Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, led the Indian delegation at the BRICS Labour & Employment Ministers’ Meeting held under Brazil’s Presidency in Brasília on 25th April 2025. The meeting, convened under the slogan “Strengthening the Cooperation of the Global South for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”, culminated in the adoption of a forward-looking declaration addressing two pivotal themes: “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Future of Work” and “The Impacts of Climate Change on the World of Work and a Just Transition”.
Sushri Karandlaje highlighted India’s human-centric approach to technological transformation, aligning with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of “Technology for Empowerment, Not Exclusion”. She highlighted India’s National Strategy for AI, which prioritizes ethical adoption, workforce upskilling, and sectoral applications in agriculture, healthcare, and education. Initiatives like FutureSkills Prime and the Namo Drone Didi program exemplify India’s commitment to creating tech-enabled livelihoods, especially for rural women and youth. The National Career Service (NCS) platform, powered by AI, was showcased as a model for bridging skill gaps and connecting millions to employment opportunities.
On climate action, India emphasized it’s just transition framework, ensuring green growth translates into equitable job creation. The Sector Skill Council for Green Jobs (SSCGJ) and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) were highlighted as transformative initiatives driving skilling and sustainable practices. India’s achievement of reduction in GHG emissions (2020–2019) and its net-zero by 2070 pledge reinforced its climate leadership. Collaborative efforts with the ILO to protect workers’ rights during this transition were also emphasized.
Key Outcomes of the BRICS Declaration
The declaration commits BRICS nations to:
Promote inclusive AI policies that balance innovation with worker protection.
Advance social dialogue to ensure fair climate transitions.
Strengthen South-South cooperation on labour governance, digital inclusion, and green job creation.
India’s contributions were commended for aligning cutting-edge technological advancement with inclusive social welfare, reflecting Hon’ble Prime Minister’s mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas”. The meeting reaffirmed BRICS’ collective resolve to build a future where no worker is left behind in the face of AI-driven disruption or climate challenges.
In a first and a unique milestone for the Armed Forces, the Department of Ophthalmology in Army Hospital (Research and Referral), New Delhi has performed the minimally invasive glaucoma surgery using 3D Microscope. This three-dimensional visualisation system is very useful for eye surgeries, including treatment for squint, cataract, corneal, glaucoma and retinal issues.
This system utilises special 3D polarisation glasses, and a 55-inch 4K ultra-HD display. Potential advantages include significantly lesser surgical time/complication rate compared to conventional microscope, decreased power of endoilluminator, reduced photo-toxicity, ease of use in uncommon and complicated situations and high surgeon and nurse satisfaction scores.
This initiative is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Indian Army in ensuring top-tier medical services reach to our clientele at the apex institutes. This facility aims to offer cutting-edge eye care services, enhancing the hospital’s capabilities in treating a wide range of ocular conditions.
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, proudly participated in the 15th edition of the Rozgar Mela held today across 47 locations nationwide. The event, addressed by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi via videoconferencing, saw the distribution of over 51,000 appointment letters to newly inducted youth in various government departments, including EPFO.
As part of this significant recruitment drive, EPFO welcomes new recruits to strengthen its workforce, ensuring efficient delivery of social security services to millions of subscribers across India. Appointment Letters to 345 Accounts Officers/ Enforcement Officers and 631 Social Security Assistants were issued today.
The newly appointed personnel will contribute to EPFO’s mission of providing provident fund, pension, and insurance benefits, supporting the government’s vision of a robust and inclusive economy.
EPFO has established Recruitment vertical in Head Office to ensure regular recruitments and developed a recruitment calendar complying with directions of Union Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.
During last one year, EPFO has recruited 159 Assistant Provident Fund Commissioners, 84 Junior Translation Officers, 28 Stenographers, 2674 SSAs among others. Further recruitment of APFCs, EO/AO, PAs and ASOs are underway.
The Rozgar Mela aligns with the Prime Minister’s commitment to prioritizing employment generation and empowering youth for nation-building. EPFO’s participation underscores its dedication to transparent and merit-based recruitment, leveraging modernized processes to enhance service delivery.
The new recruits will have access to training through the iGOT Karmayogi platform, besides formal training enabling them to upskill and excel in their roles.
EPFO extends its congratulations to all appointees and reaffirms its resolve to foster a future-ready workforce that drives India’s social security framework towards greater heights.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ1: Mental health of primary and secondary school students Question:
Last year, the number of suspected student suicide cases reported to the Education Bureau (EDB) by primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong remained high and even hit a record high in the past five years. In addition, self-administered questionnaires were collected from 330 000 primary and secondary school students attending the Student Health Service Centres of the Department of Health in the 2022-2023 school year, with results indicating that 1.3 per cent of the students had attempted suicide in the past 12 months. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) as the Government implemented a Three-Tier School-based Emergency Mechanism in all secondary schools in Hong Kong in December last year to address the problem of student suicide, how the EDB assists schools in identifying at an early stage students with mental health needs, and of the number of referral cases received so far by the off-campus support network team and the follow-up situations; whether it has assessed the effectiveness of these two tiers under the mechanism;
(2) of the number of students with severe mental health needs who were referred by school principals under the aforesaid mechanism to receive psychiatric specialist services of the Hospital Authority in the past six months, and the follow-up situations of such cases; and
(3) given the EDB’s call for active participation from primary and secondary schools in the 4Rs Mental Health Charter to be launched in the next school year to enhance students’ mental health, of the number and percentage of schools signing up for joining the charter before the deadline last month?
