Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) announced that the eighth edition of the Global Fast Track (GFT) 2025 is now open for applications until September 21. This year, the programme will be expanded to include other verticals in addition to fintech, unleashing business opportunities for more technology companies in Hong Kong and worldwide. The year-long hybrid programme provides participants with one-on-one meetings, live pitching opportunities, mentorship, and tailored business matching with corporate clients, investors and service providers. A separate competition track will select semi-finalists from each vertical to pitch in person during the Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025 in November, with the grand finale taking place at the main conference. Shortlisted companies will also have access to exclusive networking events during the week for potential partnerships. 
 
     The Global Head of Financial Services, FinTech & Sustainability at InvestHK, Mr King Leung, shared, “The Global Fast Track has grown into more than just a fintech-accelerating platform. The expansion into additional verticals beyond fintech reflects a growing trend of technology converging across multiple industries. To date, the GFT has supported over 1 000 fintech companies from more than 50 economies, helping them showcase cutting-edge innovations and expedite market entry into Hong Kong and beyond. We are thrilled to build on this success and continue to offer unparalleled access to a regional network of more than 120 investors, corporate and service champions, mentors, and industry leaders.”
 
     The Head of Startups at InvestHK, Ms Jayne Chan, added, “It is exciting to see the expansion of this meaningful programme this year, as we welcome applications from verticals beyond fintech, including the newly dedicated ‘Innovation & Technology’ or deep tech vertical. Together, we aim to unlock the true potential of innovation across industries and provide a launchpad for transformative solutions. I look forward to welcoming high-calibre start-ups and scaleup applicants from around the world and witnessing the remarkable outcomes this programme will deliver.”
 
Explore the Seven Expanded Global Fast Track Verticals
 
The GFT 2025 includes seven key verticals, covering a broader range of categories than ever before:

• FinTech;
• Artificial Intelligence;
• GreenTech;
• Blockchain & Digital Assets;
• InsurTech & HealthTech;
• Innovation & Technology; and
• Mainland China Track (in Mandarin).

 
Glimpse of GFT 2025 Featured Partners
 
HKSTP Global Connect
 
For the GFT 2025, InvestHK is once again partnering with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation’s Global Connect Programme to support start-ups in expanding their presence in Hong Kong. The programme offers a comprehensive soft-landing package, including:
 

• Financial grants of up to HK$100,000;
• Access to co-working space;
• Investment and business matching;
• 1-on-1 consultations for setting up businesses in Hong Kong; and
• Training and networking.

 
Accenture FinTech Innovation Lab Asia-Pacific
 
Established by Accenture in collaboration with Hong Kong Cyberport, the FinTech Innovation Lab Asia-Pacific (FILAP) bridges growth-stage fintech start-ups with senior executives from world-leading financial institutions. Since its launch, FILAP alumni have collectively raised over US$1.1 billion in funding and developed 552 Proof of Concepts across nearly 90 companies. Through the GFT 2025, applicants will have the opportunity to fast-track to FILAP 2026 Interview Day, providing access to expert mentorship and exclusive connections to global financial leaders.
 
     The GFT 2025 is an unparalleled opportunity for qualified innovators to showcase their profile in front of thousands of attendees and key corporates and investors looking for solutions and investment opportunities. Previous finalists have come from around the world, including Canada, France, Israel, Mainland China, Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.
 
For details of the entire programme of the GFT 2025 and the application process, please visit here.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

In accordance with the Registration of Persons (Invalidation of Identity Cards) Order 2024 (Invalidation Order) made by the Secretary for Security under section 7C of the Registration of Persons (ROP) Ordinance, all old forms of smart identity cards (old ID cards) (Note) bearing a year of birth in or after 1970 will become invalid on May 12 this year. Old ID cards bearing a year of birth in or before 1969 will become invalid on October 12 this year.

The Immigration Department (ImmD) appeals to residents still holding an old ID card to replace it with a new smart identity card (new ID card) as soon as possible. Samples of old and new ID cards are attached at Annex I and II respectively.

Persons still holding an old ID card should make an appointment at the ROP – Kwun Tong (Temporary) Office for replacement with a new ID card. They may scan the QR codes (see Annex III) to download the ImmD mobile application, visit the website (www.gov.hk/icbooking) or call the 24-hour telephone booking hotline 2598 0888 to make an appointment for an ID card replacement.

