MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Government of India

NCSC celebrates Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Jayanti 2025, themed ‘A Journey of 75 years of Constitution of India’, in New Delhi

Youth must imbibe Ideals of Babasaheb and contribute to building an Inclusive and Progressive India: Dr. Virendra Kumar

True Nation-building is possible only when every Citizen enjoys Equal Rights, Opportunities, and Dignity: Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal

Posted On: 14 APR 2025 8:47PM by PIB Delhi

The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) paid tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. Ambedkar in a celebration on his 135^th Birthday Anniversary, in New Delhi today. The primary theme of the event was – ‘A Journey of 75 years of Constitution of India’.

 

 

Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, presided over the event as the Chief Guest and Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs & Law and Justice as the Guest of Honour.  Other dignitaries on dais included Shri Kishor Makwana, Chairman, NCSC, asking with Commission Members, Shri Love Kush Kumar and Shri Vaddapalli Ramchander.

In his keynote address, Dr. Virendra Kumar narrated the numerous contributions of Babasaheb Ambedkar addressing the welfare of the community, while being the Chief Architect of the Constitution of India. The mantras of social Equality, Liberty and fraternity were reiterated in detail for the present and future generations. He reflected on the immense personal sufferings and social humiliation endured by Dr. Ambedkar, which only strengthened his resolve to fight for justice, dignity, and equality for all. The Minister called upon the youth to imbibe the ideals of Babasaheb and contribute to building an inclusive and progressive India. The first ever such celebration by NCSC on account of 75 years of Journey of the Constitution of India on such a scale was applauded and appreciated by the Minister.

 

 

Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal lauded Dr. Ambedkar’s role as the architect of the Indian Constitution and stressed the importance of legal empowerment and representation for Scheduled Castes in all spheres of life. The sufferings and learning from the life history of the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s life was narrated by Minister for enlightening the youth of the country. He further emphasized that equality was the cornerstone of Dr. Ambedkar’s vision, and true nation-building is possible only when every citizen enjoys equal rights, opportunities, and dignity.

 

 

Addressing the gathering, Chairperson (NCSC) highlighted Dr. Ambedkar’s enduring contributions to education, self-respect, and character-building among the marginalized communities. He reaffirmed NCSC’s resolve to safeguard the constitutional rights of Scheduled Castes and ensure their holistic development through policy advocacy, awareness, and active monitoring. Member (NCSC) Shri Love Kush Kumar, emphasized the transformative role Dr. Ambedkar played in laying the foundation for a just and equitable society. Member Shri Vaddapalli Ramchander reflected on Dr. Ambedkar’s relentless struggle against caste-based discrimination and his efforts to enshrine social justice in the Constitution.

 

 

Earlier in his welcome address, Secretary (NCSC), Shri G. Srinivas briefly highlighted the efforts of the present Commission in improving the complaint handling, transparency and continuous response/update to petitioners. The NCSC in its endeavors to reach out to SC communities has been undertaking various steps as part of its prime responsibilities delegated under Article 338 of the Indian Constitution, he informed.

 

 

During the event, a new NCSC Website was inaugurated by Dr. Virendra Kumar. The event also featured screening of clips on Dr. Ambedkar’s life and felicitation of the dignitaries. The true copy of the Constitution of India was on display along with a digital display of prominent books on Babasaheb Ambedkar.

The celebrations witnessed wide participation from  MP’s/Ex MP’s,  Members of all other Commissions, Presidents/General Secretaries from various Associations, CMD/MD/ED/Directors from PSB’s/PSU’s, Educational Institutes/Universities and other Dignitaries, Scholars, Social Justice Advocates from across the country.

 

*****

VM

(Release ID: 2121652) Visitor Counter : 122

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

In response to media enquiries about a Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom (UK) having been denied entry earlier, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) today (April 14) issued the following statement:
 
A HKSAR Government spokesman said that it is the Government’s standing policy not to comment on individual cases. The Immigration Department will deal with each case in accordance with the relevant law and immigration policy. It is the duty of immigration officer to ask questions to ascertain that there is no doubt about the purpose of any visit. The person concerned knows best what he or she has done. It will be unhelpful to the person’s case if the person refuses to answer questions put to him or her for that purpose.
 
In addition, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, today afternoon met with the Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security, UK, Mr Douglas Alexander, who is visiting Hong Kong, to exchange views on the matter. Mr Chan also reiterated the stance of the HKSAR Government during the meeting.

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 14 APR 2025 8:02PM by PIB Delhi

To encourage innovative practices and recognise professionals delivering excellence in National Highway development, the sixth edition of ‘National Highways Excellence Awards 2023’ (NHEA 2023) will be held on 15th April 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Hon’ble Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari along with Shri Ajay Tamta, Hon’ble Minister of State for Ministry of Road Transport & Highways; Shri Harsh Malhotra, Hon’ble Minister of State for MoRTH & Corporate Affairs; Shri V Umashankar, Secretary at MoRTH; senior officials from MoRTH, NHAI and other stakeholders will grace the occasion.   

