SCST commences her visit to Riyadh

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

SCST commences her visit to Riyadh 
Miss Law paid a courtesy call on and attended a lunch hosted by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mr Chang Hua. She briefed Ambassador Chang on her visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the last three days, from which she gained enriching and insightful experience. The trip combined cultural exploration and artistic exchange, fostering a deeper understanding of the country’s inclusive values. She remarked that the visit marked a promising beginning for strengthening mutual ties between Hong Kong and the UAE, particularly in enhancing cultural dialogue. Ambassador Chang noted Saudi Arabia’s gradual openness to embrace the coexistence of diverse cultures. He said that Hong Kong needs to capitalise on and leverage its advantages as a cosmopolitan city, especially its rich tourism resources. Miss Law shared the latest initiatives aimed at boosting tourism in Hong Kong, emphasising tlhe notable interest of the UAE and Saudi Arabia in horse racing tourism, which has long been one of Hong Kong’s most popular attractions.
 
In the afternoon, Miss Law met with the Chief Marketing Officer of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, Mr Kiran Haslam. They exchanged views on cultural heritage preservation and explored potential investment and business opportunities. Miss Law also toured the At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site, and was amazed by the Authority’s vision to transform Diriyah into a premier destination—a beautifully preserved mud-brick city, recognised as the birthplace of Saudi Arabia, and a global hub for tourism.

Earlier in the day, Miss Law visited the Saudi National Museum, where she learnt more about the rich artistic and historical exhibits that reflect the cultural heritage and history of Saudi Arabia.Issued at HKT 23:59

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AI Meets Creativity: Industry Leaders Outline India’s Role in the Future of Digital Expression at WAVES 2025

Source: Government of India

AI Meets Creativity: Industry Leaders Outline India’s Role in the Future of Digital Expression at WAVES 2025

“AI isn’t here to replace jobs—it’s a means to an end.” — Richard Kerris, NVIDIA

“Creativity has transformed every industry.” — Shantanu Narayen, Adobe

Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:52PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, May 1, 2025

 

WAVES 2025 witnessed a convergence of innovation, creativity, and cutting-edge technology with Artificial Intelligence at the heart of the discourse. Three sessions held on the inaugural day of the Summit in Mumbai today, led by global industry figures, mapped the dynamic intersection of AI with media, storytelling, and digital production—reaffirming India’s rising stature in this creative-technological evolution.

“Creativity has transformed every industry.” — Shantanu Narayen, Adobe

In the keynote address on “Design, Media and Creativity in the Age of AI”, Adobe Chairman and CEO Shantanu Narayen offered an expansive perspective on the evolving creative economy. Tracing the digital journey from the internet to mobile and now to artificial intelligence, Narayen pointed to India’s growing role in content creation, with over 500 million Indians consuming online content and a significant shift towards regional languages.

He stressed that AI is not replacing creativity but amplifying it. “Generative AI is enabling Indian creators to transcend traditional mediums,” he said, noting how it supports diverse storytelling across imaging, video, and design. From cinema to real-time mobile storytelling, the creative potential is expanding.

Highlighting India’s unique position in building AI-powered frameworks—from applications to data infrastructure—Narayen outlined a four-fold strategy: supercharge creativity and production, innovate business models, lead an AI-skilled workforce, and foster entrepreneurship. He concluded by thanking the Government of India and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for creating a visionary platform through WAVES.

“AI isn’t here to replace jobs—it’s a means to an end.” — Richard Kerris, NVIDIA

In a thought-provoking fireside chat titled “AI Beyond Work”, Richard Kerris, Vice President at NVIDIA, and Vishal Dhupar, Managing Director, NVIDIA India, explored how AI is redefining personal computing and creative productivity.

Reflecting on the evolution of the PC era, Dhupar remarked, “PCs used to sleep after office hours. But humans don’t.” He explained how NVIDIA’s early vision—imagining PCs as creative companions—now resonates in a world powered by AI.

Kerris provided a historical view, recalling the complexities of mastering 3D animation in the past. “Now, with generative AI, we can go from idea to creation much faster,” he said. Yet, he cautioned against losing touch with fundamentals: “Just because we all have a camera on our phone doesn’t make us all great photographers.”

The speakers agreed that AI enhances human creativity rather than replacing it. “AI puts tools in your hands—but knowing the craft, the basics, that’s still essential,” Kerris stressed. Dhupar concluded: “Creative people live their work. AI doesn’t replace that—it enables it.”

“Bringing Stories to Life with Gen AI” — Anish Mukherjee, NVIDIA

The third session, a masterclass by Anish Mukherjee, Solutions Architect at NVIDIA, focused on the practical applications of generative AI in media. Titled “Bringing Stories to Life with Gen AI”, the session spotlighted NVIDIA’s platform approach, moving beyond hardware to transformative tools.

Mukherjee demonstrated AI-powered solutions including converting static images to digital humans, multilingual voice-overs, and audio-based character animation. Using NVIDIA’s Fugato model, he showcased AI-generated music and realistic lip-syncing for dubbing. He also introduced Cosmos, a suite of foundational models for video generation and simulation-based training via the Omniverse platform.

Explaining the convergence of large language models with AI animation and DLSS, he noted their role in creating immersive storytelling experiences, especially in game development. “AI-powered characters that respond intelligently to players are redefining narrative engagement,” he said.

