[PRESS RELEASE]- The Government of the Independent State of Samoa and the Government of the People’s Republic of China has reaffirmed its joint commitment and partnership to strengthen relations and cooperation between both countries and to facilitate exchange of visits between citizens of both countries including promotion of people to people linkages and sub-national cooperation.
An Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption was signed today (23rd January 2025) between the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Mr Agafili Shem Leo and the Chinese Ambassador to Samoa His Excellency Mr Fei Mingxing during the celebration of the Chinese Spring Festival. On conclusion of the signing, the Prime Minister of Samoa, Honourable Fiame Naomi Mataafa delivered a few remarks followed by an Address by His Excellency Ambassador Fei . Both the Hon Prime Minister and Ambassador acknowledged that the visa exemption arrangement would benefit both countries substantially through ease of international travel. It was further recognized that this important development would also align with this year’s 50th Anniversary since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1975.
The Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption was one of the discussion issues at the bilateral meeting between the Honorable Prime Minister of Samoa and the President of the People’s Republic of China His Excellency Xi Jinping during the Prime Minister’s official visit to China from 20-28 November last year.
Aside from the Mutual Visa Exemption, the culmination of the Bilateral Meetings between the Hon Prime Minister and the Chinese Leaders included the signing of the:
• Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement
• MOU on Exchange and Cooperation in the field of Economic Development
• MOU on Establishing a Working Group on Promoting Unimpeded Trade
• MOU on the Global Development Initiative
• MOU on Education Collaboration and Exchanges
• Handover Certificate for the Fingerprint Testing Laboratory
The collaborative efforts and cooperation between the Governments of Samoa and China illustrate a shared commitment and mutual trust to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation.
The Government of Samoa and the Government of the People’s Republic of China will continue to pursue greater collaboration that will deliver on joint interests and agreed commitments to address key national development priorities that are in line with the Pathway for the Development of Samoa, and for the benefit of our two Peoples.
CAPTION- An Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption was signed today (23rd January 2025) between the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Mr Agafili Shem Leo and the Chinese Ambassador to Samoa His Excellency Mr Fei Mingxing during the celebration of the Chinese Spring Festival.
Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda Inaugurates World TB Day 2025 Summit Our TB elimination strategy is based on ‘whole of the society’ and ‘whole of the government’ approach: Shri JP Nadda
“Over 13.46 lakh Nikshay Shivirs, or community screening and awareness camps were organised in the districts bringing essential TB services directly to the doorsteps of crores of people”
Under the 100-day TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, 12.97 crore people were screened for TB with over 7.19 lakh TB patients notified across India
Approximately 2.85 lakh of the notified patients were asymptomatic, who might have otherwise gone undetected without the stratified screening strategy of the campaign
With a proven blueprint derived from the campaign’s success, Union Health Minister announces nationwide expansion of the campaign, highlighting its efficient case finding, leveraging of technology and ensuring timely treatment initiation
State/UTs awarded for exemplary performance during the 100 Days intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and in the TB Mukt Gram Panchyat Initiative
A digital Coffee Table Book and Guidance document on ‘differentiated TB care’ launched at the event
Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:26PM by PIB Delhi
“Our TB elimination strategy is based on ‘whole of the society’ and ‘whole of the government’ approach”. This was stated by Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare during his address to the World TB Day 2025 summit, here today. The theme for this year’s World TB Day summit is “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”.
The Union Minister reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to achieving a TB-Mukt Bharat in his address. While presiding over the Summit, he lauded the 100 Days Intensified TB Elimination campaign’s strategy to deploy cutting-edge technologies, including handheld X-ray units and upfront Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT) some of which were deployed using mobile vans (Nikshay Vahans). This helped the campaign shatter geographical barriers and brought vital screening and diagnostic services to remote and underserved areas. He mentioned that over 13.46 lakh Nikshay Shivirs, or community screening and awareness camps were organised in the districts bringing essential TB services directly to the doorsteps of crores of people.
The Union Minister noted that TB treatment coverage in India has increased from 59% to 85%. He informed that 12.97 crore people were screened for TB with 7.19 lakh new cases detected. Among the notified TB cases, approximately 2.85 lakh were asymptomatic cases who might have otherwise gone undetected without the stratified screening strategy of the campaign. More than 5,000 MLAs and 10,000 Gram Panchayats participated in the campaign. Citing these successes, he announced the Ministry’s plans to scale the campaign nationwide. Stating that TB is not over yet, he announced further scaling up of the TB elimination campaign to cover all districts in India.
Shri Nadda highlighted that 22 line ministries supported the 100-days campaign and more than 30,000 elected representatives were mobilized for the common cause, demonstrating that the fight against TB is a collective mission. He informed that in just 100 days, over 1,05,181 new Ni-kshay Mitras have registered and distributed over 3,06,368 food baskets among TB patients and their family members.
He noted that during the recently concluded 100-Day Intensified TB Elimination Campaign, modern technology was leveraged to improve case detection, reduce diagnostic delays, and ensure timely treatment initiation, particularly for vulnerable populations. “The campaign strategically screened vulnerable populations, including asymptomatic individuals, household contacts of TB patients, those with a history of TB, undernourished individuals, and those with chronic comorbidities such as diabetes and HIV”.
