The state-wise and year-wise in-situ uranium resources augmented by Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), a constituent unit of Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in the last five years are as follows:
State
U-oxide Resource (in tonne)
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
2024-25
(till Dec.
24)
Andhra Pradesh
12,966
18,182
19,561
7,450
2,500
Jharkhand
5,894
715
3,367
13,100
4,080
Karnataka
617
373
–
–
–
Rajasthan
1,861
1,336
–
900
798
Total
21,338
20,606
22,928
21,450
7,378
In principle approval exists for initiating 13 projects including capacity expansion of some existing units and construction of new production facilities (Mines & Plants) in the country. Pre-project activities related to obtaining statutory clearances from various Central and State authorities have been initiated. On implementation of the projects, the projected mining capacity in terms of Ore production is envisaged approximately 11.535 million TPA and in terms of U3O8 production is envisaged approximately as 1095 TPA.
As the pre-project activities related to obtaining statutory clearances from various Central and State authorities have been initiated for the projects for which in-principle approval is received, presently no funds are allocated for those projects. The fund allocation shall be taken up once the project contours are firmed up after finalizing of Detailed Project Report and once administrative and financial sanction is obtained.
In recent years, AMD has established U-oxide resource at Jaduguda North – Baglasai-Mechua deposit, East Singhbhum district, Jharkhand; which is the north-western continuity of Jaduguda uranium deposit. The deposit is expected to strengthen India’s long- term nuclear fuel security substantially.
This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
Registering annual growth of 9 percent Indian Railways makes 7,134 coaches in last fiscal, Catering to the common man, IR sets the new record vis a vis 5481 in the last decade With focus on non-AC segment, Indian Railway produces 4,601 coaches in 2024-25
Annual average coach production rises from 3,300 in 2004-14 to 5,481 in 2014-24, with total production of 54,809 coaches in last decade
ICF Chennai produces 178 more coaches to cross annual threshold of 3,000; RCF Kapurthala with 201 and MCF Rae Bareli contribute by 341 more coaches in iconic journey of record production
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 7:22PM by PIB Delhi
Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone in the financial year 2024-25 by manufacturing 7,134 coaches, marking a 9% increase from the previous year’s production of 6,541 coaches, with special emphasis onnon A/C coaches with production of 4,601 coaches,catering the needs of common man. This rise reflects India’s growing emphasis on modernizing Railway infrastructure to meet increasing passenger demand.
The Indian Railways has three coach manufacturing units in the country – Integral Coach Factory (ICF) at Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Rail Coach Factory (RCF) at Kapurthala, Punjab and Modern Coach Factory (MCF) at Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh. The Integral Coach Factory (ICF), the premier passenger coach producing unit of Indian Railways in Chennai, surpassed its previous production records for the year 2024-25, as it rolled out 3,007 coaches.
Coach Manufacturing Unit
Location
Coaches Produced (2023-24)
Coaches Produced (2024-25)
Increase in Production
Integral Coach Factory (ICF)
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
2,829
3,007
+178
Rail Coach Factory (RCF)
Kapurthala, Punjab
1,901
2,102
+201
Modern Coach Factory (MCF)
Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh
1,684
2,025
+341
Growth in Domestic Manufacturing
Coach production in India has expanded substantially over the years. Between 2004 and 2014, Indian Railways manufactured less than 3,300 coaches on an average per year. However, from 2014 to 2024, production saw a major boost with production of 54,809 coaches with an average of 5,481 coaches per year, aligning with the push for improved connectivity and self-reliance in Railway manufacturing. The expansion is part of a broader effort to enhance domestic production capabilities, reduce dependence on imports and integrate advanced technology into Railway design.
Improving Passenger Experience and Connectivity
The record-breaking coach production aligns with the government’s ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ vision, ensuring improved public transport services while also enabling domestic manufacturing. With more coaches being introduced, passengers can expect better facilities, enhanced safety features and increased capacity to accommodate growing demand.
Additionally, this achievement strengthens the ‘Make in India initiative’, reinforcing India’s position as a key player in Railway manufacturing. By focusing on modern, energy-efficient and passenger-friendly coaches, Indian Railways is making significant strides toward building a more robust and future-ready transport network.
