MoU between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka for Implementation of HVDC Interconnection for Import/Export of Power
Prof. K.T.M. Udayanga Hemapala Secretary, Ministry of Energy
Shri Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary
2.
MoU between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Digital Economy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka on Cooperation in the Field of Sharing Successful Digital Solutions Implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation.
Mr. Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Acting Secretary, Ministry of Digital Economy
Shri Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary
3.
MoU between the Government of the Republic of India, the Government of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, and the Government of United Arab Emirates for Cooperation in Development of Trincomalee as an Energy Hub
Prof. K.T.M. Udayanga Hemapala Secretary, Ministry of Energy
Shri Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary
4.
MoU between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka on Defence Cooperation
Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd.) Secretary, Ministry of Defence
Shri Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary
5.
MoU on Multi-sectoral Grant Assistance for Eastern Province
Mr. K.M.M. Siriwardana Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development
Shri Santosh Jha, High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka
6.
MoU between the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of the Government of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Health & Mass Media of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka on Cooperation in the Field of Health & Medicine.
Dr. Anil Jasinghe Secretary, Ministry of Health and Mass Media
Shri Santosh Jha, High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka
7.
MoU on Pharmacopoeial Cooperation between the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of the Republic of India and The National Medicines Regulatory Authority, Government of Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
Dr. Anil Jasinghe Secretary, Ministry of Health and Mass Media
Shri Santosh Jha, High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka
S. No.
Projects
1.
Inauguration of upgraded railway track of Maho-Omanthai railway line.
2.
Launch of Construction of Signalling System for Maho-Anuradhapura railway line.
3.
Ground Breaking ceremony of Sampur Solar power project (virtual).
4.
Inauguration of Temperature Controlled Agricultural Warehouse in Dambulla (virtual).
5.
Supply of Solar Rooftop Systems for 5000 Religious Institutions across Sri Lanka (virtual).
Announcements:
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi announced comprehensive capacity-building programme in India covering 700 Sri Lankans annually; India’s grant assistance for the development of Thirukoneswaram temple in Trincomalee, Sita Eliya temple in Nuwara Eliya, and Sacred City Complex project in Anuradhapura; the Exposition of Lord Buddha relics in Sri Lanka on International Vesak Day 2025; as well as the conclusion of Bilateral Amendatory Agreements on Debt Restructuring.
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was conferred with the ‘Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana’ by President Dissanayake today. Expressing gratitude, Shri Modi said, it symbolised the deep-rooted friendship and historic ties between the people of India and Sri Lanka.
In different posts on X, he wrote:
“It is a matter of immense pride for me to be conferred the ‘Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana’ by President Dissanayake today. This honour is not mine alone – it is a tribute to the 1.4 billion people of India. It symbolises the deep-rooted friendship and historic ties between the people of India and Sri Lanka. I express my heartfelt gratitude to the President, the Government and the people of Sri Lanka for this honour.
@anuradisanayake”
“ஜனாதிபதி திசாநாயக்க அவர்களால் இன்றைய தினம் ‘இலங்கை மித்ர விபூஷண்’ என்ற விருது எனக்கு வழங்கப்பட்டமை மகத்தான பெருமைக்குரிய விடயமாகும். இந்த உயரிய கௌரவம் எனக்கே மட்டும் உரித்தான ஒன்றல்ல, இந்தியாவின் 1.4 பில்லியன் மக்களுக்கும் கிடைக்கப்பெற்ற உயர் மரியாதையாகும். அத்துடன் இந்திய – இலங்கை மக்களிடையிலான வரலாற்று ரீதியான உறவுகள் மற்றும் ஆழ வேரூன்றிக் காணப்படும் நட்புறவை இது குறித்து நிற்கின்றது. இந்த கௌரவத்துக்காக இலங்கை ஜனாதிபதி, அரசாங்கம் மற்றும் மக்கள் அனைவருக்கும் எனது இதயபூர்வமான நன்றியை தெரிவித்துக்கொள்கின்றேன்.