Shri Nadda stated that India is one of the top global funders on TB research and congratulated ICMR for their significant research on TB. He highlighted some innovations like RT-PCR machines used during the Covid pandemic which is adapted for use in TB screening. Similarly, indigenous diagnostic kits developed by ICMR not only reduce the cost for TB detection but also improve efficiency by conducting 32 tests in one go. “Hand held x-ray machines with AI support have also played a huge role in detecting asymptomatic TB”, he added.
He concluded his address by thanking the invaluable support and involvement of elected representatives and community leaders, MPs, MLAs, Gram Pradhans and local leaders which was instrumental in raising awareness and mobilizing communities against this disease. “Their dedication has fostered a sense of ownership and accountability in the community, one of the many unique strategies India has adopted to fight TB”, he stated.
Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary said, “World TB Day is a day where we remind ourselves that this disease still exists while we can eliminate it”. She further stated that this is a day to chart out our task ahead. “All our stakeholders have put in a lot of effort towards the goal of eliminating TB and this should continue until we achieve the goal of TB Mukt Bharat”, she added.
A digital Coffee Table Book on TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, capturing and showcasing the implementation of the Abhiyaan through photos from the field, was unveiled on the occasion. The Union Health Minister also launched a ‘Guidance Document on Differentiated TB Care’ to ensure timely and effective care for high-risk patients. This document provides guidelines for triaging high-risk patients (for instance, those suffering from severe undernutrition or respiratory insufficiency) at diagnosis and refers to a comprehensive treatment plan for them.
State/UTs were awarded for the exemplary performance during the 100 Days intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and also for their performance in the TB Mukt Gram Panchyat Initiative.
Dr Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Department of Health Research and DG, ICMR; Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services (DGHS); Smt. Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Mission Director, National Health Mission; and senior officials of the Union Health Ministry were present on the occasion. The event also witnessed participation from NTEP Staff from State and Districts, TB Champions, District Magistrates, District Collectors, MD NHMs, Medical Institutions, Civil society, WHO Consultants and development partners.
The Department of Health (DH) today (March 24) is actively following up and investigating an incident of a falling examination lamp in a treatment room at Hong Kong Adventist Hospital – Tsuen Wan (HKAH-TW). In addition, the DH has issued a special alert to inform the stakeholders in Hong Kong that if they are using the same model (i.e. Polaris® 50) of examination lamp, they should contact the local supplier.
According to the HKAH-TW’s report, upon a doctor finished a procedure for a patient in a treatment room of the Urgent Care Centre last night, the examination lamp suddenly fell while a healthcare staff assisting the doctor was trying to adjust it, hitting both of them. Upon examination, neither suffered any major injuries and did not require hospitalisation for treatment. The patient, who was in the treatment room at the time of the incident, was not injured.
After the incident, the hospital stopped using the room in question in the evening of the same day, and asked the supplier to immediately send staff to inspect all examination lamps of the same model in the hospital to ensure safety. As a precautionary measure, the HKAH-TW has also requested the supplier to inspect all lights manufactured by the same supplier (Draeger Hong Kong Limited) but of different models in the HKAH-TW. The DH has requested the HKAH-TW to submit an investigation report. The DH will carefully assess the findings of the investigation and the measures taken by the hospital, and take appropriate follow-up actions to ensure patient safety and prevent similar incidents.
On the other hand, the DH has contacted the local supplier of the device to learn more about the incident. Preliminary information indicated that the medical device in question is a Class I general medical device under the Medical Device Administrative Control System. The DH will notify stakeholders of the incident, including the Hospital Authority, all private hospitals, licensed private healthcare facilities and relevant medical professional bodies, and inform them to contact the local supplier, Draeger Hong Kong Limited, as soon as possible if they are using the device concerned. The DH will also issue a special alert on the Medical Device Division’s website. The DH has requested Draeger Hong Kong Limited in writing today to proactively notify the affected customers and take follow-up action.
The DH would continue to liaise closely with the HKAH-TW and the supplier concerned, and follow up on the case to safeguard patient safety.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal joins Global Maritime Leaders at Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) Meets key Singapore Ministers to strengthen bilateral maritime & trade ties
Deliberates with ministerial counterparts from France, The Netherlands, Norway & Portugal on navigating Global Maritime Trends at SMW
Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 6:59PM by PIB Delhi
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal joined Global Maritime Leaders at the Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) to discuss, deliberate and devise strategies based on the shared vision for a secure, sustainable and prosperous maritime future. The Minister highlighted the challenges and India’s vision to channel growth of the maritime sector around that. Shri Sonowal also argued for strengthening maritime connectivity and supply chains while the need for collective effort towards a green sustainable maritime future.
On digitalisation and future ready shipping, the Union Minister reiterated how it is the core strategy of India’s maritime policy. India’s maritime policies like ONOP, NLP (Marine), and MAITRI are streamlining port services, cutting transaction times, and enabling real-time data. India is also partnering with the UAE and Singapore to create Virtual Trade Corridors for seamless cargo movement.
Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “India’s maritime vision, rooted in ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, promotes collaboration and shared prosperity. As a reliable and responsible partner, India is committed to building a green, secure, and inclusive maritime future. Alongside Singapore and global partners, we aim to drive innovation and collective action for a resilient maritime ecosystem.”
