MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses 75th Foundation Day celebration of the Gujarati weekly ‘Chitralekha’ in Mumbai

The journey of ‘Chitralekha’ over the last 75 years is a reflection of Gujarat’s literature, society, life and the problems of Gujarat and the country

When there is purity of purpose than mere consideration of profit, dedication towards literature and a desire to solve the problems of society, only then one can connect with the readers

An awakened weekly has a deep impact on our society and life

During many movements in Gujarat, when the society was falling apart, ‘Chitralekha’ took the torch in its hands to keep the society united

Gujarati literature’s magazines and newspapers played a big role in the building of the country

Nagin Das, Tarak Mehta and Gunwant Shah became popular from the platform of ‘Chitralekha’, the President honoured all three with Padma awards

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 9:31PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today addressed the 75^th Foundation Day celebration of the Gujarati weekly ‘Chitralekha’ in Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra. On this occasion, several distinguished dignitaries were present, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal, and State Deputy Chief Minister Shri Eknath Shinde among others.

While addressing the event, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that the 75-year journey of ‘Chitralekha’ has been a mirror of Gujarati literature, society, lifestyle, and the issues faced by Gujarat and the nation. He said that in my life so far, I have changed three houses, the furniture in those houses, even the addresses — but ‘Chitralekha’ has continued to arrive faithfully at all three homes.

Shri Amit Shah said that the way ‘Chitralekha’ has maintained its connection with the readers is rarely seen. This is possible only when there is purity of purpose than mere consideration of profit, dedication towards literature and the desire to solve the problems of the society. He said that ever since I learned to read, I have been reading ‘Chitralekha’. He shared sometimes while reading Harkishan Mehta’s novel, sometimes Tarak Mehta’s Ulta Chashma and sometimes while reading the cartoon published on the front page, I did not know when I started getting the urge to read the issues of the society and try to find their solution.

Union Home Minister said that an awakened weekly impacts our society and life in many ways. In the English speaking era when it was difficult to keep Gujarati literature alive, Vajubhai founded ‘Chitralekha’. Today, there is a greater need than ever to fearlessly represent all the problems of the society and not only question the problem but also to give suggestions for its solution. He said that at the time of Anamat movement in Gujarat, the society was disintegrating, but at that time ‘Chitralekha’ had taken the torch in its hands to keep the society united. It is because of its fact-based efforts of 75 years that ‘Chitralekha’ has gained credibility.

Shri Amit Shah said that literature cannot progress without the support of society. Literature is the need of society. Gujarati literature magazines have played a very important role in the development of the country. Gujarati Sahitya Parishad started a magazine named ‘Budhi Prakash’ in 1855. At that time, everyone started a front against customs with the inspiration of ‘Budhi Prakash’. In the year 1876, Nanalal started ‘Satya Vihar’ and spread amazing awareness in the society. Mahatma Gandhi started ‘Navjeevan’ in 1919 and worked to serve the bitterest truth to the people. In the year 1950, after India gained independence, ‘Chitralekha’ was launched, and since then, it has played a significant role in presenting both societal issues and literature with great precision and clarity to the people.

Union Home Minister said that a successful effort was made to keep the society united through the novels published in ‘Chitralekha’. This inspired the youth studying Gujarati to study. He said, very few of you would have met Tarak Mehta in person. Even the saddest person in the world cannot stay without laughing if he goes to meet him. Spontaneous humor was a gift from God to him. He ran ‘Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’ from the same chawl for years. Those who watch the serial would find it very beautiful, but those who have read Tarak Mehta would understand what these people have done to the Tarak Mehta series. He used to make entire Gujarat forget all its sorrows in four pages.

Shri Amit Shah said that ‘Chitralekha’ gave many such special issues which can never be forgotten. Its Narmada Yojana special issue had shaken the whole of Gujarat. He said that no one would have given such an accurate and true presentation of the 26/11 terrorist attack on Mumbai as ‘Chitralekha’ did. It gave such a presentation that widespread awareness spread about the problem of terrorism.

Union Home Minister said that ‘Chitralekha’ also published three special issues on the issue of Ram Mandir. He said that he has been a supporter of Ram Mandir since childhood, fought for it and even went to jail, but no one has presented it as beautifully as ‘Chitralekha’. He said that Nagin Das, Tarak Mehta and Gunwant Shah became popular from the platform of ‘Chitralekha’ and finally the President of India honoured them with the Padma Award. Hardly any magazine in the country has produced three writers honoured with the Padma Award.

