Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 6:34PM by PIB Mumbai

 

Mumbai, 11^th April 2025
 

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in collaboration with the Indian Music Industry, today announced the winners of the Theme Music Competition, one of the 32 WAVES – Create in India Challenge series. The debut World Audio and Video Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025) is scheduled to be held in Mumbai from 01^st to 04^th May 2025.

 

The competition, designed to spotlight India’s diverse musical talent, received hundreds of entries from across the country. A distinguished jury selected six winners after a rigorous evaluation of their originality, musicality, and alignment with the WAVES theme.

The jury for the competition included celebrated names from the Indian music industry: Somesh Kumar Mathur – Hindustani classical vocalist and mentor; Saandip Bakchu – Playback singer and Tollywood actor; Gulraj Singh – Composer and music producer in Bollywood.

 

Winners of the Theme Music Competition

About WAVES

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).

Have questions? Find answers here  

Stay updated with the latest announcements from PIB Team WAVES

Come, Sail with us! Register for WAVES now

***

PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Nikita/Dhanalakshmi/Parshuram | 92

 

Follow us on social media:  @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2121029) Visitor Counter : 110

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

​The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) welcomes the High Court’s decision today (April 11) to dismiss the application to substitute the applicant of the judicial review on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report of San Tin Technopole.

The spokesman said that the EPD had been vetting all EIA reports in strict accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance and its Technical Memorandum. The department will continue to strictly implement the statutory EIA process and ensure that the EIA reports fulfil all statutory standards and requirements before approval is given.

Source: Government of India

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal delivers Keynote Address at 9th Global Technology Summit

India offers unparalleled trade and investment opportunities: Shri Goyal

India’s decision not to join RCEP has been vindicated by recent developments: Shri Goyal

India will always work within the WTO framework, but WTO reforms are essential: Shri Goyal

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 7:52PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal delivered the Keynote Address at the 9th Global Technology Summit today in New Delhi, where he highlighted the opportunities that lie ahead for India in reshaping global trade, especially with trusted partners such as the United States.

Calling India the fastest-growing large economy in the world, Shri Goyal said, “There is a delta of opportunity that India offers. In the next two to two-and-a-half decades, India will grow eight times, supported by the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. This creates a massive domestic demand and offers the benefits of scale that are being recognised globally.”

Shri Goyal shared that in the last two years alone, at least eight high-level delegations have visited India, signalling the world’s growing interest in forging stronger trade relationships with the country.

The Minister underscored that India’s current tariff protection measures are directed mainly at non-market economies that engage in unfair trade practices. “India is well-positioned to engage in bilateral partnerships with countries that value reciprocity, trust, and fair play,” he stated.

Refuting concerns about external pressure on India’s trade decisions, Shri Goyal said, “There is no pressure. India being in a position of such opportunity is in itself very exciting. While our exports today form a relatively small share of our GDP, our strong domestic market and aspirational youth are ready to take Indian industry global.”

On China, Shri Goyal affirmed, “India will always put its interests first. As of now, there is little FDI from China, and historically too, Chinese investments have been minimal. Our efforts are focused on integrating with developed economies that adhere to honest business practices.” He reiterated that India’s decision not to join the RCEP in 2019 has been vindicated by current global trends.

Speaking on India’s talent base, he noted, “India has a vast pool of STEM graduates, with 43% being women. If undue pressure is exerted, Indian innovators will rise to the occasion with R&D-driven solutions better suited to our needs than what others can offer.”

On the global trading order, Shri Goyal stated, “The world cannot be viewed through a single lens. While developed nations enjoy prosperity, developing and least-developed countries must be given time and support to catch up. The WTO must recognise this and evolve accordingly.”

India remains committed to multilateralism, he added. However, reforms at the WTO are essential. Shri Goyal cited the need to reassess the definition of “developing countries” and called for clarity on e-commerce rules, agriculture decisions, and fisheries negotiations. “Unless those who have caused overfishing are willing to scale down, emerging economies will never get a fair chance,” he noted.

