Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 5:05PM by PIB Delhi

Agriculture is a State subject and Government of India supports the efforts of States through appropriate policy measures, budgetary allocation and various schemes/ programmes. The various schemes/ programmes of the Government of India are meant for the welfare of farmers by increasing production, remunerative returns and income support to farmers. The Government has substantially enhanced the budget allocation of Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare(DA&FW) from Rs. 21933.50 crore BE during 2013-14 to Rs. 1,22,528.77 crore BE during 2024-25. Major schemes/programmes initiated by DA&FW to increase the income of farmers including small and marginal farmers and for the development of agriculture Sector in India are as under:

1. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)

2. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY)

3. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)/ Restructured Weather Based Crop  Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS)

4. Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS)

5. Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF)

6. Formation and Promotion of 10,000 new Farmer Producers Organizations (FPOs)

7. National Bee Keeping and Honey Mission (NBHM)

8. Namo Drone Didi

9. National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)

10. Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA)

11. Agri Fund for Start-Ups & Rural Enterprises’ (AgriSURE)

12. Per Drop More Crop (PDMC)

13. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Mechanization (SMAM)

14. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)

15. Soil Health & Fertility (SH&F)

16. Rainfed Area Development (RAD)

17. Agroforestry

18. Crop Diversification Programme (CDP)

19. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Extension (SMAE)

20. Sub-Mission on Seed and Planting Material (SMSP)

21. National Food Security and Nutrition Mission (NFSNM)

22. Integrated Scheme for Agriculture Marketing (ISAM)

23. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)

24. National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)-Oil Palm

25. National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)-Oilseeds

26. Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region

27. Digital Agriculture Mission

28. National Bamboo Mission

Indian Council on Agricultural Research (ICAR) has released a compilation of success stories of 75,000 farmers who have increased their income more than two times by convergence of schemes being operated by Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and the allied Ministries/Departments.

The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) conducted a Situation Assessment Survey (SAS) of Agricultural Households during NSS 77^th round (January, 2019 – December, 2019) with reference to the agricultural year July, 2018- June, 2019 in the rural areas of the country.

According to these surveys, the estimated average monthly income per agricultural household increased from ₹6,426 in 2012-13 (NSS 70th round) to ₹10,218 in 2018-19 (NSS 77th round).

As per NSSO Survey on House hold Consumption Expenditure (2023-24), a comparison of the estimates of all-India average Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) is as under:

Sector	Average MPCE (Rs.) over different period
	2011-12 NSS (68th round)	2023-2024
Rural	1,430	4,122
Urban	2,630	6,996
Difference as % of Rural MPCE	83.9	69.7

 

This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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 MG/KSR/RN

(Release ID: 2114892) Visitor Counter : 61

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The Bureau of Standards, Metrology, and Inspection (BSMI) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs is pleased to host the 31st Asia-Pacific Legal Metrology Forum (APLMF) Annual Meeting from November 6 to 8, 2024, at the Grand Hotel in Taipei. BSMI, as a founding member of APLMF, is honored to host this significant event in Taiwan once again after 24 years, bringing together representatives from 19 economies and 66 metrology experts.

APLMF was created to foster harmonized regulatory and technical standards in legal metrology across the Asia-Pacific region, with the goal of minimizing trade barriers, supporting the development of robust metrological frameworks in developing economies, and ensuring fair transactions, public safety, health, and environmental protection. As a longstanding member, BSMI has actively contributed to advancing metrological standards and promoting regional collaboration through APLMF initiatives.

In her opening remarks, Director-General Chen Yi-Ling of the BSMI emphasized that metrology serves as the foundation of various economic activities, from commercial trade to public health and safety, making it essential for global economic and social stability. She indicated that Taiwan has been dedicated to advancing both the national and international metrology systems. For many years, efforts have been devoted to healthcare measurement fields, such as electronic sphygmomanometers, electronic thermometers, and speed detectors for law enforcement. It delivered a number of regional capacity building training courses and its work on dual-control guidelines for medical equipment has become a valuable resource for APLMF members, which earned BSMI recognition awards in 2006, 2009, and 2019. Looking ahead, BSMI will prioritize precision measurement technologies for green energy and carbon emissions to align with Taiwan’s net-zero goals.

