Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Police will implement special traffic arrangements in various districts during the Ching Ming Festival period to facilitate grave sweepers, and to ensure smooth vehicular traffic movements and pedestrian safety.

Hong Kong Island
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(1) Chai Wan

A. Road closure

     Cape Collinson Road east of Lin Shing Road is designated as a private car and light goods vehicle prohibited zone from 7am to 3pm daily between March 28 and April 27, except for vehicles with permit.

Phase I

     The following roads will be closed from 7am to 5pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 5, 6, 12 and 13:

– Southbound Lin Shing Road, except for franchised buses, green minibus (GMB) routes 16A, 16M, 16X and 18M, taxis, hearses, funeral vehicles, vehicles with permit, and vehicles heading to Wan Tsui Estate and Lin Tsui Estate;
– Northbound Lin Shing Road, except for GMB route 18M, hearses, funeral vehicles and vehicles with permit;
– Cape Collinson Road east of Lin Shing Road, except for GMB route 18M, taxis, hearses, funeral vehicles and vehicles with permit;
– Cape Collinson Road west of Lin Shing Road, except for franchised buses, GMB routes 16A, 16M and 16X, taxis, hearses, funeral vehicles and vehicles with permit;
– The slip road leading from Cape Collinson Road to the Garden of Remembrance and the crematorium, except for hearses and vehicles carrying passengers to services at the Crematorium; and
– The slip road leading to Chai Wan Chinese Permanent Cemetery.

Phase II

     The following roads will be closed from 7am to 5pm on April 4:

– Lin Shing Road, except for franchised buses, GMB routes 16A, 16M and 16X, hearses, funeral vehicles, vehicles with permit, and vehicles heading to Wan Tsui Estate and Lin Tsui Estate;
– Cape Collinson Road east of Lin Shing Road, except for hearses, funeral vehicles and vehicles with permit;
– Cape Collinson Road west of Lin Shing Road, except for franchised buses, GMB routes 16A, 16M and 16X, hearses, funeral vehicles and vehicles with permit;
– The slip road leading from Cape Collinson Road to the Garden of Remembrance and the crematorium, except for hearses and vehicles carrying passengers to services at the crematorium;
– The slip road leading to Chai Wan Chinese Permanent Cemetery; and
– Wan Tsui Lane, except for vehicles heading to Hing Wah Plaza.

B. Traffic diversions

– Traffic along eastbound Wan Tsui Road between Fei Tsui Road and Lin Shing Road cannot turn right to Lin Shing Road during the above road closures; and
– Cape Collinson Road between its slip road to the crematorium and Shek O Road will be re-routed one-way westbound during the above road closures and the operation hours of Citybus route 388.

C. No parking

     During the above road closures, no parking will be permitted along the following roads:

– Wan Tsui Road;
– Lin Shing Road;
– Cape Collinson Road; and
– Shek O Road between Tai Tam Gap Correctional Institution and Tai Tam Road.

    With the exception of access to Wan Tsui Estate and Lin Tsui Estate, all red minibuses, private cars, goods vehicles, motorcycles, motor tricycles and pedal cycles cannot enter Lin Shing Road during the above road closures, while taxis cannot enter Lin Shing Road during Phase II.

(2) Pok Fu Lam

     Depending on traffic conditions, Consort Rise between Victoria Road and Bisney Road will be re-routed one-way southbound from 7am to 5.30pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12, 13 and 18 to 21.

     Four metered parking spaces (metered parking spaces No. 3941A, 3941B, 3942A and 3942B) and three motorcycle parking spaces at Victoria Road near Consort Rise will be suspended from 7am to 5.30pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12 and 13.

(3) Aberdeen

     Depending on traffic conditions, Peel Rise in the vicinity of the Aberdeen Chinese Permanent Cemetery and the slip road from Shek Pai Wan Road leading to the Aberdeen Chinese Permanent Cemetery will be closed during the following time periods:

– From 7.30am to 5.30pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 5, 6, 12, 13 and 18 to 21; and
– From 7.30am to 6.30pm on April 4.

