MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Government of India

Conclave on PM Vishwakarma–National SC-ST Hub organised in Baripada, Mayurbhanj, Odisha

Co-chaired by Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi, Union Minister of MSME, and Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Minister of Odisha.

An endeavour to promote and empower MSMEs in the State and create synergys

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 5:53PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, organised the ‘PM Vishwakarma – National SC-ST Hub Conclave’ on 16 April, 2025, at the Convention Hall, Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University, Baripada, Mayurbhanj, Odisha.

The event commenced with the inauguration of an exhibition and brought together stakeholders, beneficiaries, and government officials to highlight key initiatives such as the PM Vishwakarma Scheme and the National SC-ST Hub.

The Conclave was co-chaired by Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi, Hon’ble Union Minister of MSME, and Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha. The dignitaries inaugurated the Conclave with a ribbon-cutting and lamp-lighting ceremony.

 The gathering was also graced by Shri Gokulananda Mallick, Minister of State (Independent Charge), MSME, Fisheries & Animal Resources Development, Govt. of Odisha; Shri Hemant Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries & MSME Department, Govt. of Odisha; Shri Prakash Soren, Hon’ble MLA, Baripada, Govt. of Odisha; Ms. Mamata Mohanta, Hon’ble MP, Rajya Sabha, Mayurbhanj, Odisha;
Shri Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia, Minister of State (IC)Forest, Environment & Climate Change, Labour, Labour & Employees State Insurance, Govt.of Odisha; Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Hon’ble Minister, Housing and Urban Development, Public Enterprises, Govt. of Odisha; Shri Naba Charan Majhi, Hon’ble MP, Lok Sabha, Mayurbhanj, Odisha, and other senior officials of the Ministry.

The conclave began with the welcome address by Dr. Ishita Ganguli Tripathy, ADC, DC(MSME), followed by a welcome address and a presentation on role of Ministry’s Schemes and MSMEs growth in Odisha State by Dr. Rajneesh, AS & DC, DC(MSME). The event featured experience-sharing by beneficiaries of the PM Vishwakarma, PMEGP, and SC-ST Hub initiatives. To empower entrepreneurs, e-certificates were distributed to PM Vishwakarma beneficiaries, along with the distribution of credit cheques. Certificates were also awarded to National SC-ST Hub beneficiaries and PMEGP beneficiaries.
Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi, Hon’ble Minister for MSME, Government of India, spoke about the significant role the MSME sector playing in job creation and improving livelihoods. He highlighted the importance and role of the PM Vishwakarma and National SC-ST Hub schemes, along with the contributions of the Coir Board and Khadi, in empowering individuals and improving livelihoods.

“I express my sincere thanks and gratitude to Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu, whose guidance has brought me here to Odisha, her region, with the purpose of promoting MSMEs. Our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi envisions India becoming a developed nation, and by the year 2027-28, it will become the world’s third-largest economy,” the Hon’ble Minister said.

Shri Manjhi said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave us a Ministry of a vision — and the Ministry of MSME is truly a ministry of vision. I am 200% sure of this. I feel extremely grateful to be working for the MSME sector. This Ministry is the greatest department, and every entrepreneur aspires to grow through it.”
“Odisha is doing very well and the MSME sector in the state is progressing impressively. Because of MSME initiatives, today every enterprise is registered on the Udyam Registration Portal. The MSME sector in Odisha will continue to grow through our Ministry’s efforts, contributing to Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a developed India,” he further added.
Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, highlighted the achievements of the PM Vishwakarma and National SC-ST Hub schemes, and how the people of the state has benefited from the support of the Ministry and its initiatives.

“PM Vishwakarma is playing a key role in the life of middle class. The Ministry of MSME has given a special focus to Odisha and organised the PM Vishwakarma- National SC-ST Hub Conclave here,” the Hon’ble Chief Minister said.
Launched on September 17, 2023, the PM Vishwakarma Scheme supports traditional artisans and craftspeople with skill development, financial aid, and toolkits. Meanwhile, the National SC-ST Hub, launched in October 2016, empowers SC/ST entrepreneurs through capacity building, market linkages, and access to technology and credit.