Reply:
President,
Nurturing students with proper values and a positive attitude has all along been the objective of education, and “leading a healthy lifestyle” is one of the goals of school curriculum. The Education Bureau (EDB) attaches great importance to the physical and psychological well-being of students. Through cross-departmental and cross-sectoral collaboration with the Health Bureau (HHB), Department of Health (DH), Social Welfare Department (SWD), Hong Kong Police Force and other non-government organisations (NGOs), we work together to provide support for schools, students and parents. With the efforts of all parties, we can build a more robust safety net for students.
In consultation with the HHB and SWD, my consolidated reply to the question raised by Dr the Hon Tik Chi-yuen is as follows:
(1) and (2) In view of the upward trend of suspected student suicide cases in 2023, the Government has implemented the Three-Tier School-based Emergency Mechanism (the Three-Tier Mechanism) in all secondary schools in Hong Kong from December 2023 to December 2024 through the cross-departmental collaboration of the EDB, HHB and SWD so as to provide support for students with higher risk as early as possible.
Under the Three-Tier Mechanism, schools will give priority to caring for and counselling students with higher risk and will provide timely assistance and seek professional counselling or treatment services for them through the school’s interdisciplinary team in the first-tier. The EDB urges school personnel to refer to A Resource Handbook for Schools: Detecting, Supporting and Making Referral for Students with Suicidal Behaviours published by the EDB to preliminarily identify the more vulnerable students and pay attention to whether they have displayed related warning signs. If necessary, schools may arrange students with higher risk to conduct a preliminary mental health screening by using screening tools, such as Self-test Station: Depressive Mood from the DH and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) from “Shall We Talk”. The interdisciplinary team in schools, which consists of guidance masters/mistresses, guidance personnel, school social workers and school-based educational psychologists, will prioritise and launch follow-up services for students with higher risk. School personnel are recommended to refer to the Guidelines on How Schools can Help Students with Mental Health Problems published by the EDB to provide support to students as soon as possible. In order to strengthen school personnel’s early identification of and support for students with suicidal tendencies, apart from providing guidelines and a 60-hour thematic course on “gatekeeper” training for teachers every year, the EDB also organised online “gatekeeper” training courses for primary and secondary schools in December 2023. About 1 000 school personnel enrolled for the online training course. In addition, the EDB organised more than 40 additional training courses and workshops early this year, with an enhanced focus on enriching school personnel’s knowledge and skills in caring for students with mental health needs. The courses benefited about 2 200 school personnel.
In the second-tier of the mechanism, if the schools consider that they need to seek extra support subsequent to the identification and school-based intervention in the first-tier mechanism, they may seek assistance from the off-campus support network (support network) co-ordinated by the SWD. The SWD has engaged five NGOs to form the support network to provide extra support to schools. Upon receiving referrals, the support network team would contact the students concerned as soon as possible and arrange follow-up services, including emergency intervention services covering assessments, support and counselling through individual, group or online format; and would also refer the students to other services such as the Integrated Family Services, the Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness and the Integrated Children and Youth Services Centre according to their individual needs. As of March 2024, the support network team has received a total of 69 referral cases. Besides, the EDB has also collaborated with the SWD to arrange the support network team to visit about 150 secondary schools to organise mental health activities since February this year, with a view to enhancing students’ awareness of mental health, as well as strengthening their adaptability and awareness of help-seeking.
In the third-tier of the mechanism, school principals may refer students with severe mental health needs to the psychiatric specialist services of the Hospital Authority (HA). After triage and screening, the HA will accord priority to students in urgent cases. Furthermore, the HA has set up a telephone consultation hotline specifically to provide professional advice for school principals. As of March 2024, the HA’s psychiatric specialist services received a total of 168 referrals and 75 telephone enquiries from school principals through the Three-Tier Mechanism. Among the referred cases, around 3 per cent were Priority 1 (urgent) category, while about 40 per cent were Priority 2 (semi-urgent) category. The remaining cases were either Routine (stable) or were already being followed up by the HA’s psychiatric specialist services.
Based on our understanding and communication with schools, with the concerted efforts of schools and various stakeholders, school personnel’s awareness on students’ mental health has enhanced in general, being able to early identify and support students with higher risk. The operations of the second-tier and third-tier of the Mechanism are smooth, providing timely and appropriate counselling and treatment to students in need. The Government will closely monitor the operation of the Three-Tier Mechanism and engage a consultant to evaluate its effectiveness.
(3) The EDB launched the 4Rs Mental Health Charter (4Rs Charter) in April this year and invited all public sector and Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) schools in Hong Kong to join. The 4Rs cover four important elements in fostering students’ mental health, namely Rest, Relaxation, Relationship and Resilience. We hope that the stakeholders’ awareness on mental health will be enhanced and they will work together and take actions through the promotion of 4Rs Charter. Schools participating in the 4Rs Charter are required to set practical and feasible goals and take concrete actions to promote students’ physical and psychological well-being. Schools joining the 4Rs Charter must also pledge to join the Mental Health Workplace Charter, which is jointly implemented by the DH, the Labour Department and the Occupational Safety and Health Council, as well as the Whole School Health Programme launched by the DH, so as to carry on with their school-based health promotion efforts in a more comprehensive and effective manner. The EDB has also been engaging NGOs as partner organisations of the 4Rs Charter to provide schools with additional services, activities and courses to enhance students’ health. As of May 31 2024, a total of 340 primary and secondary schools have applied to join the 4Rs Charter, accounting for 34 per cent of all public sector schools and DSS schools in Hong Kong. We will continue to encourage more schools to join the 4Rs Charter, so as to cultivate a healthy environment that is conducive to students’ growth.
The EDB will continue to work with various stakeholders to promote mental health in a more comprehensive manner, jointly establish a support network and create a caring culture, so as to promote students’ physical and psychological well-being. Issued at HKT 15:34
India’s Triumph in Combating Poverty 171 Million Lifted from Extreme Poverty in 10 Years, Says World Bank
Posted On: 26 APR 2025 4:40PM by PIB Delhi
Introduction
In one of the most remarkable achievements of the past decade, India has lifted 171 million people out of extreme poverty. The World Bank acknowledges India’s decisive fight against poverty in its Spring 2025 Poverty and Equity Brief. According to the report, the proportion of people living on less than 2.15 US dollars a day, which is the international benchmark for extreme poverty, fell sharply from 16.2 percent in 2011-12 to just 2.3 percent in 2022-23.
This achievement is a testament to the Government of India’s commitment to inclusive development, focusing on both rural and urban areas. Through targeted welfare schemes, economic reforms, and increased access to essential services, India has made substantial strides in reducing poverty levels. The World Bank’s Spring 2025 Poverty and Equity Brief highlights how these efforts have significantly impacted the lives of millions, narrowing the poverty gap across the country.
Overview of the World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Briefs (PEBs)
The Poverty and Equity Briefs (PEBs) from the World Bank highlight trends in poverty, shared prosperity, and inequality for over 100 developing countries. Published twice a year for the Spring and Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund, these briefs offer a snapshot of a country’s poverty and inequality context, ensuring poverty reduction remains a global priority. Each PEB includes a two-page summary that presents recent developments in poverty reduction, along with updated data on key development indicators.
These indicators cover various aspects of poverty, including rates of poverty and the total number of poor, using both national poverty lines and international benchmarks ($2.15 for extreme poverty, $3.65 for lower-middle-income, and $6.85 for upper-middle-income). The briefs also include comparative trends in poverty and inequality over time and across countries, a multidimensional poverty measure that accounts for non-monetary deprivations like education and basic services, and inequality measurements using the Gini Index.
Rural and Urban Poverty Reduction
The World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Brief for India finds that the sharp reduction in extreme poverty has been broad-based, covering both rural and urban areas.
Key findings:
In Rural areas, extreme poverty fell from 18.4 percent in 2011-12 to 2.8 percent in 2022-23.
In Urban centres, extreme poverty reduced from 10.7 percent to 1.1 percent over the same period.
The gap between rural and urban poverty shrunk from 7.7 percentage points to 1.7 percentage points, with an annual decline rate of 16 percent between 2011-12 and 2022-23.
Strong Gains at Lower-Middle-Income Poverty Line
The World Bank finds that India has made strong gains in reducing poverty at the lower-middle-income level, measured at 3.65 US dollars per day. Millions have benefited from this broad-based growth across both rural and urban areas.
Key findings:
India’s poverty rate at the 3.65 dollars per day line fell from 61.8 percent in 2011-12 to 28.1 percent in 2022-23, lifting 378 million people out of poverty.
Rural poverty declined from 69 percent to 32.5 percent, while urban poverty dropped from 43.5 percent to 17.2 percent.
The rural-urban poverty gap narrowed from 25 to 15 percentage points, with a 7 percent annual decline between 2011-12 and 2022-23.
Key States Contributing to Poverty Reduction
The report notes that significant progress has been made in reducing extreme poverty across India, with key states playing a vital role in both the decline of poverty and the advancement of inclusive development.
Key findings:
The five most populous states i.e. Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh, represented 65 percent of India’s extreme poor in 2011-12.
By 2022-23, these states contributed to two-thirds of the overall decline in extreme poverty.
Decline in Multidimensional Poverty and Revised Estimates
As per World Bank’s report, India has made significant strides in reducing non-monetary poverty, and future poverty estimates are expected to change based on updated global standards.
Key findings:
Non-monetary poverty, as measured by the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which considers factors like education, health, and living conditions, declined from 53.8 percent in 2005-06 to 16.4 percent by 2019-21.
The World Bank’s Multidimensional Poverty Measure stood at 15.5 percent in 2022-23, reflecting ongoing improvements in living conditions.
With revised international poverty lines (the minimum income needed to meet basic needs) and the adoption of 2021 Purchasing Power Parities (PPPs) (which adjust for differences in living costs between countries), the new poverty rates for 2022-23 are expected to be 5.3 percent for extreme poverty and 23.9 percent for lower-middle-income poverty.
India’s consumption-based Gini index improved from 28.8 in 2011-12 to 25.5 in 2022-23, indicating a reduction in income inequality.