Reiterating India’s support for WTO principles, he said, “India will always work within the WTO framework. Our bilateral agreements, including with the US and EU, operate within its scope.”

On FTAs, Shri Goyal emphasised that while timelines are aspirational, national interest cannot be compromised to meet deadlines. “Every action must be equitable, fair, and mutually beneficial,” he said.

Regarding the EU FTA, the Minister acknowledged progress but pointed out challenges, especially around non-trade issues being linked with climate regulations. “Europe must reconsider the non-tariff barriers it has created. These are becoming trade hurdles not just for India but for the global economy,” he warned.

***

Abhishek Dayal/ Nihi Sharma/ Ishita Biswas

(Release ID: 2121070) Visitor Counter : 109

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 6:08PM by PIB Mumbai

 

 Mumbai, April 11, 2025

The Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Maharashtra, Maharashtra Film, Stage & Cultural Development Corporation Ltd. (MFSCDCL) and the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) for the establishment of a world-class institute dedicated to the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) sector i.e. Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) in Mumbai.

The MoU was signed between Chief Secretary of Government of Maharashtra Ms. Sujata Saunik and Secretary, Information and Broadcasting Sh. Sanjay Jaju and was exchanged in the presence of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra Sh. Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting   Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw today.

Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis stated that Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) in Mumbai — a first-of-its-kind institute will focus on nurturing talent and innovation in creative industries.

IICT will be located at the Dadasaheb Phalke Film City, Goregaon, and shall serve as a centre of excellence for education, research, innovation, and skill development in the AVGC-XR domain recognizing the importance of fostering the growth and development of this sector in the country and envisioning India to become one of the top global players in this field. Union Minister Shri Vaishnaw stated that the first Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), established in Mumbai—the capital of the creative economy and entertainment sector—will serve as a catalyst for the city’s entertainment industry, facilitating its global expansion.

The IICT has already been set up as a not-for-profit Section 8 company with equity participation from Government of India (48%), Government of Maharashtra (through MFSCDCL) (14%), and leading industry bodies – Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), holding 26% each.

Government of India has already provided an initial one-time budgetary grant of ₹391.15 crore for infrastructure development and initial operations. The IICT shall operate in a self-sustaining mode thereafter. The institute shall also benefit from a 10-acre land parcel leased by MFSCDCL for 30 years at Dadasaheb Phalke Film City, symbolizing a significant step forward in building a digital media and creative technology ecosystem.

Key highlights of the MoU include:

1. Establishment of an AVGC-XR centre with a strategic focus on education, skilling, industry development, and research & innovation.
2. Formation of a Governing Council and Board of Directors with representatives from Government and Industry.
3. Development of specialized councils on Academia, Skilling, Industry Development, and R&D to ensure sectoral alignment and global competitiveness.
4. Commitment to fostering public-private collaboration and attracting international partnerships.

 

IICT will be a world-class premium institute for the media and entertainment sector similar to the IITs and IIMs for technology and management. A temporary campus of IICT is being set up at the NFDC premises in Mumbai and will start operation soon. By producing a consistent flow of highly skilled content creators, the IICT will firmly establish India’s standing as a leading global centre for the creative economy

The MoU marks a significant milestone under the Government’s efforts to boost the digital economy, empower creative professionals, and generate high-value employment in emerging sectors.

****

Sayyid Rabeehashmi/Sriyanka Chatterjee/Parshuram

 

Follow us on social media:  @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2121017) Visitor Counter : 118

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 8:27PM by PIB Delhi

Keel Laying ceremony of Yard 3039, the third Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (ex-GRSE) was held at GRSE Ltd, Kolkata on 11 Apr 25 with Shri Sugata Ghosh Dastidar, IDAS, Financial Advisor (Defence Services) as the Chief Guest. Cmde P R Hari (Retd), Chairman & Managing Director, GRSE and other senior officials from the Indian Navy and the Shipyard were present for the event.