Persons aged 18 or above holding a valid old ID card issued locally could also use the Personal Documentation Submission Kiosks (PDSKs) located at the Immigration Headquarters in Tseung Kwan O to apply for a replacement card in a self-service manner, which does not require an appointment. Please refer to Annex IV for the address and working hours of the Kwun Tong (Temporary) Office and PDSKs.

The Invalidation Order covers all Hong Kong residents, whether they are permanent residents or non-permanent residents, who are permitted to take up employment, make investments, reside or study in Hong Kong. If the old ID cards have not been replaced, they will be invalidated on the specified dates in accordance with the Invalidation Order.

The invalidation of old ID cards will not affect the right of abode in Hong Kong of the holders of old ID cards unless he or she has lost permanent resident status under the Immigration Ordinance.

“For those who are unable to have their ID cards replaced during the specified call-up periods due to being absent from Hong Kong, they should replace their ID cards within 30 days of their return to Hong Kong. Failure to apply for a new ID card within the specified call-up periods without a reasonable excuse is an offence. Offenders may be prosecuted and be liable to a fine of $5,000 upon conviction,” a spokesman for the ImmD said.

The aged, the blind or the infirm who satisfy a registration officer that their personal attendance for registration of Hong Kong ID cards will injure their health or the health of others may, instead of applying for a new replacement ID card, apply for a Certificate of Exemption.

For details of the relevant arrangements, please visit the ImmD website (www.immd.gov.hk). For enquiries, please contact the ImmD by the enquiry hotline (2824 6111), by fax (2877 7711) or by email (enquiry@immd.gov.hk).

Note: Old forms of smart identity cards refer to smart identity cards issued between June 23, 2003 and November 25, 2018, or issued on or after November 26, 2018 as a result of an application made before that date.

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 27 APR 2025 6:20PM by PIB Delhi

There is a misleading message doing the rounds on WhatsApp pertaining to donation to a particular bank account for the modernisation of the Indian Army and for the soldiers injured or killed in action. The message quotes a Cabinet decision to this effect and invokes the name of actor Shri Akshay Kumar as being the prime mover of the proposal.

The account details in the said message are wrong, leading to online donations getting dishonoured. People must remain cautious and not fall prey to such fraudulent messages.

The Government has initiated several welfare schemes for soldiers killed or disabled during active combat operations.

• In 2020, Government instituted ‘Armed Forces Battle Casualty Welfare Fund (AFBCWF)’ which is utilised for grant of immediate financial assistance to the families of soldiers/sailors/airmen who lay down their lives or get grievously injured in active military operations. The Indian Army, on behalf of the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, Ministry of Defence maintains the accounts for the fund. Contribution can be made directly in the account of Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund. Details of the bank accounts are given below:

 

1^st Account

Fund Name	Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund
Bank Name	Canara Bank, South Block, Defence Headquarters New Delhi – 110011
IFSC Code	CNRB0019055
Account No	90552010165915
Type of A/c	Saving

 

2^nd Account

Fund Name	Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund
Bank Name	State Bank of India, Parliament Street, New Delhi – 110011
IFSC Code	SBIN0000691
Account No	40650628094
Type of A/c	Saving

 

Donations can also be made through a Demand Draft drawn in favor of AFBCWF payable at New Delhi which may be sent by post to the following address:

 

Accounts Section

Adjutant General’s Branch

Ceremonial & Welfare Directorate

Room No 281-B, South Block

IHQ of MoD (Army), New Delhi – 110011

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VK/Savvy

(Release ID: 2124728) Visitor Counter : 157

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

​Five property owners were convicted and fined over $470,000 in total by the court this month for failing to comply with statutory orders issued under the Buildings Ordinance (BO) (Cap. 123).

The first case involved an unauthorised structure with an area of about 24 square metres on a flat roof and an opening formed at an enclosure wall of a common corridor of a residential building on Boundary Street, Kowloon. The unauthorised building works (UBWs) and the alteration works were carried out without prior approval and consent from the Buildings Department (BD) and affected the fire-resisting construction of the building, which contravened the BO and the Building (Construction) Regulation. Therefore, a removal order was served on the two co-owners under section 24(1) of the BO.

Failing to comply with the removal order, the two co-owners were prosecuted by the BD and were fined $103,800 in total, of which $93,800 was the fine for the number of days that the offence continued, upon conviction at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts on April 9. 

