisha stands proudly among the leading states. From the spiritual serenity of Puri to the architectural marvel of Konark, our state offers not only robust infrastructure but also a rich cultural tapestry for all to experience.
Additional Secretary & Director General of Tourism, Mr. Suman Billa, set the context for MICE in India conclave and added that “A unified national strategy, skilled talent, digital tools, and strong state-led promotion can propel us into the top five MICE markets by 2025.” While India already has the necessary infrastructure and market demand, he pointed out that the real challenge lies in coordination. Mr Billa emphasized the need for city-level convention promotion bureaus, a strong national MICE brand, skill development academies, and a seamless digital portal.
Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI highlighted that India is no longer just a leisure destination and We are now ready to take on the world as a leading MICE destination. With exceptional infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and the proven capabilities we demonstrated during the G20, we have everything it takes to host large-scale global conventions. Through platforms like the Great Indian Travel Bazaar and Meet in India, we are not just showcasing our potential — we are inviting the world to collaborate, catalyse, and say, ‘Let’s meet in India”.
Post inaugural keynote address was deliver by Dr. Senthil Gopinath, CEO, International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA. The event concluded with three sessions on Catalyzing Growth: How Tourism Policies are Attracting MICE Opportunities, Unlocking India’s MICE Tourism Potential: Elevating Convention Centres to Attract Global MICE Events and Strategizing for Success: Crafting Policies & Marketing India as a Global MICE Hub. B2B sessions for the buyers and sellers were also organised.
Following the conclave, the 14th edition of GITB will commence from May 5–6 at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC).