Phishing instant messages related to Mox Bank Limited

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Mox Bank Limited relating to phishing instant messages, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.
 
The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).
 
Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the instant messages concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen related to The Bank of East Asia, Limited

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Armed Forces must operate jointly & remain future-ready in today’s ever-evolving multi-domain environment: Raksha Mantri at DSSC, Wellington

Source: Government of India

Armed Forces must operate jointly & remain future-ready in today’s ever-evolving multi-domain environment: Raksha Mantri at DSSC, Wellington

“Govt transforming the military into a technologically-advanced combat-ready force”

“Building an indigenous future-ready defence ecosystem is a strategic necessity”

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 12:52PM by PIB Delhi

“Armed Forces must operate jointly and remain future-ready in today’s ever-evolving multi-domain environment where cyber, space & information warfare etc. are as potent as conventional operations,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while addressing the Armed Forces officers of India and friendly countries during the Convocation Ceremony of the 80th Staff Course of Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington, Tamil Nadu on April 10, 2025.

Raksha Mantri pointed out that today’s global geopolitics is being redefined by three key metrics: a major pivot towards prioritising national security, a technological tsunami sweeping the global landscape, and accelerating innovation. He urged the officers to study the nuances of these trends in-depth to stay ahead on strategic-military change curve, adding that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government is leaving no stone unturned to transform the Armed Forces into a technologically-advanced combat-ready force capable of multi-domain integrated operations.

Highlighting that Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies are revolutionising deterrence and war-fighting in critical ways, Shri Rajnath Singh termed the power of technological innovation in combat theatres as breathtaking. “In the Ukraine-Russia conflict, drones have virtually emerged as a new arm, if not a transformative science. The majority of losses of soldiers and equipment have been attributed neither to traditional artillery nor to armour but to drones. Similarly, space capacities in the Low Earth Orbit are transforming military intelligence, persistent surveillance, positioning, targeting and communications, thus taking combat to a new high,” he said.

Raksha Mantri stressed that the world is in the age of Grey Zone and Hybrid warfare where cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and economic warfare have become tools that can achieve politico-military aims without a single shot being fired. He added that India faces persistent threats along its borders, which are further compounded by the challenge of proxy war and terrorism emanating from its neighbourhood.

Shri Rajnath Singh also spoke of the impact of the conflict in West Asia and the geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific on the overall security calculus, in addition to non-traditional security threats such as natural disasters and climate change. He stressed on the need to vigorously pursue the transformation of the Armed Forces to remain capable and relevant for future wars, stating that PM Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 rests firmly on two foundational pillars – Surakshit Bharat and Sashakt Bharat.

Raksha Mantri pitched for the development and modernisation of the Armed Forces through self-reliance. “Lessons of the ongoing conflicts teach us that building a resilient, indigenous, and future-ready defence technological & manufacturing ecosystem is not an option, but a strategic necessity. There is a need to develop low-cost high-tech solutions and enhance the fighting capability of the Armed Forces. Our forces must not only keep pace with technological changes, but also lead it,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh also batted for enhanced synergy among all components to ensure national security. Fostering a ‘Whole of Nation’ approach while undertaking actions in the entire spectrum of diplomatic, informational, military, economic and technological domains is key to ensuring success in this endeavour, he said.

Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘MAHASAGAR’ (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) for the Global South, Raksha Mantri stated that achieving a better future and prosperity for the nations will always remain a collective pursuit. “Increasing connectivities and dependencies among countries and people implies that the multitude of challenges are better faced together than individually. Mutual interests and synergies will help us achieve our goal at sub regional, regional and even global levels,” he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh exhorted the officers to focus on five ‘A’s – Awareness, Ability, Adaptability, Agility and Ambassadors – to tackle future challenges. “As warfighters and protectors of national security, you need to remain aware of the environment and its implications. You must acquire the ability and skill set required by future leaders. You must imbibe adaptability and agility as key virtues. The battlefield of tomorrow will require leaders who can adapt to unforeseen circumstances, leverage technology to their advantage and come out with innovative solutions. You must become Ambassadors of your respective Armed Forces. Be an ambassador of change and the perfect role model amongst the society at large,” he added.

Raksha Mantri began his address by expressing solidarity and support of the people of India to Myanmar and Thailand in the wake of the recent massive earthquake. “India has always stood by its friends as a first responder in times of crisis and we consider it as our duty to be able to deliver timely relief to the people of Myanmar,” he said.

