Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

To echo the 10th National Security Education Day, the Immigration Service Institute of Training and Development (ISITD) held an open day today (April 12), drawing the participation of over 4 000 citizens. The open day featured a range of activities, including introduction and demonstrations of the daily work of the Immigration Department (ImmD), exhibitions, guided tours and booth games, with the aim to raise public awareness of national security and strengthen their sense of national identity through interactive experiences, while highlighting the ImmD’s values and mission in defending against national security risks and firmly guarding the country’s southern gateway. 

     Various thematic exhibitions and booth games were set up to introduce the public to the ImmD’s technologies used in detecting suspicious documents, counter-terrorism work, management work of detention centre and tactical equipment, etc. Members of the public could also try out training facilities, such as the mock immigration clearance hall and mock court room, to better understand how the ImmD has been leveraging the work of effective immigration control, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.

     In addition, the Immigration Department Youth Leaders Corps (IDYL) also set up an interactive booth, where IDYL members crafted panda and golden snub-nosed monkeys dough figurine for the members of the public on site, aiming to drawn public attention to endangered animal species while promoting the concept of ecological security and its importance to members of the public in a lively and interesting way.

     The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, and the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung attended the open day. Accompanied by directorate officers of the ImmD, they toured the exhibition booths, interacted with the public, and encouraged members of the Immigration Service to remain dedicated and steadfast in upholding national security.

     The open day offered an array of splendid programmes, including a musical performance by the Immigration Band and a Chinese-style foot drill demonstration by the Departmental Contingent. Holding flags printed with the five essential elements of the holistic approach to national security, the Departmental Contingent formed the shape of a shield, symbolising the logo of the National Security Education Day, as well as demonstrating the ImmD’s concerted efforts to safeguard the sovereignty, security and development interests of our nation. Afterwards, the Emergency Response Team of the Castle Peak Bay Immigration Centre demonstrated how to handle emergencies and quell disturbances professionally and promptly with the use of various firearms and anti-riot equipment, showcasing the ImmD’s capabilities to deal with incidents endangering public security and its commitment to maintaining the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. Also, there was a demonstration session of the ImmD’s vehicles at the open day, introducing the multi-purpose vehicle of ImmD’s Enforcement Division and the mobile identification tactical unit to members of the public, so as to help them to learn more about the ImmD’s work in preventing and defending against national security risks.

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses 75th Foundation Day celebration of the Gujarati weekly ‘Chitralekha’ in Mumbai

The journey of ‘Chitralekha’ over the last 75 years is a reflection of Gujarat’s literature, society, life and the problems of Gujarat and the country

When there is purity of purpose than mere consideration of profit, dedication towards literature and a desire to solve the problems of society, only then one can connect with the readers

An awakened weekly has a deep impact on our society and life

During many movements in Gujarat, when the society was falling apart, ‘Chitralekha’ took the torch in its hands to keep the society united

Gujarati literature’s magazines and newspapers played a big role in the building of the country

Nagin Das, Tarak Mehta and Gunwant Shah became popular from the platform of ‘Chitralekha’, the President honoured all three with Padma awards

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 9:31PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today addressed the 75^th Foundation Day celebration of the Gujarati weekly ‘Chitralekha’ in Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra. On this occasion, several distinguished dignitaries were present, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal, and State Deputy Chief Minister Shri Eknath Shinde among others.

While addressing the event, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that the 75-year journey of ‘Chitralekha’ has been a mirror of Gujarati literature, society, lifestyle, and the issues faced by Gujarat and the nation. He said that in my life so far, I have changed three houses, the furniture in those houses, even the addresses — but ‘Chitralekha’ has continued to arrive faithfully at all three homes.

Shri Amit Shah said that the way ‘Chitralekha’ has maintained its connection with the readers is rarely seen. This is possible only when there is purity of purpose than mere consideration of profit, dedication towards literature and the desire to solve the problems of the society. He said that ever since I learned to read, I have been reading ‘Chitralekha’. He shared sometimes while reading Harkishan Mehta’s novel, sometimes Tarak Mehta’s Ulta Chashma and sometimes while reading the cartoon published on the front page, I did not know when I started getting the urge to read the issues of the society and try to find their solution.