Employment Growth and Shifts in Workforce Trends
India has witnessed positive trends in employment growth, particularly since 2021-22, with significant improvements in both rural and urban areas, as highlighted in the World Bank’s report.
Key findings:
Employment growth has outpaced the working-age population since 2021-22, with rising employment rates, especially among women.
Urban unemployment fell to 6.6 percent in Q1 FY24/25, the lowest since 2017-18.
Recent data indicates a shift of male workers from rural to urban areas for the first time since 2018-19, while rural female employment in agriculture has grown.
Self-employment has risen, particularly among rural workers and women, contributing to economic participation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, India has made remarkable progress in poverty reduction over the past decade. The Spring 2025 World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Brief highlights these achievements. It underscores the country’s commitment to inclusive development. The sharp decline in both extreme and lower-middle-income poverty, along with the narrowing rural-urban poverty gap, reflects the effective efforts of the Government of India. Additionally, the rise in employment, especially among women, and the reduction in multidimensional poverty point to broader improvements in living standards. As India continues its journey, these achievements serve as a solid foundation for sustained progress in tackling poverty and inequality.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Police are investigating a fatal traffic accident happened in Sheung Shui tonight (April 26) in which a man died.
At 7.25pm, a light goods vehicle driven by a 51-year-old man was travelling along Lung Ma Road towards Queens Hill Estate. When approaching the junction of Lung Ma Road and Lung Chun Road, the light goods vehicle reportedly went out of control and knocked down a 77-year-old man after running onto the pavement.
Sustaining serious head injuries, the man was rushed to North District Hospital in unconscious state and was certified dead at 8.31pm.
The driver was arrested for dangerous driving causing death and is being detained for enquiries.
Investigation by the Special Investigation Team of Traffic, New Territories North is underway.
Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 3800.
My dear countrymen, Namaskar. Today as I speak to you in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, there is a deep anguish in my heart. The terrorist incident that took place in Pahalgam on the 22nd of April has hurt every citizen of the country. Every Indian holds deep sympathies for the affected families. No matter which state one belongs to, no matter which language one speaks, one is feeling the pain of those who have lost their loved ones in this attack. I can feel that the blood of every Indian is on the boil after seeing the pictures of the terrorist attack. This attack in Pahalgam shows the desperation of the patrons of terrorism; displays their cowardice… at a time when peace was returning to Kashmir, there was a vibrancy in schools and colleges, construction work had gained unprecedented pace, democracy was getting stronger, the number of tourists was increasing at a record rate, people’s income was increasing, new opportunities were being created for the youth. The enemies of the country, the enemies of Jammu and Kashmir, did not like that. The terrorists and the masterminds of terror want Kashmir to be destroyed again and hence they executed such a big conspiracy. In this war against terrorism, the unity of the country, the solidarity of 140 crore Indians, is our biggest strength. This unity is the basis of our decisive fight against terrorism. We have to strengthen our resolve to face this challenge that has surfaced before the country. We have to demonstrate strong willpower as a nation. Today the world is watching, after this terrorist attack, the whole country is speaking in one voice.
Friends, the anger that we the people of India feel, that anger is there in the whole world. After this terrorist attack, condolences are continuously pouring in from all over the world. Global leaders have called me up as well; written letters and sent messages too. Everyone has strongly condemned this heinous terrorist attack. They have expressed condolences to the families of the deceased. The whole world stands with 140 crore Indians in our fight against terrorism. I once again assure the affected families that they will get justice, and justice will be done. The perpetrators and conspirators of this attack will be served with the harshest response.
Friends, two days ago we lost the country’s great scientist Dr. K. Kasturirangan ji. Whenever I met Kasturirangan ji, we discussed topics like the talent of Indian youth, modern education, Space-Science. His contribution in lending newer heights to science, education and India’s Space Program shall always be remembered. ISRO attained a new identity under his leadership. The Space Programs that moved forward under his guidance gave global recognition to India’s efforts. Many of the satellites that India uses today were launched under the supervision of Dr. Kasturirangan.
There was one more special facet to his personality, which the younger generation can learn from. He always accorded importance to innovation. The vision of learning, knowing and doing something new is very inspiring. Dr. K. Kasturirangan also played a major role in formulating the new National Education Policy of the country. Dr. Kasturirangan came up with the idea of forward looking education according to the modern needs of the 21st century. His selfless service to the country and contribution to nation building will always be remembered. Very humbly, I pay my tribute to Dr. K. Kasturirangan.
My dear countrymen, this month of April marks 50 years of the launch of the Aryabhatta Satellite. Today, when we look back and remember this journey of 50 years, we realize how far we have come. This flight of India’s dreams in space once commenced with just conviction. Some young scientists with the passion to do something for the nation … they neither had the modern resources like today, nor the access to world technology as such. If at all they had anything, it was talent, dedication, hard work and the passion to do something for the country. You must have seen pictures of our scientists carrying critical equipment themselves on bullock carts and bicycles. It is the result of that very dedication and spirit of service to the nation that so much has changed today. Today India has become a Global Space Power. We have created a record by launching 104 Satellites simultaneously. We have become the first country to reach the South Pole of the Moon.