The 80th Staff Course comprises 479 student officers, including 38 personnel from 26 friendly countries. Three women officers are also participating in the course.

Ahead of the ceremony, Shri Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the Madras Regiment War Memorial and paid homage to the bravehearts. He also interacted with the veterans, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the nation. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan was among the dignitaries present on the occasion.

Established in 1948, DSSC is a premier Tri-service training institution that imparts professional education to select middle-level officers of the Indian Armed Forces and friendly countries. It aims to enhance their professional competencies for assuming higher responsibilities. Over the years, more than 19,000 Indian officers and 2,000 international officers have graduated from DSSC, many of whom have risen to become heads of states and military forces worldwide.

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VK/SR/Savvy

(Release ID: 2120678) Visitor Counter : 90

Hong Kong Immigration Department wins 2025 Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong Immigration Department wins 2025 Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service     
     On April 9 (Madrid time), the Director of Immigration, Mr Benson Kwok, attended the prize presentation ceremony held in Madrid, Spain. Mr Kwok stated that the department was honoured to receive the prestigious Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service for the fifth time, which affirms the ImmD’s commitment to delivering the highest quality of immigration clearance services. The ImmD expressed gratitude to Skytrax and international travellers for their recognition, as well as to its frontline staff for their professionalism and dedication. The ImmD will continue striving for excellence by leveraging innovative technologies to introduce more facilitation measures and deliver the best immigration services to passengers, with a view to reinforce Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub while actively supporting the city’s overall development.

     Skytrax, a world-renowned specialist research agent and advisor of the air transport industry, mainly undertakes qualitative audits and research studies for airports and airlines services across the globe. The survey was conducted between August 2024 and February 2025, covering over 600 airports worldwide, and the survey questionnaires were collected from over 13 million air passengers of more than 100 nationalities on their ratings of airport service.Issued at HKT 15:11

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Enhancement of ‘Material Cost’ under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) Scheme

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 11:27AM by PIB Delhi

PM POSHAN Scheme is a centrally sponsored scheme under which one hot cooked meal is served to 11.20 crore students studying in Balvatika and classes I to VIII, in 10.36 lakh Government and Government-aided schools on all school-days. The Scheme aims at providing nutritional support and enhancing school participation of students.

Under the PM POSHAN Scheme, ‘Material Cost’ is provided for procurement of following ingredients required for cooking the meals:

Ingredients

Per student per meal quantity

Bal Vatika & Primary

Upper Primary

Pulses

20 gm

30 gm

Vegetables

50 gm

75 gm

Oil

5 gm

7.5 gm

Spices & Condiments

As per need

As per need

Fuel

As per need

As per need

The Labour Bureau, Ministry of Labour provides data on inflation for these items under the PM POSHAN basket on the basis of Consumer Price Index – Rural Labourers (CPI-RL) in consonance with CPI index for PM POSHAN and accordingly CPI index for PM POSHAN basket has been worked out. The CPI-RL is constructed by Labour Bureau, Chandigarh on the basis of collecting continuous monthly prices from the sample of 600 villages spread over 20 States of the country.

On the basis of inflation index provided by the Labour Bureau, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has enhanced the ‘Material Cost’ by 9.50 %. The new rates will be applicable across all the States and UTs w.e.f. 01.05.2025. The Central Government will bear the additional cost of Rs 954 crore approximately in FY 2025-26 due to this enhancement. The per student per day Material cost is as under: –

(in Rs.)

Classes

Existing material cost

Enhanced material cost w.e.f. 01.05.2025

Enhancement

Bal Vatika 

6.19

6.78

0.59

Primary

6.19

6.78

0.59

Upper Primary

9.29

10.17

0.88

These rates of Material Cost are the minimum mandatory rates, however, States / UTs are free to contribute more than their prescribed share, as some States/UTs have been contributing more than their minimum mandatory share from their own resources for providing meals with augmented nutrition under the PM POSHAN Scheme.

In addition to the Material Cost, the Govt. of India provides about 26 lakh MT foodgrains through Food Corporation of India. The Govt. of India bears 100% cost of foodgrains including subsidy of approx. Rs. 9000 crore per annum and 100% transportation cost of foodgrains from FCI depot to schools. The per meal cost after adding all components including foodgrains cost under the scheme comes to approx. Rs 12.13 for Bal Vatika and Primary classes and Rs 17.62 for upper primary classes.