Union Home Minister said that an awakened weekly impacts our society and life in many ways. In the English speaking era when it was difficult to keep Gujarati literature alive, Vajubhai founded ‘Chitralekha’. Today, there is a greater need than ever to fearlessly represent all the problems of the society and not only question the problem but also to give suggestions for its solution. He said that at the time of Anamat movement in Gujarat, the society was disintegrating, but at that time ‘Chitralekha’ had taken the torch in its hands to keep the society united. It is because of its fact-based efforts of 75 years that ‘Chitralekha’ has gained credibility.

Shri Amit Shah said that literature cannot progress without the support of society. Literature is the need of society. Gujarati literature magazines have played a very important role in the development of the country. Gujarati Sahitya Parishad started a magazine named ‘Budhi Prakash’ in 1855. At that time, everyone started a front against customs with the inspiration of ‘Budhi Prakash’. In the year 1876, Nanalal started ‘Satya Vihar’ and spread amazing awareness in the society. Mahatma Gandhi started ‘Navjeevan’ in 1919 and worked to serve the bitterest truth to the people. In the year 1950, after India gained independence, ‘Chitralekha’ was launched, and since then, it has played a significant role in presenting both societal issues and literature with great precision and clarity to the people.

Union Home Minister said that a successful effort was made to keep the society united through the novels published in ‘Chitralekha’. This inspired the youth studying Gujarati to study. He said, very few of you would have met Tarak Mehta in person. Even the saddest person in the world cannot stay without laughing if he goes to meet him. Spontaneous humor was a gift from God to him. He ran ‘Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’ from the same chawl for years. Those who watch the serial would find it very beautiful, but those who have read Tarak Mehta would understand what these people have done to the Tarak Mehta series. He used to make entire Gujarat forget all its sorrows in four pages.

Shri Amit Shah said that ‘Chitralekha’ gave many such special issues which can never be forgotten. Its Narmada Yojana special issue had shaken the whole of Gujarat. He said that no one would have given such an accurate and true presentation of the 26/11 terrorist attack on Mumbai as ‘Chitralekha’ did. It gave such a presentation that widespread awareness spread about the problem of terrorism.

Union Home Minister said that ‘Chitralekha’ also published three special issues on the issue of Ram Mandir. He said that he has been a supporter of Ram Mandir since childhood, fought for it and even went to jail, but no one has presented it as beautifully as ‘Chitralekha’. He said that Nagin Das, Tarak Mehta and Gunwant Shah became popular from the platform of ‘Chitralekha’ and finally the President of India honoured them with the Padma Award. Hardly any magazine in the country has produced three writers honoured with the Padma Award.

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RK / VV / PR / PS

(Release ID: 2121330) Visitor Counter : 12

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 10:32AM by PIB Delhi

INS Sunayna, designated as Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR ship, entered the Port of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania on 12 Apr 25. The ship had sailed from Karwar, Goa, on 05 Apr with 44 naval personnel from nine Friendly Foreign Nations (FFNs) of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), embarked as part of the ship’s crew. The FFN include Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and South Africa.

IOS SAGAR was accorded a warm welcome by RAdm AR Hassan, Chief of Tanzania Navy, Rear Admiral Nirbhay Bapna, ACNS (FCI) and Commodore Agyapal Singh, Defence Attaché for Tanzania, alongside dignitaries from the Indian High Commission and Tanzania People Defence Force. During this port call, the ship will also participate in the harbour phase of Exercise AIKEYME, a key naval exercise which will be inaugurated by Hon’ble Minister of State for Defence Shri Sanjay Seth on 13 Apr 25. The exercise will focus on enhancing operational coordination, refining joint strategies and improving interoperability in maritime operations. Two of the Indian Navy ships, INS Chennai (Destroyer) and INS Kesari [Landing Ship Tank (Large)], will also be participating in the exercise alongside INS Sunayna.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2121218

The participation of personnel from FFNs onboard INS Sunayna further underscores the significance of this initiative in promoting global maritime cooperation. Through such exercises and engagements, the Indian Navy remains committed to advancing collective maritime security, fostering goodwill and ensuring the free and safe movement of shipping lanes in the region.

The ship will depart Dar-es-Salaam on 15 Apr 25 for next port of call, Nacala, Mozambique to continue with IOS SAGAR mission.

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VM/SKS                                                                              

(Release ID: 2121381) Visitor Counter : 96

Source: Government of India

Dr. Jitendra Singh Hails International Certification for Indigenously Developed Underwater Acoustic Test Facility

With Global Recognition, Acoustic Lab at NIOT Chennai Now Sets India’s global Standards in Underwater Technology

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 5:40PM by PIB Delhi

CHENNAI, April 12: 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 today hailed the global recognition and international certification of the Underwater Acoustic Test Facility (ATF) at the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai, describing it as a proud milestone in India’s journey towards scientific self-reliance in underwater acoustics and ocean technology.

After unveiling the commemorative plaque, Dr. Jitendra Singh witnessed a live demonstration of the facility’s capabilities, which include precise testing and calibration of a wide range of underwater acoustic instruments such as hydrophones, transducers, and acoustic modems—vital for both strategic and civilian applications.

Describing the facility as a “critical national asset,” the Minister highlighted its pivotal role in strengthening India’s self-reliance in ocean technology. “The Acoustic Test Facility enhances our ocean observation capabilities, supports tsunami detection systems, and reinforces national security through its strategic applications,” he said.

Established in 2004 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the ATF is India’s only facility accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) for hydrophone calibration. Since 2005, it has consistently maintained this accreditation and caters to a broad spectrum of users, including naval laboratories, IITs, universities, and major industrial players such as BEL, L&T, and Tata Power.

In 2018, the facility’s global competence was validated when it participated in a Key Comparison Test organized by the National Physical Laboratory, UK, alongside laboratories from seven other countries, including the US, UK, and Russia. The ATF’s calibration results matched international benchmarks, establishing its parity with top global labs.

In a significant milestone, the facility was recently recognized as India’s “Designated Laboratory” in the field of underwater acoustics under the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), Paris, through CSIR-NPL, effective January 30, 2024. This means NIOT now holds the national standards for measurements in underwater acoustics—a crucial responsibility for ensuring measurement accuracy across strategic sectors.

Experts say this recognition not only boosts India’s scientific credibility but also opens up opportunities for global collaborations in underwater research and maritime technology.

As India scales up its ambitions in ocean exploration and maritime security, the Acoustic Test Facility is expected to play a defining role in shaping future technologies, offering both precision and indigenous strength to the nation’s deep-sea endeavours.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2121247) Visitor Counter : 112

Source: Government of India

India and Nepalhold21st Director-General level talkson Customs cooperation in Kathmandu, Nepal, on 10th-11th April, 2025

Both sides emphasised on collaborating in areas to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of trade and Customs operations across the border to deliver significant economic benefits to both countries

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 11:28AM by PIB Delhi

The 21^st Director-General Level Talks on Customs Cooperation was held between India and Nepal in Kathmandu, Nepal on 10^th-11^th April, 2025. Both the sides discussed a host of bilateral issues for enhancing Customs Cooperation between the two countries. The Indian delegation was led by Mr. Abhai Kumar Srivastav, Director-General, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, Government of India and Nepali delegation was led by Mr. Mahesh Bhattarai, Director-General, Department of Customs, Ministry of Finance, Government of Nepal.

 

The agenda items of the meeting covered:

• Measures to check smuggling 
• Review progress on MoU on Pre-arrival Exchange of Customs Data and Electronic Origin Data Exchange System (EODES)
• Finalisation of Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA)
• Facilitation of movement of transit cargo under Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS)
• Automation and digitisation of transit processes
• Upgradation of border infrastructure
• Knowledge sharing program and support for capacity development, among others

 

Issues related to trans-border criminal activities and smuggling of gold; narcotics; Fake Currency Notes (FCN), prohibited/restricted category of goods, such as e-Cigarettes, e-lighters, certain varieties of garlic and other cases of commercial frauds, including sensitive goods were also deliberated.

It was acknowledged that smuggling of goods has been a common challenge and both sideslooked forward towards cooperation in preventing smuggling across the borders with active engagement and exchange of intelligence. Both the nations agreed to take necessary measures to control the unauthorised trade and work in tandem.

Nepal is a priority partner of India under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy. India accounts for two-thirds of Nepal’s exports and is the largest trade partner of Nepal. The bilateral talks on Customs cooperation are an important mechanism to facilitate genuine trade as well as to prevent illicit trade along the border in an interconnected world.

 

 

The meeting concluded on an optimistic note. The Nepali side expressed their gratitude to the Government of India, particularly the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) for knowledge sharing and capacity enhancement programmes for Nepal Customs officials at different levels.

Both sides emphasised on collaborating in areas that can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of trade and Customs operations across the border that deliver significant economic benefits to both the countries. It was mutually agreed to consider new technologies for facilitating trade and preventing smuggling of goods.

 

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NB/KMN

(Release ID: 2121393) Visitor Counter : 33

Source: Government of India

Ministry of Corporate Affairs hosts 5th ‘Candidate Open house’ for interns of PM Internship scheme

Interns Share their inspiring Journeys and experiences

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 6:13PM by PIB Delhi

The 5th Candidate Open House was hosted by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs on 11^th April 2025. The interns from PM Internship Scheme  reflected on their transformative journeys during the session.

As part of the Fifth online ‘Candidate Open House’, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs brought together interns of the Prime Minister Internship Scheme to share their early experiences. The session served as a vital touchpoint for aspirants, current interns, and industry stakeholders navigating the scheme.with a overwhelming presence of 557 participants

In the previous edition of the Open House on April 4, 2025, interns from ONGC shared compelling insights into their learning journeys, while Mr. Anil Bahuguna, Chief of Skill Development at ONGC, highlighted how the organisation is nurturing youth through core skills, soft skills, and overall personality development.

Carrying the momentum forward on 11^th April 2025, Mr. Priyo Roop Guha-HR Lead (Center of Excellence) from HDFC Bank shared how HDFC is actively partnering with the MCA’s PM Internship Scheme to shape aspiring students into job-ready professionals — grooming them with real-world exposure, guidance, and skill refinement. He also  shared that over 130 interns have joined across India under PMIS since December offering them frontline sales roles near home locations. Post-internship, many may be absorbed into full-time roles, making it a strong launchpad for banking careers.

During the Open House, three interns—Niraj from Uttar Pradesh, Pralay from West Bengal, and Astha from Bihar—shared their inspiring journeys under the Prime Minister Internship Scheme, each reflecting a unique path of growth and transformation.

Niraj, a history graduate, spoke about his transition into the world of finance and banking. With full support from HDFC Bank, he was relocated from Delhi to a branch closer to his hometown, allowing him to learn and contribute meaningfully. From mastering core banking services to understanding financial products, his journey has been one of remarkable professional evolution.

Astha, a 22-year-old small-town girl from Naugachia, Bihar, dreamed of a job after graduating in commerce—but had no skills and wasn’t allowed to leave her town. Then a friend told her about the PM Internship Scheme—and it changed her life. Placed at a nearby HDFC branch, she is now confident, disciplined, handling banking products with ease, and proudly supporting her family. “I never imagined such an opportunity would come my way,” she says, now encouraging others to apply too.

Pralay, who left a fixed-salary job to join the internship, described how his background in economics found its true purpose in the banking sector. He emphasized that this learning experience has been far more valuable than a routine job. Encouraged by the constant support of his team, he is confident that the internship will pave the way for a full-time career in the industry.

Together, their stories exemplify how the PM Internship Scheme is not just about work experience—but about unlocking potential, building confidence, and shaping futures.

