Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

Kathua Gets First Municipal Parking Complex, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and J&K CM Omar Abdullah Inaugurate Project

‘From Three Cars to Parking Crisis’: Dr. Jitendra Singh Showcases Kathua’s Transformation

Dr. Jitendra Singh Flags Off Infrastructure Push in Kathua, Calls for United Fight Against Drugs and Illegal Mining

Posted On: 19 APR 2025 5:11PM by PIB Delhi

In a significant push for urban infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, 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 and Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah today jointly inaugurated the first-ever Municipal Parking Complex in the town of Kathua, marking a milestone in the region’s transformation from a sleepy town to a modern urban hub.

Addressing a packed gathering under the sweltering sun, Dr. Jitendra Singh described the inauguration as a symbol of Kathua’s rapid urban evolution, underscoring how a town once unfamiliar with personal vehicles now demands structured car parking solutions. “There was a time when only three cars were visible in the entire city — one each belonging to the DC, SP, and Executive Engineer,” he recalled. “Today, we are inaugurating a full-fledged parking facility because of the sheer number of private vehicles. This reflects the aspirational rise of this once-overlooked town.”

Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah’s presence, despite his pressing commitments in Delhi, was hailed by Dr. Jitendra Singh as a gesture of Centre-State cooperation. “His presence here demonstrates the shared commitment of the state and Centre to jointly develop Jammu & Kashmir under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said.

The Minister highlighted that the new parking facility is just one among several transformative projects that have changed Kathua’s landscape in the last decade. From running Vande Bharat trains to upgrading the Kathua railway station, establishing three medical colleges in the constituency, launching a Biotech Park, and building an Engineering and Homeopathy college, the region has witnessed a sweeping change in public infrastructure.

Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that connectivity projects like the Express Corridor, which will soon enable direct travel to Delhi in five hours, are set to further boost mobility and economic prospects for the region. “When that happens, you’ll realize just how dramatically the picture has changed,” he said.

Beyond infrastructure, Dr. Jitendra Singh touched upon social challenges such as illegal mining and drug abuse, which he said are now being firmly addressed. “Kathua’s name should no longer be linked with these issues. Let’s make it an example of a model town,” he urged, calling for a united fight involving civil society, administration, and parents to protect the youth from the scourge of drugs.

The inauguration ceremony also spotlighted completed landmark projects like the bridge at Kediyan-Gandyal, Maharaja Gulab Singh’s grand statue at the entrance to Jammu & Kashmir, and the setting up of a large stadium with BCCI support. Dr. Jitendra Singh acknowledged the role of Corporate Social Responsibility in developing facilities like Birla Park, which he invited the Chief Minister to visit during his morning walks.

While celebrating the region’s development, the Union Minister reiterated the importance of sustaining it through civic responsibility and future planning. “If our youth fall prey to addiction, who will drive the cars or sit in the Vande Bharat train? Who will serve their parents or benefit from these amenities?” he asked.

As Dr. Jitendra Singh noted in his closing remarks, “Kathua is not just a town; it is a source of inspiration for the BJP and a living tribute to the sacrifices of national heroes like Syama Prasad Mukherjee.”

With the new parking complex operational and more development in the pipeline, today’s inauguration stands as a testament to the town’s growing role in the region’s socio-economic revival.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2122912) Visitor Counter : 61

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 19 APR 2025 1:03PM by PIB Delhi

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla has greeted the people on the eve of Easter.

In his message, Shri Birla said, “Wishing everyone a blessed and joyful Easter.  May this day of resurrection bring love, faith, and renewed hope into your lives. Let’s celebrate the spirit of renewal and new beginnings.”

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AM

(Release ID: 2123012) Visitor Counter : 22

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 19 APR 2025 6:09PM by PIB Delhi

On this Easter Sunday, I extend solemn greetings to all citizens across India, with special acknowledgment to our Christian communities celebrating this sacred occasion.

Easter symbolizes hope and renewal through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. His timeless teachings of compassion, forgiveness, and service guide us toward building a harmonious society.

May this holy day inspire all of us to renew our commitment towards the welfare of the vulnerable and to embodying Christ’s message of unconditional love. Let peace and renewal fill our nation’s homes and communities.

 

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JK/RC/SM

(Release ID: 2122923) Visitor Counter : 40

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw holds consultations with news media organisations ahead of WAVES 2025

WAVES is driven by the industry; Government is a catalyst- Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

Massive Response to India’s Creative Economy Push: 1 Lakh+ Registrations, 750 top level creators to showcase their work

WAVES Emerging as a Global Connector Between Creators, Buyers, and Markets for Scalable Creative Solutions : Union Minister

Posted On: 19 APR 2025 7:03PM by PIB Delhi

The world of creators and their economy is going through a fundamental change. Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw said this while interacting with the news media today ahead of the maiden World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit scheduled in Mumbai from 1st to 4th May. The interaction was attended by about 20 media houses from the national as well as regional news media. Talking on the challenges faced, the Union Minister said that with the advent of technology, the old model is giving way to the new model, creating opportunities as well as challenges. The shape of the media world  is changing, he said and stressed on the collective need as a country to respond to the new model. Giving an example, he said that gone are the days when a big studio was needed for creating content. Today a creator from a remote village from Jharkhand or Kerala can create good quality and get millions of views.

 

He mentioned that the creator’s economy is growing exponentially. The Minister said that our visionary Prime Minister acknowledged the work of the creators and their contribution in the economy by promoting India’s soft power globally. WAVES seeks to evolve itself as a global platform for media & entertainment, just as Davos serves as a global platform for economic policies, he added. .

India’s creative economy has received an overwhelming boost, with more than 1 lakh registrations for WAVES 2025. The top innovators will be honoured with Awards, celebrating their contributions to the evolving global media and entertainment landscape.  Shri Vaishnaw said, we are finding a way to connect the world with our creators. WAVES is emerging as a global connector between creators, buyers, and markets for scalable creative solutions, the Minister said. Through WAVES, buyers and sellers are getting a platform, where creators can offer their content & firms can source quality creative work.

Participating in the interaction, heads of various media organisations congratulated the Government for conceptualising a novel concept in the form of WAVES to bring policy makers, creators, industry stalwarts, tech giants and start ups in the M&E sector on one platform.

Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju welcomed all the participants and dignitaries, highlighting the significance of collective dialogue in shaping the future of the media landscape. He emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders across platforms and appreciated the active participation of media organizations in the lead-up to WAVES 2025.

 

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Dharmendra Tewari/Virat Majboor/Navin Sreejith

(Release ID: 2122945) Visitor Counter : 116

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives in a building collapse in Dayalpur area of North East Delhi

PM announces ex-gratia from PMNRF

Posted On: 19 APR 2025 9:02PM by PIB Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today condoled the loss of lives in a building collapse in Dayalpur area of North East Delhi. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured.

The PMO India handle in post on X said:

“Saddened by the loss of lives due to a building collapse in Dayalpur area of North East Delhi. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.

An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi”

 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2122975) Visitor Counter : 114

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     ​Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) Mr Charles Ng will commence his duty visit to Mumbai and New Delhi in India today (April 20), highlighting Hong Kong’s unrivalled role as a gateway for Indian companies to expand into Mainland China and across North Asia and Southeast Asia.

     A highlight of the visit is the event Gateway to Growth: Exploring Business & Investment Opportunities in and via Hong Kong, jointly organised by InvestHK, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Singapore, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. As a keynote speaker, Mr Ng will update the participants on the latest developments in Hong Kong’s business landscape, as well as the strategic advantages of establishing operations in Hong Kong for Indian companies.

     Mr Ng said, “As one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, India is not only a major start-up base but also is home to numerous high-net-worth individuals and wealthy families seeking diversified investment opportunities. Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to meet these needs. Our vibrant start-up ecosystem, boasting nearly 4 700 ventures in AI, healthtech, fintech, Web3 and other cutting-edge fields offers exceptional opportunities for Indian start-ups and investors alike. Moreover, our New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme offers an attractive pathway for Indian wealthy families looking to combine investment with the option of living in the city.”

