Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

“Digital Radio is the medium of the future; analog medium should also co-exist” – From the Discussion at WAVES 2025

“Good content, collaborations, cross platform promotions augur well for Radio”

‘Radio Reimagined: Thriving in the Digital Age’ – Enriching panel discussion at WAVES 2025

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 3:09PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 2 May 2025

 

A panel discussion on the subject ‘Radio Reimagined: Thriving in the Digital Age’ brought together global experts to engage in an insightful discourse at WAVES 2025 today.

The esteemed panellists included the pioneer of commercial radio Jacqueline Bierhorst, Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) Chairman Ruxandra Obreja, Vice Group Leader of DRM Alexander Zink, ex-CEO of Prasar Bharati and Co-Founder of Deep Tech for Bharat Shashi Shekhar Vempati and noted broadcast technology expert Ted Laverty. Nisha Narayanan, Director & COO of Red FM moderated the conversations with expertise and led to throwing lights on the factors influencing the radio broadcasting industry. 

‘Digital Radio is the medium of the future, but analog should also co-exist’

Jacqueline Bierhorst feels that digital radio is likely to be the primary format in the future, as it offers advantages like better sound quality, more reliable transmission, and the ability to integrate multimedia elements. “While analog radio remains relevant in some contexts, particularly for simpler communication and in areas with limited digital infrastructure, the shift to digital broadcasting is ongoing and expected to continue”, she opined. Cost saving happens by switching from analog to digital, they informed.

However, Jacqueline Bierhorst  and Alexander Zink noted that broadcast is an important backing point needed during exigencies like terrorist attacks, floods etc., when digital networks may not always work. DRM Chairman Ruxandra Obreja noted on this point that it is important to preserve analog radio in India which reaches out to 600,000 villages. In case of exigencies, undoubtedly broadcast radios are more likely to reach out to a larger population, remarked the experts. “The challenge is to introduce new technologies, without disrupting the old ones”, noted Ruxandra Obreja.

The new 5Cs of radio communication

Jacqueline Bierhorst mentioned the classical 5Cs namely, Conciseness, Clarity, Confidence, Control and Capability, and juxtaposed them with the new 5 Cs essential in the era of a thriving digital radio infrastructure. These are: Coverage, Content, Consumer Devices, Car, Communication. She advised to make sure that the radio network is covering the right areas where listeners are based.

Measurement of listenership is an important step to take concerted efforts for enabling the sector to prosper. Ted Lavety spoke about radio playing Apps in Europe, like Radioplayer and Radio FM, that offer features that can be used to measure listenership, without infringement of privacy. Such programmes and apps, sample surveys and listening diaries can be used to analyse hotspots of radio listenerships in India as well, he advised.

Good content, collaborations, cross platform promotions work well

‘Content is King’ – the experts agreed on this success mantra for the sector. Nisha Narayanan flagged the issue faced by private FMs of high license fee for varied contents. As as a result, they end up mostly catering popular music which has a lower licence fee than other categories of content. The Red FM COO agreed on the need for bringing variety in content for private FMs.

Speaking about the value of good, useful content, Jacqueline Bierhorst highlighted the success story of British digital radio station Absolute Radio which grew and earned revenue throughout the 70s, 80s and 90s while engaging in various educational and promotional activities that benefit their audience.

Digital radio has to offer more than the audio content – it has visuals and text applications that is advantageous for growing audience base, Alexander Zing reminded of this yet another aspect of Digital Radio.

Ted Laverty urged that an ecosystem needed to support the spread of radio listenership. Making low-cost devices, having favourable platforms like android are some of the measures he stated. In addition to existence of external hardware components, diversity of content is also important as it helps to address different sub-groups of listeners.

Climate Change and Digital Radio

Digital radio can achieve significant energy savings by using more efficient modulation techniques and enabling single-frequency networks. However, switching off FM stations is not possible. Though some European countries have tried complete switch off of FM stations and complete digitization, it is not the holy grail, said Ruxandra Obreja. She suggested that it is important to inventorize the needs of commercial radio stations while speaking with the Government for policy interventions.