NHEA 2023 will serve as a platform to commemorate remarkable achievements within the National Highway infrastructure sector and recognize professionals as well as stakeholders for their contribution in construction & maintenance of the best-performing National Highway assets across the country.

The daylong event will also feature various ‘Panel Discussions’ with domain experts and will delve into topics such as emerging technologies in Highway construction, highway development in hilly terrains, and the global competitiveness of Indian construction companies. 

‘National Highway Excellence Awards’ were institutionalized in 2018 by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, with an aim to incentivize and encourage key stakeholders and to create a spirit of healthy competition amongst all the stakeholders involved in the development of National Highway infrastructure in the country.

***

GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2121641) Visitor Counter : 13

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Vision of Dr B R Ambedkar Shaped the Constitution of India that Reflects the Soul of Bharat”: Sarbananda Sonowal

 Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal pays tribute to Dr BR Ambedkar on his 135th Birth Anniversary

 “Spirit of Equality, Fraternity and Justice that Dr Ambedkar Championed Reiterated as the Guiding Principle towards Viksit Bharat”: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal

Posted On: 14 APR 2025 7:29PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal called upon the youth to do further research and study the works of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar for his invaluable contributions, sacrifice and painstaking effort in shaping the modern day democracy of the Republic of India. 

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sonowal attended a commemorative programme to mark the 135th Birth Anniversary of Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the father of Indian Constitution, in Dibrugarh today. 

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Baba Bhimrao Ambedkar ji’s tireless efforts to build an egalitarian society based on law laid the very foundation of modern India. His vision of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity continues to guide our collective journey towards Viksit Bharat. Dr. Ambedkar ji did not merely draft a Constitution—he gave us a blueprint for an inclusive, empowered nation where every citizen has dignity and opportunity. The vision of Dr B R Ambedkar shaped the constitution of India which reflects the soul of Bharat. Ambedkar ji’s mantra of social harmony and constitutional morality remains our compass in shaping a just and developed India.”

Dignitaries and speakers present on the occasion paid tribute to the unparalleled contributions of Dr Ambedkar and remembered his legacy. Emphasising his vision for a just, progressive, and inclusive India, they urged everyone to actively participate in building a developed and equitable nation. The message of equality, fraternity, and justice that Dr Ambedkar championed was reiterated as the guiding path for a stronger society.

Adding further, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “During the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the profound legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar has received the recognition it truly deserves. On this Ambedkar Jayanti, I urge the youth of our nation to reflect upon Babasaheb’s monumental role in shaping the Indian Constitution — a document rooted in equality, justice, and the rule of law. His ideals continue to guide us in building an inclusive and egalitarian society, which forms the cornerstone of a truly Atmanirbhar Bharat.”

The event was jointly hosted by Dibrugarh District Scheduled Caste Council, All Assam Ravidas Youth Students Union, Dibrugarh District Committee and the Harijan Branch Committee. Rituparna Baruah, Chairman of Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC); Saikat Patra, Mayor of Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation (DMC); Ujjal Phukan, Deputy Mayor of DMC; Asim Hazarika, Chairman of Dibrugarh Development Authority (DDA); and Dulal Bora, President of BJP Dibrugarh District, among other notable figures were present on the occasion.

 

***

GDH/HR

(Release ID: 2121636) Visitor Counter : 14

Source: Government of India

“The Lucknow CAT (Central Administrative Tribunal) bench was established way back in 1987, but it got its own office building only now after 38 years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi”, says Dr Jitendra Singh

In a thoughtful move to mark the Ambedkar Jayanti commemorating the memory of the father of Indian constitution, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today jointly inaugurated the Lucknow CAT (Central Administrative Tribunal) building in the Gomti Nagar area of the city;

All the Central institutes in the State have recorded major breakthroughs in last ten years under PM Modi, said the Minister adding that their public outreach has also increased which is evident from the fact that one of the Lucknow institutes also found mention in Amitabh Bachhan’s popular show ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’

Posted On: 14 APR 2025 7:17PM by PIB Delhi

LUCKNOW, April 15: The Lucknow CAT (Central Administrative Tribunal) bench was established way back in 1987, but it got its own office building only now after 38 years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This observation was made by Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, who is also the Minister Incharge DoPT (Department of Personnel & Training) which is the administrative Ministry of CAT.

In a thoughtful move to mark the Ambedkar Jayanti commemorating the memory of the father of Indian constitution, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today jointly inaugurated the Lucknow CAT (Central Administrative Tribunal) building in the Gomti Nagar area of the city.

The entire project at the cost of about Rs 25 crore was accomplished through Central funds by DoPT (Department of Personnel & Training) of which the Minister Incharge is Dr Jitendra Singh.

The new CAT premises in the capital city of Lucknow marks a significant milestone for the administrative justice system.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that the Tribunal had been functioning from rented premises since its inception in 1987 and that the new facility reflects the rapid progress achieved under the double-engine government model led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Centre and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Uttar Pradesh. “This inauguration is one of the many examples of how far we’ve come under this collaborative governance approach,” the Minister said.