Shri Sonowal met Senior Minister and ex PM of Singapore, Lee Hsien Loong at the SMW. Union Minister was ushered to the bilateral meeting with Murali Pillai, Minister of State, Ministry of Law and Ministry of Transport, Singapore. The Union Minister also held individual meetings with other senior members of the government including Dr Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower and Second Minister of Trade and Industry, Singapore; Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Singapore. Sonowal said at the SMW that India is addressing supply chain vulnerabilities by developing key corridors like IMEEC, the Eastern Maritime Corridor, and the North-South Transport Corridor to secure trade routes. A USD 20 billion investment would enhance logistics, port connectivity, and trade facilitation. India targets a top-five global shipbuilding rank by 2047 through policy reforms and infrastructure upgrades. Ports aim to grow their global cargo share from 6% to 15% by 2047, supported by a Maritime Development Fund for fleet and shipyard expansion. The GIFT City is also rising as a global hub for maritime finance and ship leasing, offering a competitive gateway to global capital, highlighted Shri Sarbananda Sonowal at the SMW Adding further, he said, “The maritime sector faces both challenges and opportunities, from climate change and geopolitics to digital disruption and shifting trade patterns. Guided by PM Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat, India is advancing as a modern, self-reliant, and globally connected economy. The maritime sector is key to driving growth, resilience, and sustainable connectivity. India is expanding port infrastructure, integrating logistics, and boosting ease of doing business—resulting in greater port efficiency, stronger cargo flows, and growing investor confidence.”
In his concluding remark, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Sustainability is central to India’s maritime strategy. We are advancing green port infrastructure, promoting low-emission shipping, and supporting innovation in low-carbon vessels. Three Green Hydrogen Hub Ports— Kandla, Tuticorin, and Paradip—will drive alternative fuel adoption and green hydrogen production. India is also leading the IMO’s Green Voyage 2050 initiative, helping developing nations in their energy transitions. Our commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, extends to developing Green Shipping Corridors, including the proposed India-Singapore Green and Digital Corridor, focused on clean energy and smart logistics. Oceans unite us. Through partnerships, we can turn today’s maritime challenges into shared, sustainable opportunities.” Sarbananda Sonowal also met Industry Captains including Jeremy Nixon, Global CEO, ONE and Masashi Hamada along with other corporate leaders from the Maritime Sector including APM Terminals, Gateway Terminals.
[GOVT. PRESS SECRETARIAT]- The Government of Samoa has requested official information from the Solomon Islands Attorney General’s Office on the circumstances surrounding the stop order preventing Leiataualesa Jerry Brunt from departing Honiara.
Through the Prime Minister’s Office, support is arranged to ensure legal representation for Leiataualesa is available while awaiting official details from Honiara.
Leiataualesa was returning home after the Miss Pacific Pageant where he served as one of the five judges.
He was stopped at the airport.
We will keep you posted as more details are available.
World Tuberculosis (TB) Day – 2025 Towards a TB-Free India
Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:26PM by PIB Delhi
“The decline in TB incidence is an outcome of India’s dedicated and innovative efforts. Through a collective spirit, we will keep working towards a TB-free India.”
World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is observed every year on March 24th to raise awareness about the need to eliminate TB, the world’s deadliest infectious disease. The day marks the discovery of the TB-causing bacterium by Dr. Robert Koch in 1882. India has been observing this day since 1982, along with the global community. Despite progress, TB still impacts millions, posing serious health, social, and economic challenges.[3] This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”, highlights the importance of stronger commitments and action, especially against rising drug-resistant TB.[4]
India’s goal to eliminate TB by 2025 is one of the world’s most ambitious health missions. Under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), India has strengthened its TB response with advanced diagnostics, innovative policies, private sector partnerships, and a patient-first approach. Key drivers include record-high case reporting, better diagnostics, financial support for patients, and strong multi-sector collaboration. However, with global TB funding declining and shifting priorities, continued commitment is vital to meet India’s 2025 target and the UN’s goal of ending TB by 2030.
Despite global efforts, TB remains a major public health challenge worldwide, with India bearing the highest burden. Understanding both the global and national estimates is key to gauging the scale of the disease and the urgency of India’s elimination mission.
KEY INITIATIVES BY THE INDIAN GOVERNMENT TO ELIMINATE TB
To tackle this significant burden, the Government of India has implemented a range of focused strategies under its National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). These key initiatives under NTEP aim to strengthen diagnosis, treatment, and prevention efforts, accelerating progress toward a TB-free India.
National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP)[7]
In 2020, the Government of India renamed the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) the National TB Elimination Program (NTEP). This reflects India’s goal to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, five years before the global target of 2030. Here are the key targets for the Eradication of TB
The NTEP follows the National Strategic Plan (2017-2025), focusing on four key actions:
Detect – Treat – Prevent – Build(DTPB) to control and eliminate TB in India.
According to WHO’s Global TB Report, India has made significant progress in fighting tuberculosis. Under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), the incidence rate of TB cases have dropped by nearly 17.7%, from 237 cases per 1 lakh people in 2015 to 195 in 2023. TB-related deaths have also reduced, falling from 28 to 22 per 1 lakh people during the same period.
