Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 7:40PM by PIB Delhi

On the auspicious occasion of Navratri, Akashvani’s Aradhana YouTube Channel is set to present a series of special programmes from 30th March to 6th April 2025, offering listeners an immersive devotional experience throughout the festive period.

To commemorate each day’s significance, the channel will feature a specially curated series from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Additionally, Shakti Aradhana will be broadcast daily from 8:30 AM to 8:40 AM, bringing divine renditions to the audience.

A special highlight of the celebrations will be Navratri Bhajans, performed by renowned artistes such as Anup Jalota, Narinder Chanchal, Jagjit Singh, Hari Om Sharan, Mahendra Kapoor, and Anuradha Paudwal. These renditions will be aired from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM every day.

Further enhancing the devotional experience, Devi Maa Ke Anek Swaroop, a unique series narrating inspiring stories on Navratri, will be broadcast daily from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM. The channel will also present special features on various Shakti Peeths across the country, providing listeners with deeper insights into the sacred sites dedicated to Goddess Durga.

The Navratri celebrations will culminate in a grand Live Programme on Ram Janmotsav, directly from Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, Ayodhya. This special broadcast will take place on 6th April 2025 from 11:45 AM to 12:15 PM, bringing the divine festivities to audiences across the nation.

Listeners can tune in to Akashvani’s Aradhana YouTube Channel to experience the spiritual essence of Navratri and celebrate the festival in an atmosphere of devotion and reverence.

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Dharmendra Tewari Navin Sreejith

(Release ID: 2116405) Visitor Counter : 322

Source: Government of India

DARPG and Bhashini collaborate together to launch a multimodal multilingual solution for citizens for filing grievances

This initiative is in pursuance of the directions of Hon’ble PM to each Ministry/ Department to effect qualitative improvements in

Grievance Redressal systems to make them more sensitive, accessible and meaningful

The solution is expected to be launched by July 2025

Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:34PM by PIB Delhi

In pursuance of the directions of the Prime Minister of India to effect qualitative improvements in Grievance Redressal systems to make them more sensitive, accessible and meaningful, DARPG signed a Master Service Agreement with Digital India Bhashini on 28^th March, 2025 to implement a multimodal, multilingual e-Governance solution for CPGRAMS.

With the multilingual multimodal solution, it is envisaged that citizens cutting across regions will be able to file grievances on the CPGRAMS portal through 22 regional languages in an intuitive interface that will make grievance lodging much easier. Citizens can use voice in their regional language to lodge grievances. This solution will also enhance ease of accessibility and navigation on CPGRAMS portal.  This collaboration of DARPG-Bhashini will create a future roadmap for a more efficient, accessible and responsive governance system for citizens. The integration of Bhashini with CPGRAMS marks a significant milestone in AI-powered, multilingual citizen engagement, ensuring that language barriers no longer hinder grievance redressal and public service accessibility. The solution in expected to go live by July 2025.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2116333) Visitor Counter : 246

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) is committed to safeguarding the environment, with tackling air pollution to protect public health being one of its core priorities. In addition to stringent enforcement, the Government also continually reviews and refines relevant legislation while promoting public education to foster a healthy and pleasant living environment for all. The recent amendment to the Air Pollution Control Ordinance (APCO) is one such significant initiative.
 
     To more effectively combat unlicensed specified process (SP) operations, the Government has amended the APCO by introducing a statutory closure notice mechanism and refining the scope of “cement works” and the definition of “premises” under specified processes. This aims to prevent misinterpretation or circumvention of regulations. The Air Pollution Control (Amendment) Bill 2024 (Amendment Bill) was passed at its third reading during the Legislative Council meeting on March 19, 2025. The legislation has been gazetted today (March 28) and will come into effect on April 11.
 
     An EPD spokesperson stated that the Amendment Bill empowers the Director of Environmental Protection to issue a closure notice to premises if he or she has reasonable cause to believe that unlicensed SP operations are taking place. This has proven decisive in addressing illegal operations by two concrete batching plants (CBPs) located at 20 and 22 Tung Yuen Street in Yau Tong. Following the passage of the Amendment Bill, the department has already received notification from the owner of the CBPs, indicating that, except for the works relating to the demolition of the concerned plants, they will cease all operations of concrete batching process and related operations by early April.
 