Highlighting CAT’s mission of ensuring justice that is affordable, accessible, and efficient, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the Tribunal has disposed of over 8.88 lakh cases out of nearly 9.6 lakh filed since its inception in 1985, achieving a disposal rate of about 93%.

The Minister emphasised that with a filing fee of just ₹50 and provisions allowing litigants to appear without a lawyer, CAT embodies the principle of justice at the doorstep.

The Minister also underlined the Tribunal’s consistent track record of judicial excellence, with many of its decisions upheld by High Courts and the Supreme Court.

Describing the new building as more than just a structure, Dr. Jitendra Singh said it symbolises the Tribunal’s enduring commitment to reform, justice, and transparency. The space is designed to foster a conducive atmosphere for judicial work, reflecting the evolution of CAT from a challenging early phase to a respected institution in the country’s administrative justice system.

As judicial work commences from this new location, the development stands as yet another testament to the Centre-State synergy in Uttar Pradesh, and the sustained efforts to strengthen institutional infrastructure across the country.

*****

NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2121632) Visitor Counter : 59

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 14 APR 2025 7:03PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met Shri Rampal Kashyap from Kaithal today in Yamunanagar, Haryana. Shri Modi was humbled to learn that Shri Kashyap who had taken a vow 14 years ago to refrain from wearing footwear until he met the Prime Minister after his election to office. He urged citizens to focus their energy on meaningful actions linked to social work and nation building.

In separate posts on X, he wrote:

“At today’s public meeting in Yamunanagar, I met Shri Rampal Kashyap Ji from Kaithal. He had taken a vow 14 years ago- that he will only wear footwear after I became PM and he got to meet me.

I am humbled by people like Rampal Ji and also accept their affection but I want to request everyone who takes up such vows – I cherish your love…please focus on something that is linked to social work and nation building!”

“हरियाणा के यमुनानगर में आज कैथल के रामपाल कश्यप जी से मिलने का सौभाग्य मिला। इन्होंने 14 वर्ष पहले एक व्रत लिया था कि ‘मोदी जब तक प्रधानमंत्री नहीं बन जाते और मैं उनसे मिल नहीं लेता, तब तक जूते नहीं पहनूंगा।’ मुझे आज उनको जूते पहनाने का अवसर मिला। मैं ऐसे सभी साथियों की भावनाओं का सम्मान करता हूं, परंतु मेरा आग्रह है कि वो इस तरह के प्रण लेने के बजाए किसी सामाजिक अथवा देशहित के कार्य का प्रण लें।”

https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1911756643777618032?s=46

https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1911755163636736002?s=46

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2121629) Visitor Counter : 95

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said this evening that the Immigration Department will deal with each case in accordance with the relevant law and immigration policy.

Responding to media enquiries about a UK Parliament member having been denied entry earlier, the Hong Kong SAR Government said its standing policy is not to comment on individual cases. 

It is the duty of immigration officer to ask questions to ascertain that there is no doubt about the purpose of any visit. As the person knows best what he has done, it will be unhelpful to the case if one refuses to answer questions, the Hong Kong SAR Government added.

In addition, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki met UK Minister for Trade Policy & Economic Security Douglas Alexander, who is visiting Hong Kong, to exchange views on the matter. Mr Chan also reiterated the Hong Kong SAR Government’s stance during their meeting.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin attended the 20th anniversary celebration ceremony of Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) in Zhuhai this afternoon.

Co-founded by Beijing Normal University and Hong Kong Baptist University, BNBU is the first university jointly established by the higher education sectors of the Mainland and Hong Kong.

At the ceremony, Ms Choi expressed her heartfelt congratulations to BNBU, saying that it adopts the undergraduate curriculum and teaching evaluation system of Hong Kong higher education institutions, setting a good example for the joint provision of education services between the Mainland and Hong Kong.

She noted that several Hong Kong higher education institutions have taken a proactive approach in providing education services in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) Mainland cities, and strengthening co-operation by realising complementary advantages with their Mainland counterparts through the establishment of university alliances.

Ms Choi also said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will continue to actively participate in and foster higher education co-operation in the GBA by assisting Hong Kong higher education institutions in exploring more flexible and innovative operation models.

It will also promote closer collaboration between Hong Kong higher education institutions and their campuses in the GBA Mainland cities, and facilitate the flow of faculty members and students, with a view to nurturing outstanding talent for the country’s development through synergising the complementary academic structures and facilities of Hong Kong and Mainland campuses.

The education chief also toured BNBU’s various facilities to understand the development situation of the campus.

She then met Zhuhai Mayor Wu Zetong, Zhuhai Municipal Taiwan, Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Bureau Director Huang Cui, Zhuhai Municipal Education Bureau Director Xi Enmin and other officials to exchange views on education issues before returning to Hong Kong.