With ongoing efforts in Railway electrification, high-speed corridors and upgraded passenger services, the increased coach production will play a vital role in shaping the future of India’s Rail transport system, ensuring greater efficiency, comfort and accessibility for millions of passengers.
PARLIAMENT QUESTION: THIRD GENERATION METEOROLOGICAL SATELLITE
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 6:40PM by PIB Delhi
The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) has allocated Rs. 480/- crore and billed for the launch of the Indian National Satellite (INSAT-3DS).
Currently, INSAT-3DS, along with INSAT-3DR, are in use for operational weather services, and some of the important applications of its products are:
Round-the-clock monitoring of severe weather conditions with rapid scan capability. Satellite images are generated every 5 minutes for the area of interest (where the severe weather is prevailing).
A satellite visualization tool known as Real-time Analysis of Products and Information Dissemination (RAPID) to visualize and analyze satellite images and derived products as per the user’s choice (https://rapid.imd.gov.in/r2v/).
Numerous satellite-derived products and imageries are generated at each 30-minute gap, which is very useful in real-time monitoring the cyclone activity and determination of cyclone track and intensity.
During pre-monsoon season thunderstorms and lightning season of March to May, various products like Outgoing Longwave Radiation, Quantitative Precipitation Estimate, Sea Surface Temperature, Insolation, winds, winds derived products, etc. and Temperature, Humidity profiles/Thermodynamic indices etc.) are used for monitoring the movement of convective weather systems.
Satellite-derived products are also helpful in monitoring the onset, active, and withdrawal phases of southwest and northeast monsoons. It is also used to monitor and analyse the origin, movement, and possible impact of Western disturbance moving across North India.
Data Collection and Dissemination: The satellite’s data relay transponder facilitates efficient collection and distribution of meteorological, hydrological, and oceanographic data from various ground stations, supporting The India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Search and Rescue Operations: The satellite has a dedicated search and rescue payload that assists in locating and saving lives during maritime and aviation emergencies. These advancements in INSAT-3DS have strengthened India’s capacity to monitor and predict weather patterns, enabling better preparedness for extreme weather events and contributing to improving agricultural and water management decisions.
Meteorological data and products from both the INSATs are also useful in various sectors in real-time:
Monitoring severe weather phenomena like intense rainfall episodes, heatwave conditions, cold wave day and night fog, etc.) are easily monitored over the Indian region/neighbouring countries by day and night (24-hour) coverage of satellite data.
Special sector images are generated for pilgrimage (Like Amarnathji yatra, Kumbh Mela, Kedarnath Jee yatra, etc.)
The accumulated snow-bound area images during winter time are generated for specially monitoring the fresh and old snow and its coverage.
Agriculture sector services. Satellite provides better guidance for agro meteorology with the help of many satellite-derived products (like Insolation, Land Surface Temperature, Evapotranspiration, etc.).
Renewable energy sector: Satellite-based Winds, clouds, Outgoing longwave radiation, etc., provide an important input to this sector for managing the resources efficiently.
Research and development activities. New algorithms and approaches (like AI/ML, deep learning, etc.) are also under development to further streamline the process.
Therefore, with the support of INSAT-3DS (which provides advanced imaging and sounding capabilities), weather monitoring service capabilities are enhanced. It offered detailed observations of land and ocean surfaces, real-time data on cloud cover, moisture content, temperature profiles, and other atmospheric parameter which are crucial for weather monitoring.
The INSAT-3D has reached its end of life and has been replaced by the INSAT-3DS, whereas INSAT-3DR is operational in sensing and transmitting meteorological data.