India has launched the Mars Orbiter Mission and we have reached pretty close to the Sun through the Aditya – L1 Mission. Today India is leading the most cost effective but successful Space Program in the entire world. Many countries of the world take help of ISRO for their Satellites and Space Missions. Friends, when we see a Satellite launch by ISRO, we are filled with pride. I had a similar feeling when I witnessed the launch of PSLV-C-23 in 2014. I was also present at the ISRO Center in Bengaluru during the landing of Chandrayaan-2 in 2019. At that time Chandrayaan failed to achieve the expected success, it was a very difficult time for the scientists. But I could see with my own eyes the patience of the scientists and their zeal to achieve something. And a few years later, the whole world too noticed how the same scientists made Chandrayaan-3 a success.
Friends, now India has opened her Space Sector for the private sector as well. Today many youth are attaining new milestones in the field of Space Startups. 10 years ago, there was only one company, but today there are more than 325 Space Startups working in the country. The times to come are ushering in a lot of new possibilities in Space. India is going to scale new heights. The country is busy preparing for many important missions like Gaganyaan, SpaDeX and Chandrayaan-4. We are also working on the Venus Orbiter Mission and Mars Lander Mission. Our Space Scientists are going to fill the countrymen with new pride through their innovations.
Friends, you certainly must have seen the horrific pictures of the earthquake that struck Myanmar last month. The earthquake caused huge devastation there… every breath, every moment was precious for the people trapped under the debris. That is why India immediately started Operation Brahma for our brothers and sisters in Myanmar. From Air Force aircraft to Navy ships, everything was sent to help Myanmar. The Indian team set up a field hospital there. A team of engineers helped in assessing the damage to important buildings and infrastructure. The Indian team supplied blankets, tents, sleeping bags, medicines, food items and many other things. During all of that, the Indian team also received a lot of appreciation from the people there.
Friends, in this crisis, many heart-touching examples of courage, patience and ingenuity came to light. The Indian team rescued an elderly woman of more than 70 years of age who was buried under the debris for over 18 hours. Those who are watching ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on TV right now, you must be able to see the face of that elderly woman. The team from India provided every treatment facility, from stabilizing her oxygen level to treatment of fractures. When this elderly woman was discharged from the hospital, she expressed her gratitude to our team. She expressed that she had got a new life because of the Indian rescue team. Many people told our team that because of them they were able to locate their friends and relatives.
Friends, after the earthquake, there was a possibility of many people being trapped in a monastery in Mandalay, Myanmar. Our team also carried out relief and rescue operations there, that resulted in them receiving a lot of blessings from Buddhist monks. We are very proud of all those who participated in Operation Brahma. We have our tradition, our values, the sentiment of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the whole world is one family. India’s readiness as the Vishwa-Mitra in times of crisis and India’s commitment to humanity is becoming the hallmark of our identity.
Friends, I have come to know about an innovative effort of NRIs in Ethiopia, Africa. Indians living in Ethiopia have taken the initiative to send children who are suffering from heart disease since birth to India for treatment. Many such children are also being helped financially by Indian families. If the family of a child is unable to come to India on account of lack of money, our Indian brothers and sisters are making arrangements for that too. The effort is to ensure that every needy child of Ethiopia suffering from a serious ailment receives better treatment. This noble work of NRIs is being appreciated a lot in Ethiopia. You know that medical facilities are constantly improving in India. Citizens of other countries are also benefitting from that.
Friends, just a few days ago, India has also sent a large quantity of vaccine for the people of Afghanistan. These vaccines will be useful in preventing dangerous diseases like Rabies, Tetanus, Hepatitis B and Influenza. This week, on Nepal’s request, India has sent a large consignment of medicines and vaccines there. This will ensure better treatment for patients of thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Whenever it comes to serving humanity, India has always been at the forefront and will always be at the forefront in every such need in the future as well.
Friends, we were just referring to Disaster Management and the most important thing in dealing with any natural disaster is your alertness. You can now get help in this alertness from a special APP on your mobile. This APP can save you from getting trapped in any natural disaster and its name too is ‘Sachet’. The ‘Sachet APP’ has been developed by India’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Be it flood, cyclone, land-slide, tsunami, forest fire, avalanche, storm, hurricane or lightning, ‘Sachet APP’ tries to keep you informed and protected in every way. Through this APP, you can receive updates related to the weather department. The special thing is that ‘Sachet APP’ also provides a lot of information in regional languages. You too should take advantage of this APP and share your experiences with us.
My dear countrymen, today we see India’s talent being appreciated all over the world. India’s youth has changed the world’s view towards India and the interest of the youth of any country shows what the future of the country would be like. Today, India’s youth is moving towards science, technology and innovation. Even in those regions, which were earlier known for backwardness and other factors, the youth have set examples that give us new confidence. A Science Centre at Dantewada in Chhattisgarh is drawing everyone’s attention these days. Until some time ago, Dantewada was known only for violence and unrest, but now, the Science Centre there has become a new ray of hope for children and their parents. Children are enjoying going to this Science Centre. They are now learning everything from making new machines to technology.
Through making new machines and using technology, they are learning to make new products now. They have got the opportunity to learn about 3D printers and robotic cars as well as other innovative things. Some time ago, I also inaugurated Science Galleries at Gujarat Science City. These galleries provide a glimpse of the potential of modern science, and how much science can do for us. I have been informed that the children there are very excited about these galleries. This growing attraction towards science and innovation will surely take India to new heights.