Radio Industry in India – scope for strengthening the ecosystem

Ruxandra Obreja mentioned that public policies in Europe have leveraged the reach of digital radio. Having radio in cars, mobile phones, easy availability of radio sets in the market are important steps in that direction. A digital radio consortium should be built up in India, opined the experts.

Ruxandra Obreja stated that India is a driving force in digital radio. Digital to Terrestrial Radio is important and so is digital to mobile. “Prasar Bharti has a reach to nearly 90 crore population. India is a golden goose in this field, plus points being billions of mobile phone users in India. Important to build on these plus points”, she added.

Shashi Shekhar Vempatti stated that India is the biggest market for radio, and referred to the medium as the original public good. He highlighted the need for coordinated public action for the sector. “Radio is not going anywhere. Radio consumers in India come from a broad cross section of society”, he stated while charting out the advantages of the sector in the country. Policy interventions may include sequence of stipulations like certain categories of devices must have radio. AI powered devices as well as passive devices like traditional radio should exist side by side.

With climate change being an important determinant of public policies, it is important to preserve traditional devices. Ted Laverty urged for scaling up of the ecosystem for radio in India, using schemes like ‘Make in India’ for incentivizing radio device manufacturers.

The experts agreed that digital radio is the way forward in India and elsewhere and urged that commercial stations with Common Transmission Infrastructure ion big cities to form a platform for collaboration.

 

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ Sriyanka/ Darshana | 144

(Release ID: 2126121) Visitor Counter : 61

Source: Government of India

Global Media Dialogue 2025: Member Nations adopt WAVES Declaration and agree to collaborate on giving Voice to Traditions and Heritage, while promoting Creativity in era of AI

WAVES Declaration seeks to Bridge the Digital Divide by promoting Responsible Use of Emerging Technologies, while Reducing Bias, Democratizing Content and Prioritizing Ethics

WAVES Declaration affirms the power of media & entertainment to unite the people, promote shared cultural practices, deepen innovation and resilience in globally interconnected markets

Crucial that Young Talent is made ready for an Age of Creative Collaborations through relevant Skill Development: EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar

Focus on Co-production Treaties, Joint Funds and a Declaration to widen the Global Bridge of Creativity to an Expressway of Ideas: MIB Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 3:20PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 2 May 2025

 

“Global Collaborations on promoting creativity is the way ahead, while understanding the cross-cultural sensitivities of each other.” This was one among the many outcomes of the Global Media Dialogue held in Mumbai during the ongoing World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025). Widening creative spaces in the countries therefore holds the key to our collective progress as we all tread the path to bridge the digital divide, felt the nations that took part in the dialogue. The dialogue focused on the role of governments in fostering global peace and harmony amid an increasingly globalized media environment, culminating in the adoption of the WAVES Declaration by the member nations.

The Global Media Dialogue echoed the sentiment that films, depicting cultures across the world, hold an immense potential in bringing people closer, and participating nations appreciated the role of Indian films in this regard. As an entertaining format of storytelling, the films act as a strong force to collaborate with each other. Individual stories are also emerging fast as a strong force in the creator’s economy with the confluence of technology in the art of storytelling redefining the entertainment world. Some member nations shared the concerns on the need to enhance “responsible journalism”, which they felt can thus be addressed by mutual collaborations on the forum of WAVES.

Calling the WAVES 2025 as a microcosm of the global community, Dr. S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister, Government of India said that the Summit brings together content creators, policy makers, actors, writers, producers and visual artists on a common platform for discussing a future roadmap for the Media and Entertainment sector.

During his address, Dr. Jaishankar touched upon the broad contours under consideration at the Global Media Dialogue 2025. He noted that the World order, which has a strong cultural dimension, is under transformation today. “It is essential that we give voice to our traditions, heritage, ideas, practices and creativity”, he said.

EAM stated that technology and tradition must go hand in hand, as technology can strengthen awareness of our vast heritage and deepen consciousness about it, especially for the younger generations. “It is crucial that young talent is made ready for an age of creative collaborations through relevant skill development. Innovation is key to the leapfrogging that will build Viksit Bharat”, he highlighted.