Kowloon
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(1) Tseung Kwan O

     The access road at Ko Chiu Road leading to Tseung Kwan O Chinese Permanent Cemetery will be closed from 5.30am to 6pm daily on March 29, and April 5, 12, 13, 18 to 21, 26 and 27, and May 1, except for special route No. 14S of Kowloon Motor Bus, hearses, funeral vehicles and vehicles with permit.

     The above road will be closed from 5.30am to 8pm daily on March 30, and April 4 and 6.

     Grave sweepers can access the cemetery on foot via the BMCPC Footpath opposite MTR Tiu Keng Leng Station or the access road on Ko Chiu Road. Individuals requiring wheelchair access should enter the cemetery via the Ko Chiu Road entrance.

(2) Sai Kung

     Mang Kung Wo Road will be closed from 8am to 5pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12 and 13, except for vehicles with permit.

(3) Diamond Hill

     The following special arrangements will be implemented from 7am to 6pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4, 5, 6, 12 and 13:

A. Road closure

– The access road leading to the Diamond Hill Crematorium; the access road between the Diamond Hill Funeral Parlour and the CLP Power substation; and the access road adjacent to the Diamond Hill Funeral Parlour leading to Sze Chen Hall, except for hearses and funeral vehicles.

– Yuk Hok Lane and Yuk Wah Street east of Tsz Wan Shan Road, except for private cars and taxis.

B. Traffic diversions

– Vehicles must follow southbound Po Kong Village Road downhill for entering or leaving Fung Shing Street or Fu Shan Estate car park;
– Vehicles must follow northbound Po Kong Village Road uphill for entering or leaving Grand View Garden car park;
– Vehicles from eastbound Po Kong Village Road can turn to westbound Yuk Wah Street via the easternmost traffic lane of Tsz Wan Shan (South) Bus Terminus;
– Traffic along westbound Fung Shing Street cannot turn right to northbound Po Kong Village Road uphill;
– Traffic along northbound Po Kong Village Road uphill cannot turn right to eastbound Fung Shing Street;
– Vehicles from Grand View Garden car park cannot turn right to southbound Po Kong Village Road downhill;
– Traffic along southbound Po Kong Village Road downhill cannot turn right to Grand View Garden car park;
– Vehicles from Fu Shan Estate car park cannot turn right to northbound Po Kong Village Road uphill;
– Traffic along northbound Po Kong Village Road uphill cannot turn right to Fu Shan Estate car park;
– Traffic along southbound Po Kong Village Road downhill cannot turn right to Po Kong Village Road School Village car park;
– Vehicles from Po Kong Village Road School Village car park cannot turn right to southbound Po Kong Village Road downhill;
– Traffic along southbound Po Kong Village Road downhill cannot turn right to the unnamed road opposite to Po Leung Lane;
– Traffic along the unnamed road opposite to Po Leung Lane cannot turn right to southbound Po Kong Village Road downhill; and
– Traffic along Yuk Wah Crescent cannot turn right to eastbound Yuk Wah Street.

C. Suspension of parking spaces

     Metered parking spaces on the unnamed road between the Diamond Hill Funeral Parlour and the CLP Power substation, and motorcycle parking spaces at Yuk Wah Street near Yuk Hok Lane will be suspended.

D. Passenger pick-up and drop-off points

     The temporary pick-up and drop-off point for private cars will be located at westbound Yuk Wah Street near Yuk Hok Lane.

     Po Kong Village Road School Village car park will be closed and designated as taxi and private car drop-off point from 7am to 6pm daily on March 30, and April 4 and 6.

(4) Cheung Sha Wan

     The following special traffic arrangements will be implemented on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12 and 13:

A. Road closure (daily from 7am to 7pm)

     Wing Ming Street and the unnamed road between Wing Ming Street and Saint Raphael’s Catholic Cemetery will be closed, except for hearses, funeral vehicles, vehicles of the cemetery staff and those with permits.