Mukherjee closed with a call to harness compute power, rich datasets, and algorithmic strength to unlock generative AI’s full potential. NVIDIA’s open-source ecosystem, including Nemostack, empowers creators to develop custom models, furthering innovation across industries.

WAVES 2025: Setting the Stage for AI-Led Creative Transformation

As discussions unfolded across the sessions, a unifying message emerged—AI is a tool for empowerment, not replacement. Whether in design, film, animation, or storytelling, the future belongs to those who understand the basics, harness new tools responsibly, and build systems rooted in ethics, creativity, and inclusion. WAVES 2025 thus stands as a testament to India’s pivotal role in the global creative and technological landscape.

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“Braving the Odds, Scripting a New Narrative”: WAVES 2025 celebrates courage, equality and resilience in M&E

Source: Government of India

“Braving the Odds, Scripting a New Narrative”: WAVES 2025 celebrates courage, equality and resilience in M&E

Ariane Hingst, Former German Footballer and World Champion, Advocates for Equal Opportunities in Sports, at WAVES 2025

Bianca Balti highlights the power of social media in challenging inequality and promoting fair representation at WAVES 2025

Rona-Lee Shimon highlights media’s role in strengthening female voices and breaking cinema stereotypes at WAVES 2025

Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:45PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 1stMay, 2025

The panel discussion on the theme”Braving the Odds, Scripting a New Narrative” held at WAVES 2025 Global Summit today featured three inspiring speakers – Rona-Lee Shimon, well-known Israeli Actress famous for her strong roles in action-packed dramas like Fauda; Bianca Balti, globally recognized Italian model and cancer survivor; and Ariane Hingst, former German footballer and world champion – who have overcome personal or professional challenges while excelling in their fields.

 

Instead of being held back by these challenges, the speakers used them as a chance to grow and build a new path forward. WAVES 2025 is all about celebrating people who turn tough experiences into strength and use their journeys to inspire others. It is a platform that honors courage, change and leadership, especially by those who break social barriers or rise above difficult situations.

During the event, Ariane Hingst shared her journey as a professional footballer in a male-dominated sport. She spoke about overcoming gender bias to become a world champion and how she now uses her voice to promote fairness and equality in sports. She highlighted the lack of media coverage and proper platforms for women’s football compared to men’s and stressed the need for equal opportunities and recognition for women athletes.

 

As part of the panel discussion, Bianca Balti, a globally recognized model and cancer survivor, shared her powerful story of resilience and her return to work after recovery. She spoke about the gender pay gap in the modeling industry, pointing out that female models are often paid less than their male counterparts and that men still occupy more space in media. Bianca emphasized that the true power of media especially social media lies in its ability to create change. It can help raise unheard voices, challenge inequality and promote fair representation, particularly for women.

 


 

During the event, Rona-Lee Shimon highlighted that WAVES provides a platform for storytellers to change narratives and bring people together. She emphasized the importance of women uniting to create new opportunities in cinema, encouraging them to be brave, support one another, and not be afraid to stand up for change. She also noted that social media plays a key role in this movement by giving women the power to share their voices and stories. Known for her strong and dynamic roles on screen, Rona-Lee continues to break stereotypes in the entertainment industry, proving that strength, action, and depth are not defined by gender.

 

 

Each speaker has faced personal or professional odds and instead of being defined by them, they’ve used those moments to rewrite their own story. That is exactly what WAVES 2025 stands for: celebrating individuals who are not just surviving challenges, but transforming them into platforms for change and inspiration.

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Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah unveils statue and naming of Road and Rotary in New Delhi as a Tribute to Bodofa Upendranath Brahma

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah unveils statue and naming of Road and Rotary in New Delhi as a Tribute to Bodofa Upendranath Brahma

The statue of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma is a tribute not only to Bodoland but to all the people of the country who struggled for the development of their language and religion

The Bodofa statue in New Delhi is a symbol of self-respect of the tribal society across the country

Bodofa known for his peaceful fight for respect, identity and equal rights not only for Bodoland and Bodo tribe but for the entire tribal community

We have solved 96 per cent of the issues of the Bodo Accord and will soon resolve 100 per cent of the issues

Modi government has made more than 20 agreements in North East, more than 10 thousand people from there have surrendered their weapons and come into the mainstream and 78 per cent of the issues have been fulfilled by Modi government in the last 3-4 years

Now the Bodo youth should carry forward the basic concept of Batho religion with the principle of live and let live and contribute to the development of Assam

Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:54PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today unveiled the statue and naming of Road and Rotary as a tribute to Bodofa Upendranath Brahma in New Delhi. Many dignitaries including Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta were present on the occasion.

In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that today is the 35th death anniversary of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma, who fought for the respect and rights of his community and region all his life. To pay tribute to him, today his life-size statue and an important road in the capital Delhi have been named as Bodofa Upendranath Brahma Marg. Shri Shah said, the statue of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma is a tribute not only to Bodoland but to all the people of the country who struggled for the development of their language and religion. The Bodofa statue in New Delhi is a symbol of self-respect of the tribal society across the country.

Shri Shah said that the statue installed in Delhi is not only a matter of respect for Bodoland but also for the struggle made by small tribes across the country for the upliftment and development of their language, religion, caste and the people.