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RK / VV / PR / PS

(Release ID: 2121330) Visitor Counter : 12

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 9:10PM by PIB Delhi

In view of the communal violence reported in Murshidabad district in West Bengal, the Union Home Secretary held a video conference with Chief Secretary and DGP of West Bengal today. The DGP, West Bengal briefed that the situation was tense but under control and was being monitored closely. DGP further stated that he is taking the assistance of BSF posted locally, and that more than 150 persons have been arrested.

The Union Home Secretary stated that apart from nearly 300 BSF personnel locally available in Murshidabad, additional 5 Companies have been deployed at the request of the State Government.

The Union Home Secretary advised the State administration to keep a close watch on other sensitive districts also, and to put in place adequate steps to ensure normalcy at the earliest. Union Home Secretary stated that the Centre is also closely monitoring the situation and assured the State all possible assistance including deployment of additional manpower, if necessary.

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RK/VV/PR/PS

 

(Release ID: 2121327) Visitor Counter : 140

Source: Government of India

Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda inaugurates state-of-the-art Central Research Laboratory in AIIMS Bhubaneswar

Lays Foundation Stone of Multiutility Gastronomy Block

Holds high-level review meeting to assess ongoing developmental projects; interacts with medical students, sanitary staff, and employees

Launches revamped AIIMS Bhubaneswar website, equipped with user-friendly features and integrated services for patients and visitors

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 8:18PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda inaugurated Central Research Laboratory in AIIMS Bhubaneswar today, marking another milestone in the institute’s journey of growth and excellence. He also laid the foundation stone of a Multiutility (Gastronomy) Block on the occasion.

The state-of-the-art Central Research Laboratory facility is a transformative initiative aimed at advancing cutting-edge medical research and fostering innovation. The facility is poised to empower doctors, researchers, and scholars to develop impactful healthcare solutions and propel AIIMS Bhubaneswar into the league of premier medical research hubs in the country.

The Multiutility (Gastronomy) Block is a modern infrastructure project tailored to meet the evolving needs of students, faculty, staff, and the general public. The block will offer essential amenities under one roof, enhancing both operational efficiency and community engagement within the campus.

Adding to the digital transformation of healthcare services, the Union Minister launched the revamped AIIMS Bhubaneswar website, equipped with user-friendly features and integrated services for patients and visitors. The website showcases Odisha’s rich cultural heritage while improving access to the institute’s healthcare facilities.

As part of the visit, Shri Nadda also inaugurated the EHS Clinic and AMRIT Pharmacy, ensuring greater accessibility to essential health services and affordable medicines for all. He stated that a skin bank will also be set up in AIIMS Bhubaneswar in the near future.

A notable highlight was the Union Minister’s visit to the Burn Centre, a one-of-its-kind facility in Eastern India that is already making a difference in critical care. He also visited the Swachhata Exhibition at the OPD foyer, Integrated Health & Wellness Clinic, Rheumatology & Geriatric Clinic, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and planted a sapling at Smruti Upavan, symbolizing the commitment to a greener and healthier future.

The visit concluded with a high-level review meeting where Shri Nadda assessed ongoing developmental projects and interacted directly with medical students, sanitary staff, and employees. This engagement demonstrated the government’s inclusive approach to healthcare delivery.

Shri Nadda was accompanied by a distinguished team from AIIMS Bhubaneswar, including President of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, Prof. (Dr) Shailesh Kumar; Executive Director, Prof. (Dr) Ashutosh Biswas; Dean (Academics) Prof. (Dr) Prasanta Raghab Mohapatra; Dean (Examination), Prof. (Dr) Soubhagya Kumar Jena; Dean (Research), Prof. (Dr) Satyaieet Misra; DDA, Lt. Col. Abhijit Sarkar; Medical Superintendent, Dr. Dillip Kumar Parida and Senior Administrative Officer, Shri Rasmi Ranjan Sethy.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. (Dr) Ashutosh Biswas emphasised that “the Central Research laboratory will be a catalyst for scientific discovery and translational research, especially in the Eastern region. It will open doors to pioneering treatments and improved healthcare outcomes”. “Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and Union Health Minister, Shri JP Nadda’s unwavering support and presence inspire us to achieve higher benchmarks in healthcare delivery and innovation”, he added.

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HFW/HFM AIIMS Bhubaneshwar Visit/12April2025/1

(Release ID: 2121306) Visitor Counter : 74

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Police today (April 12) appealed to the public for information on a man who went missing in Kwai Chung.