B. No stopping or parking

– Parking will be prohibited on Yu Chau West Street between Castle Peak Road and King Lam Street daily from 7am to 7pm;
– Vehicles are prohibited to pick up or drop off passengers along Yu Chau West Street near Wing Ming Street (outside “83 Wing Hong Street”); and
– Stopping or parking will be prohibited on Ching Cheung Road daily from 7am to 7pm.

C. Suspension of parking spaces (daily from 7am to 7pm)

     All on-street parking spaces on Yu Chau West Street, Tai Nan West Street, King Lam Street between Yu Chau West Street and Tai Nan West Street, and Wing Hong Street between Yu Chau West Street and Tai Nan West Street will be suspended.
 
     Members of the public should access Saint Raphael’s Catholic Cemetery via the subway across Ching Cheung Road from the end of the unnamed road between Wing Ming Street and the cemetery. No parking facilities in the cemetery will be open for public use.

New Territories
—————

(1) Wo Hop Shek

     The following special traffic arrangements will be implemented daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12, 13, and 18 to 21:

A. Road closure (daily from 6am to 5pm)

– Kiu Tau Road, except for hearses, coaches conveying people attending services at the crematorium, vehicles of the undertakers and franchised buses;
– Ming Yin Road, except for franchised buses;
– Wo Ka Lau Road; and
– All access roads within Wo Hop Shek Cemetery.

B. Traffic diversions

– Traffic along northbound Pak Wo Road near Fung Ying Seen Koon cannot turn right to southbound Pak Wo Road; and
– Traffic along southbound Pak Wo Road near MTR Fanling Station cannot turn right to the car park on Pak Wo Road near Fung Ying Seen Koon.

C. Suspension of parking spaces (daily from 7am to 5pm)

– The car park on Wo Hing Road near Wah Ming Road roundabout, except for taxis;
– The car park on Pak Wo Road near Fung Ying Seen Koon, except for the disabled parking spaces and public buses of the residents’ service route No. NR112. Depending on the prevailing situation, vehicles with elderly and disabled passengers may be allowed to use the car park for boarding shuttle buses that are heading for Wo Hop Shek Cemetery;
– Parking spaces on Wah Ming Lane; and
– Parking spaces at Ming Yin Road between Wo Hop Shek Cemetery Office and Kiu Tau Road.

(2) Sandy Ridge

     The Frontier Closed Area from MTR Lo Wu Station to Lo Wu Station Road is open to grave sweepers from 6am to 6pm daily between March 28 and April 20.

     The following roads will be closed from 6am to 6pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12, 13 and 18 to 20:

– Lo Wu Station Road, from its junction with Man Kam To Road to a point approximately 280 metres west, near the cemetery management office, except for vehicles of Lo Wu Village residents and those permitted to use the MTR Lo Wu Station car park; and
– Sha Ling Road, except for vehicles of Sha Ling residents.

(3) Castle Peak

     The following traffic arrangements will be implemented from 7am to 7pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12 and 13:

A. Road closure

– Tsing San Path; and
– The access roads leading to Ching Chung Koon and Ching Chung Sin Yuen.

B. Traffic diversions

– Tsing Chung Koon Road between Tsing Lun Road and San Fuk Road will be re-routed one-way northbound; and
– San Fuk Road between Leung Shun Street and Tsing Chung Koon Road will be re-routed one-way westbound.

C. No parking

     No parking will be permitted along the following roads:

– San Fuk Road;
– Tsing Chung Koon Road between Tsing Chung Path and San Fuk Road;
– Tsing Lun Road between Tsun Wen Road and the northern vehicle entrance of Tuen Mun Hospital; and
– Southbound Tsun Wen Road between Tsing Lun Road and San Fuk Road.

D. Passenger pick-up and drop-off points

     Three temporary pick-up and drop-off points will be set up at northbound Tsing Chung Koon Road opposite to Castle Peak Hospital, northbound Tsing Chung Koon Road opposite to Tuen Mun Hospital, and westbound Tsing Lun Road outside Tuen Mun Hospital.