The annual meeting’s agenda includes diverse working group discussions covering important topics, such as prepackaged goods regulation, utility metering standards, agricultural product quality measurement, digital metrological control, medical metrology, and innovations in hydrogen energy measurement. Experts and government representatives from across the region shared the latest advancements, successful case studies, and ongoing challenges in metrology, reinforcing international cooperation in the field.

The BSMI is dedicated to aligning Taiwan’s metrological standards with global developments. Through this year’s annual meeting, Taiwan aims to strengthen ties with Asia-Pacific economies, stay attuned to emerging trends, and collaboratively drive economic development within the region. This event, featuring working sessions, special presentations, and experience-sharing forums, underscores BSMI’s commitment to promoting metrological excellence and supporting the Asia-Pacific’s thriving economic landscape.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

In response to circulating online rumors that SpaceX has requested its Taiwanese suppliers to relocate manufacturing operations abroad, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) promptly contacted relevant Taiwanese manufacturers. According to those suppliers, it is standard practice to adjust manufacturing schedules to meet global clients’ customized needs. They further emphasized that during the recent U.S. election period, there were no requests from SpaceX to move production facilities overseas. The MOEA strongly encourages the public not to misinterpret or exaggerate this matter, and reminds everyone to verify the accuracy of their information sources.

Taiwan’s electronics and ICT industries have long been essential parts of the global supply chain, especially in key sectors such as semiconductors and electronic components. Among those suppliers, Taiwan has developed a robust network of 46 manufacturers producing essential electronic components, including material components, PCBs, antenna components, cables, and power supplies. These companies supply many global satellite communication operators and service providers, including SpaceX, as well as supporting the global trend toward integrated GEO, MEO, and LEO satellite communication services. Taiwanese suppliers cater to a wide range of global clients in satellite communications, terrestrial telecom, and equipment manufacturing, ensuring diverse and resilient global deployment.

The electronic components industry remains heavily rooted in Taiwan, continuing to play a vital role in R&D and manufacturing. Since 2011, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) has facilitated the consolidation of 30 system and component manufacturers through targeted R&D guidance, resulting in the successful development of products across household, automotive, marine, and aviation applications. This initiative aims to foster supply chain partnerships with global satellite communication operators, service providers, and equipment manufacturers.

In recent years, Taiwan has proactively adapted to the shifting landscape of global supply chains amid U.S.-China tech tensions, geopolitical factors, and de-risking strategies. Taiwanese companies have developed highly flexible production capabilities distributed across multiple countries and regions. Overall, in the area of satellite ground receiving equipment (user-terminal), Taiwan has achieved self-sufficiency in R&D, and its manufacturing capacity is highly competitive. Suppliers have confirmed that there are no intentions to shift manufacturing abroad, and short-term political factors are not expected to disrupt the established supply chain relationships between global satellite operators and Taiwanese suppliers.

Spokesman: Ms. Chen Pei-Li (Deputy Director General, IDA)
Contact Number: 886-2-7541255#2903, 0925-775150
Email: plchen@ida.gov.tw

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

At the 2024 EU-TW 6G SNS Joint Workshop in Taipei, ITRI, alongside its Taiwanese partners and the EU SNS JU (Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking) 6G-SANDBOX, presented the outcomes of their collaboration, showcasing advancements in the 6G trial network, including Integrated Sensing and Communications (ISAC) and reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) solutions.

Under the SNS JU 6G-SANDBOX project, ITRI has partnered with LITEON, Auray, Groundhog, National Sun Yat-sen University, Keysight, IS-Wireless, Siradel, University of Malaga, and Queen’s University Belfast to establish the world’s largest 6G trial network. This collaboration leverages advanced O-RAN communication and integrated sensing technologies, such as AI-based human posture recognition and 3D sensing imaging techniques, to create a testing environment for a wide range of vertical applications.