MCA officials urge candidates to remain proactive on the portal, via email, and by phone to receive the latest updates. With applications for Round 2 of the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme’s pilot phase currently open, eligible youth are encouraged to apply before the deadline on April 22, 2025. Stay engaged and take the first step toward your future!

For more information visit: https://pminternship.mca.gov.in/

 

NB/AD

(Release ID: 2121259) Visitor Counter : 13

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Transport Department (TD) today (April 13) said that, following the dispersal of the concert spectators from Kai Tak Stadium of the Kai Tak Sports Park last night (April 12), the overall local and cross-boundary traffic conditions have mostly been smooth.

The MTR Tuen Ma Line service has been further enhanced during dispersal, which basically met the passenger demand. In response to the passenger queue for taxi service at the Sung Wong Toi Road Taxi Pick-up/Drop-off Area during the peak period, the TD has made all-out efforts to mobilise the taxi trade for picking up passengers and the passenger queue has dissipated. Further, the 11 special bus routes provided services for the outflux of spectators departing for major districts across the territory in an orderly manner.

In addition, the railway, special bus route, Lok Ma Chau-Huanggang cross-boundary shuttle bus (Yellow Bus), Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge shuttle bus (Gold Bus) and cross-boundary coach services have mostly been normal, providing convenience for cross-boundary travellers.

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 13 APR 2025 12:19PM by PIB Delhi

The celebrations of the 135^th Dr. Ambedkar Jayanti will be organized on April 14, 2025, at the Prerna Sthal, Parliament House Lawns, New Delhi. The event to commemorate the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the father of the Indian Constitution, will be organized by Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF), on behalf of the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

The celebrations will begin with a floral tribute ceremony to Babasaheb Ambedkar by esteemed dignitaries including President of India, Vice President, Prime Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, other Ministers, Parliamentarians and other invited guests including scholars, students, and members of the public in the morning.

After that, the event will be open to public up to 12:00 Noon. For the open event, the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) will facilitate those who will be paying there respects to Babasaheb Ambedkar. Special bus services have been arranged by the DAF for the public to visit to Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial (DANM) to pay their respect to the great leader. Mahaparinirvan Bhoomi, the Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial (DANM), is located at 26, Alipur Road, New Delhi.

Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF)

The Dr. Ambedkar Foundation was constituted to disseminate the message and ideologies of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. In 1991, a Centenary Celebration Committee of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was constituted and was headed by the then Prime Minister of India. This committee decided to set up Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF). On March 24, 1992, Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF), an autonomous body was established under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, to disperse programmes and activities for furthering the visions and thoughts of Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar on a pan-Indian scale.

Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial (DANM)

The Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial (DANM) is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the life, work, and contributions of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who was a renowned social reformer, orator, prolific writer, historian, jurist, anthropologist, and politician. The DANM museum houses a collection of personal belongings, photographs, letters, and documents related to Dr. Ambedkar’s life, including his education, social reform movements, and political career. There are also audio-visual exhibits to showcase his speeches and interviews.

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VM

 

(Release ID: 2121402) Visitor Counter : 187

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following are the opening remarks by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the Welcome Dinner of InnoEX 2025 today (April 12):
 
Margaret (the Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Ms Margaret Fong), å¾�常委 (Member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Ms Xu Xiaolan), 任秘書長 (the Secretary General of the World Internet Conference (WIC), Mr Ren Xianliang), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Hello! 你好! What a thrill to have you all here this evening! A very warm welcome to friends from around the world to the InnoEX 2025 in Hong Kong. 
 
This welcome dinner is a prelude to the InnoEX 2025, Hong Kong’s signature exhibition on innovation & technology (I&T) to start tomorrow. Also an anchor event of our vibrant Business of Innovation and Technology Week (BIT Week), InnoEX 2025 can be “digitised” into the magic figure of “12345” –
 

• 1 vision to connect global I&T power;
• 2 much to anticipate;
• 3 years in a row;
• 4 incredible days of a full programme from April 13 to 16; and
• 5 frontier tech areas we are going to focus on.