The second case involved an alteration of four units into mini-storages in an industrial building at Kin Wing Lane, Tuen Mun, while the third case involved the alteration of five units into mini-storages in an industrial building at Ng Fong Street and Sze Mei Street, Kowloon. These alteration and addition works were carried out without prior approval and consent from the BD and obstructed the means of escape and access for fire fighting and rescues, while affecting the fire-resisting construction of the building, which contravened the Building (Planning) Regulations and the Building (Construction) Regulation. The alterations also rendered the building as dangerous, therefore removal orders and repair orders were served on the owners concerned under section 24(1) and section 26 of the BO.

Failing to comply with the removal orders and the repair orders, the two owners in the second case were prosecuted by the BD and were fined $259,500 in total, of which $151,500 was the fine for the number of days that the offences continued, upon conviction at the Tuen Mun Magistrates’ Courts on April 11, whereas the owner of the third case was fined $114,440 in total, of which $88,440 was the fine for the number of days that the offences continued, upon conviction at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts on April 16.

A spokesman for the BD said today (April 28), “UBWs, including unauthorised alterations causing obstruction to the means of escape and means of access for fire fighting and rescues, or affecting the fire-resisting construction of a building, may lead to serious consequences. The owners concerned must comply with the statutory orders issued by the BD without delay. The BD will continue to take enforcement action against owners who fail to comply with statutory orders, including instigation of prosecution, to ensure building safety.”

Failure to comply with a removal order without reasonable excuse is a serious offence under the BO. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $200,000 and one year’s imprisonment, and a further fine of $20,000 for each day that the offence continues. Moreover, failure to comply with a repair order without reasonable excuse is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of level 5 ($50,000 at present) and one year’s imprisonment, and a further fine of $5,000 for each day that the offence continues.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh visits Udhampur, reviews security arrangements at high

We will address all concerns and constraints to ensure peace and safety. Miscreants will be dealt with firmly,

Also had a detailed meeting with Lt Gen Pratik Sharma who is to take over as GoC Northern Command Udhampur from 1st May

Detailed discussion about hot spots, vulnerability  and strategies to plug the same were discussed in length an breath

Posted On: 27 APR 2025 7:22PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh visited Udhampur today, where he conducted a review of the security arrangements.

Speaking on security concerns, Dr. Jitendra  Singh said that appropriate security responses will be ensured. “ We will address all concerns and constraints to ensure peace and safety. Miscreants will be dealt with firmly,” he added.

Dr Jitendra Singh also disclosed that he had also had a detailed meeting with Lt Gen Pratik Sharma who is to take over as GoC Northern Command Udhampur from 1^st May. He appreciated the role of Indian Army in keeping the morale of general public high through their strategic presence at sensitive points.

He also extended good wishes to Gen Pratik Sharma who is taking over command at a time when J& K is in focus.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also expressed his appreciation  to the district administration, for their ongoing efforts in maintaining law and order and supporting developmental initiatives.

 

Detailed discussion about hot spots, vulnerability  and strategies to plug the same were discussed in length and. Breath. Directions were issued to work in sync and coordination with all security agencies.

The media was not allowed into the high level security meeting. However, later Dr Jitendra Singh speaking to the media, said that such details can’t be shared in public. He said , there are certain inputs which are available only with the concerned security agencies and they act accordingly without speaking about it openly but the positive outcomes become visible to public after the success of their action, he said.

Nevertheless, the Minister said, the security forces had spelt out a plan to keep the confidence of the general public high and not let them feel insecure by any means.

Senior officers DIG Udhampur Reasi Range, Sarah Rizvi , DC Udhampur Saloni Rai, SSP Amod Nagpure, ADDC Rajinder Singh , ADC Prem Singh , ACR Umesh Shan, SDM Chennai Ranjit Kotwal ,SDM Ramnagar Rajinder Singh Rana, SDM Dudu  Manmeet Kumar & SDM Basant Garh, Waheed Ul Rehman, SDPO Ramnagar, Sultan Mirza, SDPO Chenani Sukhvir Singh, DY SP HQ Prahlad Sharma, Dy SP PC Udhampur Asgar were present for the meeting.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2124738) Visitor Counter : 110

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh holds interaction with Udhampur public representatives , civil society members in wake of security concerns

Dr. Jitendra Singh for the formation of a Civil Society Committee to facilitate regular feedback, timely suggestions

Udhampur’s long-pending dream of an operational airport is close to reality, a development expected to significantly boost local connectivity both for civilians as well as the Army which has its Northern headquarters over here

Widening of the Dhar Road for smooth movement of security forces and the much-anticipated Ujh Multipurpose Project which is also proved vulnerable for cross border infiltrations

Posted On: 27 APR 2025 7:24PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh visited Udhampur today, where he held a comprehensive interaction with public representatives and local citizens and also conducted a review of the security arrangements.