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MV/AK

(Release ID: 2120666) Visitor Counter : 37

Speech by FS at Citi Hong Kong Macro Investor Conference 2025 (English only) (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the Citi Hong Kong Macro Investor Conference 2025 today (April 10):
 
Paul (Head of Markets for Japan, Asia North and Australia of Citi, Mr Paul Smith), Aveline (Chief Executive Officer of Citi Hong Kong and Macau, Ms Aveline San), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Good morning. 
 
     It is a pleasure to join you today at the Citi Hong Kong Macro Investor Conference 2025. Allow me to first express my gratitude to Citi for bringing such a distinguished group of investors, economists, strategists and senior executives from around the world to Hong Kong.
 
     This forum for dialogue and thought-provoking discussions is particularly timely as we face a trade war marked by ruthless imposition of tariffs. Allow me to share with you our position and response to these challenges.
 
Impact of unilateral tariff measures
 
     Let me make it clear that the so-called “reciprocal tariffs” imposed by the United States on its trading partners are fundamentally wrong – politically, economically, and historically.
 
     These sweeping tariffs are disrupting global supply chains, inflating costs for both businesses and consumers, and creating significant uncertainty for cross-border investments. While “economic nuclear winter” may be an extreme term, we are certainly witnessing challenges to the global trading system unseen in a century.
 
     Most economists agree that the American public, especially those at the grassroots level, will bear the brunt of rising inflation as tariffs increase costs for groceries and daily necessities. Many financial institutions have revised downward their growth forecasts for the US (United States) and the global economy, with some even predicting a recession for both.
 
     China, as a major economy, has wide policy room and a range of tools to mitigate these impacts. Full details of the measures are yet to be seen, but our country has made its stance clear: we are open to resolving trade conflicts through dialogue based on mutual respect, not intimidation.
 
     Ultimately, these developments will reinforce geo-economic fragmentation. We are likely to see three major regional blocs emerge: first, the Asia-Pacific; second, India, the Middle East, and Europe; and third, the Americas.
 
Resilience of Hong Kong’s financial markets
 
     Now, turning to Hong Kong, I want to highlight that despite the high volatility in the stock market, our financial system has shown strong resilience.
 
     This Monday, when we experienced a significant drop in the stock market, two key points are worth noting. 
 
     First, trading activity was robust, with substantial buying and selling interests. The bid-ask spread stayed very tight, signaling strong underlying liquidity. All margin calls were met on time, with no signs of stress. 
 
     Second, the Hong Kong dollar remained strong, indicating there was no capital flight. Our Linked Exchange Rate System continues to function effectively, and the money market is operating smoothly.
 
     The Hang Seng Index has started to recover since Monday, and overall, Hong Kong’s financial market continues to operate effectively. Rest assured that our financial regulators are conducting real-time, round-the-clock surveillance across markets. No systemic irregularities have been detected. We will remain vigilant and agile, and ready to take appropriate measures, if needed.
 
Responding with composure
 
     In the short term, we will implement a suite of measures to support our businesses. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority is working closely with the banking sector to ensure that SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) have the liquidity they need. In fact, banks have set aside over US$50 billion for this purpose. We are also supporting these businesses in opening up new markets in the Mainland, the Middle East, and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries, including funding support for marketing and brand building. Additionally, we will help them embrace digital transformation to enhance their competitiveness and e-commerce capabilities.
 
     While these short-term measures are essential, our long-term strategy focuses on economic diversification. Several key strategies will guide us.
 
     First, we will leverage our strengths as an international trade centre. With geo-economic fragmentation, China will likely drive more outbound investments and strengthen trade ties with regions like ASEAN, the Middle East and even Europe. Economy is the top priority of the Central Government, and foreign businesses and investments are welcome. This was evident in President Xi’s recent meetings with both international business leaders and domestic private entrepreneurs.
 
     Hong Kong’s unique connectivity with both the Mainland and the world positions us as an ideal gateway and platform for foreign businesses entering the Mainland market, and for Mainland enterprises going global. Hong Kong will be the hub where Mainland and global companies can establish their regional or international headquarters, corporate treasury centres and supply chain management centres.
 