@anuradisanayake”
It is a matter of immense pride for me to be conferred the ‘Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana’ by President Dissanayake today. This honour is not mine alone – it is a tribute to the 1.4 billion people of India. It symbolises the deep-rooted friendship and historic ties between the… pic.twitter.com/UBQyTMoJ27
ஜனாதிபதி திசாநாயக்க அவர்களால் இன்றைய தினம் ‘இலங்கை மித்ர விபூஷண்’ என்ற விருது எனக்கு வழங்கப்பட்டமை மகத்தான பெருமைக்குரிய விடயமாகும். இந்த உயரிய கௌரவம் எனக்கே மட்டும் உரித்தான ஒன்றல்ல, இந்தியாவின் 1.4 பில்லியன் மக்களுக்கும் கிடைக்கப்பெற்ற உயர் மரியாதையாகும். அத்துடன் இந்திய -… pic.twitter.com/neMmmJoMuG
Government and Poultry Industry Collaborate to Prevent Bird Flu Outbreaks Implements Three-Pronged Strategy of Biosecurity Measures, Strengthened Surveillance and Mandatory Registration of Poultry Farms
Posted On: 05 APR 2025 2:44PM by PIB Delhi
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying held a high level meeting on 4th April 2025 in New Delhi to discuss the recent outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in the country. Chaired by Smt. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary DAHD, the meeting brought together scientific experts, poultry industry representatives and policymakers to review the current situation of avian influenza and explore strategies to contain the disease and prevent its spread.
A three-pronged strategy to prevent and control Bird Flu has been decided by DAHD in consultation with the stakeholders. It encompasses Stricter
Biosecurity Measures wherein poultry farms must enhance hygiene practices, control farm access and follow stringent biosecurity protocols to minimize the risk of infection, Strengthened Surveillance and Mandatory Registration of Poultry Farms to enhance disease tracking and control (All poultry farms must register with state animal husbandry departments within a month. The government has urged poultry industry stakeholders to ensure 100% compliance with this directive).
Speaking at the meeting, Smt. Alka Upadhyaya emphasized, “Protecting our poultry sector is critical for food security and rural livelihoods. Strict biosecurity, scientific surveillance, and responsible industry practices are essential in our fight against Bird Flu.” Additionally, Secretary DAHD stated the need for developing a predictive modelling system for early warning and environmental surveillance which would enable proactive disease detection and response, minimizing the risk of outbreaks and protecting the poultry industry. DAHD has permitted the use of the H9N2 (Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza) vaccine, developed by ICAR-NIHSAD, Bhopal, which is now available commercially. A national study will evaluate the vaccine’s effectiveness of LPAI vaccination. The meeting also extensively discussed the possibility of allowing the use of a vaccine against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in India. Representatives from the poultry industry urged the government to explore vaccination as a strategy to prevent further economic losses in the sector. Scientific experts highlighted that currently available HPAI vaccines do not provide sterile immunity but only reduce virus shedding. Given these complexities, it was agreed that further scientific evaluation is needed before making a policy decision. The meeting recommended conducting detailed science-based assessments to determine the feasibility of HPAI vaccination in India. Research efforts have also been initiated to develop an indigenous HPAI vaccine following global best practices.
The meeting saw participation from top animal health experts and leading poultry industry players including poultry vaccine manufacturers, poultry associations and government & research institutions like ICAR-NIHSAD, ICAR-IVRI, ICAR-CARI, ICAR-NIVEDI, and ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research.
About Avian Influenza and Current Status in India
Avian Influenza is a highly infectious viral disease affecting birds, with occasional transmission to mammals. Since its first detection in India in 2006, outbreaks have been reported annually across multiple states. This year, the virus has shown cross-species transmission, impacting not just poultry but also wild birds and even big cats in some areas. Currently, six active outbreak zones remain in Jharkhand, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh in the country.