While paying tribute to those who lost their lives in the Pahalgam terror attack, the Home Minister told the families of those who lost their lives in the attack that this is not just their loss but the loss of the entire nation. Shri Shah said that the pain of the loss of lives in the Pahalgam attack is as much in the hearts of their families as it is in the heart of every citizen of the country. He said that, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has a zero tolerance policy against those involved in terrorism in Kashmir and we are fighting our battle strongly. The Home Minister said that the terrorists should not think that today they have won this battle by taking the lives of our citizens. Shri Shah said that this is not the end of the battle and every person responsible for terrorism will be answered and will also be asked to answer.

Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, whether it’s insurgency in North East, Left Wing Extremism or terrorism in Kashmir, all these have been given befitted reply. He said that if anyone thinks that they have won by carrying out cowardly attacks, then they should know that this is the Modi Government which will not spare anyone. The Home Minister said that the resolve of the Modi Government to root out terrorism from the soil of India will be fulfilled. He said that not only 140 crore Indians but the entire world is standing with India in this fight. All the countries of the world are unitedly standing with the people of India in the fight against terrorism. He said that our fight will continue till terrorism is not eliminated and those who have committed this misdeed will definitely be punished.

Union Home Minister said that today a 9 feet high statue of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma has been unveiled. Bodofa is known for fighting for respect, identity and equal rights not only for Bodoland and Bodo community but also for the entire tribal community. Shri Shah said that a tribal child born in a remote area of ​​the country united the entire tribal society and taught them to fight for their rights in a peaceful manner. Bodofa brought together people of all tribes living in abject poverty. Shri Shah said that today Bodofa is no more but his formula of live and let live has been accepted by the entire Bodoland and tribal society. He said that after the sacrifice of thousands of youth, today our Bodoland has moved ahead on the path of peace and development. Today the whole of Assam accepts the people of Bodoland and Bodoland accepts Assam. He said that the Bodo people have as much right on this country as all of us. The Home Minister said that since 2014, the government running in the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi believes that everyone has a right on India and India has a right on everyone and under this principle, today Bodoland has moved ahead on the path of development.

Shri Amit Shah said that after 9 months of extensive discussion, the Bodo Accord was signed in 2020 and all the people have joined the mainstream by laying down their arms. He said that the Modi government also abides by whatever agreements it makes. Our government is also abiding by the agreements made during the tenure of the previous government. He said that we have cleared 96 per cent of the issues of the Bodo Accord and will soon resolve 100 per cent of the issues. Shri Shah said that this is a huge gift of the Modi government to the people of Assam and the North East. He said that the Modi government has signed more than 20 agreements in the North East and more than 10 thousand people have laid down their arms and joined the mainstream. In more than 20 agreements, 78 per cent of the issues have been fulfilled by the Modi government in the last 3-4 years. He said that this shows that we do what we say and today the whole of Assam has moved forward on the path of peace.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that now the Bodo youth should carry forward the basic idea of ​​Bathou religion with the motto of live and let live and contribute to the development of Assam. He said that today Assam has become a center of attraction for industrial investment in the entire country and many industries are developing in Assam. He said that our North East has more than 220 ethnic groups, over 160 tribes, more than 200 languages ​​and dialects, more than 50 unique festivals, over 30 traditional dance styles and more than 100 delicious dishes. Home Minister said that the culture of North East and Assam is a priceless jewel of the culture of India. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has done a lot of work for the development of Assam and North East. Shri Narendra Modi is the only Prime Minister who has visited North East more than 50 times after becoming the Prime Minister. Shri Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has visited even the remote areas like Bodoland many times, which shows that our North East is a very big and important part of the country. He said that the culture and strength of the North East are priceless and the Modi government is working with this objective of using the strength of the entire nation in the development of the North East.

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RK/VV/PS

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Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses a Programme on Gujarat Day and Maharashtra Day in New Delhi

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses a Programme on Gujarat Day and Maharashtra Day in New Delhi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has taken steps to to preserve the purity and sanctity of Yamuna water from Yamunotri to Prayagraj and to build a riverfront on the lines of Sabarmati in Delhi

Purification of Yamuna is of great importance not only for the people of Delhi and neighboring states but also for all Indians who worship Shri Krishna and Yamuna ji

Gujarat and Maharashtra, formed out of one state, have set an excellent example of developing the country through their own development by respecting each other and having healthy competition between the two states without any bitterness against each other

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi by taking the resolution of Ek Bharat Sreshtha Bharat has foiled all evil ideas that weaken our unity, the result is today every language and culture draws strength from each other

If a person decides in his heart that everything that causes disintegration should be eliminated, then Prime Minister Modi has given an ideal example of this by imagining Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat

Maharashtra, the land of Veer Chhatrapati, keeping up with its tradition, gave a strong fight to the Mughals and kept the flag of Swabhasha, Swaraj and Swadharma fluttering

Today Garba is celebrated with equal enthusiasm in Maharashtra and during Ganesh festival in Gujarat, Ganpati is brought to every house with reverance

Vibrant Gujarat and Magnificent Maharashtra are strong pillars of the country’s development

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, both the states have finalized their development roadmap till 2047

Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:45PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah today addressed a program on the occasion of Gujarat and Maharashtra Day in New Delhi. Many dignitaries including Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Shri VK Saxena and Chief Minister of Delhi Smt. Rekha Gupta were present on the occasion.