One of its key achievements has been reducing the number of missing TB cases from 15 lakh in 2015 to just 2.5 lakh in 2023 with a decrease of 83%.
Under NTEP, India has rolled out improved drug-resistant TB treatments, including a safer, shorter all-oral Bedaquiline regimen, boosting success rates from 68% (2020) to 75% (2022). The mBPaL regimen (Bedaquiline, Pretomanid, Linezolid) offers 80% success for MDR-TB, cutting treatment to six months.
The Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA), one of the components of NTEP, aims to unite communities, businesses, and institutions to support TB patients and their families. It focuses on providing nutritional, diagnostic, and vocational support to improve treatment outcomes, reduce illness and deaths, and fast-track India’s goal of TB elimination. PMTBMBA is also recognized as the world’s largest crowd-sourcing initiative for nutritional support to TB patients.
Key goals include:
Offering additional care and support to TB-affected individuals.
Promoting active community participation.
Mobilizing CSR contributions from businesses and institutions.
The NIKSHAY – TB Notification Incentive for the Private Sector, launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, incentivizes private healthcare providers to report TB cases, improving TB surveillance and treatment.
Under the Ni-Kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY), financial support for TB patients’ nutrition has been increased from ₹500 to ₹1,000 per month, providing ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per patient throughout treatment. The patient must be registered and notified on the NIKSHAY portal.
The government has introduced Energy Dense Nutritional Supplementation (EDNS) for underweight TB patients (BMI < 18.5). Around 12 lakh patients will receive these supplements during the first two months of treatment to improve recovery rates and overall health outcomes.
Ni-Kshay Mitra initiative – Under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA), the Ni-Kshay Mitra initiative encourages individuals, NGOs, corporates, faith-based organizations, and others to adopt TB patients for at least six months, offering them nutritional, social, or economic support.
The scope of this initiative has now been expanded to include food baskets for household contacts of TB patients, aiming to boost immunity, lower infection risk, and reduce families’ financial burden. Additionally, over ₹3,202 crores have been disbursed to 1.13 crore beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY), supporting better nutrition and treatment outcomes. To further strengthen these efforts, the government has committed an additional ₹1,040 crores (shared 60:40 between Centre and States), ensuring enhanced support and reduced TB-related mortality.
Ni-kshay Portal
Ni-kshay Portal is a web-based patient management and surveillance system under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP). Developed by the Central TB Division, MoHFW, in collaboration with NIC and WHO India, it helps health workers in both public and private sectors to register TB cases, order tests, record treatment, monitor adherence, and transfer cases. It also serves as India’s National TB Surveillance System, ensuring real-time data reporting to the government.[14]
Over 1.51 crore TB patients are receiving treatment, with approximately 1.18 crore consenting to receive support. Around 1.18 crore commitments have been made by Ni-kshay Mitras, and over 2.59 lakh Mitras are registered. The initiative emphasizes public participation in TB elimination, resonating with the Prime Minister’s call for humanity. More details can be found on the Ni-kshay Dashboard[15]
Conclusion
India is making steady progress in its goal to eliminate TB by 2025 through focused interventions under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP). Key initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (PMTBMBA) and Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) are driving community participation and ensuring nutritional support, improving treatment adherence. The Ni-kshay Portal further strengthens surveillance and patient care. To sustain momentum, increased investments, innovation, and partnerships are crucial. With continued commitment, India is poised to become a global example in the fight against TB.
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA), organized a workshop on “Emerging Trends in Public Data and Technology for Research and Policy” at the IIM Ahmedabad campus. This initiative aligns with MoSPI’s ongoing efforts to enhance the national data ecosystem and advance evidence-based policymaking.
The event brought together distinguished speakers, including Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, MoSPI & Head NSO; Prof. Bharat Bhaskar, Director, IIMA; Sh. P.R. Meshram, Director General, MoSPI; senior officials from the Ministry; faculty members; students; and representatives from premier academic and research institutions. The discussions revolved around leveraging public data, emerging technologies, and academic collaborations to address policy challenges.
Prof. Bharat Bhaskar, Director of IIMA, highlighted the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in policy formulation. However, he also cautioned against inherent biases that may arise from historical data patterns. “While AI can significantly enhance decision-making, it is essential to establish safeguards to ensure fairness and accuracy. Collaboration should be focused on maximizing benefits for public good,” he stated.
Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, MoSPI, provided an overview of the Ministry’s functions, including its various surveys and macroeconomic indicators. “The vast volume of administrative data in India presents a unique opportunity to integrate it with alternate datasets to meet the increasing expectations of data users. As the custodian of decades-old datasets, MoSPI must rejuvenate legacy data using emerging technologies to make it AI ready. Institutions like IIMA can play a pivotal role in this endeavor,” he remarked.
A major milestone of the workshop was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MoSPI and IIMA. This partnership will serve as a framework for collaborative efforts in data innovation, ensuring that academic research contributes effectively to policy development. As a precursor to the workshop, a focused session with IIMA faculty was conducted in the forenoon. The session explored avenues for leveraging the expertise of both institutions to enhance data-driven policy support. The discussions underscored the importance of an institutional framework for sustained collaboration between NSO India and IIMA and creation of Human capital to take these initiatives forward.