     Wu Hoi-sing, aged 70, went missing after he left his caring home on Lei Muk Road this morning. Staff of the caring home then made a report to Police.

     He is about 1.65 metres tall, 72 kilograms in weight and of medium build. He has a square face with yellow complexion, and is bald with short black and white hair on both sides. He was last seen wearing a grey jacket, black trousers and black shoes.

     Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of New Territories South on 3661 1173 or 5217 5562 or email to rmpu-nts-2@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Director of Environmental Protection, Dr Samuel Chui, began his visit in Beijing on April 10 and called on the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) yesterday (April 11). 

Dr Chui was invited to attend the first session of the 2025 “Science, Culture, and Literacy” Lecture Series organised by the MEE to deliver a keynote presentation. The Minister of MEE, Mr Huang Runqiu, also attended the seminar.

The presentation, titled “Smart Environmental Governance Strategies and Practices of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government,” highlighted the successful application of sewage surveillance and real-time forecasting models to assist in pandemic control efforts, practice cases of Hong Kong’s innovation in pollution control by utilising smart technologies, and the two latest developed technological applications by the Environmental Protection Department, the biological water quality indicator “Phytoplankton Community Integrity Index” and the risk-based composite index for evaluating overall air quality status.

Participants unanimously agreed that the successful scientific pollution control practices introduced during the seminar provided valuable references for kick-starting ecological and environmental protection efforts. They should study and learn from these practices to further enhance the awareness and capacity of applying scientific thinking and methods to improve environmental quality, better promoting pollution control in a precise, scientific, and law-based manner.

The seminar was held in a hybrid format, combining online and offline participation. The Vice Minister of MEE, Mr Yu Huiwen; the Chief Inspector of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection Inspector’s Office, Mr Liao Xiyuan; and Vice Minister of MEE, Mr Dong Baotong also attended the event.

The Chief Engineer of MEE, Mr Ren Yong, chaired the seminar. Key personnel and administration of State Committee of Supervisory (SSC) Supervisor’s Office, Ministry’s various departments, the Environmental Emergency and Accident Investigation Center and Agency Service Center attended the event in person at the main venue. Other staff from the SSC Supervisor’s Office, Ministry’s various departments and the affiliated institutes joined from sub-venues or virtually.

During his visit to Beijing, Dr Chui also attended the 23rd China International Environmental Protection Exhibition and Conference. He met with representatives from the BRI International Green Development Coalition and the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences to explore collaboration on environmental technologies, aiming to jointly achieve the goal of high-quality green and sustainable development under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 6:33PM by PIB Delhi

The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu in her message on the eve of Vaisakhi, Vishu, Bahag Bihu, Poila Boishakh, Meshadi, Vaishakhadi and Puthandu Pirapu which are being celebrated on 13th, 14th and 15th April, 2025 has said:-

“On the auspicious occasion of Vaisakhi, Vishu, Bahag Bihu, Poila Boishakh, Meshadi, Vaishakhadi and Puthandu Pirapu, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all Indians living in India and abroad.

These festivals celebrated at the time of harvest in various parts of India symbolise our social traditions and unity in diversity. Through these festivals, we honor the hard work of our ‘Annadata’ farmers and express our gratitude to them. These festivals also give the message of preserving nature and protecting our cultural legacy.

 I wish that these vibrant festivals motivate us to work with commitment and dedication for the development of our nation”.

Please click here to see the President’s message – 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2121269) Visitor Counter : 105

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 6:29PM by PIB Delhi

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, H.E. Mr. Antonio Tajani called on the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (April 12, 2025). 

Welcoming Deputy Prime Minister Tajani and his delegation to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President noted that both India and Italy are rooted in ancient civilizational heritage, with a proud history of contributing to the world through our philosophy, literature, and arts. We have been interconnected over the centuries through trade and the exchange of people and ideas. She noted that contemporary era, present era, the two countries are collaborating closely in emerging technologies, innovation, and defense; and are also working together on multilateral platforms such as the G-20. 

The President said that there is great potential for growth in bilateral trade and investment between the two countries. India’s rapid economic growth and the roadmap for ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 present numerous opportunities for industrial partnerships and collaboration. She invited Italian companies and PSUs to expand their operations in India, especially for manufacturing and co-production. She also urged Italian green technology companies to explore possibilities of cooperation and partnership with Indian industry.

 The President said that the Joint Strategic Action Plan announced during the meeting of Prime Minister Meloni and Prime Minister Modi in Rio in November 2024 is a blueprint for the next 5 years. This Action Plan will be a guiding framework to accelerate our joint efforts.