Present situation on HPAI (From 1st January-4th April 2025)
6 (3 States – Jharkhand (Bokaro and Pakur), Telangana (Ranga Reddy, Nalagonda and Yadadri Bhuvanagiri & Chhattisgarh (Baikunthpur, Korea)
Non Poultry Species Affected (From 1st January-4th April 2025)
Name of the State
Species affected
Maharashtra
Tiger, Leopard, Vulture, Crow, Hawk and Egret
Madhya Pradesh
Pet Cat
Rajasthan
Demoiselle crane, Painted Stork
Bihar
Crow
Goa
Jungle Cat
Comprehensive Approach to Controlling Avian Influenza
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) has implemented a series of initiatives to control and prevent the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in India. The country follows a strict “detect and culling” policy, which involves culling infected birds, restricting movement, and disinfecting areas within a 1 km radius of outbreaks. States have been instructed to report daily on control measures, with increased surveillance and preparedness, especially during winter when migratory birds pose a higher risk. Surveillance for HPAI has also been expanded to non-poultry species, with negative results from tested cattle, goats, and pigs. In the global effort to combat potential pandemics, India has shared sequencing data of H5N1 isolates and related samples with international networks. Central teams, along with the National Joint Outbreak Response Team, are being deployed to manage outbreaks, and regular coordination meetings are being held with State Animal Husbandry Departments and other relevant authorities, including the Health and Wildlife Departments. India follows a test-and-cull policy to contain Avian Influenza outbreaks. Under the Livestock Health and Disease Control Scheme, the government compensates affected farmers for culled birds, destroyed eggs, and feed, with costs shared 50:50 between the Centre and States.
Fact:No property that is registered under Waqf Act, 1995, prior to commencement of Waqf Act, 1995, as waqf will be revoked.
Explanation:
– Once a property is declared waqf, it is meant to stay that way permanently.
– The bill only clarifies rules for better management and transparency.
– It allows the District Collector to review properties that might be misclassified as waqf, especially if they are actually government property.
– Legitimate waqf properties remain protected.
Myth 2: Will there be no survey of Waqf properties?
Fact:There will be a survey.
Explanation:
– The Bill replaces the old role of the Survey Commissioner with the District Collector.
– The District Collector will conduct surveys using existing revenue procedures.
– This change aims to improve the accuracy of records without stopping the survey process.
Myth 3: Will non-Muslims become the majority on Waqf Boards?
Fact:No, the boards will include non-Muslims, but they will not form a majority.
Explanation:
– The Bill requires inclusion of 2 non-Muslims excluding ex-officio members as members in the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards, allowing for a maximum of 4 non-Muslim members in the Council and maximum of 3 in the Waqf Board that at least two members on the Central Waqf Council and state boards be non-Muslim.
– The majority of members will still be from the Muslim community.
– This change is meant to add expertise and promote transparency without undermining community representation.
Myth 4: Will Muslims’ personal land be acquired under the new amendment?
Fact:No personal land will be acquired.
Explanation:
– The Bill applies only to properties that are declared waqf.
– It does not affect private or personal property that has not been donated as waqf.
– Only assets voluntarily and legally dedicated as waqf are covered by the new rules.
Myth 5: Will the government use this bill to take over waqf properties?
Fact:The Bill empowers an officer above the rank of District Collector the District Collector to review and verify if a government property has been wrongly classified as waqf—especially if it might actually be government property—but it does not authorize the seizure of legitimately declared waqf properties.
Myth 6: Does the bill allow non-Muslims to control or manage the wealth of the Muslim community?
Fact:While the amendment mandates that two members on the Central Waqf Council and State Boards shall be non-Muslim excluding ex-officio members allowing for a maximum of 4 non-Muslim members in the Council and maximum of 3 in the Waqf Board.
These members are added to bring in additional expertise and oversight. The majority of members remain from the Muslim community, thereby preserving community control over religious affairs.