In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has taken steps to preserve the purity and sanctity of Yamuna water from Yamunotri to Prayagraj and to build a riverfront on the lines of Sabarmati in Delhi. He said that purification of Yamuna is of utmost importance not only for the people of Delhi and its neighboring states but also for all Indians who worship Shri Krishna and Yamuna ji.

Union Home Minister said that today is the foundation day of both Gujarat and Maharashtra. He said that Gujarat and Maharashtra have set an excellent example of how two states formed out of one state can lead the country through their development by respecting each other and with a healthy competition between them without any bitterness. He said that people who wanted to divide the country by making the issues of boundaries, language and culture were succeeding in their ill intentions but Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji foiled all these evil ideas. He said Shri Narendra Modi has taken the resolution of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, the result of which is that today every language and culture draws strength from each other.

Shri Amit Shah said that there is no competition between Marathi and Gujarati and both are great languages ​​in their own places. He said that the idea of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat is an ideal example of how one can fight against those that adversely impact our unity. He said that on May 1, 1960, two states were born from the state of Mumbai, one became glorious Gujarat and the other became great Maharashtra. He said that both the states have contributed a lot in solving every problem of the country and taking development forward for many years.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that Maharashtra, the land of Veer Chhatrapati, carried forward his tradition and from Bajirao Peshwa to other generals, gave a strong fight to the Mughals and raised the flag of mother language, self rule and self religion.

He said that the first idea of ​​complete independence was put forward by young Shivaji Maharaj and when the British rule came it was taken forward by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak Maharaj who gave the slogan of Swaraj is my birthright,. Shri Shah said that whether it is Bhakti movement or the progressive path of social reform, Jyotiba Phule, Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Ji, all showed the way not only to Maharashtra but to the entire country. He said that Veer Savarkar ji became the source of inspiration for crores of youth across the country as a dedicated patriot.

Shri Amit Shah said that Gujarat was also the karmabhoomi of Shri Krishna and the birthplace of Swami Dayanand Saraswati. He said that many strong empires were born in Gujarat and in the freedom struggle, Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel worked to give shape to the entire freedom movement. He said that after independence, India has been able to cover such a long distance today only under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in achieving the goal of development and uniting the country and strengthening it to reach the highest position in the world.

Union Home Minister said that the contribution of both Maharashtra and Gujarat in the development of India has been huge before and after independence. He said that today Garba is celebrated with the same enthusiasm in Maharashtra and during Ganesh Utsav in Gujarat, Ganpati is brought to every house with respect. He said that this is the biggest strength of our country. Shri Shah said that both the states are standing as very strong pillars of the country’s economic development. He said that Maharashtra has always been the economic capital of the country and even today it is the country’s largest economy. Home Minister said that Gujarat’s GSDP has also crossed 30 lakh crores and it is the third largest economy of the country. Gujarat has the largest port, the largest refinery, Asia’s largest renewable energy park, the first bullet train will go from Gujarat, the first GIFT city and now Dholera Smart City is also being built in Gujarat. He said that Vibrant Gujarat and Magnificent Maharashtra have become strong pillars of the country’s development. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, both the states have finalized the roadmap for their development till 2047.

Shri Amit Shah said that Gujarat and Maharashtra have accepted modernity while preserving their heritage and have contributed a lot to the unity and integrity of the country. He said that in Modi ji’s vision of a great India, both the states have accepted the formula of healthy competition between the states and the development of the country through it. Shri Shah said that when a developed India will be formed in 2047, both the states will have the biggest contribution in it.

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Assamese Filmmakers and Actors join the Discussion on “Challenges and Prospects of Cinema in Northeast India” at WAVES 2025

Source: Government of India

Assamese Filmmakers and Actors join the Discussion on “Challenges and Prospects of Cinema in Northeast India” at WAVES 2025

Northeast is a reservoir of talent: Jahnu Barua

“Assam needs OTT platforms to better market its films”, says Jatin Bora

Our languages carry centuries of oral history: Aimee Barua

Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:36PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 1 May 2025

In a landmark moment for Northeast Indian cinema, a panel discussion titled “Challenges and Prospects of Cinema in Northeast India” was held at the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai. The session brought together some of the most prominent voices from the region’s film industry to explore its vibrant cinematic landscape.


The panel featured acclaimed filmmakers and actors including Jahnu Barua, Jatin Bora, Ravi Sarma, Aimee Baruah, HaobamPaban Kumar, and Dominic Sangma, all of whom have played instrumental roles in shaping the film culture of the Northeast.

 

The discussion addressed a range of challenges faced by filmmakers in the region, including inadequate production infrastructure, language barriers, limited market access and a lack of institutional support. Despite these hurdles, the panelists unanimously agreed that the Northeast remains a fertile ground for cinematic innovation and cultural storytelling.

Veteran filmmaker Jahnu Barua remarked thatthe Northeast is a reservoir of talent. Filmmakers from this region are producing remarkable work. He emphasized the region’s rich socio-cultural fabric and its abundance of untold stories. The future of Northeast cinema is very bright, with many young talents emerging, he added.

Jatin Bora, a celebrated actor from Assam, highlighted the limited reach of Northeastern films beyond regional boundaries. Speaking on the need for digital distribution, he said, Assam needs OTT platforms to better market its films. He urged the government to support the creation of such platforms to help regional films reach broader audiences. He also called on both central and state governments to develop long-term policies to support the regional film ecosystem, stressing that without a robust distribution network, even the best films struggle to cross state lines.