 The President was happy to note that Italian universities and research centres are exploring possibilities of collaboration with Indian partners. She said that the new education policy has facilitated foreign universities to open campuses in India. Italian universities can be invited to open campuses in India. 

The two leaders agreed that India-Italy strategic partnership would reach new heights in the times to come.

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2121265) Visitor Counter : 26

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following are the opening remarks by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the Welcome Dinner of InnoEX 2025 today (April 12):
 
Margaret (the Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Ms Margaret Fong), å¾�常委 (Member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Ms Xu Xiaolan), 任秘書長 (the Secretary General of the World Internet Conference (WIC), Mr Ren Xianliang), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Hello! 你好! What a thrill to have you all here this evening! A very warm welcome to friends from around the world to the InnoEX 2025 in Hong Kong. 
 
This welcome dinner is a prelude to the InnoEX 2025, Hong Kong’s signature exhibition on innovation & technology (I&T) to start tomorrow. Also an anchor event of our vibrant Business of Innovation and Technology Week (BIT Week), InnoEX 2025 can be “digitised” into the magic figure of “12345” –
 

• 1 vision to connect global I&T power;
• 2 much to anticipate;
• 3 years in a row;
• 4 incredible days of a full programme from April 13 to 16; and
• 5 frontier tech areas we are going to focus on.

     InnoEX returns stronger and bigger this year, from countries and regions – from Hong Kong, Macao, and 16 Mainland provinces and cities, to France, Canada, India, the United Kingdom, Japan, Korea, and across ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Joining us first-time also include those from Australia, the UAE (United Arab Emirates), Malaysia, Sweden, and Luxembourg. 

To the familiar faces and all new friends, thank you so much for bringing your tech, your creativity and your interest to our city!

This year’s theme of InnoEX – “Innovate • Automate • Elevate” says it all: only with innovation powering the engine, automation steering the course, our journey towards a more prosperous economies and societies could be elevated to the next higher level. 

The five tech areas we focus this year, namely artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, low-altitude economy, and smart mobility, are the components of this autonomous vehicle, leading us to a better and smarter future.

Indeed, these aren’t just tech and small parts of an engine. They fundamentally change the way we work, connect, interact and grow. They change how we see the future.

And right here at InnoEX, you’ll see how these agents are applied in different places around the globe, and how ideas translate into impact on industries and people.

As the brand InnoEX implies, Hong Kong is also witnessing the exponential power of innovation. We may be like a GPU (graphics processing unit) in terms of physical size, but Hong Kong is huge in terms of innovative power – top-notch R&D (research and development), five world-class universities, 16 State Key Laboratories, and a staunch supporter of free economy and international partnerships. This is how we fuel novel ideas, groom talents, attract investment, and build an increasing robust I&T ecosystem.

And we believe innovation thrives when people come together – across sectors and borders, and blending cultures and values. That’s what the BIT Week and InnoEX are all about: a global stage with no boundaries and limits. This spirit of connection is echoed at the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit happening soon at this convention centre.

So this evening, we are here to start conversations; to cultivate friendships; and to scale possibilities. Whether you are a policymaker, buyer, exhibitor or tech leader – there is always a space here in InnoEX for you to spark something big.

Before I close, my heartfelt thanks to our incredible partner, HKTDC, and my fellow colleagues at the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau and the Digital Policy Office for their hard work. You have made this possible.

To our guests: please enjoy the evening, get ready for four exciting days ahead, and make the best out of InnoEX! Thank you.

Source: Government of India

Ministry of Corporate Affairs hosts 5th ‘Candidate Open house’ for interns of PM Internship scheme

Interns Share their inspiring Journeys and experiences

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 6:13PM by PIB Delhi

The 5th Candidate Open House was hosted by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs on 11^th April 2025. The interns from PM Internship Scheme  reflected on their transformative journeys during the session.

As part of the Fifth online ‘Candidate Open House’, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs brought together interns of the Prime Minister Internship Scheme to share their early experiences. The session served as a vital touchpoint for aspirants, current interns, and industry stakeholders navigating the scheme.with a overwhelming presence of 557 participants

In the previous edition of the Open House on April 4, 2025, interns from ONGC shared compelling insights into their learning journeys, while Mr. Anil Bahuguna, Chief of Skill Development at ONGC, highlighted how the organisation is nurturing youth through core skills, soft skills, and overall personality development.