In the emerging era of AI, Dr. Jaishankar stated, the possibilities are beyond imagination, yet there is a need for a responsible use of emerging technologies, while reducing bias, democratizing content and prioritizing its ethics. “For a global workplace and global workforce, there is need for shifts in mindsets, frameworks, policies and practices”, he concluded while reposting confidence in WAVES as a platform to deliberate on the key issues before the global media and entertainment sector.

Setting the tone for the dialogue in his welcome address, Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Government of India in his opening remarks said that culture inspires creativity which connects people across borders. He added that content creation and consumption is changing fast as technology is reshaping the way we tell our stories. We are at an inflection point where we need to incentivize local content creation.

Welcoming the delegates from 77 countries to the city of dreams, Mumbai, the Shri Vaishnaw stressed on the crucial role of collaborations and asserted that for common success, we need to focus on co-production treaties, joint funds and a declaration which helps us bridge the digital divide, foster brotherhood, global peace and harmony. We need to thus widen the global bridge of creativity to an expressway of ideas, he said.

During the deliberations, where senior-most Ministerial-level delegations expressed their views, India informed participating nations about the 32 Create in India challenges, which resulted in identification of over 700 top creators from across the globe in the first season of WAVES. India informed the members that from the next edition, these challenges will be conducted in 25 global languages so that creative talent can be identified from across the globe in different languages. This will help them showcase their creative content at WAVES forum.

Other dignitaries gracing the occasion included Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, along with Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary (I&B), besides other senior officers of the Government of India.

 

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Dharmendra Tewari/Rajith/Virat/Athira/Lekshmipriya/ Darshana | 145

(Release ID: 2126127) Visitor Counter : 102

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

India Showcases Skilling and AI Innovation at TiEcon 2025: AiVerse

India nurturing over a million entrepreneurs through Startup India, Skill India and Atal Innovation Mission: Shri Jayant Chaudhary

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:58PM by PIB Delhi

TiEcon 2025, the world’s leading technology and entrepreneurship conference, kicked off its three-day run at the Santa Clara Convention Center, California, with a powerful focus on Artificial Intelligence under the theme “AiVerse.”This annual three-day conference, themed “AiVerse”, will focus on the vast potential and disruptive power of Artificial Intelligence in shaping the future of enterprises and society and has brought together entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, and academia. The three-day mega event is being held from 30^th April to 2^nd May, 2025.

Addressing the conference through a recorded message, Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Minister of State, Ministry of Education, Shri Jayant Chaudhary said that the Indian Government is nurturing over a million entrepreneurs through its ambitious programmes like Startup India, Skill India, and Atal Innovation Mission.

The Minister further  said, “India today stands at a powerful inflection point where innovation, enterprise, and skills are converging to shape a new global narrative. Across every corner of our nation, entrepreneurs are solving real problems, building sustainable ventures, and creating scalable impact.”

A high-level Indian delegation comprising leaders in deep-tech, climate innovation, healthcare, AI, and digital transformation showcased the country’s expanding role as a global innovation partner. The delegation reflected India’s entrepreneurial spirit rooted in resilience, inclusion, and purpose-driven development.

India’s participation at TiEcon 2025 marks a significant step in strengthening its positioning as a global talent hub and innovation partner in the AI era. With strategic initiatives underway, India continues to bridge global skill gaps and contribute meaningfully to the evolving AIVerse.

Addressing at the TieCon 2025 Convention at Silicon Valley, Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC and MD, NSDC International, said, “AI is transforming the world in ways we never imagined which necessitates proactive measures to navigate the challenges and harness the opportunities it brings. Skilling our youth and professionals is one of the most critical steps we must focus on today to prepare for the future. NSDC has been making significant efforts to skill and upskill the workforce through various targeted initiatives. We are empowering young people with the capabilities to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and future leaders in emerging fields. Our focus is on leveraging the power of human capital and technology to build a better tomorrow.”

He also highlighted how India’s skilling ecosystem is evolving and democratising access to future skill training. Cutting-edge platforms like Skill India Digital Hub allows learners from across the country to learn from anywhere, anytime. He underscored NSDC International’s critical role in transforming India into a global supplier of skilled manpower.

The corporation has also set up a dedicated exhibition stall at the conference, which drew enthusiastic engagement from global participants.

The stall showcased India’s innovative skilling models and AI-integrated learning platforms. Delegates from across sectors explored potential collaborations in talent development, workforce mobility, and AI-centric skilling programmes.