My dear countrymen, the biggest strength of our country is our 140 crore citizens, their capability, their will power. And when crores of people join a campaign together, its impact is huge. An example of this is ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ – this campaign is in the name of the mother who gave birth to us and it is also for Mother Earth who ensconces us in her lap. Friends, On the 5th of June, on ‘World Environment Day’, this campaign is completing one year. During this one year, under this campaign, more than 140 crore trees have been planted in the name of the mother across the country. Observing this initiative of India, people outside the country have also planted trees in the name of their mother. You too should become a part of this campaign, so that on completion of one year, you can be proud of your participation.
Friends, all of us know that trees provide coolness… we get relief from heat in the shade of trees. But recently I came across another news related to this which caught my attention. During the last few years, more than 70 lakh trees have been planted in Ahmedabad city of Gujarat. These trees have increased the green area in Ahmedabad to a great extent. Along with that, the number of water bodies has also increased here due to the construction of the River Front on the Sabarmati river and reconstruction of some lakes like Kankaria lake. Now news reports say that in the last few years, Ahmedabad has become one of the major cities fighting against global warming.
The people there are also feeling this change; the coolness in the environment. The trees planted in Ahmedabad are becoming the reason of bringing myriad shades of happiness there. I again urge all of you to plant trees to maintain the health of the earth, to deal with the challenges of climate change, and to secure the future of your children. ‘Ek Ped – Maa Ke Naam’.
Friends, there is an old saying ‘where there is a will there is a way’. When we decide to do something new, we certainly reach our destination. You must have eaten a lot of apples grown in the mountains. But, if I ask you whether you have tasted the apples of Karnataka, you will be surprised. Usually, we think that apples are grown only in the mountains. But Shri Shail Teli ji, who lives in Bagalkot, Karnataka, has grown apples in the plains. In his Kulali village, apple trees have started bearing fruits even in temperatures above 35 degrees. Actually since, Shri Shail Teli was fond of farming, so he tried apple farming as well and he attained success in it. Today, a lot of apples grow on the trees planted by him and he is earning a good income by selling them.
Friends, now that we are talking about apples, you must have heard the name of Kinnauri apple. Saffron production has started in Kinnaur, famous for apples. Generally, saffron cultivation was little in Himachal, but now it has commenced in the beautiful Sangla valley of Kinnaur. One such example is Wayanad in Kerala.
Success has been achieved in growing saffron there as well. And in Wayanad, this saffron is not being grown in any field or soil; rather with the help of the Aeroponics Technique. Something astonishingly similar has happened with the production of litchi. We had been hearing that litchi grows in Bihar, West Bengal or Jharkhand. But now litchi is being grown in South India and Rajasthan as well. Thiru Veera Arasu of Tamil Nadu used to cultivate coffee. He planted litchi trees in Kodaikanal and after 7 years of hard work, those trees have started bearing fruit. The success in growing litchi has inspired other farmers in the area. Jitendra Singh Ranawat has succeeded in growing litchi in Rajasthan. All these examples are very inspiring. If we decide to do something new and persist despite difficulties, even the impossible can be made possible.
My dear countrymen, today is the last Sunday of April. The month of May is beginning in a few days. I will take you around 108 years back from today. The year 1917… these two months of April and May… a unique battle for independence was being fought in the country. The atrocities of the British were at their peak. The exploitation of the poor, the deprived and the farmers had crossed inhuman levels. On the fertile land of Bihar, the British were forcing the farmers to grow indigo. The farmers’ fields were becoming barren due to indigo cultivation, but the British government was least concerned. In such a situation, Gandhiji reached Champaran in Bihar in 1917.
The farmers told Gandhiji – “our land is dying, we are not getting food grains to eat.” The pain of lakhs of farmers made a resolve come up in Gandhiji’s mind. From there the historic Satyagraha of Champaran started. ‘Champaran Satyagraha’ was the first big experiment by Bapu in India. The entire British rule was shaken by Bapu’s Satyagraha. The British had to suspend the law that forced farmers to cultivate indigo. This was a victory that infused new confidence in the freedom struggle. All of you must be aware that another son of Bihar also contributed a lot to this Satyagraha, who became the first President of the country after independence. The great personality was – Dr. Rajendra Prasad. He also wrote a book on the ‘Champaran Satyagraha’ – ‘Satyagraha in Champaran’… every young person should read this book. Brothers and sisters, many more indelible chapters of the freedom struggle are associated with April itself. Gandhiji’s ‘Dandi March’ culminated on the 6th of April itself. This March which commenced on the 12th of March and continued for 24 days had shaken the British. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place in April itself. The marks of this blood stained history are still present on the soil of Punjab.
Friends, in a few days, on the 10th of May, the anniversary of the first freedom struggle would also be there. The spark that arose in that first battle for freedom, later became a torch for millions of freedom fighters.
On the 26th of April, we observed the death anniversary of the great hero of the 1857 revolution, Babu Veer Kunwar Singh. The entire country derives inspiration from this great freedom fighter of Bihar. We have to keep alive the immortal inspirations of lakhs of such freedom fighters. The energy we receive from them provides renewed strength to our resolve of Amritkaal.
Friends, in this long journey of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, you have formed an intimate relationship with this programme. The achievements that the countrymen want to share with others are conveyed to the people through ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Next month, we will again meet and talk about the diversity, glorious traditions and new achievements of the country. We will learn about people who are bringing about a change in the society with their dedication and spirit of service. As always, keep sending us your thoughts and suggestions. Thank you, Namaskar.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP) will subsidise a total of 2 330 places under 32 sub-degree programmes offered by eight post-secondary institutions, including Caritas Bianchi College of Careers, HKCT Institute of Higher Education, HKU SPACE Po Leung Kuk Stanley Ho Community College, Hong Kong College of Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University (including Li Ka Shing School of Professional and Continuing Education), Saint Francis University, Tung Wah College and YMCA College of Careers, for the cohort to be admitted in the 2024/25 academic year. The programmes and number of subsidised places, which fall under six disciplines with keen manpower demand, namely Architecture and Engineering, Computer Science, Creative Industries, Health Care, Sports and Recreation, and Tourism and Hospitality, are determined by the Education Bureau in consultation with relevant policy bureaux and departments.
In the 2024/25 academic year, the annual subsidy amounts for non-laboratory-based programmes and laboratory-based programmes are up to about $22,000 and $39,000 respectively. The subsidy amounts are applicable to both new and continuing eligible students. The subsidy is tenable for the normal duration of the programmes concerned. Subsidised students will pay a tuition fee with the subsidy applied. Students in need may still apply for student financial assistance from the Student Finance Office of the Working Family and Student Financial Assistance Agency in respect of the actual amount of tuition fee payable.
The subsidised places are allocated according to existing admission arrangement of the self-financing sub-degree programmes, i.e., through direct admission by institutions. Students can apply for admission to the designated sub-degree programmes directly through the institutions concerned. Local students who have attained (a) Level 2 or above in five subjects, including English Language and Chinese Language, in the HKDSE Examination; (b) Diploma of Applied Education / Diploma Yi Jin; or (c) Diploma of Foundation Studies awarded by the Vocational Training Council are eligible for the subsidy for sub-degree programmes under SSSDP. The participating institutions are allowed to admit local students with other relevant qualifications, subject to a ceiling of 50% of the subsidised places of the designated programmes.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ20: School bullying Question:
Some members of the public have noted that according to the guidelines on the handling of bullying incidents set out in the School Administration Guide published by the Education Bureau (EDB), the EDB advises schools to adopt a “Whole School Approach” (WSA) to formulate and implement anti-bullying strategies; the EDB requires schools to intervene and follow up bullying incidents as soon as possible only if such incidents occur; and the EDB should be notified only if the school bullying incidents are of a more severe nature (e.g. teachers being the bullies, and incidents involving brutal violence, injuries or deaths). There are views that as neither the adoption of WSA nor the reporting of school bullying incidents is mandatory, the handling of school bullying incidents has been ineffective for a prolonged period. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the number of student cases involving school bullying handled by schools, as well as the respective numbers of requests for assistance, complaints and reported cases in relation to school bullying received by the EDB, in each of the past three school years;
(2) of the number of schools currently adopting WSA to formulate and implement anti-bullying strategies, as well as their proportion to the total number of schools;
(3) whether it has grasped the primary reporting channels and handling procedures for school bullying adopted by schools under WSA; if so, of the details;
(4) whether it has plans to change the current practice of not requiring schools to notify the EDB of all school bullying cases; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
(5) given that the authorities have indicated the establishment of a one-stop hotline and the offering of online counselling services in the 2023-2024 school year to provide students and parents with advice on and support in handling school bullying, of the details of such hotline and services, and whether an assessment of their effectiveness has been conducted?
Reply:
President,
The Education Bureau (EDB) has all along been adopting a “zero tolerance” policy on school bullying. Any bullying act, irrespective of the form or for whatever reasons, is totally unacceptable. School is a place where students learn to show care, concern, support and respect for one another. Creating a safe and harmonious school environment for students to learn and grow up happily is the fundamental responsibility of schools, as well as the common goal of the EDB and all educators. Our reply to the question raised by the Hon Lai Tung-kwok is as follows:
(1) According to the information collected from the EDB’s annual questionnaire survey on guidance and discipline cases in public sector primary and secondary schools, the number of student cases handled by schools related to school bullying from the 2020/21 to 2022/23 school years was about 420 on average per year. Schools have all along been handling bullying incidents properly and explaining the incidents to parents in accordance with their school-based policy. Parents and other people may also seek assistance from the EDB as necessary. In the three school years, the EDB had received a total of 47 requests for assistance, complaints and reports in relation to school bullying, which mainly involved physical/ behavioural violence and verbal attack. The EDB had completed 45 cases, of which five complaints were found substantiated or partially substantiated upon investigation.
(2) to (4) The EDB has required all public sector schools in the territory, through issuance of circulars and guidelines, to take bullying incidents seriously, implement proactive measures and adopt the Whole School Approach in formulating and implementing anti-bullying policies. The School Administration Guide (SAG) and circular issued by the EDB lay down clearly and in details the principles of handling school bullying, as well as the relevant procedures, methods and follow-up actions, which should include a clear standpoint of “zero tolerance”, reporting mechanism and handling procedures, and monitoring with high transparency. In addition, the EDB has also adopted a multi-pronged approach to help schools implement the policy on prevention and handling of school bullying, including raising anti-bullying awareness among students and school staff, nurturing students’ proper values and cultivating in them a positive sense of mutual trust, inclusion and friendship through school curriculum, learning and teaching resources, student activities and teacher training.
Under the spirit of school-based management, the Incorporated Management Committees should lead schools in formulating their school-based mechanisms and procedures for administering school operation, including the policy on prevention and handling of school bullying, with a view to fostering of a harmonious school environment that enables student learning and growth. Schools should take a proactive approach to handle each school bullying incident seriously, while all school staff are required to report to the school management or the responsible team when any bullying case is known to them. If school bullying incidents occur, schools should take education, guidance and protection of their students as the prime concern, handle the cases in accordance with the “Flowchart for Handling Bullying Incidents in Schools” provided in the SAG and circular by the EDB and activate school-based crisis management mechanism as the situation so warrants. Upon informed of a school bullying incident, action should be taken to stop the bullying immediately. The school should assess whether the student(s) concerned is/are injured or emotionally unstable, contact their parents as soon as possible and arrange for first aid or treatment as appropriate if there is any physical injury. Thereafter, the school should intervene and render an initial mediation, and arrange guidance personnel or relevant professional service outside school to provide in-depth follow-up for the student(s) involved in the school bullying incident. For school bullying incidents of a more serious nature (such as those involving serious violence or injury), the school should notify the respective regional education office of the EDB as soon as possible so that assistance could be rendered. If illegal acts are involved, schools should proactively contact the respective Police School Liaison Officer. For serious cases, schools should report the incidents to the Police immediately. The EDB will liaise with the schools, the Social Welfare Department (SWD) and the Police for appropriate handling measures.
We believe that in the handling of bullying incidents, education, guidance and protection of students should be the prime concern. Schools are staffed with professionals (including guidance personnel, school social workers and school-based educational psychologists) to provide students in need with due support and mediation. In the process of handling these cases, schools should work with parents to help the students involved rectify their behaviours and better protect the students being bullied. Moreover, through professional consultation and school visits, the EDB’s guidance professionals review with schools their anti-bullying work on an ongoing basis, and provide appropriate support according to schools’ needs. To further enhance schools’ capability of preventing and handling bullying in schools, the EDB will continue to provide professional training programmes, seminars and workshops for school personnel to keep them abreast of the latest information and strengthen their skills in handling bullying incidents, thereby enabling schools to implement their anti-bullying measures more effectively. The EDB will collaborate with other government departments such as the SWD and the Police to provide schools with assistance in various aspects to facilitate the cultivation of a harmonious and caring school environment. The EDB will continue to monitor the situation of schools and provide timely support to prevent school bullying and protect the well-being of students.
(5) The EDB will set up a one-stop hotline and offer online counselling services in the 2023/24 school year to provide students and parents with advice on and support in handling conflicts among peers or school bullying. Through the hotline and online services, duty counsellors and registered social workers will provide advice and counselling services for students and parents, and may refer the cases to government or non-governmental organisations for follow-up where necessary. The hotline and online counselling services will commence operation in May 2024. The EDB will disseminate the details of the hotline and online services through various channels such as circular memorandum, briefings and websites, and will monitor the services operation on an on-going basis. Issued at HKT 11:47
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP) will subsidise a total of 2 330 places under 32 sub-degree programmes offered by eight post-secondary institutions, including Caritas Bianchi College of Careers, HKCT Institute of Higher Education, HKU SPACE Po Leung Kuk Stanley Ho Community College, Hong Kong College of Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University (including Li Ka Shing School of Professional and Continuing Education), Saint Francis University, Tung Wah College and YMCA College of Careers, for the cohort to be admitted in the 2024/25 academic year. The programmes and number of subsidised places, which fall under six disciplines with keen manpower demand, namely Architecture and Engineering, Computer Science, Creative Industries, Health Care, Sports and Recreation, and Tourism and Hospitality, are determined by the Education Bureau in consultation with relevant policy bureaux and departments.
In the 2024/25 academic year, the annual subsidy amounts for non-laboratory-based programmes and laboratory-based programmes are up to about $22,000 and $39,000 respectively. The subsidy amounts are applicable to both new and continuing eligible students. The subsidy is tenable for the normal duration of the programmes concerned. Subsidised students will pay a tuition fee with the subsidy applied. Students in need may still apply for student financial assistance from the Student Finance Office of the Working Family and Student Financial Assistance Agency in respect of the actual amount of tuition fee payable.
The subsidised places are allocated according to existing admission arrangement of the self-financing sub-degree programmes, i.e., through direct admission by institutions. Students can apply for admission to the designated sub-degree programmes directly through the institutions concerned. Local students who have attained (a) Level 2 or above in five subjects, including English Language and Chinese Language, in the HKDSE Examination; (b) Diploma of Applied Education / Diploma Yi Jin; or (c) Diploma of Foundation Studies awarded by the Vocational Training Council are eligible for the subsidy for sub-degree programmes under SSSDP. The participating institutions are allowed to admit local students with other relevant qualifications, subject to a ceiling of 50% of the subsidised places of the designated programmes.