The contracts for indigenous design and construction of eleven NGOPVs were concluded on 30 Mar 23 with Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL), Goa and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, with seven ships to be constructed by Lead Shipyard GSL and four ships by Follow Shipyard GRSE.

The NGOPVs, with an approximate tonnage of 3000T, are designed for Coastal Defence & Surveillance, Search and Rescue operations, Protection of Offshore Assets and Anti-Piracy missions. Keel Laying of these vessels marks a significant milestone in the overall project timeline. The eleven NGOPVs are being built in consonance with the nation’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India and are poised to augment the Indian Naval maritime prowess.

  ****

VM/SPS                                                                                                             84/25

(Release ID: 2121084) Visitor Counter : 81

Source: Government of India

Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary inaugurates 16 toilets and drinking water facilities under supervision of Varanasi Commissionerate of the Lucknow CGST Zone

Government of India committed to gender-sensitive sanitation, education, and vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047: MoS Shri Pankaj Chaudhary

Modern sanitation and safe drinking water would enhance attendance and instil confidence among girl students towards women empowerment: CBIC Member Shri Surjit Bhujbal

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 8:37PM by PIB Delhi

Under the Cleanliness Mission of the Government of India, Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary inaugurated 16 toilets and drinking water facilities — 3 in Government Girls Inter College and 13 across Kasturba Gandhi Vidyalayas — in Maharajganj district, today.

 

 

The project was executed under the overall supervision of the Varanasi Commissionerate of the Lucknow CGST Zone, with help from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the Central Public Works Department (CPWD). The project began in FY 2022-23 and was completed in March 2025, benefiting over 5,000 girl students from remote rural areas.

The facilities located at the different remote locations of the district were formally inaugurated and handed over to the beneficiary schools today by Shri Chaudhary, in presence of Shri Surjit Bhujbal, Member, CBIC; Shri P.K. Katiyar, Chief Commissioner Lucknow Zone; and Shri Vinish Chaudhary, CGST Commissioner Varanasi.

 

 

In his address on this occasion, Shri Chaudhary emphasised the Government of India’s unwavering commitment to gender-sensitive sanitation, education, and the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Shri Chaudhary underlined the role of Swachchta in building a clean, inclusive, and empowered India.

 

 

In his address on at the occasion, Shri Bhujbal said that the availability of modern sanitation and safe drinking water would not only enhance attendance and confidence among girl students but would also stand as a meaningful step towards women empowerment.

 

 

Commending the CPWD for their exceptional coordination and commitment, Shri Bhujbal said CPWD beat the administrative, logistical and geographical challenges to ensure timely project delivery, and shared that the project was efficiently completed within the allocated budget and resulted in a noticeable cost savings.

The CBIC, in its continued commitment to the Swachh Bharat Mission, has successfully undertaken 3,062 Swachchta projects over the past six years, with a vision to support a defecation-free and cleaner India. In FY 2023-24, CBIC completed 197 projects out of the 40.39 crore allocated budget, utilising Rs. 36.70 crore towards key initiatives such as record digitisation, construction of Divyang-friendly toilets, and creation of workplace facilities like creches.

 

CBIC also actively contributes to a cleaner and greener society through plantation drives, public art, and park renovations. Under initiatives like Swachchta Hi Sewa and Swachchta Pakhwada, workshops have been conducted, e-office adoption has increased, and efforts towards effective records management and disposal of obsolete stock have been accelerated.

These initiatives reaffirm CBIC’s commitment to the national vision of Swachh Bharat and sustainable development.

***

NB/KMN

(Release ID: 2121088) Visitor Counter : 50

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government today welcomed the decision handed down by the High Court to dismiss the application to substitute the applicant of the judicial review on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report of San Tin Technopole, and to grant leave to the applicant to withdraw the judicial review case.

The Development Bureau commented that with the judicial review set aside, the uncertainty for the San Tin Technopole development has been removed.

It stressed that the Government will continue to press ahead with this flagship project of the Northern Metropolis, so as to deliver innovation and technology land in full steam, with a view to creating strong impetus for Hong Kong’s economic growth. San Tin Technopole will also become a modern new development area with industrial development, ecological conservation and a livable environment.