This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
Lok Sabha Passes the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 “Bill Seeks to Unlock the Full Potential of India’s Vast and Strategic Coastline, Providing a Dedicated Legal Framework for Coastal Trade:” Sarbananda Sonowal
“Bill aligned with the vision of the National Logistics Policy for a Cost Efficient, Sustainable, Alternative for Logistics Movement:” Sarbananda Sonowal
“Under PM Narendra Modi ji’s Visionary Leadership, India’s Coastal Cargo Traffic Surges 119% since 2014, Eyes 230 Million Tonnes by 2030:” Sarbananda Sonowal
“Bill provides a legal framework to integrate the National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan, promoting regional development of riverine and coastal areas:” Sarbananda Sonowal
“Coastal Shipping Bill firmly grounded in the Spirit of Cooperative Federalism”: Sarbananda Sonowal
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 8:10PM by PIB Delhi
The Lok Sabha passed the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024, paving the way for a dedicated legal framework for coastal trade as the maritime sector aims to provide a economical, reliable and sustainable mode of transportation as it decongest road and rail network. “The Bill seeks to unlock the full potential of India’s vast and strategic coastline, providing dedicated legal framework for coastal trade,” asserted Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 aims to make coastal trade easier, more competitive, and better integrated with PM Shri Narendra Modi Govt’s overall transport vision — the National Logistics Policy. With its manifold forward looking provisions, the bill provides a future ready legal framework while upgrading the dated provision of earlier legislations like Merchant Shipping Act, 1958. The proposed bill introduces key provisions for licensing and regulating foreign vessels in India’s coasting trade. It mandates the formulation of a National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan and establishes a National Database for Coastal Shipping. The bill also regulates foreign vessels chartered by Indian entities and outlines penalties for violations, aligning with the government’s push for decriminalising laws. Additionally, it grants the Director General of Shipping authority to seek information, issue directions, and enforce compliance, while empowering the Central Government to provide exemptions and regulatory oversight, ensuring streamlined and efficient coastal shipping operations in India.
Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The Coastal Shipping Bill aligns local aspirations with national goals, and provides a framework for the next 25 years of coastal economic growth under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. The overarching goal of the Bill to develop a coastal fleet owned and operated by Indian entities will lead to reduced dependence on foreign vessels for critical areas relevant for our country’s coastal shipping. It will reduce logistics costs, promote green transport, support the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and create thousands of jobs in shipbuilding, port services and manning of vessels. The bill is in line with international best practices for adopting dedicated law for coastal trade but adopted to suit Indian conditions. This Bill provides a dedicated legal framework to boost coastal trade, propelling inland waterways and riverine economies while offering a low-cost, reliable, and sustainable alternative to overloaded road and rail networks.”
The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 aims to reduce logistics costs and promote sustainable transport. Coastal shipping, a cost-efficient and low-emission mode of transport, will play a key role in easing India’s overburdened road and rail networks. Key provisions of the Bill include the removal of the general trading license requirement for Indian ships (Clause 3), reducing compliance burdens and enhancing ease of doing business. Foreign vessels can engage in coastal trade only under a license issued by the Director General of Shipping (Clause 4), with conditions that support Indian shipbuilding and employment for seafarers. The Bill mandates a National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan (Clause 8), revised biennially, to improve route planning, forecast traffic, and integrate coastal shipping with inland waterways. This strategic vision ensures long-term growth and sustainability in India’s maritime sector.
On the bill’s efficacy with present day realities as well as its role as a future ready framework, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The new Coastal Shipping Bill modernises and streamlines coastal trade regulations, addressing gaps in the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958. Unlike its predecessor, which focused solely on vessel licensing, this Bill provides a forward-looking, holistic framework aligned with global cabotage practices. It simplifies procedures, promotes growth, & integrates coastal shipping into India’s modern logistics network, ensuring efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness in the maritime sector.”
The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 builds on key reforms, including prioritised berthing, green clearance channels, and GST reduction on bunker fuel. Coastal cargo traffic has surged 119% in the last decade, from 74 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 162 million tonnes in 2023-24, with a target of 230 million tonnes by 2030. The Bill ensures legal clarity, regulatory stability, and investment-friendly policies, strengthening India’s maritime security and advancing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
On the possibilities from strategic integration of coastal shipping with inland waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The integration of coastal and inland waterways will promote regional development of riverine and coastal areas alike in the country. This Bill will also give impetus to the long-term vision of development of coastal and inland waterways transport in States such as Odisha, Karnataka and Goa among others. The integration of coastal shipping routes with inland waterways — which often traverse multiple states — calls for collective planning and coordinated execution. By recognising the role of States in this regard, this Bill ensures that the growth of coastal shipping is inclusive and participative.”