(4) Tsang Tsui

     Nim Wan Road between Yung Long Road and the access road to Tsang Tsui Columbarium will be closed from 7am to 7pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12 and 13, except for franchised buses, MTR buses, taxis, vehicles heading for West New Territories Landfill and T·PARK, and vehicles with permit.

(5) Kwai Tsing

     Wing Yin Street and Wing Hau Street will be closed from 7am to 5pm daily on March 29, and April 5, 12 and 13, except for hearses and franchised buses.　

     The following traffic arrangements will be implemented from 7am to 5pm daily on March 30, and April 4 and 6, and when necessary:

– Southbound Wing Tak Street between the entrance of City Point and Wing Shun Street, Wing Yin Street, and Wing Shun Street between Wing Tak Street and Kwai Hei Street will be closed, except for hearses, franchised buses, taxis and GMBs;
– Wing Kei Road between Kwai Hei Street and Wing Kin Road will be re-routed one-way southbound. Vehicles cannot travel via Kwai Hei Street for Wing Kei Road; and
– Wing Hau Street will be closed.

(6) Tsuen Wan

A. Road closure

     Lo Wai Road between Lo Wai Pai Lau and Yuen Yuen Institute will be closed from 8am to 6pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6 and 13, except for franchised buses, taxis, GMB route 81 and vehicles with permit.

B. Suspension of parking spaces

     During the above road closure, all metered parking spaces on Lo Wai Road near Yi Pei Chun Road and former Lo Wai Bus Terminus will be suspended from 8am to 6pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6 and 13. Also, all metered parking spaces on Lo Wai Road outside Yuen Yuen Institute will be suspended from 8am to 6pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12 and 13.

(7) Sha Tin

A. Road closure and traffic diversions

     The following roads will be closed between 7am and 6pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12 and 13:

– Lower Shing Mun Road between Yau On Street and Fu Shan Crematorium, Yau On Street and Yau Ting Street, except for hearses, funeral vehicles, GMB route 64K, and vehicles of residents of Pak Tin Areas 2 to 5 and Lakeview Garden; and
– Pai Tau Street west of its junction with Sheung Wo Che Road.

     To Fung Shan Road north of its junction with Pak Lok Path will be closed between 9am and 5pm daily on March 29 to 30, and April 4 to 6, 12 and 13, except for vehicles serving residents and people working in To Fung Shan. To Fung Shan Road between Chung Ling Road and Pak Lok Path will be converted into one-lane two-way traffic between 9am and 5pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6.

B. Suspension of parking spaces

     All metered parking spaces on Yau On Street and Lower Shing Mun Road will be suspended from 7am to 6pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6, 12 and 13.

(8) Lantau Island

     The following special arrangements will be implemented from 6am to 6pm daily on March 29 and 30, and April 4 to 6:

– The closed Tung Chung Road between Shek Mun Kap Road and South Lantau Road will be temporarily opened to traffic; and
– Others roads on south Lantau will remain closed, except for vehicles with permit.

     During the implementation of the special traffic arrangements, any vehicles found illegally parked within the precincts mentioned above will be towed away without prior warning, and may be subject to multiple ticketing.

     Police will implement the above arrangements subject to traffic and crowd conditions in the area. Members of the public are advised to exercise tolerance and patience and take heed of instructions of the Police on site.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, continued his visit to Beijing today (March 28).
 
     Mr Yau visited a renowned pop cultural entertainment company on the Mainland and toured its thematic park this morning. Specialising in popular intellectual property (IP) artistic toys, the company has successfully commercialised IP in cultural and creative industries, with a number of products gaining popularity both domestically and globally. Mr Yau also met with representatives of the company to learn about its operation and the development of IP products on the Mainland.
 
     Noting that the effective protection and efficient transaction of IP is crucial to promoting the development of cultural and creative industries as well as technological innovation, Mr Yau said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is taking forward a series of initiatives to protect the fruits of innovation and creativity to promote IP trading and strengthen training of IP talent, thereby pressing ahead with the development of Hong Kong into a regional IP trading centre.
 