The MSME sector, comprising over 6.25 crore enterprises and employing 26.7 crore individuals, plays a crucial role in India’s economic development, contributing nearly 30% to GDP and over 45% to exports.

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SK

(Release ID: 2122168) Visitor Counter : 74

Source: Government of India

WAVEX 2025 broadens Eligibility, extends Application Deadline to April 21

Flagship media-tech startup event opens doors to older ventures and draws nationwide interest

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 5:47PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 16 April 2025

 

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), in collaboration with the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), has announced two major updates for WAVEX 2025, India’s premier platform for startups in the media and entertainment technology space. In a bid to foster wider participation and amplify innovation, the eligibility criteria have been expanded, and the application deadline has been extended.

Startups incorporated from 2016 onwards are now eligible to apply for WAVEX 2025. This marks a significant shift from the earlier criteria, which restricted entry to startups founded in 2020 or later. The move is expected to attract a broader pool of participants, particularly those with a track record of resilience, growth, and impact in the media-tech sector.

In response to strong interest and requests from entrepreneurs across the country, the application deadline has also been pushed to April 21, 2025. The extension gives aspiring media-tech innovators additional time to submit their proposals and secure a chance to feature on a national stage.

WAVEX 2025 Investment pitches will take place on May 2nd and May 3rd at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai during the Waves 2025 summit. A flagship segment of the World Audio-Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES), WAVEX is positioned as a high-stakes launchpad for startups working in areas such as gaming, animation, XR, metaverse, generative AI, and content technologies.

Selected startups will participate in closed room pitching sessions and gain visibility among top venture capital firms and high-profile angel investors. They will also benefit from mentorship by leading industry experts, exposure to global stakeholders, and opportunities to collaborate with prominent technology and media companies.

WAVEX 2025 is designed not merely as a showcase of emerging ideas, but as a strategic platform to accelerate how content is created, delivered, and monetized in the digital era.

Applications can be submitted through the official WAVEX portal at https://wavex.wavesbazaar.com.

 

About WAVES

The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.

WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR).

Have questions? Find answers here  

Stay updated with the latest announcements from PIB Team WAVES

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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Edgar/ Darshana | 95

 

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(Release ID: 2122174) Visitor Counter : 25

Source: Government of India

 India poised to become a trusted bridge of global connectivity through India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC): Shri Piyush Goyal

IMEC to reduce logistics costs by up to 30% and transportation time by 40%, boosting global trade: Shri Goyal

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal addresses High-Level Roundtable on IMEC

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 10:52PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal addressed the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) High-Level Roundtable on Connectivity and Economic Growth in New Delhi today.

Shri Goyal said that the IMEC is a powerful endorsement of the leadership and partnership of India and Middle East and East Europe a very forward and visionary concept that has caught the fancy of the world, he noted.

The Minister stated that IMEC is not merely a trade route, but a modern-day Silk Route — a partnership of equals — that fosters synergy, connectivity, and inclusive prosperity. “It will bring down logistics costs by up to 30%, reduce transportation time by 40%, and create seamless trade linkages across continents,” he said. “We will not only be linking trade; we will be linking civilizations and cultures — from Southeast Asia to the Gulf, from the Middle East to Central Europe.”

Highlighting its potential reach, Shri Goyal added that IMEC could even enhance connectivity to Africa through the Middle East. The corridor would include railways, roadways, energy pipelines, and clean energy infrastructure, including undersea cables. “India is already in discussions with Singapore on clean energy transmission. We are also engaged in dialogue with Saudi Arabia and the UAE,” he shared.

Shri Goyal underscored the corridor’s emphasis on sustainability and digital connectivity. “This initiative respects sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is not about dominance or creating economic unions. It is a partnership built on mutual trust, inclusivity and sustainability,” he said.

He further outlined five key suggestions as a way forward for the IMEC initiative. First, Shri Goyal stressed the importance of viewing IMEC through the lens of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). He emphasized that leaving the initiative solely to the government would limit its efficiency and financial viability. Instead, he called for a collaborative model where the private sector leads, bringing to the table its real-world expertise, needs, and innovative capabilities. This approach, he noted, would ensure smarter and more cost-effective planning, as the private sector can propose solutions that reflect practical utility. It would also allow policymakers to think systematically while the private sector introduces flexibility and innovation, ensuring the corridor remains viable, efficient, and sustainable in its execution.