The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 introduces a National Database of Coastal Shipping to enhance transparency, coordination, and data-driven decision-making. It also expands the category of charterers allowed to hire foreign vessels, including Indian citizens, NRIs, OCIs, and LLPs. Ensuring cooperative federalism, the Bill provides active representation for States and Union Territories in key mechanisms, reinforcing India’s commitment to a streamlined, inclusive, and efficient maritime sector.
Allaying criticism of the Opposition parties, the Union Minister asserted, “The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 upholds cooperative federalism by ensuring active participation of States and Union Territories. Under Clause 8(3), a committee—comprising representatives from major ports, State Maritime Boards, and experts—will draft the National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan. This guarantees States a direct role in shaping strategy, routes, and regulations. By integrating coastal shipping with inland waterways, the Bill enables collective planning, fostering inclusive growth aligned with Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.”
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has adopted a new strategy for issuing monthly and seasonal operational forecasts for the southwest monsoon rainfall over the country based on both the statistical forecasting system and the newly developed Multi-Model Ensemble (MME) based forecasting system. The MME approach uses the coupled global climate models (CGCMs) from different global climate prediction and research centers, including IMD’s Monsoon Mission Climate Forecasting System (MMCFS) model. The MMCFS and MME forecasts are updated every month. This was to satisfy the demands from different users and Government authorities for the forecasts of the spatial distribution of monthly and seasonal rainfall along with the regionally averaged rainfall forecasts for better regional planning of activities.
Since introducing the Statistical Ensemble Forecasting System (SEFS) in 2007 and implementing the MME approach in 2021 for seasonal forecasting, IMD operational forecast for the monsoon rainfall has shown noticeable improvement. For example, the average absolute forecast error in the forecasting of all India’s seasonal rainfall has reduced by about 21% during the recent 18 years (2007-2024) compared to the same number of previous years (1989-2006), which indicates a highly successful forecast in recent years compared to previous years. The anomaly correlation between the observed and forecast ISMR during 2007-2023 was 0.55 compared to -0.21 during 1989-2006. It may be noted that IMD was able to correctly forecast the twin deficient monsoon years of 2014-2015, as well as the below-normal rainfall in 2023 and above-normal rainfall in 2024. These clearly indicate improvement made in the operational forecast system in the recent 18 years period compared to the earlier 18 years period. For 2025, the MME approach will continue to be used as this method introduced in 2021 has shown good skill in forecasting both the area-averaged rainfall at various geographical regions and spatial distribution of rainfall across the country at monthly as well as seasonal scales.
To strengthen weather and climate services for the agriculture sector, the MoES has launched the Mission Mausam, which is envisaged to be a multi-faceted and transformative initiative to boost India’s weather and climate-related science, research, and services. The Mission is launched to make Bharat a weather-ready and climate-smart nation with the aim that no weather will go undetected and early warning for all. It will help monsoon-dependent agricultural regions, citizens, and last-mile users to tackle extreme weather events and the impacts of climate change in a better way.
Further, the Mission’s focus includes improving the observations by augmenting various observational networks throughout the country to provide highly accurate and timely weather and climate information across temporal and spatial scales, capacity building, and awareness generation. Apart from physics-based numerical models, the Ministry is developing new methods based on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies for weather, climate, and ocean forecasting systems. And the formulation of collaborative research projects with academic institutions to share knowledge and develop innovative solutions for weather forecasting and climate modeling capabilities. Local user communities such as farmers/agricultural authorities, aviation authorities, power generation & distribution agencies, industries, health agencies, etc., are constantly involved/engaged, and periodic familiarization is imparted through user meet/stakeholder meet awareness programs, etc. The feedback is taken from the communities for the improvement of all-weather & climate services. Extensive use of local languages in forecast dissemination and regularly organizing workshops and awareness programs for community outreach is being undertaken.