Myth 7: Will the traditional status of historic waqf sites (such as mosques, dargahs, and graveyards) be affected?
Fact:The Bill does not interfere with the religious or historical character of waqf properties. Its aim is to enhance administrative transparency and curb fraudulent claims—not to alter the sacred nature of these sites.
Myth 8: Does the removal of the ‘waqf by user’ provision mean that long- established traditions will be lost?
Fact:The removal of this provision is designed to prevent unauthorized or erroneous claims over property. However, protection has been given to such Waqf by user properties (such as mosques, dargahs, and graveyards) which will remain as waqf properties except that the properties, wholly or in part, is in dispute or is a government property. It streamlines the registration process by ensuring that only properties formally declared as waqf are recognized—thereby reducing disputes while still respecting traditional waqf declarations.
“Waqf by user” refers to a situation where a property is treated as a waqf simply because it has been used for religious or charitable purposes over a long period—even if there hasn’t been a formal, legal declaration by the owner.
Myth 9: Is the bill intended to interfere with the community’s right to manage its own religious affairs?
Fact: The primary goal of the bill is to improve record-keeping, reduce mismanagement, and ensure accountability. It does not take away the Muslim community’s right to administer its own religious endowments; rather, it introduces a framework to ensure these properties are managed transparently and efficiently.
The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) organized an engaging webinar on Friday, bringing together inspiring Lakhpati Didis and representatives from State Rural Livelihood Missions (SRLMs). This session was part of the post-budget consultation series aimed at implementing the Budget 2025-26 announcements with a focus on collaboration and strategic action.
Shri Shailesh Kumar Singh, Secretary, MoRD, emphasized the importance of State partnerships in advancing the Rural Prosperity and Resilience Programme. Shri T. K. Anil Kumar, Additional Secretary, MoRD, provided a detailed outline for the interaction, setting the tone for constructive discussions. Participants shared valuable insights and strategies to empower more Self Help Group (SHG) women to achieve financial independence and success. The consultation revolved around four critical pillars of rural prosperity: Infrastructure, Finance, Marketing, and Skill Development.
As part of its commitment to empowering rural women, MoRD also launched the Entrepreneurship Planning Digital Tool (EPDT), designed to support aspiring Lakhpati Didis in crafting effective business plans. Developed by LoKOS, the tool simplifies data entry for SHG members, tracks entrepreneurial progress, and offers necessary guidance, making it a key resource for fostering entrepreneurship.
Additionally, a toll-free number—0120-5202521—was introduced to assist women with queries related to becoming Lakhpati Didis. Available Monday to Saturday, from 9 am to 6 pm (excluding National Holidays), the helpline aims to provide timely and effective support.
Ms. Smriti Sharan, Joint Secretary, MoRD, Ms. Swati Sharma, Joint Secretary, MoRD along with other senior officers and thematic team members were present on this occasion.
Agri StartUps fast emerging as lucrative avenue of livelihood by intelligently blending traditional organic farming practices with cutting-edge scientific technologies: Dr Jitendra Singh Addresses the “Natural and Organic Farmers Summit 2025” at Shankarpalli near Hyderabad:
Agri Startups Blending Tradition with Tech to Drive Rural Prosperity: Dr. Jitendra Singh
Organic is the Future: Dr. Jitendra Singh Calls for Tech-Enabled, Chemical-Free Farming at Hyderabad Summit
Posted On: 05 APR 2025 3:50PM by PIB Delhi
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 has said “Agri StartUps are fast emerging as lucrative avenue of livelihood by intelligently blending traditional organic farming practices with cutting-edge scientific technologies.”
Addressing the “Natural and Organic Farmers Summit 2025” at Shankarpalli near here, the Minister lauded the efforts of grassroots innovators and farmer-entrepreneurs who are embracing science to scale up agriculture, enhance productivity, and ensure sustainable incomes.