The RISFORCE team, which includes ITRI, BenQ Materials, TMYTEK, YTTEK, and National Chung Cheng University, is also part of the SNS JU 6G-SANDBOX project. In February 2025, four RIS solutions from the RISFORCE team will be validated in real-world scenarios in Spain, together with Keysight, Nokia, Telefonica, and the University of Malaga, to enhance the ecosystem for 6G R&D collaboration between the EU and Taiwan.

Since 2016, ITRI has been an active participant in European communications R&D initiatives, successfully completing six projects along with more than 30 teams from 10 countries. These efforts have focused on areas such as smart manufacturing and disaster relief drones. Looking forward, ITRI remains committed to deepening its collaboration with European partners in 6G R&D, with a focus on three key pillars: openness, sustainability, and intelligence. The Institute invites partners from both home and abroad to join its 6G trials and foster innovations that support global sustainability objectives.

By leveraging digital twin technology for large-scale network simulations, ITRI aims to significantly enhance intelligent 6G network operations. This continued collaboration between Taiwan and the EU is expected to provide both regions with a strategic advantage in the commercialization of 6G technology and the shaping of global standards.

The workshop was co-hosted by the Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT), the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content, and Technology (DG CNECT). Opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Chyou-Huey Chiou, Director General of DoIT, MOEA; Pearse O’Donohue, Director of Future Networks at DG CNECT; and Dr. Colin Willcock, Chairman of 6G-IA.

Other key figures included Erzsebet Fitori, Executive Director of the EU 6G SNS Project Office; Harald Haas, Van Eck Professor of Engineering at the University of Cambridge; Emilio Calvanese Strinati, 6G-GOALS and 6G-DISAC project coordinator and Scientific Innovation Director of Smart Devices, Telecommunications and Security at CEA-Leti; Rahim Tafazolli, Head of the Institute for Communication Systems at the University of Surrey; Navid Nikaein, CEO and Founder of BubbleRAN (6G-SENSES partner); and Michael Dieudonne, Senior Director of Keysight (coordinator for SNS JU 6G-SANDBOX). There were also representatives from Taiwanese entities, including Chunghwa Telecom, Compal, LITEON, BenQ Materials, Auden, Groundhog, TMYTEK, YTTEK, CTOne, ITRI, National Taiwan University, and National Tsing Hua University. Participants exchanged insights and explored significant future 6G collaboration opportunities.

About the EU SNS JU 6G-SANDBOX

The EU SNS JU 6G-SANDBOX was launched in January 2023 with the funding from the SNS JU under the European Union’s (EU’s) Horizon Europe research and innovation program under Grant Agreement No 101096328. The project is led by Keysight Technologies as the coordinator, along with participation of 16 partners. This initiative combines digital and physical nodes to deliver fully configurable, manageable, and controllable end-to-end networks for validating new technologies and research advancements for future 6G technologies. It enables entities across the EU to test promising technical 6G enablers, including network automation, cybersecurity, digital twins, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), as well as technologies that streamline energy consumption.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

In coordination with international allies, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) amended the “List of High-Tech Commodities for exportation to Russia and Belarus” on Nov. 5, 2024, by adding five items to the export controls list in order to prevent Taiwanese high-tech goods from being used for military purposes. The amendment will take effect on Dec. 4, 2024.

Following the previous export control on Nitrocellulose (HS Code 391220) this June, these five additional items include three other cellulose-related products (HS Codes 391212, 391231 and 391290) which are compounds of explosives, machine tool parts (HS Code 846693) that can be utilized in the production of weapons, and servo motor (HS Code 850110) that can be used in battlefield drones.

The MOEA reminds exporters that the penalty for first-time violations has been increased to NT$1 million dollars, adding that companies should ensure they are in compliance with domestic and international regulations in order to protect their rights and interests and avoid harm to their business’ reputation.

The MOEA actively disseminates information to firms on the latest domestic and international rules through various channels. Since the start of this year, the Ministry has held 19 seminars and conferences to help ensure exporters fulfil their due diligence requirements.

The MOEA also closely monitors international developments and adjusts export control measures accordingly on a regular basis.