     In the afternoon, Mr Yau met with representatives of the China Alcoholic Drinks Association to promote Hong Kong’s immense opportunities for wine merchants following the deduction in liquor duty. He said that the two-tier system announced in last October’s Policy Address has effectively promoted high-end liquor trade, with increases recorded in both the quantity and value of liquor imported.
 
     He pointed out that Mainland wine and liquor products, especially Chinese baijiu, are highly regarded in the global market in recent years, showing great market potential and room for growth. He added that Hong Kong could serve as a key hub for trading and distribution of high-end liquor, including Chinese baijiu, and Mainland wine merchants are encouraged to use Hong Kong as a platform for Chinese baijiu to go global.
 
     Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong tomorrow afternoon (March 29).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (March 28) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in West Godavari District, East Godavari District and Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh State in India, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry eggs from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

     A CFS spokesman said that Hong Kong has currently established a protocol with India for the import of poultry eggs but not for poultry meat. According to the Census and Statistics Department, no eggs were imported into Hong Kong from India last year.

     “The CFS has contacted the Indian authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 28) reported the latest number of dengue fever (DF) cases, and urged the public to maintain strict environmental hygiene, mosquito control and personal protective measures both locally and during travel.

     From March 21 to yesterday (March 27), the CHP recorded one imported DF case. The patient had travelled to Indonesia during the incubation period.

As of yesterday, eight imported DF cases were recorded this year. A total of 161 cases of DF were recorded in 2024, including 156 imported and five local cases. In 2023, 62 imported cases of DF were recorded.

     According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global incidence of DF has markedly increased over the past two decades, posing a substantial public health challenge. In 2023, ongoing transmissions, combined with an unexpected spike in DF cases, resulted in over 6.5 million cases and more than 7 300 dengue-related deaths reported in over 80 countries/territories. In 2024, the WHO recorded over 14 million cases, which was a record number of cases.

     Detailed information on the latest DF situation in Hong Kong, as well as neighbouring and overseas countries and areas, has been uploaded to the CHP website.

     Members of the public returning from areas affected by DF should apply insect repellent for 14 days upon arrival in Hong Kong. If feeling unwell, seek medical advice promptly and provide travel details to a doctor.

     The public should take heed of the following advice on mosquito control:
 

• Thoroughly check all gully traps, roof gutters, surface channels and drains to prevent blockage;
• Scrub and clean drains and surface channels with an alkaline detergent compound at least once a week to remove any deposited mosquito eggs;
• Properly dispose of refuse, such as soft drink cans, empty bottles and boxes, in covered litter containers;
• Completely change the water of flowers and plants at least once a week. The use of saucers should be avoided if possible;
• Level irregular ground surfaces before the rainy season;
• Avoid staying in shrubby areas; and
• Take personal protective measures such as wearing light-coloured long-sleeved clothes and trousers, and apply insect repellent containing DEET to clothing or uncovered areas of the body when doing outdoor activities.

​
​DEET-containing insect repellents are effective and the public should take heed of the tips below:

• Read the label instructions carefully first;
• Apply right before entering an area with risk of mosquito bites;
• Apply on exposed skin and clothing;
• Use DEET of up to 30 per cent for pregnant women and up to 10 per cent for children*;
• Apply sunscreen first, then insect repellent; and
• Reapply only when needed and follow the instructions.

* For children who travel to countries or areas where mosquito-borne diseases are endemic or epidemic and where exposure is likely, those aged 2 months or above can use DEET-containing insect repellents with a DEET concentration of up to 30 per cent.

     The public should call 1823 in case of mosquito problems and may visit the following pages for more information: the DF page of the CHP and the Travel Health Service, the latest Travel Health News, tips for using insect repellents, and the CHP Facebook Page and YouTube Channel.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (March 28) that all facilities (including the service counter and SmartPLAY Self-service Stations) of the Hong Kong Velodrome will be temporarily closed from April 12 to 23 to tie in with the 2025 Hong Kong International Track Cup and the 15th National Games Track Cycling Test Event staged from April 19 to 21.