Ravi Sarma spoke about the urgent need for systemic investment in the region’s creative infrastructure. Financial backing and marketing infrastructure are crucial for the growth of the regional industry. The Northeast holds millions of beautiful and unique stories, he said.

Actor-director Aimee Baruah focused on the role of cinema in preserving linguistic diversity. “Our languages carry centuries of oral history. Film is a powerful medium to protect and promote them,” she noted.

Filmmakers HaobamPaban Kumar and Dominic Sangma shared insights into grassroots-level filmmaking in the region, pointing out how many storytellers continue to work without formal support systems.

The session concluded on a hopeful note, with panellists calling for policy reforms, regional collaborations, and strategic use of OTT platforms to break traditional barriers. They urged all stakeholders, government bodies, private investors and national studios to come together in recognizing and elevating the cinematic voices of the Northeast.

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Mukesh Ambani Unveils Vision for India-Led Global Entertainment Revolution at WAVES 2025

Source: Government of India

Mukesh Ambani Unveils Vision for India-Led Global Entertainment Revolution at WAVES 2025

Let ‘WAVES’ be the message of hope from a resurgent new India to the world: Mukesh Ambani

Media & Entertainment is not just India’s soft power—It’s India’s real power: Ambani

Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:32PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 1 May 2025

“India is not just a nation—it is a civilization of stories, where story-telling is a way of life”, said Shri Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries, as he delivered the keynote address at WAVES 2025, the pioneering global media and entertainment summit started in Mumbai today.

In a rousing and forward-looking address titled “Building the Next Global Entertainment Revolution from India,” Ambani envisioned a future where India becomes the epicentre of the world’s entertainment industry. He credited the bold vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for inspiring this transformation and hailed the WAVE Summit as a historic step in that direction. “People say Media & Entertainment is India’s soft power—I call it India’s real power,” said Ambani, affirming the country’s rising influence in global culture and creativity.

He identified two tectonic shifts reshaping the creative landscape: geo-economics and technology. As the economic might of the Global South surges—home to 85% of the world’s population—so does its role in content creation and consumption. At the same time, cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence are revolutionizing every stage of the entertainment value chain, from content creation to distribution. “AI is dissolving the boundaries between imagination and execution. What AI is doing for entertainment today is a million times more transformative than what the silent camera did for cinema a century ago”, he flagged.

Highlighting India’s unique strengths, Ambani said that the country is poised to lead the entertainment revolution, powered by three pillars; Compelling Content, Dynamic Demography and Technological Leadership. “India’s digital revolution is not just a story of scale—it is a story of aspiration, ambition, and transformation,” he declared.

Concluding his keynote, Ambani offered a message of optimism: “In a polarized and uncertain world, people seek joy, connection, and inspiration. India will answer this global hunger for entertainment. Let WAVES be the message of hope from a resurgent new India to the world.”

 

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Day One of NAM Conclave Witnesses Dynamic Participation from State & UT Ayush/Health Ministers, Paving Way for Strengthened Ayush Collaboration

Source: Government of India

Day One of NAM Conclave Witnesses Dynamic Participation from State & UT Ayush/Health Ministers, Paving Way for Strengthened Ayush Collaboration

Our Goal is Illness to Wellness leading to Happiness: Hon’ble Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush Prataprao Jadhav

11.56 crore benefit from Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) in 2024: Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush Prataprao Jadhav

Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:16PM by PIB Mumbai

Reaffirming its commitment and highlighting the strides taken by various States and Union Territories in the Ayush sector, the National Ayush Mission (NAM) Conclave 2025 commenced today at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala (Maharashtra). The event sets the stage for a future roadmap to consolidate and expand the outreach of Ayush services across the nation.

Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Union Minister of State, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare inaugurated the two-day conclave, along with Ayush/Health Ministers and senior officials from various State and UT governments including Dr. Prem Chand Bairwa, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister-in-charge of Ayush, Government of Rajasthan; Shri Y. Satya Kumar Yadav, Minister of Health, Family Welfare, and Medical Education, Government of Andhra Pradesh; Dr. Dayashankar Mishra ‘Dayalu’, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush, Food Safety, and Drug Administration, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Medical Education, Government of Chhattisgarh; Shri Yadvinder Goma, Minister of Ayush, Youth Services & Sports, and Law, Government of Himachal Pradesh;  Shri G.T. Dhungel, Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Culture, Government of Sikkim; and Smt. Pi Lalrinpuii, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Mizoram.

Organised by the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, the conclave has brought together Ayush experts, policymakers, health professionals, researchers, and innovators. It aims to strengthen the integration of traditional Indian systems of medicine into mainstream healthcare—making wellness more accessible, affordable, and evidence-based for the common citizen.

Setting the tone of the conclave, the Union Ayush Minister said, “It is noteworthy that the Ministry had organised a NAM Conclave in 2023, where Hon’ble Ministers and senior officials from various States and UTs shared valuable insights for the effective implementation of the NAM scheme. That dialogue resulted in the formulation of an action plan to improve the execution and outcomes of the National Ayush Mission. The initiative of establishment of 12,500 Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) has significantly enhanced healthcare availability, with the number of beneficiaries rising from 1.5 crore in 2021 to more than 11.5 crore in 2025. As a result, there has been a remarkable improvement in the accessibility of Ayush healthcare services, driven by improved infrastructure, availability of medicines, trained manpower, and strengthened educational institutions.”