By strengthening the observational network will also help to observe the changes in long-term weather patterns compared to past years to assess the changes in the climate and take measures towards climate resilience.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been using satellite technology extensively for weather monitoring and forecasting. This started with the use of photographs from Television Infrared Observation Satellites (TIROS-1) launched by the United States of America (USA) in April 1960. These photographs provided new information on cloud systems, including spiral formations associated with large storms, immediately proving their value to operational meteorologists. Over the years, IMD has embraced new developments in satellites and their applications, boosted through global coordination and support, such as geostationary satellites in 1974 and polar-orbiting satellites. With the advent of Indian National Satellites (INSAT) developed by the Space Research Organisation (ISRO) satellites in 1982, IMD has augmented satellite applications utilizing image and data products in collaboration with the ISRO. Currently, IMD is utilizing available international satellites, including European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) and INSAT-3DR/3DS, as well as polar-orbiting satellites, including Oceansat-3 and Metop-B/C. The utilization of satellite data and products has improved nowcasting and severe weather along with timely detection of large-scale systems like monsoon circulation, cyclones, western disturbances, thunderstorms, etc. Above 90% of the data in the numerical models run by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) is satellite-based. The assimilation of satellite data in the models has improved the accuracy in short to medium range forecasting by about 20% to 30%. Algorithms/tools developed by IMD/ISRO and other international institutes, such as EUMETSAT, like nowcast tools, RAPID, Dvorak technique, etc., have improved decision-making and forecasting. These data and products are proven to be useful for disaster preparedness. However, there are still gaps in detecting small-scale weather events, such as cloudbursts, thunderstorms, localized heavy rainfall, squalls, hail storms, etc., due to a lack of high-resolution data, products, and satellite-based tools. Considering this, IMD and ISRO are working together for the development of the INSAT-4 series with better sensors and resolution.
This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
India calls on BRICS to Unite on ‘Baku to Belem Roadmap’ to Mobilize USD 1.3 Trillion for Achieving NDC Goals, at the 11th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting in Brasilia India emphasizes on Collaborative Climate Action among BRICS Nations for Strengthening Global Sustainability and Just Transition for All
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 8:16PM by PIB Delhi
India has vociferously advocated the need for a Collective Leadership for advancing the 2030 Climate Agenda at the 11th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting, held in Brasilia, Brazil, today. The Indian delegation was led by Sh. Amandeep Garg, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
Session I: Advancing Environmental Cooperation amongst BRICS towards Sustainable Development and a Just Transition for All
During the first session, India underscored BRICS’ pivotal role in shaping global sustainability and Climate action. Highlighting that BRICS nations collectively account for 47% of the world’s population and contribute 36% of global GDP (PPP), India emphasized the group’s responsibility in addressing climate change and sustainable development.
India reaffirmed the significance of the New Delhi Statement from the 7th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting 2021, which advocates a holistic approach to climate action by integrating adaptation, mitigation, and means of implementation. Stressing the urgent need for equitable carbon budget utilization, India called for a balanced transition that prioritizes developing nations’ growth while ensuring sustainability.
A key focus was the Baku to Belem Roadmap, aimed at securing USD 1.3 trillion in climate finance to support Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). India urged BRICS partners to strengthen climate financing mechanisms to meet global sustainability commitments effectively.
On energy security, India reiterated commitments made in the BRICS New Delhi Declaration (2021), which promotes a diversified energy mix, including fossil fuels, hydrogen, nuclear, and renewables. India highlighted the Green Grids Initiative – One Sun, One World, One Grid, launched under the International Solar Alliance, as a transformative project for global renewable energy integration.
India also emphasized the role of resource efficiency and the circular economy in achieving sustainability goals. The Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy Industry Coalition, launched under G20, was cited as a model for global corporate collaboration in sustainable resource management.
“A Just Transition must acknowledge the diverse economic realities of nations. Each country has a unique development pathway, and the provision of adequate means of implementation—in finance, technology, and capacity-building—is essential to ensuring that no nation or community is left behind in this transition. As BRICS nations, we must strengthen our engagements in multilateral forums, championing the interests of developing economies and advocating for a fair and equitable transition”, India’s statement read.
Session II: Collective Leadership for Climate and the 2030 Agenda
In the second session, India highlighted that the expansion of BRICS from five to eleven members strengthens its leadership in global climate governance. With BRICS nations facing common environmental challenges such as desertification, pollution and biodiversity loss, India stressed the importance of collective action and shared responsibility.