Second, he highlighted the need to focus on Regulatory Connectivity, going beyond just physical infrastructure. Shri Goyal advocated for greater alignment in trade processes, customs procedures, and paperwork among participating nations. He cited India’s ongoing regulatory collaboration with the UAE as an example and pointed out that successful implementation of the corridor would require seamless cross-border movement without excessive checkpoints. Interoperable systems, digitization, electric vehicle charging ecosystems, and synchronized regulations would be key to unlocking economies of scale. He suggested that common digital payment systems, such as India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), could serve as a model for enabling seamless financial transactions. With periodic settlement in globally accepted reserve currencies, such mechanisms could reduce transactional friction and banking costs. He proposed that such innovations, combined with virtual trade corridor frameworks like the India-UAE initiative, could be extended through IMEC. These would support broader agreements such as FTAs with GCC and EU countries and bolster joint work in green hydrogen, renewable energy, and supply chain resilience.

Third, Shri Goyal underlined the need for Innovative Financing Models to support both the development of the corridor and the trade it will generate. He called for active involvement of multilateral financial agencies and suggested exploring instruments like green bonds and the creation of long-term “IMEC Bonds”, to fund this transcontinental infrastructure in a sustainable and future-proof manner.

Fourth, he recommended active engagement with industry bodies and trade associations, asserting that their insights are essential for designing a corridor that aligns with the real needs of businesses. Such collaboration would help identify existing bottlenecks, promote best practices, and better integrate economies by removing trade frictions.

Lastly, Shri Goyal proposed bringing in Think Tanks and Academia to the visioning and design process. These institutions, he noted, bring creativity, research strength, and long-term thinking. Their involvement would support policy advocacy, contribute to out-of-the-box solutions, and assist in capacity-building efforts along the corridor. He called this a well-rounded package of five initiatives that could help IMEC evolve into a robust, viable, and inclusive project. Reiterating India’s clear and committed vision, he said the country is ready to act as a trusted, reliable bridge connecting regions and catalyzing global cooperation, under the guiding spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family.

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Abhishek Dayal/ Nihi Sharma/ Ishita Biswas

(Release ID: 2122299) Visitor Counter : 52

Source: Government of India

LOK SABHA SPEAKER OUTLINES ROADMAP FOR VIKSHIT BHARAT 2027, CALLS FOR SUSTAINABLE AND INCLUSIVE MODEL OF DEVELOPMENT

PRESENT ERA IN INDIA IS AN ERA OF ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND INNOVATION: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

INDIA’S ‘DEVELOPMENT-ORIENTED POLICIES’ ARE PROVIDING NEW ENERGY TO OUR INDUSTRIES TODAY: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

PHDCCI IS ACTING AS A STRONG BRIDGE BETWEEN INDUSTRIES AND POLICY MAKERS: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

LOK SABHA SPEAKER ADDRESSES MEMBERS OF PHD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY IN NEW DELHI

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 9:56PM by PIB Delhi

New Delhi; 16 April, 2025: Shri Birla today emphasises that the pillars of industry and commerce occupy a pivotal place in the Indian leadership’s resolute commitment to transforming India into a fully developed nation by the year 2047. To realize this national aspiration, Shri Birla called upon all stakeholders to embrace a model of development that is not only sustainable and enduring, but also inclusive, anchored firmly in the spirit of research, innovation, and forward-thinking enterprise. Addressing at an event to mark at the 120^th anniversary of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in New Delhi today, Shri Birla observed that ‘development-oriented policies’ of the Government of India are providing new energy to our industries today, adding that present era in India is an era of economic empowerment and innovation.

Outlining the roadmap for ‘Vikshit Bharat 2047’, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla said that nation’s trade policy today is deeply rooted in the grand vision of a self-reliant India (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and reflects India’s growing stature on the global stage.

Shri Birla underlined that contemporary India has emerged as a beacon for global investors—a land where the ease of doing business is not merely an aspiration, but a reality. He noted with pride that India’s remarkable economic resurgence following the global pandemic serves as a source of hope and inspiration for the developing world, showcasing the nation’s resilience and its unwavering march toward inclusive growth and prosperity.