“Startups in agriculture are not just about farming anymore,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said. “They are applying science, using innovations developed by institutions like CSIR, and adopting tools like drones and soil health cards to make farming more productive and cost-effective. With this, they are cultivating more in less time while safeguarding health and the environment.”
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that organic agriculture, once considered difficult and niche, is now poised to become mainstream—driven by increasing health concerns and awareness about the harmful effects of chemical pesticides.
Highlighting the growing relevance of organic food in the context of rising lifestyle diseases, the Minister said, “Every third person today is either diabetic or has fatty liver. Cancer cases are rising. The possible role of chemically-laden produce cannot be ignored. Organic farming is not just a healthier choice, but a necessary one.”
Dr. Jitendra Singh also pointed to the broader impact of agri-startups on employment generation and rural development, citing the success of initiatives like the Purple Revolution and the Aroma Mission. Lavender cultivation, once confined to Jammu and Kashmir, has spread across the country thanks to scientific inputs from CSIR’s Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine and IICT Hyderabad.
“You don’t need a PhD to be part of this movement. Many successful startups have been founded by those who haven’t even completed graduation,” he said, adding that agriculture, long neglected in the startup space, is finally getting its due.
The Minister shared how innovations like floriculture—especially tulip cultivation in Himachal Pradesh—are creating new sources of income. “The tulips offered at the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya were grown at our Palampur institute,” he said, underlining the symbolic and economic potential of such initiatives.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also spotlighted emerging technologies like the Pheromone Application Device (PAD) being developed by IIT Hyderabad to reduce pesticide usage through eco-friendly pest control methods.
The Minister urged the scientific community and agri-preneurs to participate in the upcoming National Startup Expo in Hyderabad on April 22 and 23. “Let this be a platform to showcase your innovations to the nation. The Government is fully supportive, whether it is financial aid, technical help, or marketing support,” he said. He acknowledged the work of the Eklavya Grameen Foundation whose initiatives in organic farming have made it simpler, economical, and more widely adopted in rural India.
The Minister concluded by reinforcing that India’s march to become a developed nation by 2047 would be incomplete without uplifting the rural economy and tapping into the vast, underexplored potential of agriculture. “The farmer of today is an agri-entrepreneur. And the field is no longer a place of hardship but a hub of opportunity,” he said.
First International Research Conference on Pension (IRCP) 2025 concludes with the participation of global leaders, including World Bank and experts Pension for All must become a national priority: Shri Pankaj Chaudhary
Through the launch of the Unified Pension System, we are creating a robust foundation for secure retirement: Secretary, DFS
National Pension System (NPS) has emerged as a cornerstone of India’s pension sector, fostering financial security for millions: Dr. Deepak Mohanty
Posted On: 05 APR 2025 11:17AM by PIB Delhi
The First International Research Conference on Pension (IRCP) 2025 held in New Delhi concluded yesterday. It was inaugurated on 3rd April at Bharat Mandapam by Shri Pankaj Chaudhary, Minister of State for Finance, Government of India. The two-day event was organized by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA), to mark a historic milestone in India’s journey toward robust old-age income security.
This platform brought together policymakers, scholars, industry leaders, and international experts to deliberate on the evolving dynamics of pension reforms, financial preparedness for retirement, and innovative strategies to secure the future of aging populations.
Highlighting a big change in India’s demographic landscape, necessitating urgent and inclusive pension reforms to secure a dignified future for its aging population, Shri Pankaj Chaudhary, Minister of State for Finance in his key note stated that India’s demographic landscape is on the profound shift in the coming decades. By 2050, one in five Indians will be over 60, and by 2047, the elderly will outnumber children. With 19 percent of the population projected to be elderly by mid-century—predominantly women—securing financial independence through inclusive pension schemes is not merely a goal, but a vital need for the country. ‘Pension for All’ must become a national priority, requiring policy action to ensure a dignified and secure future for our aging population.