Emphasizing the need for fair and equitable climate transition, India stressed for continued collaboration amongst BRICS Nations at multilateral forums such as UNFCCC, UNCCD, CBD, and UNEA. The country reiterated the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC) as a fundamental guideline for climate negotiations.
India also acknowledged BRICS’ leadership in sustainability through flagship initiatives, including the Partnership for Urban Environmental Sustainability, the Clean Rivers Programme, and Sustainable Urban Management. The country called for enhanced cooperation in tackling marine plastic pollution, improving air quality, and printing resource efficiency.
On Climate Finance, India highlighted the urgent need for developed nations to fulfill their commitments, noting that the proposed USD 300 billion per year by 2035 under the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance is far below the required USD 1.3 trillion. India emphasized the importance of COP30, to be hosted in Brazil, as a critical milestone for advancing global adaptation and resilience efforts.
India also reiterated its leadership in conservation and sustainability, mentioning initiatives such as the International Big Cat Alliance, a global effort for wildlife conservation. Furthermore, India urged BRICS nations to join global sustainability initiatives like the International Solar Alliance, Leadership Group for Industry Transition, and Global Biofuel Alliance to accelerate collective climate action.
India reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with BRICS partners to drive transformative change in climate action, environmental cooperation, and sustainable development. The Indian delegation expressed gratitude to Brazil, the BRICS Chair, for hosting the meeting and emphasized the importance of continued engagement for a greener, more resilient future.
In a significant move to facilitate the Mutual Fund industry’s customer onboarding process, Department of Posts (DoP) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nippon India Mutual Fund to provide door-to-door KYC verification services for their investors. This partnership aims to streamline the KYC process, ensuring convenience, security, and compliance for investors across India.
The MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) was signed between Ms. Manisha Bansal Badal, General Manager, Business Development Directorate, Department of Post, and Mr. Sundeep Sikka Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer Nippon Life India Asset Management Ltd.
Ms. Manisha Bansal Badal and Mr. Sundeep Sikka
India Post’s unparalleled reach, with a presence in even the remotest corners of the country, sets it apart as an ideal partner for mutual fund companies seeking to expand their investor base. After successfully handling more than 5 lakh KYC verifications for UTI and SUUTI in a short period, India Post has proven its capability to manage large-scale operations efficiently and securely.
The door-to-door KYC service will offer investors the convenience of completing the process from home, a crucial benefit for the investors especially the elderly. This partnership aligns with the Government of India’s emphasis on Jan Nivesh, the initiative aimed at promoting financial inclusion for the common masses.
By offering door-to-door KYC services, India Post is providing easy access to financial products for individuals who may otherwise face barriers due to mobility issues or lack of access to financial institutions. This initiative ensures that a broader segment of the population, including those in rural and underserved areas, can participate in the growing mutual fund market, thus empowering them to make informed investment decisions and secure their financial future.
This collaboration marks a key milestone in India Post’s commitment to financial inclusion and economic development. With its trusted network, India Post aims to continue forging new partnerships and expanding its presence in the financial services sector.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
In response to a report published by Sing Tao Daily on April 3 which quoted individuals’ remarks on alternative smoking products (ASPs) and waterpipe tobacco, claiming that tobacco control policies would negatively impact on tourists’ perceptions, a spokesman for the Health Bureau (HHB) expressed regret over the inaccurate and misleading content and provided the following response:
The HHB has fully considered the situation of the tourism sector when formulating the 10 short-term tobacco control measures. These measures will not affect tourists’ willingness to visit Hong Kong.
Regarding ASPs, Hong Kong has prohibited the import of ASPs, including e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, as well as any related devices, parts, and accessories, since April 2022. Both sale or possession of ASPs for commercial purposes are also illegal, while possession for personal use remains permitted. Therefore, since three years ago tourists have been unable to bring ASPs into Hong Kong or purchase them upon arrival. Three years after the implementation of the ban, not only has the Hong Kong’s tourism sector not been adversely affected, in fact, the number of passenger arrivals in Hong Kong in 2024 has restored to pre-pandemic level, with the number of passenger arrivals at land boundary control points exceeding pre-pandemic level. Additionally, Thailand and Singapore have also banned ASPs without any noticeable impact on their tourism numbers. Claims that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s plan to further prohibit the possession of ASPs would deter tourists totally disregarded the fact that ASPs have already been banned from import (including bringing them into Hong Kong) and sale for three years. The report also omits to explain the fact that tourists are currently unable to bring ASPs into Hong Kong or purchase them upon arrival, misleading both the public and tourists.
Moreover, ASPs are by no means “harm-reducing” products, as the report suggested. In fact, ASPs have been proven to release various toxic substances that can cause cancer, and damage the nervous and respiratory systems. The World Health Organization has also clearly stated that there is no evidence to suggest that ASPs could help quit smoking. Recently, e-cigarette devices have been used as tools for drug abuse. E-liquid, mixed with drugs such as etomidate (commonly known as “space oil drugs”), a psychoactive substance, can be inserted into e-cigarette devices and heated to generate aerosol for smoking. Young people may become addicted to drugs by smoking e-cigarettes containing “poisonous capsules” without realising it. To prevent harmful products like ASPs from continuing to circulate locally and to tackle the problem of “poisonous capsules” at its root, the HHB has proposed banning the possession of related products.
As for flavoured tobacco products, the Government has proposed legislation to ban the sale of flavoured conventional smoking products (such as fruit flavours). This aims to counteract the intention of tobacco companies to use flavouring agents to disguise the hazards of tobacco products and attract people to smoke. The Government’s proposal is to ban the sale of flavoured conventional smoking products, but not their consumption. Inbound travellers, including tourists, are still permitted to bring into Hong Kong 19 cigarettes duty-free, or declare and pay duty on cigarettes exceeding this quantity under the existing mechanism, regardless of whether the cigarettes are flavoured or not. Therefore, the proposal will not affect tourists visiting Hong Kong.
The use of flavoured waterpipe tobacco has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. Waterpipe is a smoking device originating from regions including the Middle East, and traditionally is used without added flavour. In order to entice people to smoke, tobacco companies add flavours to waterpipe tobacco and this has led to the growing popularity of waterpipes in other regions as well. In order to prevent tobacco companies to use waterpipe smoking as another means to entice members of the public, in particular women and young people, to become addicted to smoking, the Government’s proposal to ban flavours in conventional smoking products will also apply to waterpipe tobacco, with a view to ensuring policy consistency and safeguarding public health.
In fact, under the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Cap. 371) (Ordinance), conducting a smoking act in a statutory no-smoking area, including indoor areas of bars, is prohibited. Any person engaged in a smoking act in statutory no smoking areas commits an offence. Currently, only about 10 per cent of bars in Hong Kong have outdoor areas where waterpipe tobacco may be smoked legally. The report cited the charter president of the Licensed Bar and Club Association of Hong Kong, Mr Leung Lap-yan, as saying that 30 per cent of bars offer waterpipe tobacco, indicating that many bars are providing waterpipe tobacco in no-smoking areas, which is akin to “collective charcoal burning”, and may be suspected of encouraging illegal smoking or violating the restrictions on the sale of tobacco. The Government warns bar operators and venue managers not to assist anyone in violating tobacco control regulations or provide tobacco or waterpipe devices for use in statutory no-smoking areas. The Department of Health will take stringent enforcement actions against such illegal activities and illegal waterpipe smoking activities.
Meanwhile, promoting illegal indoor smoking is highly irresponsible. As carbon monoxide is produced during the combustion of fuel used in waterpipe (e.g. charcoal), smokers, other customers, and staff will be exposed to an environment of high concentration of carbon monoxide, which may lead to symptoms such as impaired vision, disturbed co-ordination, unconsciousness, and brain damage. Bar operators should consider the health risks of prolonged exposure to second-hand smoke for their employees.
Moreover, at present, where smoking products (including waterpipe tobacco) are sold, in bars or other premises, the restrictions on the promotion and sale of smoking products stipulated in the Ordinance apply. Offenders are liable on summary conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000. Venue managers of statutory no smoking areas are empowered by the Ordinance to request a smoking offender cease the relevant smoking act. If the offender is not co-operative, the manager may contact the Police for assistance.
The spokesman for HHB reiterated that tourists and outside talents would consider a variety of factors when deciding to come to Hong Kong, such as overall tourism experience, development opportunities, humanistic literacies, quality of environment. Tobacco control work will not in any way affect the desire of tourists to visit Hong Kong. On the contrary, the work will enable citizens and tourists to enjoy a fresher environment, and also make Hong Kong a healthier and more vibrant city, thereby enhancing the attractiveness to tourists and outside talents, which is also welcomed by most of the general public.
Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law today visited the National Museum of China and called on the Ministry of Culture & Tourism as well as the China Film Administration in Beijing.
In the morning, Miss Law toured the Ancient China exhibition at the National Museum of China, followed by a meeting with Vice Minister of Culture & Tourism Gao Zheng.
Miss Law briefed Mr Gao on the preparations for the Asia Cultural Co-Operation Forum 2025 due to held on April 22 and 23 in Hong Kong.
She thanked Mr Gao for taking the time to lead a delegation to join the forum and expressed her wish for it to become an important platform for promoting cultural co-operation in the Asian regions.
Miss Law also said the National Museum of China showed an example of how to enrich the content of Hong Kong’s museums and enhance the museum experience for citizens and visitors to Hong Kong.
In the afternoon, the culture chief met China Film Administration Executive Deputy Director-General Mao Yu.
Miss Law sincerely thanked the central government for expanding the liberalisation measures to Hong Kong’s film industry under the framework of the Agreement on Trade in Services of Mainland & Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement, which has facilitated the Hong Kong film industry in entering the Mainland market.
She also hoped to work with the China Film Administration in the future to promote in-depth exchanges between the film industries of the two places.
Miss Law then met Director of the Training Center of the General Administration of Sport of China Yang Xinli, at the training centre’s Hall of Honor.
She was briefed by Mr Yang on the stories behind the photos and exhibits, learning about the spirit of resilience and perseverance of the national athletes as well as their struggles to win honours for the country.
Miss Law will return to Hong Kong tomorrow afternoon.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today expressed strong disapproval of and discontent with the US’ imposition of the so-called reciprocal tariff on Hong Kong products.
Starting May 2, the US will eliminate the duty-free de minimis treatment for and impose duty on covered goods from Hong Kong.
In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said the US’ measures are bullying and unreasonable, and grossly inconsistent with the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, willfully undermining the multilateral trading system which is the cornerstone for international trade.
Once again, the Hong Kong SAR Government firmly requests the US to withdraw its so-called reciprocal tariff measures.
It said that it will continue to closely monitor and assess any unilateral measures of the US that are inconsistent with fair trade, and take actions to defend Hong Kong’s legitimate interests, including filing of a complaint in accordance with the WTO dispute settlement mechanism.
The statement noted that Hong Kong, being a free port, supports and upholds free trade all along, and has never imposed any tariffs on imported goods, including those from the US. The US’ imposition of the so-called reciprocal tariff is illogical.
As a separate customs territory under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong has put in place an effective system for import and export, including the origin certification system, trade declaration and manifest requirements, and has taken robust enforcement actions on this basis.
The Hong Kong SAR Government said the US’ allegation about the imposition of the so-called reciprocal tariff on Hong Kong products due to the risk of transshipment and evasion is ungrounded, fully showing that it is a bullying act for suppressing its competitors.
In 2023, the US was the third largest trading partner of Hong Kong, with the total merchandise trade value amounting to US$60.3 billion. During the past 10 years, the US has realised a trade surplus of US$271.5 billion with Hong Kong, the largest among its global trading partners.
The US’ measures are mere unilateral protectionism that harm the interests of all, the statement added.
As for the duty-free de minimis treatment for postal items dispatched from Hong Kong to the US, the US has been repeatedly changing its policies unilaterally.
Hongkong Post has requested the US postal administration to promptly clarify the matter and not cause inconvenience to the public.
From now until May 2, Hongkong Post will temporarily maintain postal services to the US but will not collect any so-called tariffs on behalf of the US authorities.