The workshop reaffirmed the crucial role of integrating public data with cutting-edge technology to drive evidence-based policymaking. By engaging with academic institutions, MoSPI seeks to harness research-driven insights and technological advancements to strengthen India’s statistical ecosystem. This collaboration marks a significant step toward building a robust, data-driven policy environment, reinforcing MoSPI’s commitment to innovation, excellence, and inclusivity in the national statistical system.
Source: Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu met with PS for Roads and Regional Transportation Anna Watson MP
Following is the speech by the Acting Chief Executive, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at HSBC Global Investment Summit today (March 25):
Deputy Director Qi (Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Qi Bin), Mark (Group Chairman of HSBC Holdings, Mr Mark Tucker), Georges (Group Chief Executive of HSBC Holdings, Mr Georges Elhedery), distinguished guests from around the world, ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning and welcome to Hong Kong. The Chief Executive is away on a duty visit, but I’m very pleased to be here, with you, for the second HSBC Global Investment Summit.
Particularly pleased, given that this three-day gathering is among the many events celebrating HSBC’s 160th anniversary. Born a Hong Kong bank in 1865, HSBC is still, proudly, a Hong Kong bank in 2025. Not to mention one of the world’s great banks.
So, yes, I’m delighted to be here, to congratulate HSBC on its milestone anniversary. Delighted to be here, too, speaking about Hong Kong, my favorite subject, to HSBC and a world of high-profile professionals. I’m told that some 4 300 registered for this three-day Summit, which would make it even larger than the first HSBC Summit last year.
You are leaders and innovators collectively shaping the future of global finance and investment: CEOs of global firms, institutional investors, wealth-fund managers, pioneering fintech innovators and much more.
And you’ve come here at a brilliant time. Our “Hong Kong Super March” features a stunning series of mega-events, arts and culture included. Hong Kong, after all, is the rising East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
The Hong Kong Arts Festival, featuring music, dance, theatre, Chinese and Western opera and much more, continues through Sunday. Art Basel, opening Friday (March 28), showcases more than 240 galleries from over 40 countries and regions. And don’t miss the major Picasso exhibition, at M+, in the West Kowloon Cultural District. HSBC, let me add, is a major sponsor of the spectacular Picasso exhibition.
Those of you who lean toward the art of sport won’t need to be told that the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens gets going this Friday, with world-class action, on and off the pitch, at our brand-new, state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park, with seating for 50 000. Bigger house. Bigger party. And the views across to Victoria Harbour from the South Stand are stunning.
The good life includes finance, as you all well know. And Hong Kong is Asia’s premier financial hub.
Indeed, in the latest Global Financial Centres Index, published just last week, Hong Kong maintained its standing as the world’s third-ranked financial centre – and the top in the Asia-Pacific. In the Index’s “human capital,” “infrastructure” and “financial sector development” areas, Hong Kong climbed to second, worldwide, while our rankings in “business environment” and “reputational and general” rose to third, globally.
The numbers tell a compelling story. Our economy is projected to grow 2.9 per cent annually from 2026 to 2029 – resilient momentum despite global headwinds.
Our stock market has surged more than 20 per cent as of mid-March, its highest level since February 2022. Daily market turnover reached close to 26 billion US dollars at the end of February. That’s up nearly 140 per cent, year on year.
Investor confidence is returning, too. That’s reflected in the 7.1 per cent rise in total deposits last year.
These figures are a testament to the trust global investors place in our financial infrastructure, regulatory framework and longstanding connectivity with Mainland China and the world in general.
Hong Kong’s role as a super-connector has never been more vital. We remain the world’s largest offshore Renminbi business hub, each day processing close to 80 per cent of cross-border Renminbi payments outside the Mainland.
And we will continue to enhance offshore Renminbi liquidity.
Last month, we launched the Renminbi Trade Financing Liquidity Facility, with Renminbi 100 billion, ensuring that banks have stable access to low-cost Renminbi funds.
We are now working to enable multi-currency settlements and enrich Renminbi products, offering real estate investment trusts under Stock Connect and exploring new initiatives with Mainland regulators.
There’s more. We are committed to Hong Kong’s rise as an international gold trading centre, taking good advantage of our strengths in security and stability, as well as finance.
We are working now on measures to enhance gold storage facilities, optimise trading and regulatory mechanisms, expand exchange products and conduct market promotion.
Attracting foreign investment is another promising area. Last year, we attracted about 540 overseas and Mainland firms to set up or expand their operations here in Hong Kong, up more than 40 per cent, year on year.
And we are making every effort to attract more global capital. In particular, we will host the inaugural Hong Kong Global Financial and Industry Summit in June, with a view to supporting the matching of capital and projects. The event will bring together global enterprises, tech firms, funds and investors to drive international collaboration through financial empowerment. In addition, we will also work with the Hong Kong Exchanges to open new distribution channels for private equity funds and boost promotion in the Middle East and throughout ASEAN.
We are, as well, encouraging the private sector to organise more mega-events such as this Summit, to showcase Hong Kong’s energy and business opportunities to the world.
Those opportunities include green and sustainable finance.
