Hailing the Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur as a symbol of social justice and empowering the downtrodden, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today reiterated the Government’s commitment to work even harder to realise the India which Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar envisioned.
In a post on X, he wrote:
“Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur stands tall as a symbol of social justice and empowering the downtrodden.
Generations of Indians will remain grateful to Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar for giving us a Constitution that ensures our dignity and equality.
Our Government has always walked on the path shown by Pujya Babasaheb and we reiterate our commitment to working even harder to realise the India he dreamt of.”
Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur stands tall as a symbol of social justice and empowering the downtrodden.
Generations of Indians will remain grateful to Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar for giving us a Constitution that ensures our dignity and equality.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is the speech by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, at the opening ceremony of 22nd Willem C Vis East International Commercial Arbitration Moot today (March 30):
Ms Barrington (Director of the Vis East Moot Foundation, Ms Louise Barrington), Ms Tung (Deputy Director of the Vis East Moot Foundation, Ms Sherlin Tung), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government sent a 51-strong search and rescue team to the earthquake-stricken areas in Myanmar this afternoon (March 29) to assist in the search and rescue work.
The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee; the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau; the Director of Immigration, Mr Benson Kwok; and the Director of Fire Services, Mr Andy Yeung, saw the search and rescue team off at Hong Kong International Airport. The Chief Executive of the Hospital Authority (HA), Dr Tony Ko, also attended and showed support to the team.
The team, led by Deputy Chief Fire Officer of the Fire Services Department (FSD), Mr Cheu Yu-kok, comprises 40 members of the FSD which include firemen, ambulancemen and fire services workshops personnel, as well as officers from the Security Bureau, the Immigration Department and the HA.
Bringing along two search and rescue dogs, the team is also taking approximately nine tonnes of equipment which includes life detectors and masonry cutting machines, an automatic satellite tracking antenna system which provides network connection, as well as the team members’ daily necessities.
Upon arrival at Myanmar, the team will join local rescue teams to start search and rescue work.
Mineral and non-ferrous metal production on growth track in FY 2024-25 (April- February) Robust Growth in Production of Key Minerals and non-ferrous Metals
Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 12:43PM by PIB Delhi
Production of some key minerals in the country has continued to witness strong growth during FY 2024-25 (April- February), after reaching record production levels in FY 2023-24. Iron ore accounts for 70% of the total MCDR mineral production by value. Production of iron ore was 274 million metric tonne (MMT) in FY 2023-24.
As per provisional data, production of iron ore has increased from 252 MMT in FY 2023-24 (April- February) to 263 MMT in FY 2024-25 (April- February), showing a healthy 4.4% growth. Production of manganese ore has risen by 12.8% to 3.4 MMT in FY 2024-25 (April- February) from 3.0 MMT during the corresponding period of previous year. Production of bauxite has also risen by 3.6% to 22.7 MMT in FY 2024-25 (April- February) from 21.9 MMT in FY 2023-24 (April- February). Production of Lead Concentrate has also risen by 3.5% to 352 THT in FY 2024-25 (April- February) from 340 THT in FY 2023-24 (April- February).
In the non-ferrous metal sector, primary aluminium production in FY 2024-25 (April- February) posted a growth of 0.9% over the corresponding period last year, increasing to 38.36 lakh ton (LT) in FY 2024-25 (April- February) from 38.00 LT in FY 2023-24 (April- February). During the same comparative period, refined copper production has grown by 7.1% from 4.64 LT to 4.97 LT.
India is the 2nd largest Aluminium producer, among top-10 producer in refined copper and 4th largest iron ore producer in the world. Continued growth in production of iron ore in the current financial year reflects the robust demand conditions in the user industry viz. steel. Coupled with growth in aluminium and copper, these growth trends point towards continued strong economic activity in user sectors such as energy, infrastructure, construction, automotive and machinery.