     Under the APCO, SPs (including cement works) are identified as major sources of significant air pollution and must obtain a valid SP license under the APCO to operate. Due to the failure to meet the relevant requirements of the APCO, the renewal of SP licenses for the two CBPs  at 22 and 20 Tung Yuen Street in Yau Tong were refused by the EPD in April 2021 and April 2022, respectively. The operator subsequently lodged appeals to the Air Pollution Control Appeal Board, and after the appeals were dismissed, they continued to operate without valid SP licenses by resorting to judicial reviews and various legal proceedings. This has resulted in a persistent air pollution and environmental nuisance, affecting the lives and health of nearby residents and causing significant distress.
 
     The EPD has been making unremitting efforts to follow up the operation of these two CBPs, and has been employing a two-pronged strategy of continuous enforcement actions and legislative amendments to tackle these illegal operations that would harm the environment and public health. To date, there have been a total of 39 summonses for criminal prosecution against the operator. On October 4, 2024, the operator was convicted of two offences at the Kwun Tong Magistrates’ Court for failing to comply with the requirements of the air pollution abatement notice. Another 28 summonses are scheduled for hearing on April 7, 2025, while the remaining nine summonses of non-compliance are still in process.
 
     The spokesperson said the EPD will continue to closely monitor the situation. If the two concerned CBPs are found to persist in operating without SP licenses in defiance of licensing requirements after the Amendment Bill takes effect, the EPD will take stringent actions under the newly amended Ordinance to halt such unlicensed SP operations and protect the health of Yau Tong residents.
 
     “To meet industry needs and market developments, the EPD introduced a series of measures in mid-November last year to streamline the application and processing procedures for specified process licenses for cement works. These include simplifying application forms and required documents, as well as enabling applicants to conduct simple air quality assessments through an online platform. The industry has generally responded positively to these changes. These measures have proven effective, significantly reducing the time required for processing license applications related to cement works,” the spokesperson added.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong Customs yesterday (March 27) detected a case involving a local company that conducted multiple transactions of precious stones and diamond jewelleries, with each transaction valued at over HK$120,000, without registration under the Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones Regulatory Regime. A director of the company was arrested.
 
The investigation is ongoing. The arrested person has been released on bail pending further investigation.
 
According to the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Cap. 615), the Regime came into effect on April 1, 2023. Any person who is seeking to carry on a business of dealing in precious metals and stones in Hong Kong and engage in any transaction(s) (whether making or receiving a payment) with a total value at or above HK$120,000 in Hong Kong is required to register with the Commissioner of Customs and Excise. Any dealer, other than a registrant, who claims to be a registrant, claims to be authorised to carry out, or carries out any cash or non-cash transaction(s) with a total value at or above HK$120,000 is liable to a maximum fine of HK$100,000 and imprisonment for six months upon conviction.
 
Hong Kong Customs reminds all dealers that the transitional period for registration under the Regime has ended. Any dealers in precious metals and stones must obtain the relevant registration before they can carry out any cash or non-cash transaction(s) with a total value at or above HK$120,000.
 
For the forms, procedures and guidelines to submit applications for registration, please visit the website for Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones Registration System (www.drs.customs.gov.hk) or Hong Kong Customs’ webpage (www.customs.gov.hk/en/service-enforcement-information/anti-money-laundering/supervision-of-dealers-in-precious-metals-and-ston/index.html).
 
Members of the public may report any suspected transactions involving precious metals and stones with a total value at or above HK$120,000 conducted without the required registration to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the Greater Bay Area (GBA) Learning Workshop of the Finance Career Trainee Program today (March 28):
 
Ms Rose Kay (Chief Operating Officer, Hong Kong and Head of Chief Executive Officer Office, Hong Kong and Greater China and North Asia, Standard Chartered Bank), Ms Florence Wong (Head of Human Resources , Hong Kong, Taiwan and Co-head of Human Resources, GBA, Standard Chartered Bank), Ms Brenda Hou (Senior Head, Asia Pacific, Global Partnership & Client Solutions, CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Institute), Mr Ben Yi (Director and Vice President, GBA Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Foundation), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     It is my great pleasure to join you today at the GBA Learning Workshop of the Finance Career Trainee Program co-organised by Standard Chartered Bank, CFA Institute, and KPMG China. Let me begin by commending the organisers for their unwavering dedication to nurturing our next generation of financial leaders.
 
     It is very exciting to learn that nearly 2 500 students from 400 universities worldwide have applied to this programme since its inception in September 2023, reflecting its global reach and credibility. It has not only created valuable learning opportunities for students but also bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
 
     Even more importantly, this finance career trainee programme rightly dedicates its focus to the Greater Bay Area. Indeed, the GBA represents an extraordinary opportunity for ambitious young professionals like those here today. As one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly evolving economic regions, the GBA serves as a hub of innovation, presenting endless possibilities in financial services, technology, and cross-border collaboration.
 