Alongside green bond issuances, we are also providing early-stage funding support for pre-commercialised green fintech initiatives.
We will soon publish a second policy statement on virtual assets, positioning Hong Kong as Asia’s digital-asset innovation hub. And we expect to implement a regulatory framework for stablecoins later this year.
The initiatives are attracting global players, with 10 digital-asset licenses issued so far and more in the pipeline.
In AI, we have issued a policy statement, setting out our stance regarding the responsible application of AI in the financial market.
We are closely monitoring market developments, drawing on international experience with AI in financial services to accelerate the development of new quality productive forces.
These digital regulatory advancements also pave the way for further innovation in fintech.
Our commitment to innovation is evident in our pioneering work on Central Bank Digital Currencies and the launch of the Commercial Data Interchange. These enable more efficient financial intermediation in the banking system and enhance financial inclusion in Hong Kong.
In November, for the first time, our FinTech Week and our StartmeupHK Festival will converge as one event dedicated to the digital economy. It will mark the 10th anniversary for both, bringing together technology innovators, banking executives, venture capitalists, regulators and start-ups, all keen to shape the future of finance.
Last year, by the way, the number of start-ups in Hong Kong grew by 10 per cent, with fintech being the biggest sector, with more than 600 start-ups.
This Summit’s agenda reflects both the complexity and the promise of today’s global financial landscape. Over the next three days, you’ll engage in discussions ranging from the future of digital finance to sustainable investment strategies, from the reordering of global supply chains to emerging market opportunities.
More than a gathering of finance and business minds – this Summit is a forum for action. The connections made here, the insights shared and the partnerships created will ripple right through the global economy, of that I’m confident. Like Hong Kong, you’re here to make a decided difference for us all.
You’re also here, in Hong Kong, to have a memorable time on a landmark occasion, the 160th anniversary of HSBC. Thankfully, the rich business of pleasure is everywhere you look in Hong Kong. Enjoy it all. Every minute of it. Thank you.
Make in India Powers Defence Growth Production hit ₹1.27 lakh crore in FY 2023-24, Exports cross ₹21,000 crore
Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:19PM by PIB Delhi
Summary
India’s defence production reached ₹1.27 lakh crore in FY 2023-24, marking a 174% rise since 2014-15, driven by the Make in India initiative.
Defence exports hit a record ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023-24, expanding 30 times in a decade, with exports to 100+ countries.
Initiatives like iDEX and SAMARTHYA are driving technological advancements in AI, cyber warfare, and indigenous weapon systems.
14,000+ items indigenised under SRIJAN and 3,000 under Positive Indigenisation Lists.
India aims for ₹3 lakh crore in production, ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2029.
Summary
Introduction
India’s defence production has grown at an extraordinary pace since the launch of the “Make in India” initiative, reaching a record ₹1.27 lakh crore in FY 2023-24. Once dependent on foreign suppliers, the country now stands as a rising force in indigenous manufacturing, shaping its military strength through homegrown capabilities. This shift reflects a strong commitment to self-reliance, ensuring that India not only meets its security needs but also builds a robust defence industry that contributes to economic growth.
Strategic policies have fuelled this momentum, encouraging private participation, technological innovation, and the development of advanced military platforms. The surge in the defence budget, from ₹2.53 lakh crore in 2013-14 to ₹6.81 lakh crore in 2025-26, underlines the nation’s determination to strengthen its military infrastructure.
This commitment to self-reliance and modernisation is reflected in the recent approval by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the procurement of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), a significant step in enhancing the Army’s firepower. The deal includes 307 units of 155mm/52 caliber guns along with 327 High Mobility 6×6 Gun Towing Vehicles, equipping 15 Artillery Regiments under the Buy Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured (IDDM) category, at an estimated cost of ₹7,000 crore. Developed by DRDO with Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems, ATAGS is a cutting-edge artillery system with a 40+ km range, advanced fire control, precision targeting, automated loading, and recoil management, thoroughly tested by the Indian Army in all terrains.
With modern warships, fighter jets, artillery systems, and cutting-edge weaponry being built within the country, India is now a key player in the global defence manufacturing landscape.
Surge in Indigenous Defence Production
India has achieved the highest-ever growth in indigenous defence production in value terms during Financial Year (FY) 2023-24, driven by the successful implementation of government policies and initiatives led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, focusing on attaining Atmanirbharta. The value of defence production has surged to a record high of ₹1,27,265 crore, marking an impressive 174% increase from ₹46,429 crore in 2014-15, according to data from all Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), other public sector units manufacturing defence items, and private companies.
This growth has been bolstered by the Make in India initiative, which has enabled the development of advanced military platforms including the Dhanush Artillery Gun System, Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun, Light Specialist Vehicles, High Mobility Vehicles, Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), Akash Missile System, Weapon Locating Radar, 3D Tactical Control Radar, and Software Defined Radio (SDR), as well as naval assets like destroyers, indigenous aircraft carriers, submarines, frigates, corvettes, fast patrol vessels, fast attack craft, and offshore patrol vessels.
Key points:
65% of defence equipment is now manufactured domestically, a significant shift from the earlier 65-70% import dependency, showcasing India’s self-reliance in defence.