     Mr Ng’s visit includes high-level discussions with prominent Indian firms and investors focusing on establishing a presence in Hong Kong to capitalise on its strategic advantages for global growth. Hong Kong’s business-friendly environment, characterised by clear and transparent regulations, a simple and low tax regime, robust capital markets and free capital flows, positions the city as the ideal platform for Indian companies exploring expansion opportunities.

     Mr Ng added, “With its unique position at the heart of Asia, world-class financial infrastructure, and deep connectivity with Mainland China and global markets, Hong Kong can empower Indian businesses to scale regionally and compete globally. This visit underscores InvestHK’s commitment to strengthening Hong Kong–India ties by fostering greater investment and innovation between the two places.”

     The economic synergy between Hong Kong and India is profound. In 2024, India ranked as Hong Kong’s ninth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade amounting to approximately US$26 billion. Hong Kong is home to a vibrant and long-standing Indian community of over 42 000 people. Bilateral ties have been further reinforced by the Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement, signed in March 2018 and enhanced through a protocol in November 2018, which provides a robust framework for cross-border trade and investment.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Basic Law Quiz Competition Final and Prize Presentation Ceremony was held today (April 19), which was jointly organised by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB), the Committee on the Promotion of Civic Education (CPCE) and the Local Community Sub-group under the Working Group on Constitution, Basic Law and Hong Kong National Security Law of the Constitution and Basic Law Promotion Steering Committee. This year’s competition received an overwhelming response, attracting over 37 000 participants.
 
Speaking at the ceremony, the Under Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Mr Clarence Leung, said that the Constitution is the fundamental and supreme law of the state, an important symbol and sign of the nation, and holds the highest legal status. The Constitution gives the legislative backing and source of validity for the Basic Law. Without its authorisation, the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region would not have existed. The country has long supported and safeguarded Hong Kong’s interests across various domains. Being part of the country, it is imperative for Hong Kong to understand that upholding national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity is the fundamental responsibility and due obligation of all Chinese people, including people in Hong Kong.
 
He added that the promotion of the Constitution, the Basic Law, and safeguarding national security education is a long-term task that requires concerted efforts of all sectors of the community to create a conducive atmosphere. He encouraged participants to deepen their understanding of the Constitution, the Basic Law, and safeguarding national security throughout the competition, and expressed hope that young people can actively equip themselves and make contributions to building an even better Hong Kong and advancing national rejuvenation.
 
The quiz competition covered the relationship between the Constitution and the Basic Law, the Basic Law and its history and safeguarding national security. The competition comprises the Family, Senior Primary School, Secondary School and Open categories. To tie in with the quiz competition, the organisers hosted five seminars from February to April to introduce the Constitution and the Basic Law to secondary and primary school students.
 
The HYAB has long been working closely with the CPCE in promoting the Constitution, the Basic Law and safeguarding national security at the community level through various channels and diverse means, including publishing parent-child magazines, creating websites and social media pages, organising competitions, seminars and exhibitions, as well as sponsoring eligible organisations to organise various promotional and exchange activities on civic and national education.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee will lead a delegation to visit Zhejiang on Tuesday to attend the High-Level Meeting & First Plenary Session of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference in Hangzhou, and the Hong Kong Investment Promotion Conference – Zhejiang (Ningbo) Forum & Ningbo-Hong Kong Economic Co-operation Forum in Ningbo.

Mr Lee will return to Hong Kong on April 25.

The Chief Executive said that Hong Kong and Zhejiang have long maintained frequent exchanges, keeping close ties in economic affairs and trade, cultural exchanges and youth engagement. Under the overall blueprint of the country, both places play important and unique roles.

He noted that a specific co-operation mechanism between the two places will be established through this visit, further strengthening collaboration, achieving complementarity and mutual benefits, and making greater contributions to the country’s high-quality development.

Officials including Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong, Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang, Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau, Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho, Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong and Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs Alice Mak will join parts of the trip. Director of the Chief Executive’s Office Carol Yip will also accompany Mr Lee on the trip.