     During the closure period, members of the public may use similar facilities at Hang Hau Sports Centre, Tseung Kwan O Sports Centre, Tiu Keng Leng Sports Centre, Tsui Lam Sports Centre and Po Lam Sports Centre in the same district.

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 Dah Sing Bank, Limited relating to a fraudulent website and social media accounts, 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 website or social media accounts 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.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The opening programme of the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2025, Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet (1991), will be held at the Cultural Centre Grand Theatre on April 4.

Blending entertainment with cultural artistry, renowned musician Ng Cheuk-yin will reimagine beloved songs from classic comedy films with fresh arrangements, while pop singer Alfred Hui, the a cappella choral theatre company Yat Po Singers, and beatboxer Heartgrey Eric So will perform together with a live band.

Following the performance, there will be a screening of The Banquet, a comedy produced to raise disaster relief funds for flood relief, directed by Tsui Hark, Clifton Ko, Cheung Tung Joe and Alfred Cheung. 

Another highlight of the festival is an outdoor music carnival ImagineLand 2025 to be held on April 5 and 6 at the Cultural Centre Piazza, the Central Lawn & Event Trellis of Salisbury Garden, the Avenue of Stars with free admission.

The two-day carnival features both daytime and evening programmes. “Go Beyond Concert”, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” and “Funarts Corner” will be available during the day, whereas film programme “Movie Under the Stars” will be held at night. 

The “Go Beyond Concert” will showcase three stages featuring over 35 musicians and artists from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Japan, Korea, the US, Australia, France, the UK and Ukraine.

Major line-ups of local artists include Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, Yatfung, Cloud, Ashley Lin, Pandora, Chu Wan-pin and more, performing mesmerising popular songs and original works.

“Comics Fun Experience Gallery” will display Hong Kong comics and animation from different eras to highlight the creativity of local artists.

“Funarts Corner” will offer workshops on art, music and crafts for public participation.

In the evenings, “Movie Under the Stars” will screen local comedies Table For Six and Forbidden City Cop on April 5 and 6 respectively, allowing audiences to enjoy outdoor films while relaxing on the lawn.

The Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival is being held for the third year with “More Than Joy” as its theme and over 20 programmes will offer audiences an insight into the development paths of Hong Kong’s pop culture along the line of “happiness”. 

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Justice Paul Lam visited the Supreme People’s Procuratorate (SPP) today, following a tour of the Supreme People’s Court (SPC) yesterday.

Mr Lam attended a seminar of the National Prosecutors College under the SPP this morning and shared with the participants the work of the Department of Justice in prosecution and safeguarding public interests under the principle of “one country, two systems”.

He then had a working lunch with First Deputy Prosecutor General of the SPP Tong Jianming to learn more about the college’s initiatives in nurturing high-level and high-quality prosecutorial talent in the country.

In the afternoon, Mr Lam met SPP Prosecutor-General Ying Yong to exchange views on the strengthening of legal co-operation between Hong Kong and the Mainland, and issues of mutual concern.

Yesterday, the Secretary for Justice attended an SPC foreign, Hong Kong and Macau-related seminar series, sharing with the participants the characteristics of Hong Kong’s common law system under the “one country, two systems” principle and ways to leverage the advantages of its common law system in contributing to the country’s high-quality development.

At a meeting with SPC Vice-president Mao Zhonghua, issues including promoting the nurturing of the country’s foreign-related legal talent were discussed.

Mr Lam will return to Hong Kong after a meeting with SPC President Zhang Jun tomorrow.

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:57PM by PIB Delhi

Policy Samvad organized a one-day workshop titled “Funding the Future: Public Policy and Finance for Tribal Welfare and Inclusive Growth in collaboration with the Institute for Public Research and Development Trust (IPPRDT) and the Mahamana Madan Mohan Malviya Memorial Trust at Malviya Smriti Bhawan, New Delhi.