A robust defence industrial base includes 16 DPSUs, over 430 licensed companies, and approximately 16,000 MSMEs, strengthening indigenous production capabilities.
The private sector plays a crucial role, contributing 21% to total defence production, fostering innovation and efficiency.
India targets ₹3 lakh crore in defence production by 2029, reinforcing its position as a global defence manufacturing hub.
Unprecedented Growth in Defence Exports
India’s expanding global footprint in defence manufacturing is a direct result of its commitment to self-reliance and strategic policy interventions. Defence exports have surged from ₹686 crore in FY 2013-14 to an all-time high of ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023-24, marking a 30-fold increase over the past decade.
Key points:
Defence exports have grown 21 times, from ₹4,312 crore in the 2004-14 decade to ₹88,319 crore in the 2014-24 decade, highlighting India’s expanding role in the global defence sector.
Defence exports surged by 32.5% year-on-year, rising from ₹15,920 crore in FY 2022-23 to ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023-24.
India’s diverse export portfolio includes bulletproof jackets, Dornier (Do-228) aircraft, Chetak helicopters, fast interceptor boats, and lightweight torpedoes.
Notably, ‘Made in Bihar’ boots are now part of the Russian Army’s gear, highlighting India’s high manufacturing standards.
India now exports defence equipment to over 100 countries, with the USA, France, and Armenia emerging as the top buyers in 2023-24.
The government aims to achieve ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029, reinforcing India’s role as a global defence manufacturing hub while boosting economic growth.
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)
Launched in April 2018, Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) has created a thriving ecosystem for innovation and technology development in defence and aerospace. By engaging MSMEs, startups, individual innovators, R&D institutes, and academia, iDEX has provided grants of up to ₹1.5 crore for developing innovative technologies. To further enhance self-reliance in defence technology, ₹449.62 crore has been allocated to iDEX, including its sub-scheme Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI), for 2025-26. As of February 2025, 549 problem statements have been opened, involving 619 startups and MSMEs, with 430 iDEX contracts signed.
The scheme has three key objectives:
Facilitate rapid development of new, indigenised, and innovative technologies for the Indian Defence and Aerospace sector, to meet their needs in a shorter time span.
Create a culture of engagement with innovative startups, to encourage co-creation for Defence and Aerospace sectors.
Empower a culture of technology co-creation and co-innovation within the Defence and Aerospace sectors.
The recently launched ADITI scheme aims to support critical and strategic technologies such as satellite communication, advanced cyber technology, autonomous weapons, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, nuclear technologies, and underwater surveillance. Under this scheme, grants of up to ₹25 crore are provided to innovators.
Reinforcing its commitment to supporting startups and MSMEs, the Ministry of Defence has also cleared procurement of 43 items worth over ₹2,400 crore from iDEX startups and MSMEs for the Armed Forces as of February 2025. Additionally, projects worth over ₹1,500 crore have been approved for development.
The success story of indigenisation and innovation in the defence sector was highlighted at the Aero India 2025 event ‘SAMARTHYA’, which showcased India’s progress in defence manufacturing. The event featured 33 major indigenised items, including 24 developed by Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and the Indian Navy, along with nine successful innovation projects from iDEX.
Among the key indigenised items displayed were:
Electro Block of the Anti-Aircraft Machine Gun
Electric Mobile Part for Submarines
Torsion Bar Suspension for HMV 6×6
Extruded Aluminium Alloy for LCA MK-I/II and LCH Components
Indian High-Temperature Alloy (IHTA)
VPX-135 Single Board Computer
Naval Anti-Ship Missile (Short Range)
RudraM II Missile
C4ISR System
DIFM R118 Electronic Warfare Systems
The event further highlighted breakthroughs in AI-driven analytical platforms, next-generation surveillance systems, quantum-secure communication technologies, and counter-drone measures. Innovations like the 4G/LTE TAC-LAN, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) system, Smart Compressed Breathing Apparatus, and Advanced Autonomous Systems for the Armed Forces reflect India’s evolving defence landscape.
Efforts are ongoing to bridge the gap between the Indian Army’s operational challenges and the innovative solutions developed by academia, industry startups, and research institutions. Additionally, the focus remains on conducting multi-domain operations in a data-centric environment, especially in light of emerging transformative technologies.
SAMARTHYA stands as a testament to India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence technology, reinforcing its ability to develop advanced, home-grown solutions for national security.
Advancing Self-Reliance
India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence manufacturing has significantly reduced its dependence on foreign suppliers. Through strategic policies and indigenous innovation, the country is developing cutting-edge military platforms, strengthening both national security and economic growth.
Self-Reliant Initiatives through Joint Action (SRIJAN)
Launched by the Department of Defence Production (DDP) in August 2020 to promote indigenisation under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Serves as a common platform for Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and the Armed Forces (SHQs) to list imported items for domestic manufacturing.
As of February 2025, over 38,000 items are available, with more than 14,000 successfully indigenised.
Positive Indigenisation Lists (PILs)
The Department of Defence Production (DDP) and the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) have issued five Positive Indigenisation Lists (PILs) for LRUs, assemblies, sub-assemblies, sub-systems, spares, components, and high-end materials.
These lists set fixed timelines beyond which procurement will be restricted to domestic manufacturers.