He observed that flagship programmes such as Make in India, Digital India, Gati Shakti, Bharatmala Pariyojana, Udaan Yojana, and the development of electronic manufacturing clusters are weaving a robust tapestry of industrial and commercial infrastructure across the nation. He further remarked that the simplification of industrial policies, the establishment of a transparent and investor-friendly tax regime, and the adoption of a single-window clearance system have significantly nurtured and emboldened the spirit of entrepreneurship in the country.

Shri Birla remarked that the nation is swiftly transcending its traditional role as a consumer-driven economy to emerge as a vibrant cradle of innovation and ingenuity. He lauded the transformative contributions of Indian enterprises—especially the dynamic ecosystem of Start-Ups—which, with their fresh perspectives and groundbreaking ideas, are paving the way for sustainable development and propelling India toward becoming a global superpower.

Shri Birla further highlighted the dawn of a new economic era in India—an era defined by the confluence of cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, and a surge in innovation-led productivity. This synergy, he noted, is not only driving robust economic growth but also fostering a culture of transparency and efficiency. Turning to the digital revolution sweeping through the nation, Shri Birla drew attention to the phenomenal rise in digital transactions across the commercial landscape. He observed that this digital momentum is ushering in an unprecedented era of economic inclusion—one that is bridging the gap between remote regions and the heart of India’s mainstream economy, thereby illuminating even the most distant corners of the country with the promise of progress and prosperity.

Shri Birla lauded PHDCCI for acting as a strong bridge between industries and policy makers, bringing forth informed insights and thoughtful recommendations that can guide the Government in crafting forward-looking, responsive policies. Shri Birla appreciated the commendable efforts of PHDCCI in nurturing and empowering the dynamic spirit of Indian women through visionary initiatives such as the Women Entrepreneurship Development Programmes and Networking and Mentoring platforms. These initiatives, he noted, have played a pivotal role in unlocking the vast potential of Nari Shakti, enabling women to emerge as powerful and influential participants in the realms of commerce and industry. He further observed that today, the presence and leadership of women in the economic landscape are no longer exceptions but a growing force that is shaping the future of Indian enterprise. Shri Birla emphasized that institutions like PHDCCI possess an intrinsic understanding of the aspirations, strengths, and challenges of the industrial ecosystem.

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AM

(Release ID: 2122281) Visitor Counter : 69

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 9:18PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today hailed the inauguration of Amravati airport as great news for Maharashtra, especially Vidarbha region, remarking that an active airport in Amravati will boost commerce and connectivity.

Responding to a post by Union Civil Aviation Minister, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu on X, Shri Modi said:

“Great news for Maharashtra, especially Vidarbha region. An active airport in Amravati will boost commerce and connectivity.”

 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2122267) Visitor Counter : 87

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 16 APR 2025 9:03PM by PIB Delhi

The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt Anandiben Patel met the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi in New Delhi today.

The Prime Minister’s Office handle posted on X:

“Governor of Uttar Pradesh, @anandibenpatel Ji met Prime Minister @narendramodi.

@GovernorofUp”

 

 

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2122262) Visitor Counter : 11

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Foreign Minister Lin hosts banquet for delegation from New Zealand All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan

Date：2025-04-15
Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

April 15, 2025
No. 096
Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a luncheon on April 15 for a delegation from the New Zealand All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan. On behalf of the Taiwan government, he sincerely welcomed the delegation and thanked the New Zealand Parliament for its long-standing and staunch cross-party support of Taiwan. 
 
Minister Lin emphasized that Taiwan and New Zealand shared the values of freedom, democracy, and human rights. He added that under the Taiwan-New Zealand economic cooperation agreement (ANZTEC), economic, trade, investment, cultural, and indigenous exchanges had continued to grow steadily. In the face of authoritarian expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region, Minister Lin recognized and thanked New Zealand for repeatedly affirming the vital importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and for firmly supporting Taiwan’s participation in the international community. He expressed confidence that moving forward, both countries would continue working hand in hand to promote regional security and prosperity.