Encouraged by the previous success, the Union Minister added, “I am confident that this second edition of the National Ayush Mission Conclave will serve as a robust platform for both States/UTs and the Central Government to jointly review the Mission’s progress, strengthen governance systems, promote innovation, streamline financial processes, and ensure rapid and effective implementation of programmes at the grassroots level. On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt best wishes for the success of the Conclave to the teams working tirelessly at both the State/UT and Central levels. I also express my sincere gratitude to the dedicated and committed team of Kaivalyadhama for their tireless efforts.”

Delivering the welcome address, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Union Ministry of Ayush, emphasized the growing significance of the Ayush sector through NAM, and stated, “Since its inception in 2014 with an initial budget of ₹78 crore, the National Ayush Mission has witnessed a remarkable increase in allocation, reaching ₹1275 crore in 2025–26—reflecting the immense success of the scheme and the unwavering commitment of the Government of India towards strengthening Ayush healthcare across the country. Ayush systems are gaining prominence due to their holistic approach, personalized care, and increasing global interest, backed by strong government support. According to NSSO (2022–23), nearly 95% of rural and 96% of urban Indians are aware of Ayush, with millions regularly practicing Yoga—signifying growing trust and nationwide acceptance”, the Secretary further added.

Dr. Dayashankar Mishra, Minister of Ayush, Uttar Pradesh, lauded the efforts of the Union Government to boost the integrative healthcare infrastructure of the state through progressive schemes such as the National Ayush Mission. The Minister also mentioned, “Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in the world, has made remarkable progress in the Ayush sector. Currently, the state has 3,959 operational Ayush hospitals, offering facilities with capacities of 4 beds, 15 beds, 25 beds, and 30 beds.”

Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Chhattisgarh mentioned, “Integrated Medicine offers a meaningful solution by combining Ayush and modern medical systems, providing dual benefits to patients.”

Shri Prem Chand Bairwa, Deputy Chief Minister, Rajasthan, mentioned, “Through the joint efforts of Hon’ble Union Ayush Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Ayush Secretary, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, and the State Government, Ayurveda is being brought to the grassroots level. The two-day Conclave is expected to be a milestone in the development of Ayurveda. The State Government is preparing a comprehensive Ayush policy aimed at the integrated growth of all Ayush systems.

Shri Yadvinder Goma, Minister of Ayush, Himachal Pradesh highlighted how with the support through National Ayush Mission the healthcare infrastructure continues to grow. He also stated, “Himachal Pradesh has developed an integrated model in the Ayush sector, combining traditional knowledge with modern technology, ensuring outreach to rural areas, focusing on women’s health, and enhancing transparency through digital solutions. This progress is a meaningful step towards realising Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Ayushman Bharat’.

Smt. Pi Lalrinpuii, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Mizoram, stated  “I am pleased to note that since the establishment of our Ayush Wellness Centers, various Ayush systems have gained considerable popularity in just a few years. This progress is largely due to the unwavering support we receive from the Ministry and the relentless efforts of our dedicated teams at state and central level.”

Shri G.T. Dhungel, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Sikkim, appreciated the assistance of the Union Government through the National Ayush Mission and said, “The Government of Sikkim has been constantly working to ensure delivery of healthcare in all areas of the state and the NAM scheme has helped developing the integrative healthcare infrastructure in the state to greatly complement these efforts.”

Speaking on the themes of the Conclave, Ms. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, shared key milestones: “Additionally, 5.6 crore beneficiaries have availed services at Ayush tertiary care institutions. NABH entry-level certification for 1,372 Ayush Health and Wellness Centres, and the establishment of 189 Integrated Ayush Hospitals reflect our commitment to quality and accessibility. ”

A key highlight of the inaugural session was the release of the Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) on Metabolic Disorders in Ayush Systems of Medicine by the Hon’ble Union Minister and other dignitaries. Developed by the Ayush Vertical in collaboration with various Research Councils, these guidelines cover five major metabolic disorders—Diabetes Mellitus, Obesity, Gout, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), and Dyslipidemia. Vetted by Allopathic experts, the STGs integrate Yoga, disease-specific dietary protocols, and standardized clinical procedures to serve as a comprehensive reference for practitioners, educators, and primary healthcare providers across the country.

The inaugural session was followed by a roundtable discussion among the participating Ayush/Health ministers from various states/UTs focused on the way forward for strengthening Ayush services in the country through NAM activities in their respective states. The session was chaired by Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Hon’ble Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush wherein the ministers and concerned officials from states and UTs exchanged their experiential wisdom while pointing out respective future strategies to address the challenges and negotiate the opportunities.

During the program a special Y-Break session was also organised with enthusiastic participation from all led by Honourable Ministers and senior officials.

 

About the National Ayush Mission (NAM):

The flagship program National Ayush Mission launched in 2014 and it has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting India’s traditional systems of medicine and their integration into the mainstream healthcare system. It aims to enhance the availability, accessibility, and quality of Ayush healthcare services across the country through Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) as part of Government of India’s Ayushman Bharat scheme.

In the last edition of NAM Conclave held in 2023, several key resolutions were adopted, including expansion of Ayush Health and Wellness Centres (now AAM-Ayush), integration of Ayush services with National Health Programs, and capacity building of Ayush practitioners. The 2025 edition aims to build upon these achievements, with renewed focus on innovation, standardisation, and international outreach.