On the second day in TieCon 2025, Satya Nadella CEO of Microsoft and Mr. Tiwari had a brief interaction about India’s skill ecosystem and about of NSDC’s initiatives and how the organisation is equipping Indian youth with job-ready and future-ready skills. The interaction took place at the NSDC stall set up at the exhibition zone.

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Beena Yadav/Shahbaz Hasibi

(Release ID: 2126229) Visitor Counter : 59

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:17PM by PIB Delhi

Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari PVSM AVSM VM took charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, IAF on 02 May 25.

The Air Marshal completed his schooling at Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) in Dehradun before joining the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasala, He passed out from NDA in Jun 1985 with the President’s Gold Medal. He was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in the Indian Air Force on 07 Jun 1986. The Air Marshal has over 3600 hours of flying experience on various types of aircraft. Besides being a Qualified Flying Instructor and an Experimental Test Pilot, the Air Marshal is a graduate of the Air Command and Staff College, USA. He has also served as Directing Staff at the IAF Test Pilots’ School and the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington. His extensive field experience encompasses operational testing of various weapons and systems, including a key role in operationalising the ‘Litening’ Laser Designation Pod during the Kargil Operations in 1999. He was actively involved in the flight testing of the LCA from 2006 to 2009 and later in 2018-19, wherein, as the Project Director (Flight Test) at the National Flight Test Centre, he was involved in the Final Operational Clearance of the aircraft. The Air Marshal served as the Air Attache at Paris from 2013 to 2016. He has also held appointment Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air HQ (VB).

Prior to assuming charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, he was the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief at South Western Air Command. In recognition of his distinguished service, the Air Marshal was awarded the Presidential Award of Param Vishisht Seva Medal in 2025, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2022, and Vayu Sena Medal in 2008.

He is married to Mrs. Richa Tiwari, a postgraduate in Cytology. The couple is blessed with two daughters.

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VK/JS/SM

(Release ID: 2126201) Visitor Counter : 21

Source: Government of India

The Art of Storytelling: Farhan Akhtar Shares His Journey at WAVES 2025

Farhan Akhtar reflects on storytelling, self-belief, and evolving with the craft

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:19PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 2 May 2025

 

Acclaimed filmmaker, actor and writer Farhan Akhtar took centre stage at WAVES 2025 in a masterclass titled “The Craft of Direction”, moderated by Gaurav Kapur. The session offered an intimate glimpse into Akhtar’s journey as a storyteller, exploring the evolution of cinema, the challenges of direction, and the need for authenticity in filmmaking.

Opening the conversation, Farhan called WAVES “a very empowering event” and reflected on his creative roots. When asked whether he preferred any particular facet of his multifaceted career from singing and acting to directing, he likened it to “choosing a favourite child,” acknowledging that while there may be a quiet preference, every role carries its own joy.

Revisiting the making of Dil Chahta Hai, a film that redefined contemporary Hindi cinema, Farhan said, “I wanted to write something real, about friendship, about people like us. You shouldn’t imitate others. Audiences can sense when something lacks integrity.” He credited honesty and empathy as essential traits for any writer, encouraging young creators to stay focused and embrace setbacks as part of the journey.”

The session was filled with anecdotes, from the difficulties of casting his debut film to the use of sync sound, which was a new experience for most of the actors in the film. “They were used to dubbing. Sync sound made them nervous,” he said, emphasizing the importance of adapting to new technology in filmmaking.

Talking about Lakshya, Farhan described the physical and emotional toll of shooting in Ladakh and the heartbreak of discovering technical issues post-filming. “We had to go back. But when we did, we got some of the most stunning shots,” he recalled, adding, “Everything happens for a reason.”

On Don, he shared how the idea came while listening to the original score on a train ride. The challenge was not remaking the film, but reimagining it. “What new meaning could I give to Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahi…? That was the real test.” He said he wrote the film with Shah Rukh Khan in mind, noting that he himself was a big fan of the original.

He spoke fondly of his father Javed Akhtar and sister Zoya Akhtar, both key sounding boards for his scripts. “My dad is the most brutal. He’ll just ask, ‘Why are you making this?’” When asked about his father’s favourites, Farhan mentioned Dil Chahta Hai and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara among others.