In his address,Shri Nagaraju Maddirala, Secretary, Department of Financial Serviceshighlighted that India’s pension framework stands at a pivotal moment of transformation and through the launch of the Unified Pension System and efforts to broaden coverage, we are creating a robust foundation for secure retirement. UPS provides an assured pension of 50 per cent of the average basic pay drawn over the last 12 months prior to superannuation. India’s pension assets, constituting roughly 17 percent of GDP, fall far short of the OECD average, where they typically exceed 80 percent, revealing a stark disparity in retirement readiness.
Welcoming distinguished guests, global thought leaders, and industry stakeholder, Dr. Deepak Mohanty, Chairperson of PFRDA in his address stated that the National Pension System (NPS) has emerged as a cornerstone of India’s pension sector, fostering financial security for millions, with an accumulated corpus of Rs 14.4 Lakh Cr and 8.4 crore subscribers under NPS and APY. As we embrace technology-driven initiatives and innovative policy solutions, our focus remains on expanding coverage, ensuring financial sustainability, and building a pension-inclusive society for future generations.
The opening day of the First International Research Conference on Pension (IRCP) 2025 at Bharat Mandapam was a resounding success, featuring three dynamic panel discussions that captivated attendees with their depth and diversity.
The first session, titled “Pension for Future: Building Resilient Old Age Income Security,” saw experts explore strategies adopted by various countries for enhanced pension coverage, building a sustainable pension system and challenges faced in inclusion of informal sector and gig economy workers. The panel was moderated by Somya Kanti Gosh, Member-16thFinance Commission and was addressed by Dr Deepak Mohanty, Chairperson, PFRDA, Ms. Astrid Ludin, Deputy Commissioner, FSCA, South Africa, Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, Director General, PENCOM, Nigeria and Mr. William Price, CEO, D3P Global.
This was followed by “Global Lessons on New and Innovative Investment Practices in the Pension Industry,” which showcased innovative investment methods, approaches for the product design and sharing of international success stories to inspire India’s pension sector. The session was moderated by Prof. Abhiman Das, Director , IIM Ahmedabad and co-moderated by Mr. Tushar Arora, Senior Financial Sector Specialist, World Bank and was addressed by Mr. Brian M. Miller, Vanguard, Dr. Paul Yu, Director, MPFSA, Hong Kong, China, Mr. William Price, CEO, D3P Global, Prof. Prachi Mishra, Director and Head, Ashoka Isaac Center for Public Policy and Mr. R. Mark Davis, Senior Financial Sector Specialist, World Bank.
The first day concluded with the “Pension Forum for Regulatory Coordination and Development of Pension Products,” where a panel of regulators and government debated harmonizing policies for pension products across regulators and innovative strategies to drive the growth and accessibility of pension products in India. The session was moderated by Dr M S Sahoo, ex-Chairperson, IBBI and was addressed by Mr. Pankaj Sharma, Joint Secretary, DFS, Mr. Ramesh Krishnamurthi, CEO, EPFO, Mr. Amarjeet Singh, Whole Time Member, SEBI, Mr. Rajay Kumar Sinha, Whole Time Member, IRDAI, Dr. Manoj Anand, Whole Time Member (Finance), PFRDA, and other esteemed organizations enriched the discussions with their expertise, making Day 1 a true melting pot of global insights on pension sector.
The second day, scheduled for April 4, 2025, witnessed elevated discourse with a series of Research Paper Presentations showcasing innovative studies on pension systems. The concluding day featured two additional panel discussions.
The first panel discussion was focussed on “Promoting Financial Literacy for Sustainable Retirement Planning” by the esteemed scholars from leading educational institutions. The key topics explored included strategies to enhance coverage while ensuring persistency, changing demographic trends, social pressures and gender biases, integrating financial literacy courses into school curricula under the National Education Policy (NEP), adopting a targeted approach for various population segments, and leveraging influencer marketing strategies. The session was moderated by Ms Mamta Shankar, WTM, PFRDA and addressed by Prof. Simrit Kaur, Principal, SRCC, Dr. Arvind Sahay, Director, MDI, Dr. Pawan Kumar Singh, Director, IIM Tiruchirappalli, Dr. Ashok Banerjee, Director, IIM Udaipur, Dr. Bhimaraya Metri, Director, IIM Nagpur, Sh. S Karthikeyan, Director, DFS, Ministry of Finance.