High-Tech Commodities List for Exportation to Russia and Belarus:
https://www.trade.gov.tw/Pages/List.aspx?nodeID=4600

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Health Bureau announced the details of the fees and charges reform for public healthcare today (March 25). Reforming the subsidisation structure of the public healthcare services aims to guide the public to make optimal use of healthcare resources, reduce wastage and abuse, and enhance healthcare protection for “poor, acute, serious, critical” patients on all fronts, thereby enhancing the sustainability of the healthcare system and strengthening the public healthcare system to cope with the challenges posed by an ageing population, inflation of healthcare costs, etc, and serve as a safety net for all.

     As an indispensable part of healthcare reform, the fees and charges reform for public healthcare covers the following three major areas, with a view to ensuring that limited healthcare resources can be directed in a targeted manner to help those patients most in need:

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The “MOEA Guantang Industrial Port Management Team” was officially inaugurated on 25 October, symbolizing a new milestone for the Guantang Industrial Port in Taoyuan that balances the goals of ensuring a stable power supply in the north, protecting the ecological environment, and supporting the national energy transition.
The Director of Bureau of Industrial Parks (BIP) of MOEA, Yang, Po-Keng, stated that as CPC Corporation advances the development of Guantang Industrial Port, progressing toward its goal of initial gas supply by April 2025, the MOEA Guantang Industrial Port Management Team will join forces with CPC Corporation, integrating customs, quarantine, fire safety, police, and coast guard stationed at the port, to jointly safeguard the port’s protective capabilities and ensure a stable power supply.
Located in the Guantang Industrial Area in Taoyuan, Guantang Industrial Port is a key infrastructure in the government’s energy policy, aimed at providing the liquefied natural gas (LNG) needed for power generation at Taiwan Power Company’s Datan Power Plant. The port was approved for establishment in 2017 and construction began in 2018. CPC Corporation has built the third LNG receiving terminal in the Guantang Industrial Area, adopting an offshore extension solution to ensure that, while increasing power supply, the surrounding environment and algal reef ecology are actively protected.
In addition, during construction, CPC Corporation conducted multi-faceted assessments and planning to ensure harmony with the environment and protection of the environmentally sensitive areas. The company has also promoted eco-friendly facilities to protect habitats for conservation species such as Polycyathus chaishanensis, achieving the goal of coexistence and mutual benefit between economic development and environmental protection.

Spokesman: Mr. Liu Chi Chuan (Deputy Director General, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-7-3613349, 0911363680
Email: lcc12@bip.gov.tw

Contact Person: Liang, You-Wen (Director of Taipei Branch, BIP)
Contact Number: 886-2-2655-0200 ext 8071
Email: yuwen818@bip.gov.tw

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Amid escalating global challenges such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and aging populations, the world is endeavoring to build more resilient societies. For the first time, Taiwan hosted representatives from the world’s top innovation ecosystems of over 20 countries at the 2024 High Level Forum (HLF) Summit, held in Hsinchu, Taiwan’s Silicon Valley. Hosted by ITRI, this milestone event brings together industry leaders, academic scholars, and research experts from the U.S., Canada, France, Finland, Sweden, Israel, Japan, Thailand, and Taiwan to address urgent global issues through innovation.

“This year’s summit, themed with Innovation Ecosystems for Resilient Society, aims to strengthen societal resilience against emerging global challenges, from geopolitical shifts to demographic changes,” said Stephen Su, Senior Vice President of ITRI and Co-chair of the 2024 HLF Summit. “Taiwan’s strong foundation in the semiconductor industry and expanding innovation portfolio has positioned us as a critical driver of global resilient growth. Through long-standing international collaborations, ITRI is committed to strengthening Taiwan’s role in global supply chains and energizing industry with continuous innovation,” he stressed.