     InnoEX returns stronger and bigger this year, from countries and regions – from Hong Kong, Macao, and 16 Mainland provinces and cities, to France, Canada, India, the United Kingdom, Japan, Korea, and across ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Joining us first-time also include those from Australia, the UAE (United Arab Emirates), Malaysia, Sweden, and Luxembourg. 

To the familiar faces and all new friends, thank you so much for bringing your tech, your creativity and your interest to our city!

This year’s theme of InnoEX – “Innovate • Automate • Elevate” says it all: only with innovation powering the engine, automation steering the course, our journey towards a more prosperous economies and societies could be elevated to the next higher level. 

The five tech areas we focus this year, namely artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, low-altitude economy, and smart mobility, are the components of this autonomous vehicle, leading us to a better and smarter future.

Indeed, these aren’t just tech and small parts of an engine. They fundamentally change the way we work, connect, interact and grow. They change how we see the future.

And right here at InnoEX, you’ll see how these agents are applied in different places around the globe, and how ideas translate into impact on industries and people.

As the brand InnoEX implies, Hong Kong is also witnessing the exponential power of innovation. We may be like a GPU (graphics processing unit) in terms of physical size, but Hong Kong is huge in terms of innovative power – top-notch R&D (research and development), five world-class universities, 16 State Key Laboratories, and a staunch supporter of free economy and international partnerships. This is how we fuel novel ideas, groom talents, attract investment, and build an increasing robust I&T ecosystem.

And we believe innovation thrives when people come together – across sectors and borders, and blending cultures and values. That’s what the BIT Week and InnoEX are all about: a global stage with no boundaries and limits. This spirit of connection is echoed at the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit happening soon at this convention centre.

So this evening, we are here to start conversations; to cultivate friendships; and to scale possibilities. Whether you are a policymaker, buyer, exhibitor or tech leader – there is always a space here in InnoEX for you to spark something big.

Before I close, my heartfelt thanks to our incredible partner, HKTDC, and my fellow colleagues at the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau and the Digital Policy Office for their hard work. You have made this possible.

To our guests: please enjoy the evening, get ready for four exciting days ahead, and make the best out of InnoEX! Thank you.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

According to the Environmental Protection Department (EPD)’s forecast, the health risk category of Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) at some air quality monitoring stations will reach the “Serious” level later today (April 13).

Under the influence of a dusty air stream associated with the northeast monsoon, the level of suspended particulates in background pollutants has been recorded higher than normal since 10pm last night (April 12). With the monsoon moderating gradually, winds in Hong Kong are expected to weaken and unfavorable to pollutant dispersion in the region, leading to increase in pollution levels. It is anticipated that the pollutant level will remain relatively high in the following one or two day(s). The EPD will keep in view the change in air quality, and release update on the latest situation in due course.

With a health risk category in the “Very High” range or above, children, the elderly and persons with existing heart or respiratory illnesses are advised to reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities to a minimum or avoid such activities. The general public is advised to reduce, or reduce to a minimum, outdoor physical exertion, and to reduce time outdoors, especially in areas with heavy traffic. As health effects of air pollutants may vary for individuals, persons who are in doubt or experience discomfort should seek advice from healthcare professionals. The public may visit the Centre for Health Protection’s website (www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/460/3557.html) for more information on health effects of air pollution and relevant health advice.

The Education Bureau (EDB) urges all schools to visit the EDB website for appropriate measures to safeguard students’ health and take note of changes in the index. The relevant hyperlink is as follows: www.edb.gov.hk/en/sch-admin/admin/about-activities/sch-activities-guidelines/index.html.

When the AQHI is at the “Very High” level, employers of outdoor workers performing heavy manual work are advised to assess the risk of outdoor work and take appropriate preventive measures to protect the health of their employees, such as reducing outdoor physical exertion and the time of their stay outdoors, especially in areas with heavy traffic. At the “Serious” level, employers of all outdoor workers are advised to assess the risk of outdoor work and take appropriate preventive measures to protect the health of their employees.

Members of the public can check the current AQHI readings at the EPD’s website (www.aqhi.gov.hk/en.html) or by calling the hotline 2827 8541.