The second session was aimed to discuss ‘Pension Fund Investments with a Focus on Risk and Return’ focused on identifying strategies by the Pension Funds to address long-term pension obligations while maintaining the portfolio’s risk-return balance. Key considerations included optimizing asset allocation, diversifying investments, stress-testing, potential impact of AI/ML in investment decision making and incorporating liability-driven investing approaches to align cash flows with future pay-outs without compromising growth potential. The session was moderated by Prof. V Ravi Anshuman, IIM Bangalore and addressed by Prof. S.V.D. Nageswara Rao, Head, SOM, IIT Bombay, Prof. Rupamanjari Sinha Ray, Management Development Institute, Gurgaon and Mr. Vivek Iyer, Grant Thornton Bharat LLP
The panel discussion was followed by the award ceremony and Mr Rajan Raju, Invespar Pted Limited and Mr Ravi Saraogi, Samasthiti Advisors India and Ms. Pankhuri Sinha and Lokanandha Reddy Irala, University of Hyderabad were honored as top honorees for best research papers. The event concluded on a commemorative note, highlighting the insightful discussions and learnings from the Conference by Ms. Sumeet Kaur Kapoor, Executive Director, PFRDA. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Mr. P Arumugarangarajan, Chief General Manager, PFRDA, who expressed gratitude to the esteemed speakers, panelists, researchers and participants for their valuable insights and contributions, marking a successful conclusion to the event.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Outdoor music carnival “ImagineLand 2025”, the highlight programme of the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2025 (PCF), is being held today and tomorrow (April 5 and 6) from noon to 10pm at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC) Piazza, the Central Lawn & Event Trellis of Salisbury Garden, and the Avenue of Stars free of charge. Today’s (April 5) carnival has attracted many citizens and tourists to watch and participate in its performances and activities.
The PCF is organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), and one of the programmes, “ImagineLand 2025”, is supported and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency. The Carnival features both daytime and evening programmes. “Go Beyond Concert”, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” and “Funarts Corner” are available during the day, whereas film programme “Movie Under the Stars” will be held at night.
“Go Beyond Concert”, curated by veteran music professionals Dr Wong Chi-chung, Chiu Tseng-hei and Vicky Fung, together with young jazz musician Alan Kwan as guest curator, showcases three stages at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, namely the Forest Stage, Grove Stage and Seed Stage, featuring over 35 musicians and artists from Hong Kong and eight countries and regions to perform mesmerising popular songs and original works. Today’s performances at the Forest Stage featured local pop singers such as Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, Cloud, Ashley Lin, and overseas artists including Didirri from Australia, Sunwoojunga from Korea and more. The Grove Stage showcased performances of different musical styles including electronic, jazz, and rap, while the Seed Stage featured energetic performances by young musicians, filling the Piazza with a multicultural atmosphere.
Tomorrow’s (April 6) performances are also unmissable. The line-up includes erhuist and film composer Wan Pin Chu, the winner of Best Original Music of the 18th Asian Film Awards Ceremony, who will share the stage with renowned local singer-songwriter Yatfung and a cappella group Boonfaysau. Local band Pandora and visiting music groups or musicians, including Naked Feel (the Mainland and Ukraine) , Mathis Picard Trio (France, the United States and the United Kingdom), Invisible Architecture (the United States) and Tomoaki Baba (Japan), will also perform on stage, which should not be missed.