     Second, there will be new opportunities for Hong Kong as an IFC (international financial centre). Given the current geopolitical landscape, Hong Kong is naturally becoming the preferred fundraising market for Mainland companies. Currently, there are over 100 major companies waiting to list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
 
     And the DeepSeek moment has prompted international investors to reassess China’s technological capabilities and re-evaluate the values of related companies. We believe that more tech companies from the Mainland will list in Hong Kong, and the liquidity of our stock market will be greatly enhanced.
 
     We are also exploring new sources of capital, particularly from the Middle East. Last year marked a milestone with two ETFs (exchange-traded funds) investing in the Hong Kong market listed on the Saudi Exchange. We will encourage quality issuers from the Middle East and Southeast Asia to consider dual primary or secondary listings in Hong Kong.
 
     Finally, at the heart of our long-term economic transformation is innovation and technology, in particular artificial intelligence (AI).
 
     In my Budget this year, I outlined our vision to develop AI as a core industry for Hong Kong. We are pushing forward on five key fronts: supercomputing capabilities, algorithms, data, capital and talent.
 
     To fast-track our innovation and technology ambition, we need innovative enterprises with cutting-edge technologies. We are targeting four key industries: AI and data science, life and health technology, fintech, and advanced manufacturing and new energy. With the support of the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, we have attracted over 80 such enterprises to Hong Kong, which together will invest around US$60 billion in our city, creating about 20,000 jobs.
 
     We recognise the importance of patient capital in this journey. That’s why we established the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited (HKIC). Serving as patient capital, the HKIC invests in and guides market capital to support nascent-stage ventures and sectors of tomorrow. It seeks to build a vibrant ecosystem comprising the Government, industry, academia, research and investment sectors.  At the same time, it seeks reasonable risk-adjusted financial returns over the medium to long term. To date, it has invested in more than 100 projects, achieving a 1 to 4 co-investment ratio – meaning that for every dollar the HKIC invested, it has attracted four dollars from private investors to follow.
 
     With the development in the Northern Metropolis and collaboration with Shenzhen and nearby cities, we are confident that Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area will emerge as a global financial and innovation centre. 
 
Conclusion: confidence and opportunity
 
     Ladies and gentlemen, we are navigating truly challenging times. The obstacles posed by trade war and geo-economic fragmentation are daunting. However, I want to reassure you that Hong Kong remains steadfastly committed to the “one country, two systems” principle and all the advantages it entails: we will continue to be a free port, maintain our free trade policy, and guarantee the free flow of capital, goods, information, and people. We provide what investors seek: policy clarity, consistency and credibility.
 
     And Hong Kong offers even more: market access, capital, talent and an unparalleled lifestyle – the Rugby Sevens, Coldplay, Art Basel, along with our stunning hiking trails, coastlines, and a vibrant culinary scene featuring 200 Michelin-recommended restaurants. These elements create a unique international metropolitan fabric, making Hong Kong a great city for global talent to live, work and raise a family.
 
     Thank you once again to Citi for hosting this Conference. I wish you all fruitful discussions and a rewarding time here in Hong Kong.
 
     Thank you.

  

4th Joint Working Group Meeting on Tourism Cooperation between India and Japan

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 10:29AM by PIB Delhi

The 4th Joint Working Group (JWG) Meeting on Tourism Cooperation between India and Japan was held on April 8, 2025, in New Delhi. The meeting was co-chaired by Ms. Mugdha Sinha, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and Mr. HARAIKAWA Naoya, Commissioner, Japan Tourism Agency (JTA). Officials and private stakeholders from both countries took part, including representatives from airlines, tourism and travel associations and Government institutions. Key organizations included Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), JTTRI, Japan Airlines and ANA from the Japanese side. The Indian delegation comprised of Ministry of External Affairs, Civil Aviation, Education, NCHMCT, ICCR and private stakeholders like Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), Association of Buddhist Tour Operators (ABTO). The meeting focused on finding new ways to work together and enhance tourism ties between the two nations. Minister of Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Sekhawat, hosted a Welcome Dinner for the Japanese delegation.

The Co- Chairs of the two countries exchanged notes on the profile of the visitors and delved into the data insights of the tourists travelling between the two countries, including to Buddhist destinations, in order to undertake suitable policy interventions to make the destinations more attractive for the millennial tourists.  H.E. ONO Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan to India, emphasized on the strong cultural ties and mutual benefits of enriched tourism between the two countries.

Key discussion points during the meeting focused on expanding bilateral tourism, with initiatives such as promoting Buddhist sites in India to Japanese tourists, improving air connectivity and encouraging Japanese student visits to the country. The meeting also explored increased private sector involvement and strategies to harness media and influencer engagements for boosting tourist flow.