     In recent years, financial co-operation in the GBA has grown significantly. For example, the Cross-Boundary Wealth Management Connect allows eligible residents in Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau to invest in wealth management products through a closed-loop capital channel established between banks and brokers. Meanwhile, the Government and the financial industry have actively strengthened financial infrastructure, with cross-border mobile payments becoming increasingly common across the GBA. Another noteworthy development is the successful pilot for cross-boundary credit referencing between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, which has helped address the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises in obtaining cross-border financing.
 
These examples underscore how financial collaboration in the GBA is creating exciting new opportunities – not only for the financial industry but also for young professionals. For our youngsters here today, I encourage you to embrace these opportunities, contribute to these collaborative efforts, and play an active role in shaping the future of finance in this dynamic region.
 
     As you prepare to step into the exciting and ever-changing financial industry, I would like to offer three more pieces of advice:
 
     First, think beyond borders: The GBA’s strength lies in its cross-boundary collaboration. By working across different cities, you can develop a global perspective, gain insights into diverse markets, and leverage the collective strengths of the region.
 
     Second, stay curious and adaptable: The financial industry is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and shifting economic landscapes. Staying curious, adaptable and eager to learn will be key to thriving in this dynamic environment.
 
     Last but not least, be purpose-driven: As the next generation of leaders, please strive to make a meaningful impact. Financial services are not only about driving profitability but also about contributing to society, promoting sustainability, and improving lives.
 
     I am confident that through this programme, you will gain the skills, insights, and networks necessary to excel in the financial industry while contributing to the continued growth of the GBA as a global financial powerhouse.
 
     In closing, I would like to once again express my gratitude to Standard Chartered Bank, CFA Institute, and KPMG China for their remarkable vision and dedication to empowering young talent.
 
Thank you, and I wish you all a successful and inspiring workshop ahead.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:
 
     Legislative Council (LegCo) Members met with Shatin District Council (DC) and Southern DC members at the LegCo Complex today (March 28). They held in-depth discussions and exchanged views on issues related to community development and people’s concern.
 
     During the meeting with Shatin DC, LegCo Members discussed and exchanged views with DC members on various issues, including minimization of feral pigeon nuisance to Shatin residents, such as the environmental hygiene problems caused by pigeon droppings; revitalization works of Tai Wai Nullah, its flood discharge capacity, water quality, hygiene and greening; as well as enhancement and modification works of Shatin Park and surrounding facilities, for example studying the feasibility of providing pedal-driven boat facilities, so as to tie in with the concept of “tourism is everywhere” in Hong Kong.
 
     The meeting was convened by Ms Elizabeth Quat. A total of 23 Members attended the meeting including Mr Tommy Cheung, Dr Starry Lee, Mr Chan Hak-kan, Mr Steven Ho, Mr Martin Liao, Dr Lo Wai-kwok, Mr Holden Chow, Ms Yung Hoi-yan, Mr Luk Chung-hung, Ms Doreen Kong Yuk-foon, Mr Stanley Li, Mr Dominic Lee, Mr Lee Chun-keung, Ms Lam So-wai, Ms Nixie Lam, Ms Chan Yuet-ming, Mr Chan Siu-hung, Ms Chan Hoi-yan, Mr Benson Luk, Mr Lai Tung-kwok, Ms Carmen Kan and Professor Chan Wing-kwong.
 
     During the meeting with Southern DC, LegCo Members discussed and exchanged views with DC members on various issues, including expediting the commencement of South Island Line (West) construction project; the progress of public housing developments in Pok Fu Lam South and the redevelopment of Wah Fu Estate, including the relevant timetables and rehousing arrangements for tenants; as well as the progress of various projects to improve the environment of the Southern District, the latest development of the Round-the-Island Trail, as well as the planning of the expansion of the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter under the Invigorating Island South initiative.
 
     The meeting was convened by Mr Jeffrey Lam Kin-fung. A total of 20 Members attended the meeting including Dr Starry Lee, Mr Chan Kin-por, Mrs Regina Ip, Mr Kwok Wai-keung, Dr Lo Wai-kwok, Mr Jimmy Ng, Mr Shiu Ka-fai, Dr Hoey Simon Lee, Mr Lee Chun-keung, Mr Lam Chun-sing, Ms Nixie Lam, Mr Yiu Pak-leung, Ms Chan Yuet-ming, Ms Judy Chan, Mr Chan Hok-fung, Mr Benson Luk Hon-man, Mr Lai Tung-kwok, Mr Kenneth Fok Kai-kong and Professor William Wong.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region