“Comics Fun Experience Gallery” is now on display featuring Hong Kong comics and animation from different eras and popular characters including Old Master Q, Sau Nga Chun, Ngau Chai and Father from Myboy, Din Dong, Tai Ma Shing, and more to highlight the creativity of local artists. There are themed photo spots where iconic props and fiberglass comic characters are set up for visitors to take pictures with their favourite characters. The exhibition will continue at the HKCC until May 7, and then move to Event Space 1.1, VESSEL, Kwun Tong, for display from May 10 to 29.
There is a “Funarts Corner” with yarn spinning, paper fan imprinting, a joyful caricature studio, sound healing and music instrument workshops. Visitors can explore and experience Hong Kong’s pop culture in many different ways through the workshops that blend art, music, and crafts.
“Movie Under the Stars” will be staged at 8pm on both evenings. “Table For Six” (2022) will be screened tonight and “Forbidden City Cop” (1996) on April 6. Audiences can enjoy local comedies while relaxing on the outdoor lawn.
This year, the LCSD presents the third Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival, themed “More Than Joy”. Humour has been a trendsetter in Hong Kong’s pop culture scene. The Festival features a diverse range of formats including stage performances, film screenings, thematic exhibitions, and library and outreach activities. Offering insight into the multifaceted development of Hong Kong’s pop culture along the line of “happiness”, the Festival brings audiences not only joy and laughter but also an opportunity to appreciate how pop culture can be transmitted and transformed, and how integration and breakthroughs are possible. For more information, please visit www.pcf.gov.hk/en.
Ministry of Rural Development Announces Major Infrastructure Boost for Tripura and Odisha States under Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan 25 roads measuring 84.352 km with an estimated investment of Rs. 76.47 crore have been sanctioned to the Tripura State
26 roads measuring 63.271 km and 2 Long Span Bridges with an estimated investment of Rs. 69.65 crore have been sanctioned to the Odisha State
Posted On: 05 APR 2025 11:25AM by PIB Delhi
In a significant move to strengthen rural connectivity and accelerate economic growth, the Ministry of Rural Development has sanctioned projects to Tripura and Odisha States under Connectivity component of Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), as details below:-
Tripura: 25 roads measuring 84.352 km under, with an estimated investment of Rs. 76.47 crore, have been sanctioned to the State. Continuing this initiative, 42 roads of 118.756 km length with an estimated investment of Rs. 114.32 crore had already been sanctioned in the State under PM-JANMAN.
Odisha: 26 roads measuring 63.271 km and 02 Long Span Bridges (LSBs), with an estimated investment of Rs. 69.65 crore, have been sanctioned to the State. Continuing this initiative, 66 roads of 211.14 km and 04 LSBs with an estimated investment of Rs. 219.40 crore had already been sanctioned in the State under PM-JANMAN.
This landmark initiative will:
– Provide all weather road connectivity to PVTG habitations in the States.
– Improve socio-economic condition of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) living in these States.
– Enhance connectivity in rural areas, bridging the gap between remote villages and urban centres.
– Foster economic development, trade, and commerce in the region.
– Improve access to essential services like healthcare, education, and markets.
– Create employment opportunities and stimulate local economies.
– Align with the government’s vision of a developed India (Viksit Bharat).
The projects under PM-JANMAN will have a transformative impact on the region, contributing to the growth and prosperity of the Tribal Groups in the States and cementing the government’s commitment to inclusive development.
Section 233 of the Companies Act 2013 provides for merger or amalgamation of certain companies (Fast Track Merger) through approval of Central Government [Delegated to Regional Directors]. Pursuant to Para 101 of the Budget Speech (2025-2026), it has been decided to widen the scope of such mergers. For this purpose, a draft notification (along with an Explanatory note) proposing amendment in the Companies (Compromises, Arrangements and Amalgamations) Rules, 2016 has been placed on the website of the M/o Corporate Affairs (www.mca.gov.in).
Comments/suggestions on the draft amendment rules may be sent latest by 05thMay, 2025 through e-Consultation Module on the website of Ministry of Corporate Affairs.