 

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MV/AKS/CY

(Release ID: 2125920) Visitor Counter : 61

India Advocates Global Action on Chemicals and Waste at BRS COPs 2025

Source: Government of India

India Advocates Global Action on Chemicals and Waste at BRS COPs 2025

Union Minister for Environment Forest & Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav leads Indian Delegation at high-level Segment in Geneva

Shri Yadav emphasizes India’s Regulatory Framework and Global Leadership on Plastic Pollution

Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:27PM by PIB Delhi

An Inter-Ministerial delegation from India, led by the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, is participating in the Conference of the Parties (COPs) to the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions, taking place in Geneva from 30th April to 1st May, 2025. The theme of this year’s high-level segment is “Make visible the invisible: Sound management of chemicals and wastes.”

During his address in opening ceremony, Shri Bhupender Yadav emphasized that the theme reflects the global imperative of addressing the often-unseen threats of chemical and waste mismanagement. He reiterated India’s commitment to environmentally sound policies, underpinned by a robust legal and institutional framework.

Key Interventions and Bilateral Engagements

At the ministerial roundtable on ‘Means of Implementation’, Shri Yadav highlighted that the effective execution of the BRS Conventions relies significantly on access to finance, technology transfer, capacity-building, technical assistance, and strengthened international cooperation. He outlined India’s integrated approach to implementing the conventions through national legislation such as the Environment (Protection) Act, the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, and the E-Waste Management Rules, 2016, which are supported by sustained investments in institutional and technical infrastructure.

On the sidelines of the COPs, the Union Minister Shri Yadav participated in a consultation meeting organized by Norway on the work of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) on Plastic Pollution. He apprised participants of India’s domestic initiatives such as the ban on identified single-use plastic items and the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic packaging.

Shri Yadav further underlined India’s pioneering role in international environmental governance under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, highlighting that India introduced a resolution on single use plastics at UNEA-4, bringing the issue to the center of global discourse.

During the bilateral meeting with Ms. Katrin Schneeberger, Director of the Federal Office for the Environment, Switzerland, Shri Yadav discussed matters related to the development of a legally binding international instrument on plastic pollution, and India’s support for the establishment of a Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals and Waste, as mandated by UNEA resolutions.

Forward-Looking Engagement

The High-Level Segment of the BRS COPs features ministerial roundtables and interactive dialogues focused on collaborative global action.

India remains steadfast in its commitment to multilateral environmental cooperation and will continue to advocate for the interests of developing countries while ensuring equitable, science-based, and sustainable solutions for the planet.

*****

GS

(Release ID: 2125922) Visitor Counter : 51

Day One of National Ayush Mission Conclave Witnesses Dynamic Participation from State & UT Ayush/Health Ministers, Paving Way for Strengthened Ayush Collaboration

Source: Government of India

Day One of National Ayush Mission Conclave Witnesses Dynamic Participation from State & UT Ayush/Health Ministers, Paving Way for Strengthened Ayush Collaboration

Our Goal is ‘Illness to Wellness’ leading to Happiness: Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush Prataprao Jadhav

11.56 crore benefit from Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) in 2024: Union Ayush Minister

Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:24PM by PIB Delhi

Reaffirming its commitment and highlighting the strides taken by various States and Union Territories in the Ayush sector, the National Ayush Mission (NAM) Conclave 2025 commenced today at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala (Maharashtra). The event sets the stage for a future roadmap to consolidate and expand the outreach of Ayush services across the nation.

Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Union Minister of State, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare inaugurated the two-day conclave, along with Ayush/Health Ministers and senior officials from various State and UT governments including Dr. Prem Chand Bairwa, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister-in-charge of Ayush, Government of Rajasthan; Shri Y. Satya Kumar Yadav, Minister of Health, Family Welfare, and Medical Education, Government of Andhra Pradesh; Dr. Dayashankar Mishra ‘Dayalu’, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush, Food Safety, and Drug Administration, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Medical Education, Government of Chhattisgarh; Shri Yadvinder Goma, Minister of Ayush, Youth Services & Sports, and Law, Government of Himachal Pradesh;  Shri G.T. Dhungel, Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Culture, Government of Sikkim; and Smt. Pi Lalrinpuii, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Mizoram.

Organised by the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, the conclave has brought together Ayush experts, policymakers, health professionals, researchers, and innovators. It aims to strengthen the integration of traditional Indian systems of medicine into mainstream healthcare—making wellness more accessible, affordable, and evidence-based for the common citizen.

Setting the tone of the conclave, the Union Ayush Minister said, “It is noteworthy that the Ministry had organised a NAM Conclave in 2023, where the Ministers and senior officials from various States and UTs shared valuable insights for the effective implementation of the NAM scheme. That dialogue resulted in the formulation of an action plan to improve the execution and outcomes of the National Ayush Mission. The initiative of establishment of 12,500 Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) has significantly enhanced healthcare availability, with the number of beneficiaries rising from 1.5 crore in 2021 to more than 11.5 crore in 2025. As a result, there has been a remarkable improvement in the accessibility of Ayush healthcare services, driven by improved infrastructure, availability of medicines, trained manpower, and strengthened educational institutions.”

Encouraged by the previous success, the Union Minister added, “I am confident that this second edition of the National Ayush Mission Conclave will serve as a robust platform for both States/UTs and the Central Government to jointly review the Mission’s progress, strengthen governance systems, promote innovation, streamline financial processes, and ensure rapid and effective implementation of programmes at the grassroots level. On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt best wishes for the success of the Conclave to the teams working tirelessly at both the State/UT and Central levels. I also express my sincere gratitude to the dedicated and committed team of Kaivalyadhama for their tireless efforts.”

Delivering the welcome address, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Union Ministry of Ayush, emphasized the growing significance of the Ayush sector through NAM, and stated, “Since its inception in 2014 with an initial budget of ₹78 crore, the National Ayush Mission has witnessed a remarkable increase in allocation, reaching ₹1275 crore in 2025–26—reflecting the immense success of the scheme and the unwavering commitment of the Government of India towards strengthening Ayush healthcare across the country. Ayush systems are gaining prominence due to their holistic approach, personalized care, and increasing global interest, backed by strong government support. According to NSSO (2022–23), nearly 95% of rural and 96% of urban Indians are aware of Ayush, with millions regularly practicing Yoga—signifying growing trust and nationwide acceptance”, the Secretary further added.

Dr. Dayashankar Mishra, Minister of Ayush, Uttar Pradesh, lauded the efforts of the Union Government to boost the integrative healthcare infrastructure of the state through progressive schemes such as the National Ayush Mission. The Minister also mentioned, “Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in the world, has made remarkable progress in the Ayush sector. Currently, the state has 3,959 operational Ayush hospitals, offering facilities with capacities of 4 beds, 15 beds, 25 beds, and 30 beds.”

Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Chhattisgarh mentioned, “Integrated Medicine offers a meaningful solution by combining Ayush and modern medical systems, providing dual benefits to patients.”

Shri Prem Chand Bairwa, Deputy Chief Minister, Rajasthan, mentioned, “Through the joint efforts of Hon’ble Union Ayush Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Ayush Secretary, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, and the State Government, Ayurveda is being brought to the grassroots level. The two-day Conclave is expected to be a milestone in the development of Ayurveda. The State Government is preparing a comprehensive Ayush policy aimed at the integrated growth of all Ayush systems.

Shri Yadvinder Goma, Minister of Ayush, Himachal Pradesh highlighted how with the support through National Ayush Mission the healthcare infrastructure continues to grow. He also stated, “Himachal Pradesh has developed an integrated model in the Ayush sector, combining traditional knowledge with modern technology, ensuring outreach to rural areas, focusing on women’s health, and enhancing transparency through digital solutions. This progress is a meaningful step towards realising Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Ayushman Bharat’.

Smt. Pi Lalrinpuii, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Mizoram, stated  “I am pleased to note that since the establishment of our Ayush Wellness Centers, various Ayush systems have gained considerable popularity in just a few years. This progress is largely due to the unwavering support we receive from the Ministry and the relentless efforts of our dedicated teams at state and central level.”

Shri G.T. Dhungel, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Sikkim, appreciated the assistance of the Union Government through the National Ayush Mission and said, “The Government of Sikkim has been constantly working to ensure delivery of healthcare in all areas of the state and the NAM scheme has helped developing the integrative healthcare infrastructure in the state to greatly complement these efforts.”

Speaking on the themes of the Conclave, Ms. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, shared key milestones: “Additionally, 5.6 crore beneficiaries have availed services at Ayush tertiary care institutions. NABH entry-level certification for 1,372 Ayush Health and Wellness Centres, and the establishment of 189 Integrated Ayush Hospitals reflect our commitment to quality and accessibility. ”

A key highlight of the inaugural session was the release of the Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) on Metabolic Disorders in Ayush Systems of Medicine by the Hon’ble Union Minister and other dignitaries. Developed by the Ayush Vertical in collaboration with various Research Councils, these guidelines cover five major metabolic disorders—Diabetes Mellitus, Obesity, Gout, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), and Dyslipidemia. Vetted by Allopathic experts, the STGs integrate Yoga, disease-specific dietary protocols, and standardized clinical procedures to serve as a comprehensive reference for practitioners, educators, and primary healthcare providers across the country.

The inaugural session was followed by a roundtable discussion among the participating Ayush/Health ministers from various states/UTs focused on the way forward for strengthening Ayush services in the country through NAM activities in their respective states. The session was chaired by Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Hon’ble Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush wherein the ministers and concerned officials from states and UTs exchanged their experiential wisdom while pointing out respective future strategies to address the challenges and negotiate the opportunities.

During the program a special Y-Break session was also organised with enthusiastic participation from all led by Honourable Ministers and senior officials.

 

About the National Ayush Mission (NAM):

The flagship program National Ayush Mission launched in 2014 and it has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting India’s traditional systems of medicine and their integration into the mainstream healthcare system. It aims to enhance the availability, accessibility, and quality of Ayush healthcare services across the country through Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) as part of Government of India’s Ayushman Bharat scheme.

In the last edition of NAM Conclave held in 2023, several key resolutions were adopted, including expansion of Ayush Health and Wellness Centres (now AAM-Ayush), integration of Ayush services with National Health Programs, and capacity building of Ayush practitioners. The 2025 edition aims to build upon these achievements, with renewed focus on innovation, standardisation, and international outreach.

****

MV/AKS

(Release ID: 2125921) Visitor Counter : 49