Delegation from each side shared valuable inputs and discussed new investment opportunities to strengthen co-operation in tourism sector between both nations. The collaborative spirit and commitment demonstrated by both the sides during the meeting is expected to develop a more vibrant tourism ecosystem, contributing significantly to the economic and cultural exchange between India and Japan. India also informed the Japanese delegation about the potential of partnerships with them for creating uniquely curated itineraries for the Japanese tourists in the recently revamped Incredible India digital portal. It was also indicated that the Ministry of Tourism is in the process of launchin
g the Incredible India mobile App shortly.

The meeting concluded on a positive note with mutual assurances of ongoing dialogue, further collaborations and a reinforced commitment to leveraging tourism as a bridge for enhancing bilateral relations and mutual prosperity. India also intimated the Japanese delegation about its plans of participation at the World Expo, Osaka, 2025 from 22nd – 28th September 2025 for a broader outreach effort for generating greater footfalls of foreign tourists to the country and wished them good luck for the forthcoming mega event.

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2120654) Visitor Counter : 12

Navkar Mahamantra Divas: Celebrating Mahavir Jayanti

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 10:09AM by PIB Delhi

“The literature of Jainism is the backbone of India’s intellectual grandeur. Preserving this knowledge is our duty”- Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

India reverently celebrates Mahavir Jayanti, a day that resonates with deep spiritual significance and profound peace, as it commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. More than a festival, it is a heartfelt tribute to a life devoted to compassion, self-restraint, and truth. In a world often clouded by conflict and chaos, Lord Mahavir’s eternal message of ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), and inner awakening shines brighter than ever, guiding countless souls toward a more mindful and harmonious existence.

This year, the spirit of Mahavir Jayanti was powerfully invoked through the inauguration of Navkar Mahamantra Divas by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 9.

“Navkar Mantra is not just a mantra but the core of our faith and the essence of life.”

The Navkar Mantra, central to Jain prayer, is more than a collection of sacred syllables, it is a rhythmic flow of energy, stability, and light.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, reflecting on his own roots in Gujarat, spoke of how Jain Acharyas shaped his understanding from an early age. This personal connection reinforced his message that Jainism is not merely historical but deeply relevant, especially in an India that seeks to grow without losing its roots.

This relevance is embodied in the architectural and cultural fabric of modern India, be it the depiction of Sammed Shikhar at the new Parliament’s entrance or the return of ancient Tirthankara idols from overseas. These are not artifacts of nostalgia; they are living symbols of India’s spiritual continuity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described climate change as today’s biggest crisis, saying its solution is a sustainable lifestyle, which the Jain community has practiced for centuries. The Jain community has been living the principles of simplicity, restraint, and sustainability for centuries. Lord Mahavir’s timeless teachings align beautifully with Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), a national call for sustainable living.

Jainism’s emblem, “Parasparopagraho Jivanam”, meaning the mutual interdependence of all life offers a deeply ecological worldview.

Nine Resolutions for a New India

In a poetic tribute to the power of “nine” in Indian and Jain traditions, the Prime Minister proposed nine resolutions anchored in the Navkar Mantra, each a commitment to knowledge, action, harmony, and rooted progress. He noted how repeating the mantra nine times, or in its multiples like 27, 54, or 108 represents spiritual completeness and intellectual clarity.

First Resolution: Water Conservation– Emphasizing the need to value and save every drop of water.

Second Resolution: Plant a tree in Mother’s Name– Planting of over 100 crore trees in recent months and urging everyone to plant a tree in their mother’s name and nurture it like her blessings.

Third Resolution: Cleanliness Mission – Understanding the importance and contributing to cleanliness in every street, neighbourhood and city.

Fourth Resolution: Vocal for Local– Promotion of locally made products, turning them global and supporting items that carry the essence of Indian soil and the sweat of Indian workers.

Fifth Resolution: Explore India– To explore India’s diverse states, cultures, and regions before traveling abroad, emphasizing the uniqueness and value of every corner of the country.

Sixth Resolution: Adopting Natural Farming–  The Jain principle of “One living being should not harm another”, and for freeing Mother Earth from chemicals, supporting farmers, and promoting natural farming.