Julie Galland, director of CEA Research & Technology Division, and Chair of the HLF Summit, highlighted the forum’s unique role as a catalyst for innovation, underscoring its importance as a platform for in-depth discussions on technology, industry, and policy. “This year’s theme emphasizes the need for global cooperation in building resilient societies capable of navigating future challenges. Taiwan’s world-class semiconductor industry and rapidly advancing innovation ecosystem provide valuable insights for the international community.” Julie Galland further noted that HLF is working to expand its global influence by connecting more resources and members worldwide to foster greater international collaboration and resilience.

ITRI President Edwin Liu expressed pride in hosting this year’s HLF in Hsinchu, welcoming innovation leaders from 20 countries to Taiwan. “This event marks the first time the HLF has taken place in Taiwan, establishing it as a hub to strengthen the network of innovation communities,” he said. “ITRI hopes that this milestone will expand Taiwan’s global visibility and impact while accelerating opportunities for technology partnerships, talent exchange, and regional cooperation.”

The 2024 HLF Summit placed a spotlight on Taiwan’s strengths in semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI), sparking lively discussions on resilience. Keynote speakers included Patrick Bressler, Director of International Cooperation, Fraunhofer Mikroelektronik; Nicky Lu, Chairman of Etron Technology; John Lee, Managing Director of Merck Group in Taiwan; and Peter Wu, General Manager of ASUS Cloud & TWSC. Other international participants included Amit Kapoor, Honorary Chairman at Institute for Competitiveness, India; and Harvin Moore, Principal of Frontera Technology Ventures. Experts from around the world gathered to share insights and experiences to drive global innovation growth.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

According to the statistics, 1,861 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with a total amount of US$6,502,344,000 were approved from January to October 2024. This indicates a decrease of 0.16% in the number of cases, and a decrease of 22.58% in FDI amount compared to the same period of 2023.

With regard to inward investment from Mainland China, 29 cases were approved with an amount of US$18,227,000 from January to October 2024. This indicates an increase of 31.82% in the number of cases, but a decrease of 31.82% in the FDI amount compared to the same period of 2023. From July 2009 to October 2024, 1,615 cases were approved with a total investment amount added up to US$2,614,173,000.

In terms of Taiwan’s outbound investment (excluding Mainland China), 615 projects were registered from January to October 2024 with a total amount of US$41,956,060,000, indicating an increase of 31.69% in the number of cases, and an increase of 86.61% in the amount, as compared to the same period of 2023.

As for Taiwan’s outward investment to Mainland China, 286 applications have been approved from January to October 2024, indicating an increase of 2.88% compared to the same period of 2023. The approved investment amount is US$3,422,290,000, 29.65% more than the same period in 2023.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee arrived in Hainan today to attend the Global Free Trade Port Development Forum at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025.

Addressing the forum, Mr Lee said that Hong Kong, as an international financial, shipping, and trade centre, enjoys a strategic location and world-class connectivity, and is a champion of free and multilateral trade.

Under the principle of “one country, two systems”, he added, Hong Kong is the only world city that combines “the China advantage” with “the global advantage”. Moreover, he said, it boasts a long tradition of the rule of law and has an established common law regime that aligns with major global financial hubs.

Mr Lee outlined that as a participant in the Global Free Trade Zone (Port) Partnership Initiative, Hong Kong will continue to collaborate with Hainan in promoting the vast opportunities that free trade and market liberalisation can bring to the world.

In the evening, Mr Lee attended a dinner with provincial leaders to exchange views on deepening Hong Kong’s co-operation with Hainan.

Meanwhile, Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong attended the Enhance Digital Capacity Building & Bridging Digital Divide forum this afternoon.

Prof Sun elaborated on Hong Kong’s move to accelerate digital economic development through strengthening digital infrastructure and fostering digital transformation, and mentioned that the Government is pressing ahead with its Digital Corporate Identity Platform project at full speed.

He added that by adhering to the three-pronged principle of promoting technology with talent, leading industries with technology, and attracting talent with industries, Hong Kong will continue to provide quality jobs and development opportunities for talent in the innovation and technology (I&T) and digital sectors, and to attract I&T talent from around the globe.

Tomorrow, Mr Lee will meet provincial leaders and attend the signing ceremony of memoranda of understanding between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the People’s Government of Hainan Province.