Long before ‘Sustainability’ became a global buzzword India lived it for centuries-VP Developed nations must transcend political boundaries in environmental thinking-VP
The Union Carbide Leakage of 1984 was mega environmental negligence-VP
Global need to evolve and believe in environmental ethics-VP
NGT connects law, science and ethics to transform our relationship with nature-VP
Vice-President addresses the valedictory session of National Conference on Environment- 2025
Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 6:01PM by PIB Delhi
Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today stated that, “ Long before sustainability became a global buzzword, much long before….India lived it for centuries where every Banyan tree was a temple, every river a goddess and best an unknown concept in a civilisation that worshipped secularity. Our Vedic literature is goldmine for nurturing Mother Earth and propagating harmony between man and nature.”
Developed nations must transcend political boundaries in environmental thinking.
They must adopt models where planetary health becomes foundational to human prosperity and well-being.
They cannot isolate themselves believing that they have technological means to generate a… pic.twitter.com/Y3gDXJkCAe
“India’s DNA carries the only vaccine against ecological collapse conspicuous consumption. We only have to read what is there in our goldmine”, he added.
Addressing the valedictory session of National Conference on Environment- 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi today, Shri Dhankhar stated, “Developed nations must transcend the political boundaries in environmental thinking. Adopting models where planetary health becomes foundational to human prosperity and well-being.”
There is a global need to evolve and believe in environmental ethics.
This underscores humans’ moral obligations to protect and preserve the environment.
Recalling the Bhopal gas tragedy of 1984, Shri Dhankar said, “ The Bhopal gas tragedy lesson is still unlearned. The Union Carbide Leakage of 1984. It was mega environmental negligence. Even after four decades, families suffered generation after generation, genetic disorders and groundwater contamination…..Just imagine how pathetic was the lack of awareness. We did not have an institution like NGT. We did not have a regulatory regime that could address the issue. Things would have been very different if there had been a regulatory regime of the current level then.”
As I look at it, in NGT: N stands for nurturing, G for green, and T for tomorrow. NGT for me is nurturing green for tomorrow.
This is not just word play. It is the vision of an institution that connects law, science and ethics to transform our relationship with nature.
Emphasising on the need to evolve environmental ethics, he stated, “….There is a global need to evolve and believe in environmental ethics, this underscores human’s moral obligations to protect and preserve the environment…….we have to be aware the planet is not exclusive to us. We are not its owners. Flora and fauna must flourish and blossom alongside and so must all other living beings. In such a scenario, man will have to learn to live in harmony with nature and other living beings. Are we doing it? No…..There will have to be individual focus on optimal utilisation of resources of the nature. This has to be our habit. Our fiscal power, our fiscal capacity cannot determine the use of natural resources. The consumption has to be optimal.”
There is a growing concern that environmental justice often follows a troubling pattern of 4Ds: Delay, Deny, Dispose, Dissolve. This cycle must be broken.
I am happy to note NGT is catalysing sensitisation on all fronts. I am sure intervention to the NGT exercise will be… pic.twitter.com/JNEZ8j4vJp
“Both Ecological Extension and Conservation Ethics advocate harmonious human-nature relationship, and so easy to bring about. It doesn’t call for anything but a positive mindset towards life. We have to focus on environmental preservation and prudent resource stewardship for generational sustainability”, he added.
Highlighting the interconnectedness of NGT with law, science and ethics, Shri Dhankhar stated, “ The way I look to NGT, N for nurturing, G for green and T for tomorrow. NGT for me is nurturing green for tomorrow. This is not just word play. It is vision of an institution that connects law, science and ethics to transform our relationship with nature. Let us grow from our very roots, wield cutting edge, tools and uphold climate justice with unwavering resolve.”
“Let peace prevail in the sky and space. Let peace reign and radiate in earth, in water and in all plants. Let peace prevail everywhere”,he added.
Dr. (Smt.) Sudesh Dhankhar, Spouse of the Hon’ble Vice-President of India, Justice P.S Narsimha, Judge, Supreme Court of India, Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson, National Green Tribunal, Shri Tushar Mehta, Solicitor General of India, Shri Tanmay Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and other dignitaries were present at the occasion.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Police today (March 29) appealed to the public for information on a man who went missing in Yau Ma Tei.
Law Ah-cheung, aged 70, went missing after he was last seen at an elderly home on Man Ying Street yesterday (March 28) afternoon. Staff of the caring home then made a report to Police.