Separately, noting that it has been vetting all EIA reports in strict accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance and the ordinance’s Technical Memorandum, the Environmental Protection Department said it will continue to strictly implement the EIA process, ensuring that EIA reports fulfil all statutory standards and requirements before approval is given.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government today expressed regret at the resignation of Justice Robert French as a non-permanent judge of the Court of Final Appeal (CFA) and extended gratitude for his contribution over the years.

The Judiciary announced that Mr French, a non-permanent judge from other common law jurisdictions (CLNPJ) of the CFA, tendered his resignation to the Chief Executive.

The Judiciary said it is grateful to Mr French for his valuable contributions to the work of the CFA and his support for the rule of law in Hong Kong during his tenure.

In his resignation letter to the Chief Executive, Mr French expressed great respect for the judicial officers of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as well as their independence and integrity, adding that he felt honoured to have worked with them.

The Government said the long-time presence of esteemed judges from overseas as non-permanent judges of the CFA, participating in hearings of the court, is conducive to the international legal environment and the development of the jurisprudence of common law in Hong Kong.

Their continued participation alongside permanent judges speaks to the enduring strength and resilience of the court, it added.

Noting the judicial system of the Hong Kong SAR is protected by the Basic Law, the Government said that the city is vested with independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication and that the courts exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference.

It emphasised that the presence or absence of individual judges will not undermine the integrity of the system nor impair the Government’s determination in upholding the rule of law.

Upon Mr French’s departure, there are nine non-permanent judges comprising four non-permanent Hong Kong judges and five CLNPJs from the UK and Australia in the CFA.

The Judiciary stressed that in light of the steady caseload, the operation of the CFA will not be affected by the recent change in membership of the court. It will continue to identify suitable local and overseas candidates for appointment as non-permanent judges.

The Government indicated its full support to the Judiciary in the continuous efforts to appoint and retain foreign non-permanent judges in the future, and will endeavour to capitalise on the Hong Kong SAR’s common law system, upholding the rule of law in Hong Kong.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy held its sixth meeting in Hong Kong today.

 

Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong and Shenzhen Vice Mayor Tao Yongxin led delegations of the governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Shenzhen respectively.

 

In the morning, both delegations visited the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone.

 

In addition to receiving a briefing by representatives of the Civil Engineering & Development Department and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation & Technology Park on the planning, design and construction work of the park, they toured the newly completed talent accommodation building therein.

 

During the afternoon meeting, the Hong Kong SAR Government presented the achievements made in taking forward the development of the Northern Metropolis in the past year, including the development proposals for Ngau Tam Mei, the New Territories North New Town and Ma Tso Lung announced at the end of last year; and an earlier invitation for submissions of expressions of interest on three large-scale land disposal pilot areas.

 

The Hong Kong SAR Government also introduced the Development Outline for the Hetao Hong Kong Park promulgated in November last year, which clearly sets out the park’s major development directions, strategy and targets.

 

Both sides also exchanged views on the planning progress for the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai), the implementation of the Wutong Mountain-Robin’s Nest Ecological Corridor and the planning and development of Hong Kong-Shenzhen control points.

 

Mr Wong said that the large-scale development of the Northern Metropolis brings myriad opportunities for Hong Kong.

 

“We will continue to leverage our unique advantages under the ‘one country two systems’ principle and give full play to our roles as a super-connector and super value-adder. We will work closely with Shenzhen to promote the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and contribute to the high-quality development of our country.”

 

Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn, Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung, Secretary for Transport & Logistics Mable Chan, Under Secretary for Environment & Ecology Diane Wong and Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Lillian Cheong also attended today’s meeting.

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 8:56AM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today lauded the Delhi Government for implementing the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) and for starting the distribution of Ayushman Bharat cards under Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)

https://t.co/8QjzdBqcNe

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2120810) Visitor Counter : 106