Recalling his transformation for Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, he said it was Milkha Singh’s spirit that inspired him. “Milkha ji wanted the story to tell the next generation to work hard and focus on skill. That energy pushed all of us.”

To a packed audience, Farhan’s advice was clear and resonant: “Don’t be a character in someone else’s story. Write your own. And never underestimate the value of discipline.”

The session ended with questions from the audience, rounding off an engaging, honest, and inspiring masterclass that celebrated not just cinema, but the courage it takes to carve one’s own path.

 

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ Lekshmipriya/ Poushali/ Nikhitha/ Darshana | 146

(Release ID: 2126204) Visitor Counter : 30

Source: Government of India

WAVES 2025 discusses Accessibility in Media and Entertainment Sector: Experts Call for Inclusive Innovation and Policy Reform

Accessibility must be viewed not as a compliance checkbox but as a creative, ethical, and strategic imperative

India is not just catching up; in many ways, we are leading the conversation on inclusive design: Brij Kothari

We’re laying the groundwork for systemic change in how accessibility is implemented”: Christopher Patnoe, Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion, Google

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:20PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 2 May 2025

A thought-provoking panel discussion on “Accessibility Standards in the Media & Entertainment Sector” took center stage at WAVES 2025 today. The session brought together leading voices from academia, technology, policy, law, and journalism to explore how accessibility in content creation and distribution is evolving—and why it must be prioritized in India’s digital transformation journey.

Opening the session, Prof. Brij Kothari of IIT Delhi emphasized India’s leadership in redefining accessibility. “India is not just catching up; in many ways, we are leading the conversation on inclusive design,” he stated. He said that the scale, diversity and accessibility are no longer just a solution for the visually or hearing impaired—it’s a universal design philosophy that benefits over 1.4 billion citizens.

Christopher Patnoe, Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion for EMEA at Google, offered a global perspective, noting that while few countries like the U.S. have strong legislation, enforcement often falls short. He said that the European Accessibility Act is showing promise, and the next decade will be transformative. “We’re laying the groundwork now for systemic change in how accessibility is implemented”, he stated.

Ashay Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, CEO of Kintel, highlighted the creative dimensions of accessibility in media. “Content is shaped through the unique lens of its creator, especially in film. To make content truly accessible, we must preserve that creative perspective—not dilute it with generic, automated solutions,” he explained. He emphasized on translating the director’s vision meaningfully for all audiences, including those with disabilities.

Journalist Priti Salian spotlighted how technology and AI are accelerating accessibility efforts. “We’ve launched an AI-based channel featuring sign language interpreter avatars, and with advancements in audio description, what once took weeks now takes just 30 hours,” she said. She further stressed that technology alone isn’t enough as greater governmental support, public-private partnerships, and tendering mechanisms to scale accessible entertainment in India is required.

Rahul Bajaj, lawyer and advocate for inclusive content across platforms such as theatre, OTT, and television emphasized the need for stronger legal frameworks and industry collaboration.

Danish Mahajan, Founder of Radio Udaan called for stricter implementation of existing policies and increased representation of persons with disabilities in policymaking and regulatory bodies. “Representation ensures that accessibility isn’t an afterthought—it’s embedded in the system,” he noted.

Together, the panel underscored a collective call to action: accessibility must be viewed not as a compliance checkbox but as a creative, ethical, and strategic imperative. As India stands at the crossroads of a content revolution, accessibility will be key to unlocking its full potential for every citizen.

 

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ Swadhin/ Lekshmipriya/ CShekhar |147

(Release ID: 2126205) Visitor Counter : 34

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The following is issued on behalf of the Electoral Affairs Commission:

     The Electoral Affairs Commission (EAC) today (May 2) released for public consultation its provisional recommendations on the boundaries and names of geographical constituencies (GCs) for the 2025 Legislative Council (LegCo) General Election. The public consultation period will last for 30 days until May 31.

Source: Government of India

India’s Science Push Enters High Gear: Dr. Jitendra Singh Bats for Industry-Led Innovation on DST’s 55th Foundation Day

India’s Science Strategy Shifts Focus: Innovation, Industry Collaboration, and Talent Retention in Spotlight

India Gross Expenditure in R&D (GERD) has doubled in last one decade from Rs 60,196 Cr. to 1,27,38 Cr.