The inaugural session was led by Policy Samvad Editor and Public Policy analyst Gaurav Kumar, who welcomed the guests and briefed on the theme of workshop. The Chief Guest, Shri Antar Singh Arya, Chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, he emphasized the role and importance of Policy Samvad for constructive dialogue in public policy space and collaboration in raising awareness on tribal welfare. He elaborated on the role of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes and highlighted various initiatives for tribal welfare in the current Union Budget, noting the Central Government’s efforts toward the inclusive development of tribal communities.

The Guest of Honour, Shri Nirupam Chakma, Member of the NCST, stressed the need for comprehensive and inclusive development in public finance and its efficient management. Smt. Vijaya Bharati Sayani, former Acting Chairperson and Member of the NHRC, also shared her insights on the subject. Shri Harishankar Singh, National President of Mahamana Malviya Mission, discussed the role of public policy and finance in tribal welfare and policy making.

Additionally, Shri Amit Nirmal, Joint Secretary of the NCST, provided his perspective on the significance of public policy and finance in ensuring tribal welfare and inclusive development.

The workshop featured discussions among domain experts, policymakers, and stakeholders, who explored new avenues for public welfare. Scholars and researchers contributed valuable insights into the past, present, and future of tribal development. Key speakers included Dr Prakash Chand Kandpal (Professor JNU), Prof Pavanesh Kumar (IGNOU), Shri Chakshu Roy (PRS Legislative Research), Shri Vinay Kumar Singh (Senior Fellow, Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Foundation), Shri A K Choubey (General Secretary, Bharatiya Adivasi Sevak Sangh), Shri Prakash Uikey (Former Judge), and Dr Abhishek Srivastava (Assistant Professor, JNU).

During the event, the tenth issue of Policy Samvad was released by the Chief Guest and Special Invitees. The journal, curated by an advisory board of distinguished professors and analysts, focuses on governance, socio-economic development, and NITI Aayog’s initiatives, serving as a crucial platform for intellectual discourse on India’s policy landscape.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Dr Praveen Kumar Jha. The workshop saw participation from scholars, researchers, university students, and public policy professionals, including representatives from PRS Legislative Research.

****

Pawan Singh Faujdar/Divyanshu Kumar

(Release ID: 2116364) Visitor Counter : 342

Source: Government of India

Khadi and Village Industries Commission

KVIC organized ‘Mega Distribution’ program at Headquarters Mumbai, distribution of 16377 equipment, machines and toolkits across the country through virtual medium

More than 5 lakh Khadi artisans and beneficiaries benefited under Gramodyog Vikas Yojana and Khadi Vikas Yojana

Disbursement of margin money subsidy of Rs 469 crore to 14456 new units under PMEGP scheme by KVIC Chairman Shri Manoj Kumar which will create 159016 new jobs

Inauguration of 5000 new PMEGP units and 44 renovated Khadi Bhawans as well as 750 Khadi workshops across the country through online medium. In total 1440 artisans will benefit from this workshop

In this financial year, under Khadi Vikas Yojana, till now, MMDA amount of Rs. 215 crore and ISEC grant amount of Rs. 40 crore has been distributed

Chairman KVIC said, “Mega distribution program inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat Abhiyan’. Welfare of artisans is the key mantra of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.”

Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:17PM by PIB Delhi

Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India organized the largest and most comprehensive ‘Mega Distribution’ program through virtual medium at its Central Office, Mumbai. More than 5 lakh Khadi artisans, entrepreneurs and beneficiaries were benefited under Gramodyog Vikas Yojana, Khadi Vikas Yojana and Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP).   Chairman KVIC Shri Manoj Kumar on this occasion, addressed lakhs of artisans across the country through virtual medium and appealed to join Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign. North Zone Member KVIC Shri Nagendra Raghuvanshi, Eastern Zone Member Shri Manoj Kumar Singh, Joint Secretary (ARI) from MSME Ministry Shri Vipul Goyal, Economic Advisor (MSME) Ms. Simi Chaudhary and senior officials of Central Office, KVIC along with officers and employees from the  field  offices across the country were present in the program through virtual mode .