Seventh Resolution: Healthy Lifestyle–  Following Indian dietary traditions, including millets (Shri Anna), reducing oil consumption by 10%, and maintaining health through moderation and restraint.

Eighth Resolution: Incorporating Yoga and Sports– Making yoga and sports a part of daily life, whether at home, work, school, or parks, to ensure physical health and mental peace.

Ninth Resolution: Helping the Poor– Assisting the underprivileged, whether by holding a hand or filling a plate, as the true essence of service.

These resolutions align with the principles of Jainism and the vision of a sustainable and harmonious future.

Jain literature, etched in Prakrit and Pali, holds profound treasures of thought. The government’s initiative to grant these languages classical status and digitize Jain manuscripts under the Gyan Bharatam Mission is a tribute to this ancient wisdom.

In March 2024, the Ministry of Minority Affairs approved projects under Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) Scheme for the establishment of ‘Centre for Jain Studies’ in Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) in Indore. With financial assistance of ₹25 crore, this centre aims to preserve and promote Jain heritage, foster interdisciplinary research, and enhance global understanding of Jainism as a way of life. It will support digitization of ancient Jain texts, facilitate academic research, and serve as a hub for students and scholars to engage with Jain teachings, traditions, and practices, while also promoting community engagement and awareness.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs in the past also approved a project focused on preserving Jain culture through digitization of manuscripts, knowledge sharing, and promoting interdisciplinary research on Jain traditions.

On Mahavir Jayanti in April 2024, a commemorative stamp and coin on the occasion of 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav.

As India marches on the path of becoming a developed nation, Lord Mahavir’s message of inner conquest, compassion, and truth offers a guiding light. In the harmony of the Navkar Mantra, in the discipline of the Sadhus, and in the interdependence of life itself, not just for individuals, but for the whole world.

References:

Download in PDF

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Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kritika Rane

(Release ID: 2120649) Visitor Counter : 113

3 senior appointments announced

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government today announced the appointments of three senior officials.

Permanent Secretary of the Chief Executive’s Office Kevin Choi will take up the post of Permanent Secretary for Transport & Logistics on April 14.

Deputy Head of the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit Hinny Lam Shuk-yee will assume the post of Permanent Secretary of the Chief Executive’s Office on the same day.

Deputy Director of Buildings Ho Chun-hung will become Director of Buildings on April 13, succeeding Clarice Yu who will proceed on pre-retirement leave that date.

On the appointment of Mr Choi and Ms Lam, Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung said the appointees are seasoned Administrative Officers with proven leadership and management skills and she is confident they will continue to serve the community with professionalism in their new capacity.

As regards the appointment of Mr Ho, Mrs Yeung said he has proven leadership skills, profound professional knowledge in building safety and extensive operational experience, adding that he will lead the Buildings Department to meet the challenges ahead and deliver quality service.

The civil service chief also praised Ms Yu for serving with zeal and commitment in the civil service over the past 29 years.

“As Director of Buildings, Ms Yu has made remarkable contributions and led the department in setting and enforcing safety, health and environmental standards for private buildings. I wish her a most fulfilling and happy retirement.”

HK immigration named world’s best

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Immigration Department has been voted the winner of the 2025 Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service in the World Passenger Survey commissioned by Skytrax, an international specialist research agent of the air transport industry.

 

This is the fifth time for the department to receive the award after winning it in 2015, 2016, 2019 and 2020.

 

On April 9, Director of Immigration Benson Kwok attended the prize presentation ceremony held in Madrid, Spain.

 

Mr Kwok stated that the department was honoured to receive the prestigious Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service for the fifth time, which affirms its commitment to delivering the highest quality of immigration clearance services.

 

The department expressed gratitude to Skytrax and international travellers for their recognition, as well as to its frontline staff for their professionalism and dedication.

 

Mr Kwok added that the department will continue striving for excellence by leveraging innovative technologies to introduce more facilitation measures and deliver the best immigration services to passengers, with a view to reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub while actively supporting the city’s overall development.

 

Also during his visit in Spain, he paid a courtesy call to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Kingdom of Spain and met Chargé d’Affaires ad interim and Minister of the Embassy Qu Xun.

 

Additionally, Mr Kwok visited the Spanish Ministry of the Interior where he held discussions with the Director-General of International Relations Elena Garzón Otamendi.

 

Moreover, he took the time to introduce Hong Kong’s talent admission schemes, visa services and immigration facilitation measures while meeting representatives of several local media outlets.