Out of over 5,500 items listed, more than 3,000 have been indigenised as of February 2025.
Key indigenised technologies include artillery guns, assault rifles, corvettes, sonar systems, transport aircraft, light combat helicopters (LCHs), radars, wheeled armoured platforms, rockets, bombs, armoured command post vehicles, and armoured dozers.
Defence Industrial Corridors
Two Defence Industrial Corridors (DICs) have been set up in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to boost defence manufacturing. These corridors provide incentives to companies investing in the sector.
Investments worth more than Rs 8,658 crore have already been made in the 6 nodes of UP viz. Agra, Aligarh, Chitrakoot, Jhansi, Kanpur and Lucknow and 5 nodes of Tamil Nadu viz. Chennai, Coimbatore, Hosur, Salem and Tiruchirappalli.
As of February 2025, 253 MoUs have been signed, with a potential investment of ₹53,439 crore.
Ease of Doing Business (EoDB)
The government has introduced several measures to improve ease of doing business in the defence manufacturing sector.
The validity of export authorisation for parts and components has been extended from two years to the completion of the order or component, whichever is later.
In 2019, the Defence Product List was streamlined to reduce the number of items requiring a manufacturing licence.
Parts and components of defence items were de-licensed in September 2019 to encourage investment.
The validity of defence licences under the Industries (Development and Regulation) Act, 1951, has been extended from three years to 15 years, with a further extension option of up to 18 years.
Over 700 industrial licences have been issued to 436 companies in the defence sector.
The introduction of an end-to-end digital export authorisation system has improved efficiency, with more than 1,500 authorisations issued in the last financial year.
MAKE Projects: Driving Indigenous Defence Innovation
The MAKE procedure was first introduced in the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP-2006) to promote indigenous design and development in the defence sector. Over the years, it has been simplified and streamlined through revisions in 2016, 2018, and 2020, ensuring faster development of defence equipment, systems, and components by both public and private industries.
MAKE projects have been divided into three categories:
MAKE-I (Government Funded)
Up to 70% government funding for prototype development (capped at ₹250 crore per Development Agency).
Minimum 50% Indigenous Content (IC) required.
MAKE-II (Industry Funded)
Focuses on import substitution, encouraging domestic industries to develop critical defence systems.
No government funding, with a minimum 50% Indigenous Content (IC) requirement.
MAKE-III (Manufactured in India through Transfer of Technology – ToT)
Involves manufacturing in India under Technology Transfer (ToT) from Foreign OEMs.
No design and development but require a minimum of 60% Indigenous Content (IC).
Key points:
As of March 24, 2025, a total of 145 projects have been undertaken under the MAKE initiative, with the participation of 171 industries, driving indigenous defence production.
The initiative includes 40 MAKE-I projects (Government Funded), 101 MAKE-II projects (Industry Funded), and 4 MAKE-III projects (Manufacturing through ToT), strengthening self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Other Key Initiatives
In recent years, the Indian government has implemented a series of transformative initiatives aimed at bolstering the country’s defence production capabilities and achieving self-reliance. These measures are designed to attract investment, enhance domestic manufacturing, and streamline procurement processes. From liberalizing foreign direct investment (FDI) limits to prioritizing indigenous production, these initiatives reflect a robust commitment to strengthening India’s defence industrial base. The following points outline the key government initiatives that have been pivotal in driving growth and innovation in the defence sector.
Liberalized FDI Policy: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the defence sector was liberalised in September 2020 to attract foreign investment, allowing up to 74% FDI through the automatic route and above 74% through the government route. Since April 2000, the total FDI in defence industries stands at $21.74 million.
TATA Aircraft Complex: Tata Aircraft Complex was inaugurated in Vadodara in October 2024 to manufacture C-295 aircraft, boosting Atmanirbharta in defence with 40 made-in-India aircraft out of 56 under the programme.
Manthan: The annual defence innovation event, Manthan, held during Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, brought together leading innovators, startups, MSMEs, academia, investors, and industry leaders from the defence and aerospace sectors, reaffirming confidence in the government’s commitment to technological advancements and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS): DTIS aims to boost indigenisation by providing financial assistance for setting up eight Greenfield testing and certification facilities in the aerospace and defence sector, with seven test facilities already approved in areas like unmanned aerial systems, electronic warfare, electro-optics, and communications.
Priority for Domestic Procurement: Emphasis is placed on procuring capital items from domestic sources under the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)-2020.
Domestic Procurement Allocation: MoD has earmarked 75% of modernisation budget amounting to Rs 1,11,544 crore for procurement through domestic industries during the current Financial Year.
Conclusion
India’s remarkable strides in defence production and exports underscore its transformation into a self-reliant and globally competitive military manufacturing hub. The combination of strategic policy interventions, increased domestic participation, and a focus on indigenous innovation has significantly strengthened the country’s defence capabilities. The surge in production, the exponential rise in exports, and the success of initiatives like the Make in India reflect India’s commitment to achieving Atmanirbharta in defence. With ambitious targets set for 2029, the nation is poised to further expand its global footprint, reinforcing its position as a dependable partner in the international defence market while enhancing national security and economic growth.
Source: Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu met with PS for Roads and Regional Transportation Anna Watson MP
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