In line with the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, a historic initiative was taken towards promoting self-reliance and entrepreneurship in the Khadi and Village Industries sector, a ‘Mega Distribution’ program was organized at the headquarters located in Vile Parle. In this program, 16377 equipment, machines and toolkits were distributed to the beneficiaries associated with the state and divisional offices of all the 6 zones (East Zone, West Zone, North Zone, South Zone, Central Zone and Northeast Zone) across the country under the Gramodyog Vikas Yojana scheme. Along with this, 44 renovated Khadi Bhavans and 750 Khadi workshops were also inaugurated under the Khadi Vikas Yojana Scheme. On this occasion, under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme, margin money subsidy of     Rs. 469 crore was disbursed on sanctioned loan of Rs. 1399.13 crore to 14456 PMEGP units across the country through video conferencing, which will create 159016 employment opportunities. Along with this, Chairman KVIC also inaugurated 5000 new PMEGP units through online medium. In the financial year 2024-25, a margin of Rs. 2175 crore was disbursed to a total of 58850 beneficiaries, generating 64,73,50 jobs.

Chairman, KVIC Shri Manoj Kumar informed that in order to recognise the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and to provide employment to the youth, Khadi and Village Industries Commission has organized the most comprehensive and massive toolkit distribution program in its history under the Gramodyog Vikas Yojana Scheme. Under this, a total of 16,377 toolkits and equipment were distributed through virtual medium, which includes 3,950 Bee boxes, 7,067 electric pottery wheels, 1,350 leather product repair toolkits, 390 footwear manufacturing equipment, 420 electrician toolkits, 80 AC repair toolkits, 300 plumber toolkits, 60 mobile repairing toolkits, 971 sewing machines, 278 handmade paper making machines, 349 automatic agarbatti making machines, 60 pedal operated agarbatti making machines, 320 turnwood machines, 180 wooden toy making machines, 460 waste wood craft machines and 292 agriculture based food processing machines.

During this program, Shri Manoj Kumar informed that KVIC has so far released a grant amount of Rs. 215 crore under Modified Market Development Assistance (MMDA) to 1,110 Khadi institutions in the financial year 2024-2025, benefiting about 1,46,246 artisans. Apart from this, a grant amount of Rs. 40 crore has also been disbursed to 1153 Khadi institutions through ISEC program. In continuation to this, today, additional MMDA grant amount of Rs. 32.73 crore was released to Khadi institutions benefiting 3817 artisans.

Mentioning about the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, KVIC Chairman said, “We all have to adopt the mantra of ‘Vocal for Local’ as well as ‘Make for World’, only then Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘Local to Global’ will be recognised.” While making an important announcement for Khadi artisans, he said that the wages of Khadi artisans will be increased by 20 percent from April 1, 2025. In the last 11 years, the Modi government has made a historic increase of 275 percent in the wages of Khadi artisans. Now the spinners will get Rs. 15 for spinning per hank  on the charkha.

While talking to the journalists, Shri Manoj Kumar said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi gave the mantra of ‘Khadi for Fashion‘ for ‘Khadi Renaissance‘ in Bharat Tex-2025, to reach out to the masses and to popularize Khadi as a modern garment, KVIC organized grand Khadi fashion shows in many cities including Nagpur, Pune, Vadodara, Surat, Chennai, Jaipur, Prayagraj. With the inspiration of the Prime Minister, ‘New Khadi of New India‘ has reached especially the young generation and is establishing its identity as a modern garment. Chairman, KVIC informed that the sale of Khadi in Prayagraj Mahakumbh was Rs. 12.02 crore, while in the last financial year, the total production of Khadi and Village Industries reached Rs. 1.08 lakh crore and sales reached Rs. 1.55 lakh crore. In the last 10 years, 1.87 crore jobs were created, including 10.17 lakh new jobs. More than 10 lakh new projects were established under PMEGP, which provided employment to more than 88 lakh people.

Lakhs of Khadi artisans associated with the offices of Khadi and Village Industries Commission, representatives of Khadi Institutions, beneficiaries of Gramodyog Vikas Yojana and PMEGP scheme was connected through online medium across the country in the program. Along with this, KVIC officials and employees were also present at the Central office in Mumbai.

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