During the visit, Mr Lee and the delegation will meet leaders from Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou and Ningbo as well as visit local facilities and projects in areas including innovation and technology, and healthcare.

Mr Chan will depart on April 23 and return to Hong Kong on April 24. He will be Acting Chief Executive from the afternoon of April 22 to noon on April 23, and from the evening of April 24 to April 25.

Secretary for Justice Paul Lam will be Acting Chief Executive during Mr Chan’s absence.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Mr Tong and his family of four live in an old building in Cheung Sha Wan where a fire previously broke out in their building. The fire occurred directly above Mr Tong’s apartment and even though firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze, he explained that he was deeply troubled by having to deal with the aftermath.

“When I got home, water was pouring from the ceiling. The floor was flooded, and even the walls and door were saturated with water.  

“The dripping lasted for hours. I kept mopping, but the ceiling was badly damaged. Paint and concrete peeled off. The door deformed and could not lock anymore. I felt helpless.”

Thankfully, the Cheung Sha Wan Sub-district Care Team came to Mr Tong’s aid swiftly.

Rapid support

On the night of the fire, members of the care team immediately arrived at the scene to assist affected residents. After the fire was extinguished, the team conducted home visits and discovered Mr Tong’s situation.

Sham Shui Po District Cheung Sha Wan Sub-district Care Team Captain Kathy Li pointed out that as residents returned to their units, the care team, together with the district councillor, conducted home visits to assess the impact, focusing on the fire-affected floors and units below.

During such visits, they discovered Mr Tong’s apartment, which was experiencing severe water damage.

Subsequently, the care team arranged a free inspection of the apartment for Mr Tong. During the inspection, the surveyor provided him with a detailed assessment of the damage.

“I am really thankful for the support provided by the care team,” Mr Tong said.

Benevolent purpose

As of the end of January, care teams across Hong Kong had conducted home visits to about 390,000 households. Additionally, they have provided more than 40,000 instances of basic home services and other support services, and organised over 20,000 district activities.

In order to highlight the selfless dedication of the care teams and provide a platform for the 452 care teams in the city to share their experiences, an appreciation event was held.

While officiating at the event, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki underlined the Government’s commitment to enhancing support for the care teams.

He emphasised that the teams have played a vital role, not only in promoting activities and services but also in assisting the Government during emergencies. Their contributions have been widely recognised and praised by the community.

In last year’s Policy Address, the Chief Executive announced that the Government will regularise the establishment of care teams and increase funding by 50% in the next term of service in support of their work.

The Chief Secretary said the Government hopes that with the additional resources, the care teams can expand their reach and provide even more comprehensive support to those in need.

Selfless care

At the event, Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs Alice Mak also expressed her gratitude to the care teams for their unwavering dedication.

She stressed that they are all volunteers, and that the Government’s funding goes directly towards benefitting residents with services and essential supplies.

She also pointed out that their work embodies the spirit of genuine care, found in the smallest but most meaningful details, which form the foundation of a harmonious community.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee met General Administration of Sport of China (GASC) Director Gao Zhidan at Government House today to exchange views on Hong Kong’s preparations for the 15th National Games. Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law also attended the meeting.

Mr Lee welcomed Mr Gao and his delegation to Hong Kong and expressed gratitude for Mr Gao’s opinions and guidance on the preparation work for the 15th National Games in Hong Kong.

The Chief Executive said he was pleased to see Mr Gao again since they last met during his visit to Harbin in February.

Mr Lee thanked the GASC for its continued support for Hong Kong’s sports development and noted that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will maintain close co-operation with the GASC to further enhance sports exchanges and co-operation, as well as integrated development between Hong Kong and other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

He noted that the Hong Kong SAR Government will press ahead with the preparation work for the 15th National Games in Hong Kong and continue to conduct test events to ensure readiness for the official events.

The Hong Kong SAR Government is committed to working closely with the Guangdong Provincial Government and the Macau Special Administrative Region Government to conduct a simple, safe and wonderful 15th National Games, Mr Lee added.