He is about 1.6 metres tall, 52 kilograms in weight and of medium build. He has a long face with yellow complexion and short white hair. He was last seen wearing a blue checked shirt, black trousers, black slippers and carrying a beige recycle bag and a long umbrella.
Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of Kowloon West on 3661 8036 or 9020 6542 or email to rmpu-kw@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesman for Queen Mary Hospital made the following update today (March 30) regarding a patient leaving the ward without notification earlier:
The 47-year-old male patient who left the Cardiothoracic Surgery ward without notification yesterday (March 29) has returned to the ward at around 12.35pm today. The patient is in stable condition.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh worth over ₹33,700 crore Today, on the auspicious day of Navratri, on the New Year, three lakh poor families of Chhattisgarh are entering their new houses: PM
Government is concerned about providing health facilities and medical treatment for poor tribals: PM
Government is running a special campaign for the development of tribal society: PM
Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 6:17PM by PIB Delhi
In line with his commitment to enhance infrastructure development and sustainable livelihood, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, initiated commencement of work and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth over Rs 33,700 crore in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh today. Marking the auspicious beginning of the New Year today and the first day of Navratri, he emphasized the significance of Chhattisgarh as the land of Mata Mahamaya and the maternal home of Mata Kaushalya. He highlighted the special importance of these nine days dedicated to feminine divinity for the state. He expressed his privilege to be in Chhattisgarh on the first day of Navratri and congratulated everyone on the recent issuance of a postal stamp in honor of Bhakt Shiromani Mata Karma. He further remarked that the Navratri festival will conclude with the celebration of Ram Navami, highlighting the unique devotion to Lord Ram in Chhattisgarh, particularly the extraordinary dedication of the Ramnami Samaj, which has devoted their entire being to the name of Lord Ram. He extended his heartfelt wishes to the people of Chhattisgarh, referring to them as the maternal family of Lord Ram.
With the blessings of Mohbhatta Swayambhu Shivling Mahadev on this auspicious occasion, Shri Modi highlighted the opportunity to accelerate development in Chhattisgarh. He noted the inauguration and foundation laying of projects worth over ₹33,700 crore, which include housing for the poor, schools, roads, railways, electricity, and gas pipelines. He stressed that these projects are aimed at enhancing convenience for Chhattisgarh’s citizens and creating new employment opportunities. He extended his congratulations to all for the progress achieved through these development initiatives.
Emphasizing the cultural significance of providing shelter, calling it a great virtue, the Prime Minister said that it was an unparalleled joy of fulfilling someone’s dream of owning a home. On the auspicious occasion of Navratri and the New Year, he highlighted that three lakh poor families in Chhattisgarh are entering their new homes. He extended his heartfelt wishes to these families for a new beginning. He credited the realization of these homes to the trust placed in his leadership, noting that the dream of permanent housing for lakhs of families in Chhattisgarh was previously lost in bureaucratic files. He recalled the Government’s commitment to fulfilling this dream. He remarked that under Shri Vishnu Deo’s leadership, the first Cabinet decision was to construct 18 lakh houses, of which three lakh have been completed. He expressed happiness that many of these homes are in tribal areas, benefiting families in Bastar and Surguja, acknowledging the transformative impact of these homes for families who have endured generations of hardship in makeshift shelters, calling it a significant gift.
“While the Government provided assistance in building these homes, the beneficiaries themselves decided how their dream homes would be designed”, said Shri Modi, emphasising that these homes are not just four walls but a transformation of lives. He highlighted the efforts to equip these homes with essential facilities such as toilets, electricity, Ujjwala gas connections, and piped water. He noted the significant presence of women at the event and remarked that most of these homes are owned by women. He acknowledged the milestone achieved by thousands of women who, for the first time, have property registered in their names. He expressed his gratitude for the joy and blessings reflected on the faces of these women, calling it his greatest asset.
Highlighting the broader impact of constructing lakhs of homes which not only created the employment opportunities for local artisans, masons, and laborers in villages, the Prime Minister said that the materials used for these homes are sourced locally, benefiting small shopkeepers and transport operators. He noted that these housing projects have generated significant employment in Chhattisgarh, contributing to the livelihoods of many.