‘Digitalisation of Mind’ Marking India’s Quiet Socio-Scientific Shift: Dr. Jitendra Singh

Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 5:21PM by PIB Delhi

Marking the 55th Foundation Day of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh outlined India’s evolving scientific landscape, emphasizing the need for increased industry involvement to the extent of industry led innovation, changes in approach and long-term innovation to position the country among leading global players.

Addressing a packed audience that included leading innovators, academicians, researchers and former Secretaries, Dr. Jitendra Singh traced the DST’s journey since its inception on May 3, 1971, crediting it with catalyzing India’s evolution into a science and technology powerhouse.

“The founding of DST mirrors the march of post-independence India in the field of science,” he said, highlighting how the department has bridged research and governance, turning vision into verifiable outcomes’.

The Minister hailed DST’s efforts in nurturing a nationwide research ecosystem, particularly through mission-mode programmes such as the National Supercomputing Mission, Cyber-Physical Systems, and the recent National Quantum Mission. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that DST’s interventions have not only advanced science but also driven grassroots development, with focused efforts on women, children, and marginalized communities.

The Minister spotlighted India’s rising global rankings as a measure of DST’s impact — from a dramatic leap in the Global Innovation Index (from 81st in 2015 to 39th in 2024), to securing the 3rd spot globally in start-up numbers, PhDs in science and engineering, and research publications. India is now also ranked 6th worldwide in intellectual property filings.

But the core of Dr. Jitendra Singh’s message was forward-looking: science must align with market forces. Advocating for “industry-determined innovation research,” he argued that sustainable innovation must be both driven and funded by private players. “In India, knowledge partnerships alone don’t work — industry must have skin in the game,” he quipped, underlining that private sector buy-in is essential for enduring scientific success.

He also highlighted the role of the newly formed statutory body, ANRF (Anusandhan National Research Foundation), as a transformative force aimed at democratizing research funding and boosting university participation. Two major schemes — the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation Fund and the National Geospatial Mission — are now housed under DST’s leadership.

Calling out a quiet revolution, Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed to the “digitalisation of mind” that has ignited India’s scientific temper, reshaped India’s socio-scientific fabric. “Even a semi-literate person today prefers WhatsApp over writing down a number — that’s the extent of behavioural change,” he said, stressing that the real transformation lies not only in numbers but in the rise of aspiration and confidence among ordinary Indians.

The Minister didn’t shy away from calling for a strategic return of talent from abroad, urging scientists to plan their overseas journeys with a return timeline. “India today has everything to offer. It’s time we built a reverse pipeline for global talent,” he said.

Concluding on a note of optimism, Dr. Jitendra Singh declared, “This is one of the best times for science and research in India — and the best is yet to come.” The Foundation Day celebrations saw participation from Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, DST Secretary Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Dr. Sharad Sharma of iSPIRT, and Adil Zainulbhai, Chairman, CBC reflecting a strong convergence of scientific, institutional, and industry leadership.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2126203) Visitor Counter : 74

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Four men and a woman were each sentenced to four to eight months’ imprisonment and fined between $500 to $1,000 at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts on April 30 and today (May 2) for possession of duty-not-paid cigarettes and failing to declare to Customs Officers, as well as for importing alternative smoking products, in contravention of the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (DCO) and the Import and Export Ordinance (IEO).

Customs officers intercepted four incoming male passengers, aged between 27 and 43, and a 44-year-old female passenger at Hong Kong International Airport on March 4 and 5. About 128 400 duty-not-paid cigarettes and about 205 200 alternative smoking products, with an estimated market value of about $1.18 million and a duty potential of about $420,000 in total, were seized from their personal baggage. They were subsequently arrested.

Customs welcomes the sentence. The custodial sentence has imposed a considerable deterrent effect and reflects the seriousness of the offences. 

Under the DCO, tobacco products are dutiable goods to which the DCO applies. Any person who imports, deals with, possesses, sells or buys illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

Under the IEO, any person who imports an alternative smoking product into Hong Kong commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.

Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities 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).