During the meeting, while reassuring the citizens about reinforcement in security deployment, Dr. Jitendra Singh also emphasized the government’s initiatives for the all-round development of the district. He highlighted several key infrastructure and public welfare projects in the region which are being expedited because of their security relevance as well.

These, the Minister said, include the widening of the Dhar Road for smooth movement of security forces and the much-anticipated Ujh Multipurpose Project which is also proved vulnerable for cross border infiltrations and is being pursued by both the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Jal Shakti. He expressed optimism about positive progress on the project.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also revealed that Udhampur’s long-pending dream of an operational airport is close to reality, a development expected to significantly boost local connectivity both for civilians as well as the Army which has its Northern headquarters over here and also the economic prospects.

Adding to the infrastructure push, he informed that the proposed Chatargala Tunnel project is on the agenda, promising to further improve road connectivity in the region and avoid its turning into a militant hideout particularly when it is snow clad and cut off. . He said that efforts are underway to improve mobile connectivity in Udhampur, with the installation and streamlining of mobile towers across the district.

Addressing the needs of youth, the Minister announced that army recruitment drives have resumed, and discussions have already been held with the incoming General Officer Commanding (GOC), Lt Gen Prateek Sharma, who will soon assume charge.

He further underscored Udhampur’s growing importance in the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra, particularly as train services will directly connect pilgrims to the area.

Dr. Jitendra Singh called for the formation of a Civil Society Committee to facilitate regular feedback, timely inputs. He added that such a mechanism will enhance participatory governance.

Speaking on security concerns, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that appropriate security responses will be ensured. “The recent events are an eye-opener. We will address all concerns and constraints to ensure peace and safety. Miscreants will be dealt with firmly,” he added.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also expressed his appreciation to the district administration, particularly the Deputy Commissioner, for their ongoing efforts in maintaining law and order and supporting developmental initiatives.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2124739) Visitor Counter : 104

Source: Government of India

India Led with Compassion During COVID-19, Sharing 300 Million Vaccines Globally: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal addresses World Health Summit Regional Meeting in New Delhi

India’s vaccine diplomacy and Ayushman Bharat show commitment to global health equity, says Union Minister

Govt committed towards ensuring public health, more than 620 million people are now eligible for free healthcare under the Ayushman Bharat scheme: Shri Goyal

Posted On: 27 APR 2025 8:03PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal addressed the World Health Summit (WHS) Regional Meeting Asia 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi today. Shri Goyal highlighted India’s proactive and compassionate global response during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the Vaccine Maitri initiative, India provided nearly 300 million vaccine doses to less developed and vulnerable countries — many free of cost — ensuring no nation was left behind. Shri Goyal emphasized that unlike many other nations that imposed export controls during COVID-19, India prioritized equitable access for all, staying true to its ancient ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “the world is one family.”

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Goyal expressed gratitude that the first WHS Regional Meeting in Asia was focused on “Scaling Access to Ensure Health Equity”. He noted that access to quality healthcare is a critical part of sustainable development and shared India’s journey in achieving greater healthcare access for all.

The Minister recalled personal interactions with global leaders during the pandemic, noting how India ensured the supply of critical medicines at fair prices, resisting the trend of profit-making from global health crises.

Addressing the theme of Health Equity, Shri Goyal strongly criticized attempts to extend pharmaceutical patents through minor incremental innovations, which, he said, could deprive millions of access to affordable medicines. He urged the WHS delegates to experience firsthand India’s efforts to deliver quality healthcare even in remote regions.

Shri Goyal highlighted that more than 620 million people are now eligible for free healthcare under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, the world’s largest government-sponsored health insurance program, emphasizing that India’s commitment was never driven by profit but by compassion.

Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shri Goyal said, “For us, healthcare is not just curing a sick patient. Healthcare is preventive healthcare, it is wellness, it is mental healthcare, and it means bridging society under the umbrella of a better lifestyle and a better future.”