Underlining that their Government is fulfilling every promise made to the people of Chhattisgarh, Shri Modi highlighted the presence of a large number of beneficiaries from various schemes, emphasizing the swift implementation of government guarantees. He noted that the promises made to the women of Chhattisgarh have been honored, including the disbursement of two years’ pending bonuses to paddy farmers and the procurement of paddy at increased MSP rates. These measures have provided thousands of crores of rupees to millions of farming families. The Prime Minister criticized the previous Government for recruitment exam scams and highlighted their Government’s transparent investigations and fair conduct of examinations. He emphasized that these honest efforts have strengthened public trust with growing support, evident from its victories in Assembly, Lok Sabha, and now municipal elections in Chhattisgarh. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support of the people for their Government’s initiatives.
Shri Modi noted that this year was 25th anniversary of Chhattisgarh’s statehood, celebrating it as the state’s Silver Jubilee Year was coinciding as this year also marked the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He said that the Chhattisgarh Government is observing 2025 as “Atal Nirman Varsh” and reaffirmed the commitment, “We built it, and we will nurture it.” He emphasized that the infrastructure projects inaugurated and launched today are part of this resolution.
Mentioning that Chhattisgarh had to be formed as a separate state because the benefits of development were not reaching the region, the PM criticized the previous Government for its failure to deliver development and for corruption in the projects that were undertaken. He underscored that their Government has prioritized the well-being of the people, focusing on improving their lives, facilities, and opportunities for their children. He highlighted the efforts to bring development schemes to every village in Chhattisgarh.
Underlining the progress in remote tribal areas, where quality roads are now reaching for the first time, Shri Modi mentioned the introduction of train services to several regions, including the flagging off of a new train earlier in the event. He also highlighted the arrival of electricity, piped water, and mobile towers in previously underserved areas. He remarked on the construction of new schools, colleges, and hospitals, emphasizing that these initiatives are transforming the landscape of Chhattisgarh.
Highlighting Chhattisgarh’s achievement of becoming one of the states with a fully electrified rail network, calling it a significant milestone, the Prime Minister noted that approximately ₹40,000 crore worth of rail projects are currently underway in the state, with ₹7,000 crore allocated in this year’s budget to improve rail connectivity in various regions and neighboring states. Stressing that development requires both budgetary support and honest intentions, Shri Modi criticized the previous Government for its corruption and inefficiency, which hindered progress in tribal areas. He cited the example of coal, noting that despite Chhattisgarh’s abundant reserves, the state faced electricity shortages due to the neglect of power plants by previous dispensations. He remarked that under their Government, new power plants are being established to address these issues and ensure reliable electricity for the state.
Highlighting the Government’s focus on solar energy and introduction of the ‘PM Suryagarh Muft Bijli Scheme,’ which aims to eliminate electricity bills and enable households to generate income by producing electricity, the Prime Minister noted that the Government is providing ₹78,000 assistance per household for installing solar panels. He added that over two lakh families in Chhattisgarh have already registered for the scheme and encouraged others to join for significant benefits.
Stressing on the Government’s efforts to address the challenge of delivering gas pipelines to Chhattisgarh, a landlocked state, Shri Modi criticized the previous Government for neglecting necessary investments in gas infrastructure and highlighted the ongoing work to lay gas pipelines in the region. He noted that these pipelines will reduce dependency on truck transportation for petroleum products, lower costs for consumers, and enable the use of CNG vehicles. He remarked that households will benefit from piped cooking gas, with a target of reaching over two lakh homes. He also emphasized that the availability of gas will facilitate the establishment of new industries in Chhattisgarh, creating significant employment opportunities.
Criticizing the previous dispensation’s policies over the decades, stating that they contributed to the rise of Naxalism in Chhattisgarh and other states, the Prime Minister said that Naxalism thrived in areas lacking development and resources, and instead of addressing these issues, such districts were declared as backward, shirking their responsibility. He highlighted the neglect faced by the most underprivileged tribal families in many districts of Chhattisgarh under previous Government’s rule. In contrast, he emphasized their Government’s efforts to address the needs of poor tribal communities. He noted the initiatives undertaken, such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan to provide toilets, the Ayushman Bharat scheme offering free treatment up to ₹5 lakh, and the establishment of PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which provide medicines at an 80% discount.