The delegation was led by Senior Whip of the National Party Stuart Smith. He stated that his first trip to Taiwan had been in 2015 and that he was visiting again now to witness Taiwan’s political and economic development over the past decade. Noting that both Taiwan and New Zealand sought free trade and upheld universal values, he indicated that at a time when countries worldwide were facing geopolitical challenges and trade barriers, exchanging views on issues of common concern was particularly important for New Zealand as it responded to global changes. Labour Party Member of Parliament Tangi Utikere, cohead of the delegation, said that the visit would facilitate the New Zealand Parliament’s understanding of the current state of Taiwan-New Zealand relations and allow it to draw on Taiwan’s experience, making development on both sides more successful.

 The New Zealand All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan was established in 2023 and first sent a cross-party delegation of parliamentarians to Taiwan in 2024. This year, the delegation will remain in Taiwan from April 13 to 18, calling on President Lai Ching-te, meeting with representatives of relevant government agencies, and visiting sites of political, economic, and cultural interest to further the Taiwan-New Zealand partnership. (E)

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Transport & Logistics Bureau today issued letters to inform applicants about the results of the third round of applications to the “Labour Importation Scheme for the Transport Sector – Aviation Industry”.

The bureau said that during the application period a total of 34 eligible companies submitted applications, involving requests to import 3,292 workers across all 10 job types under the scheme. Of these, 2,206 were approved.

In vetting and approving applications, an interdepartmental liaison group took into consideration factors such as applicants’ business development needs and the requirements of the scheme, the bureau added.

Upon conclusion of the exercise, all 6,300 places under the scheme have been approved.

The bureau said it will announce details on further aspects of the scheme, including arrangements in relation to the expiry of imported workers’ employment contracts, in due course.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

MOFA response to display of Nazi symbol and salute at New Taipei District Prosecutors Office

Date：2025-04-16
Data Source：Department of West Asian and African Affairs

April 16, 2025  
 
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has noted that a Taiwanese national wearing a swastika armband and holding a copy of Adolf Hitler’s Mein Kampf made a Nazi salute at the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office on April 15. Like most other countries, Taiwan firmly rejects Nazi symbols, which represent an ideology of prejudice and hatred that led to the historic tragedy of the Holocaust. Many nations have also explicitly banned the use of such symbols. MOFA strongly condemns this highly inappropriate method of expressing personal opinion.
 
MOFA reiterates that Taiwan is a country that respects freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. The constitution protects people’s right to express their opinions and exercise freedom of speech. MOFA urges the people of Taiwan to recognize the negative associations and historical trauma attached to Nazi symbols and gestures within the international community. It calls on the public not to bring distress to people of other countries, tarnish Taiwan’s international reputation, and engage in counterproductive forms of expression.
 
MOFA sincerely hopes that the people and government of Taiwan will work together to actively demonstrate tolerance for different cultures, religions, and ethnic groups of the world. It looks forward to everyone jointly striving for a brighter and more inclusive future.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

MOFA expresses condolences over passing of former US Deputy Secretary of State Armitage

Date：2025-04-15
Data Source：Department of North American Affairs

April 15, 2025The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expresses its profound condolences over the passing of former US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage. It has instructed the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States to convey its sincere sympathies to his family on behalf of the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan).Mr. Armitage served as assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs from 1983 to 1989 under President Ronald Reagan and President George H. W. Bush and as deputy secretary of state under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2004. An important friend of Taiwan, he staunchly supported both the preservation of peace across the Taiwan Strait and Taiwan’s democracy, making outstanding contributions to Taiwan-US relations and security in the Indo-Pacific. He also visited Taiwan on multiple occasions to convey his unwavering support. He was a member of a US delegation that visited Taiwan to meet and exchange opinions with President Tsai Ing-wen in 2021. In 2024, he joined former National Economic Council Director Brian Deese in leading a US delegation to the inauguration of the 16th-term president and vice president of the ROC (Taiwan), extending bipartisan felicitations from the United States to President Lai Ching-te and the people of democratic Taiwan. During that visit, he called Taiwan an important voice for democracy in the world and reaffirmed the United States’ firm commitment to ensuring peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. He also expressed steadfast concern regarding China’s military threats and coercion against Taiwan, stating that the more China bullied Taiwan, the more the international community would speak up for Taiwan.