Carrying the momentum forward on 11^th April 2025, Mr. Priyo Roop Guha-HR Lead (Center of Excellence) from HDFC Bank shared how HDFC is actively partnering with the MCA’s PM Internship Scheme to shape aspiring students into job-ready professionals — grooming them with real-world exposure, guidance, and skill refinement. He also  shared that over 130 interns have joined across India under PMIS since December offering them frontline sales roles near home locations. Post-internship, many may be absorbed into full-time roles, making it a strong launchpad for banking careers.

During the Open House, three interns—Niraj from Uttar Pradesh, Pralay from West Bengal, and Astha from Bihar—shared their inspiring journeys under the Prime Minister Internship Scheme, each reflecting a unique path of growth and transformation.

Niraj, a history graduate, spoke about his transition into the world of finance and banking. With full support from HDFC Bank, he was relocated from Delhi to a branch closer to his hometown, allowing him to learn and contribute meaningfully. From mastering core banking services to understanding financial products, his journey has been one of remarkable professional evolution.

Astha, a 22-year-old small-town girl from Naugachia, Bihar, dreamed of a job after graduating in commerce—but had no skills and wasn’t allowed to leave her town. Then a friend told her about the PM Internship Scheme—and it changed her life. Placed at a nearby HDFC branch, she is now confident, disciplined, handling banking products with ease, and proudly supporting her family. “I never imagined such an opportunity would come my way,” she says, now encouraging others to apply too.

Pralay, who left a fixed-salary job to join the internship, described how his background in economics found its true purpose in the banking sector. He emphasized that this learning experience has been far more valuable than a routine job. Encouraged by the constant support of his team, he is confident that the internship will pave the way for a full-time career in the industry.

Together, their stories exemplify how the PM Internship Scheme is not just about work experience—but about unlocking potential, building confidence, and shaping futures.

MCA officials urge candidates to remain proactive on the portal, via email, and by phone to receive the latest updates. With applications for Round 2 of the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme’s pilot phase currently open, eligible youth are encouraged to apply before the deadline on April 22, 2025. Stay engaged and take the first step toward your future!

For more information visit: https://pminternship.mca.gov.in/

 

NB/AD

(Release ID: 2121259) Visitor Counter : 13

Source: Government of India

Dr. Jitendra Singh Hails International Certification for Indigenously Developed Underwater Acoustic Test Facility

With Global Recognition, Acoustic Lab at NIOT Chennai Now Sets India’s global Standards in Underwater Technology

Posted On: 12 APR 2025 5:40PM by PIB Delhi

CHENNAI, April 12: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh today hailed the global recognition and international certification of the Underwater Acoustic Test Facility (ATF) at the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai, describing it as a proud milestone in India’s journey towards scientific self-reliance in underwater acoustics and ocean technology.

After unveiling the commemorative plaque, Dr. Jitendra Singh witnessed a live demonstration of the facility’s capabilities, which include precise testing and calibration of a wide range of underwater acoustic instruments such as hydrophones, transducers, and acoustic modems—vital for both strategic and civilian applications.

Describing the facility as a “critical national asset,” the Minister highlighted its pivotal role in strengthening India’s self-reliance in ocean technology. “The Acoustic Test Facility enhances our ocean observation capabilities, supports tsunami detection systems, and reinforces national security through its strategic applications,” he said.

Established in 2004 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the ATF is India’s only facility accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) for hydrophone calibration. Since 2005, it has consistently maintained this accreditation and caters to a broad spectrum of users, including naval laboratories, IITs, universities, and major industrial players such as BEL, L&T, and Tata Power.

In 2018, the facility’s global competence was validated when it participated in a Key Comparison Test organized by the National Physical Laboratory, UK, alongside laboratories from seven other countries, including the US, UK, and Russia. The ATF’s calibration results matched international benchmarks, establishing its parity with top global labs.

In a significant milestone, the facility was recently recognized as India’s “Designated Laboratory” in the field of underwater acoustics under the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), Paris, through CSIR-NPL, effective January 30, 2024. This means NIOT now holds the national standards for measurements in underwater acoustics—a crucial responsibility for ensuring measurement accuracy across strategic sectors.

Experts say this recognition not only boosts India’s scientific credibility but also opens up opportunities for global collaborations in underwater research and maritime technology.

As India scales up its ambitions in ocean exploration and maritime security, the Acoustic Test Facility is expected to play a defining role in shaping future technologies, offering both precision and indigenous strength to the nation’s deep-sea endeavours.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2121247) Visitor Counter : 112