He elaborated on India’s holistic approach to human welfare, highlighting the Swachh Bharat Mission which ensures dignity and sanitation, especially for women; the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, with over 40 million homes already built and millions more underway; the Jal Jeevan Mission, which has expanded tap water access from 30 million to 160 million rural homes; the Ujjwala Yojana, providing free cooking gas connections to protect women from indoor air pollution; and the distribution of free food grains to 800 million citizens during and beyond the pandemic.

Shri Goyal asserted that physical health, mental wellness, clean environments, quality education, digital connectivity, and economic empowerment together form the basis of a truly healthy society.

He closed by reaffirming India’s commitment to the global health agenda and called upon all nations to work together towards a healthier, more equitable future for every citizen of the world.

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Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijjith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

(Release ID: 2124745) Visitor Counter : 109

Source: Government of India

APEDA and the Government of Odisha organises Capacity Building Programme to ‘Boost Agricultural Exports from Odisha’ in Bhubaneswar

GI products like Koraput Kalajeera Rice, Nayagad Kanteimundi, Brinjal, Ganjam Kewda Flower Products, Koraput Coffee and Kandhamal Haldi, showcased at the event

Posted On: 27 APR 2025 8:09PM by PIB Delhi

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Government of Odisha organized a Workshop cum Capacity Building Programme to Boost Agri Products’ Exports from Odisha at Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Hall, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar on the 25^th April, 2025.

The event exhibited over 10 stalls represented by Farmer Producer Organisations (FPO)/ Farmer Producer Companies, women agripreneurs, departments of the Government of Odisha and exporters from all across Odisha. Several GI Tagged and Agri-Products from the state such as Koraput Kalajeera Rice, Nayagad Kanteimundi, Brinjal, Ganjam Kewda Flower Products, Koraput Coffee, Kandhamal Haldi Powder, Kendrapada Rasabali, Salepur Rasagolla, Khajuri Gud, Dhenkanal Magaji Ladoo and Mayurbhanja Kai Chutni were displayed at the University.

Chief Guest and Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Agriculture, Government of Odisha, Shri Kanak Bardhan Singh Deo, in his keynote address, highlighted the initiatives of the State Govt. for increasing agricultural exports, particularly of Organic products, from the State. He encouraged exporters to explore the array of products, including GI products from the state for promotion in the global marketplace. He appreciated the active collaboration of APEDA with the State Govt. towards increasing Agricultural exports from the State.

The event featured three technical sessions focusing on key areas for boosting Odisha’s agricultural exports. The first session addressed the promotion of organic exports under the revised National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP), emphasizing organic certification, value chain development, and market access. The second session discussed strategies to enhance rice exports from Odisha by leveraging unique varieties, improving logistics, and tackling export challenges. The third session explored opportunities for value addition and export promotion of agri-processed and GI-tagged products, with a focus on strengthening logistics, cold chain infrastructure, and market linkages.

The program witnessed the participation of more than 400 stakeholders including the officials from State Government department, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, FPO’s, FPC’s, and progressive farmers.

On the Sidelines of the event, APEDA being the Secretariat for the National Programme for Organic Production(NPOP) organised a stakeholder interaction with more than 30 Organic grower groups of the State and Organic Certification bodies operating in the State of Odisha. The discussions cantered on the revisions in the NPOP (8^th Edition), which was recently launched on 9^th January 2025, and clearing doubts and queries of the growers with respect to the new provisions.

Shri Sukanta Kumar Panigrahi, Member of Parliament and Member, Parliamentary Standing Committee-Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing in his address emphasized on ODOP, use of Agri-Infra fund to support agri exports from the state of Odisha. He further emphasized that the dream of Vikshit bharat by 2047 is possible by developing the overall agriculture export ecosystem which will help to gain competitive advantage, drive economic growth, create better jobs, and generate foreign exchange earnings.

Chairman of APEDA, Shri Abhishek Dev in his welcome address highlighted the export-oriented strategy for agricultural products with special emphasis on organic products. He emphasized on the untapped potential of the State in terms of agriculture exports, particularly in Organic products, owing to huge diversity and quantum of output. He assured that more such programs and export Conclaves will be conducted in future which are highly important paradigms for boosting agricultural exports. He encouraged the FPO’s and FPC’s from the state for participation in key national and international Trade Fairs for market access, promotion and outreach.

The Workshop cum Capacity Building Programme followed by the Technical Sessions brought together key policymakers and experts from the Union and State governments, Industry and Academia aiming to build a robust export ecosystem in the state in the times to come.

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Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan

(Release ID: 2124747) Visitor Counter : 81