The Prime Minister criticized those who falsely claim to champion social justice while neglecting the tribal community. He emphasized his Government’s commitment to the development of tribal societies, highlighting the launch of the “Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Utkarsh Abhiyan,” under which approximately ₹80,000 crore is being invested in tribal areas, benefiting nearly 7,000 tribal villages in Chhattisgarh. Noting the unique challenges faced by particularly vulnerable tribal groups, Shri Modi mentioned the introduction of the “PM Janman Yojana,” the first initiative of its kind for these communities. He remarked that under this scheme, over 2,000 settlements in 18 districts of Chhattisgarh are being developed. He highlighted the approval of 5,000 kilometers of roads for tribal settlements across the country, with nearly half—2,500 kilometers—being constructed in Chhattisgarh under the PM Janman Yojana. He also noted that many beneficiaries have received permanent homes under this initiative.
Highlighting the rapid transformation of Chhattisgarh under the Union and State governments, Shri Modi remarked on the renewed confidence brought by achievements such as Sukma district’s health center receiving a national quality certificate and the reopening of a health center in Dantewada after several years. He emphasized that these efforts are ushering in a new era of lasting peace in Naxal-affected areas. Referring to the Bastar Olympics, discussed during his “Mann Ki Baat” program in December 2024, as evidence of the positive changes in Chhattisgarh, he noted the enthusiastic participation of thousands of youth in the event, reflecting the state’s progress. He expressed optimism about the bright future of Chhattisgarh’s youth and praised the state’s effective implementation of the New Education Policy. He highlighted the establishment of over 12,000 modern PM Shri Schools across the country, including approximately 350 in Chhattisgarh, which will serve as models for other schools and elevate the state’s education system.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the excellent work being done by Eklavya Model Schools in Chhattisgarh and the reopening of schools in Naxal-affected areas. He also inaugurated the Vidya Samiksha Kendra in the state, calling it a significant step for the nation’s education system. He emphasized that this initiative will enhance the quality of education, providing real-time support to teachers and students in classrooms.
Mentioning the fulfillment of another promise under the New National Education Policy, which enables medical and engineering studies
Creators Street and Epiko Con, in collaboration with the Telangana Government, ICA Indian Comics Association, Forbidden Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI) and Telangana VFX Animation and Gaming Association (TVAGA) and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India proudly announce the WAVES Cosplay Championship—India’s most prestigious cosplay competition. Set to take place at 2025 World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai from May 1-4, 2025, this landmark event will bring together India’s most talented cosplayers, celebrating their artistry, dedication, and craftsmanship in the world of pop culture.
About WAVES Cosplay Championship
The WAVES Cosplay Championship aims to empower India’s growing cosplay community by providing a world-class platform for participants to showcase their skills, creativity, and passion for pop culture. This championship aligns with India’s expanding entertainment and AVGC-XR sector, encouraging self-expression and innovation in costume design, performance and character portrayal.
Competition Highlights
Grand Finale:80-100 finalists will present their cosplays live on the WAVES 2025 stage.
Jury: Participants will be judged by esteemed industry experts, international guests and cosplay professionals.
Diverse Categories: Catagories will represent Indian mythology, Pop Culture, Anime, Manga, DC, Marvel, and more.
●Global Exposure: A chance to gain recognition on an international level.
Prize Money: Prize money of more than ₹1,50,000/- up for grabs.
Online Registration & Jury Review– Cosplayers to submit their entries online, which will be reviewed by a jury.
Finalist Selection– Top 80-100 cosplayers will be selected and notified via email.
Live Championship at WAVES 2025– Finalists will walk the ramp in full cosplay, showcasing their best poses and performances.
Jury Evaluation & Announcement of Winners– Based on key judging parameters, winners across multiple categories will be crowned.
Key Dates
● Registration Opens: March 28, 2025
Submission Deadline: April 7, 2025
WAVES Cosplay Championship Grand Finale: May 1 – 4, 2025
The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.
Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.
WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR).