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.
The World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit opened today, where Chief Executive John Lee met its guest speakers and delivered remarks.
Under the theme “Integration of AI & Digital Technologies Shaping the Future – Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace”, the two-day summit is expected to attract nearly 1,000 local and overseas participants from governments, political and business sectors, international organisations, the management of leading corporations, authoritative experts and scholars.
Participants will engage in in-depth exchanges on various technological areas, promoting the high-quality development of innovation and technology.
At the summit’s opening ceremony this morning, National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Vice-Chairman Wang Yong and Mr Lee delivered their remarks, while Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) Director and World Internet Conference (WIC) Chairman Zhuang Rongwen gave a keynote speech.
Meeting Mr Wang this morning, the Chief Executive noted that the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress was successfully convened in Beijing last month. A Government work report proposed to develop new quality productive forces in light of local conditions and pursue integrated advancements in technological and industrial innovation.
He said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is actively developing new quality productive forces and new industrialisation initiatives, with the innovation and technology industry expected to achieve high-quality development. It is also accelerating the development of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, striving to develop Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology centre.
Hong Kong will continue to leverage its advantages in connecting the Mainland with the world, further deepening international exchanges and co-operation, and exploring new opportunities in innovation and technology.
In the afternoon, Mr Lee met Mr Zhuang, expressing his gratitude to the CAC for its continued support to the Hong Kong SAR Government and its collaboration with the Innovation, Technology & Industry Bureau in promoting cross-border data flows within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Highlighting that data is a key driving force of innovation and high-quality development, Mr Lee said the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to maintain close communication and co-operation with the CAC to facilitate Hong Kong’s active integration into the national data development and the digital economy development in the GBA.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan and Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong also spoke at the summit.
It is the first time the WIC has held a summit in Hong Kong, affirming the city’s status as an international metropolis and demonstrating its support for Hong Kong’s innovation and technology development.
Secretary for Transport & Logistics and chair of the Logistics Development Council Mable Chan, listened to the logistics industry’s views on the US’ reckless tariff imposition at a council meeting held today.
She also discussed with the trade ways to tackle the situation together, including a further increase in the so-called reciprocal tariffs.
Ms Chan noted that although the industry is worried about the ongoing uncertainty of the trade environment, it remains firm against the adversary and is actively exploring ways to cope with the situation.
She emphasised that the Transport & Logistics Bureau will be in solidarity with the trade and counter the challenge to Hong Kong and the industry together with determination and confidence, adding that the bureau will play a leading role in providing more specific guidance on industry development and assisting the industry in coping with market restructuring.
To this end, the bureau will adopt five major strategies: exploring emerging markets; strengthening collaboration with ports located in the Greater Bay Area with a view to developing new cargo sources together; exempting the import and export licence requirements for certain products to attract more transshipment cargo; deepening international port and shipping co-operation; and expanding the maritime and aviation networks.
The ultimate aim is to identify new growth points for Hong Kong’s logistics industry, thereby consolidating and enhancing the city’s status and competitiveness as an international maritime centre, international aviation hub and international logistics hub.
Meanwhile, the bureau will also work with Customs and other relevant government departments to implement more initiatives to facilitate the industry’s development, thereby further enhancing the city’s role as a transshipment hub.
Such trade facilitation measures include the expansion of the Single E-lock Scheme, the Free Trade Agreement Transshipment Facilitation Scheme and the Air-Land Fresh Lane.
Hong Kong teams participating in the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva won about 300 prizes, including two Grand Awards, seven Special Awards, about 55 Gold Medals with Congratulations of Jury and about 80 Gold Medals.
In particular, the Prize of the Republic & Canton of Geneva, one of the Grand Awards, went to the “Two-Phase Immersion Cooling System for High Performance Computer Workstation” jointly developed by the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) and the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department (EMSD). This prize represents a governmental level of honour and recognition, marking the first time for departments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to receive this prestigious award.
The CAD-EMSD innovation provides a highly efficient heat dissipation capability for the CAD’s high-performance air traffic control tower simulator by immersing heat-generating computer components into a sealed container filled with a non-conductive cooling liquid. Heat dissipation is achieved through the vaporisation of the cooling liquid, providing a more efficient energy saving system with an extended equipment life time compared with traditional air cooling.
Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Police Force’s “Scameter Series” won another Gold Award named the International Press Prize.
The Tracking Solution for Outdoor Activity Safety, also jointly developed by CAD and EMSD, won the Gold Medal with Congratulations of Jury prize at the exhibition.
Furthermore, local public research and development (R&D) institutes, including the Productivity Council, the Nano & Advanced Materials Institute as well as the Logistics & Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre, also achieved outstanding results at the Edison Awards 2025, winning a total of four Gold Awards and three Silver Awards.
Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong congratulated the Hong Kong teams on their remarkable achievements.
He said: “I am proud of the number of international awards received by Hong Kong teams. This is not only a significant recognition of Hong Kong’s achievements in scientific research, but also highlights Hong Kong’s strong innovation and technology (I&T) capabilities as well as our rich pool of talent.
“The achievements of the Hong Kong teams on the global stage further solidify our position in the I&T landscape in the world. The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to invest resources and strive to build Hong Kong into an international I&T centre.”
PRESIDENT, VICE PRESIDENT, PRIME MINISTER AND LOK SABHA SPEAKER PAY FLORAL TRIBUTE TO BABASAHEB DR. BHIMRAO AMBEDKAR AT HIS STATUE AT PRERNA STHAL IN PARLIAMENT HOUSE COMPLEX ON HIS BIRTH ANNIVERSARY UNION MINISTERS, MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT, FORMER MEMBERS AND OTHER DIGNITARIES ALSO PAY TRIBUTES TO BABASAHEB DR. BHIMRAO AMBEDKAR
Posted On: 14 APR 2025 3:17PM by PIB Delhi
President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu; Vice-President of India and Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar; Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and Lok Sabha Speaker, Shri Om Birla paid floral tributes at the statue of Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar at Prerna Sthal in Parliament House Complex on the occasion of his birth anniversary, today.
‘भारत रत्न’ बाबासाहेब डॉ. भीमराव अम्बेडकर जी के 135वें जयंती दिवस पर संसद परिसर स्थित प्रेरणा स्थल पर उन्हें भावपूर्ण नमन कर श्रद्धासुमन अर्पित किए। बाबासाहेब का जीवन सदैव राह दिखाता रहेगा।#AmbedkarJayanti#BabaSahebAmbedkarpic.twitter.com/TppA5mvXsg
Several Union Ministers, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge; Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Shri Rahul Gandhi; Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh; Chief Minister, Delhi, Smt. Rekha Gupta; Members of Parliament, former Members of Parliament and other dignitaries also paid tributes on this occasion.
Later, Lok Sabha Speaker, Shri Om Birla; Union Ministers, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh, Chief Minister, Delhi, Smt. Rekha Gupta; Members of Parliament and former Members of Parliament paid floral tributes at the portrait of Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan. Secretaries-General of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, Shri Utpal Kumar Singh and Shri P.C. Mody, respectively, also paid floral tributes to Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan.
Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar had a profound impact on India’s social and political landscape, leaving an enduring legacy. Renowned as a champion of social justice, he is revered for his substantial and diverse contributions to Indian society. Dr. Ambedkar’s significant achievement lies in his role as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution, where he played a pivotal role during the debates in the Constituent Assembly. He is respected as the driving force behind the Constitution of India, ensuring its principles of inclusivity and justice.
The portrait of Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar was unveiled in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan (erstwhile Parliament House) by the then Prime Minister, Shri Vishwanath Pratap Singh on 12 April, 1990.
भारत के संविधान के शिल्पकार, देश के प्रथम विधि मंत्री बाबासाहेब डॉ. भीमराव अम्बेडकर जी की जयंती पर कोटि-कोटि नमन। बाबासाहेब आजीवन समानता, स्वतंत्रता, न्याय और बंधुता के लिए समर्पित रहे। कमज़ोर परिवेश से निकलकर उन्होंने अभूतपूर्व उपलब्धियां हासिल की, तथा समाज में वांछित परिवर्तन… pic.twitter.com/jg7I9bLCIy
Earlier, paying rich tributes to Dr. Ambedkar, Shri Birla in a post on social media platform X said, “Tributes to the architect of the Indian Constitution, the country’s first Law Minister, Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar ji on his birth anniversary. Babasaheb remained dedicated to equality, freedom, justice and fraternity throughout his life. Coming from a humble background, he used education as a medium to bring the desired changes in the society. As the Chairman of the Drafting Committee in the Constituent Assembly, he drafted the world’s best legislative document ‘Constitution of India’. As we celebrate 75th years of the adoption of the Constitution, Babasaheb’s philosophy becomes even more relevant. His ideas inspire us to remain united against all forms of injustice, exploitation and oppression. Dr. Ambedkar’s life, dedicated to the upliftment of the underprivileged class and the empowerment of the Nation, will continue to inspire millions of countrymen for ages.”
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates, lays foundation stone of development projects in Yamuna Nagar, Haryana Viksit Haryana for Viksit Bharat, this is our resolve: PM
Our effort is to increase the production of electricity in the country, lack of electricity should not become an obstacle in nation building: PM
PM Suryagarh Muft Bijli Yojana started by us can reduce electricity bill to zero by installation of solar panels : PM
Our effort is to increase the potential of the farmers of Haryana: PM
Posted On: 14 APR 2025 3:12PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various development projects in Yamuna Nagar, Haryana today. Extending his greetings to the people of Haryana, he paid homage to the sacred land of Haryana, acknowledging it as the origin of Maa Saraswati, the abode of Mantra Devi, the site of Panchmukhi Hanuman Ji, and the blessed Kapalmochan Sahib. “Haryana is a confluence of culture, devotion, and dedication”, he described. He also conveyed his heartfelt wishes to all citizens on the 135th birth anniversary of Babasaheb Ambedkar, highlighting Babasaheb’s vision and inspiration, which continue to guide India’s journey toward development.
“Yamunanagar is not just a city but a vital part of India’s industrial landscape, contributing significantly to the economy with its industries ranging from plywood to brass and steel”, said Shri Modi, highlighting the cultural and historical significance of the region, mentioning the Kapal Mochan Mela, the sacred land of Rishi Ved Vyas, and the site of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s weaponry. He shared his personal connection with Yamunanagar, recalling his frequent visits from Panchkula during his tenure as Haryana’s in-charge. He expressed gratitude for the dedicated workers he collaborated with and acknowledged the enduring tradition of hard work and commitment in the region.
Underlining that Haryana is witnessing the double speed of development under the Union and State governments for the third consecutive term, the Prime Minister emphasized the commitment to a developed Haryana as part of the vision for a developed India. He highlighted the government’s dedication to serving the people of Haryana and fulfilling the aspirations of its youth by working at greater speed and scale. He pointed to the development projects launched today as a testament to this commitment and extended his congratulations to the people of Haryana for these new development initiatives.
Expressing pride in his government’s commitment to advancing the vision of Babasaheb Ambedkar, Shri Modi highlighted Babasaheb’s belief that industrial development was a pathway to social justice. He noted that Babasaheb identified the issue of small landholdings in India and emphasized that Dalits, lacking sufficient agricultural land, would benefit the most from industrialization. He shared Babasaheb’s vision that industries would provide greater employment opportunities for Dalits, improving their standard of living. He also acknowledged Babasaheb’s significant role in India’s industrialization efforts, working alongside the country’s first Industry Minister, Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee, to drive progress in this direction.
Remarking that the synergy between industrialization and manufacturing was also recognized by Deenbandhu Chaudhary Chhotu Ram Ji as the foundation for rural prosperity, the Prime Minister highlighted Chhotu Ram Ji’s belief that true prosperity in villages would come when farmers enhance their income through small industries alongside agriculture. He further noted that Chaudhary Charan Singh Ji, who dedicated his life to the welfare of villages and farmers, shared a similar vision, emphasizing Charan Singh Ji’s perspective that industrial development should complement agriculture, as both are pillars of the economy.
Emphasising that the essence of ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ lies in fostering manufacturing, Shri Modi underscored the government’s focus on manufacturing, as reflected in this year’s budget announcement of ‘Mission Manufacturing’. “The mission aims to create maximum employment opportunities for Dalit, backward, underprivileged, and marginalized youth, provide them with essential training, reduce business costs, strengthen the MSME sector, equip industries with modern technology, and ensure Indian products are world-class”, he stated. Underscoring the importance of uninterrupted power supply to achieve these goals and highlighting the significance of today’s event, he announced the commencement of work on the third unit of the Deenbandhu Chaudhary Chhotu Ram Thermal Power Plant, which will benefit Yamunanagar and Haryana. The Prime Minister noted that Yamunanagar produces half of India’s plywood and is a hub for manufacturing aluminum, copper, and brass utensils. He added that petrochemical plant equipment from Yamunanagar is exported to several countries. He emphasized that increased power production will benefit these industries and support ‘Mission Manufacturing’.
Underlining the critical role of electricity in building a developed India, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s multifaceted efforts to enhance power availability, including initiatives like One Nation-One Grid, new coal power plants, solar energy projects, and the expansion of the nuclear sector. “Increasing electricity production is essential to ensure that power shortages do not hinder nation-building”, he stressed recalling the frequent blackouts before 2014 under previous dispensation’s rule, stating that such crises would have persisted if Congress had remained in power. He noted that during those times, factories, railways, and irrigation systems were severely affected. He shared that over the past decade, India has nearly doubled its electricity production capacity and now exports power to neighboring countries. He highlighted the benefits of their government’s focus on electricity production for Haryana, which currently generates 16,000 MW of power. He also announced the goal of increasing this capacity to 24,000 MW in the coming years.
Highlighting the government’s dual approach of investing in thermal power plants while empowering citizens to become power generators themselves, Shri Modi mentioned the launch of the PM Suryagarh Muft Bijli Yojana, enabling individuals to install solar panels on their rooftops, eliminate electricity bills, and even earn by selling surplus power. He noted that over 1.25 crore people across the country have registered under this scheme, with lakhs from Haryana applying to join. He expressed satisfaction with the scheme’s expansion, which is fostering a growing service ecosystem. He emphasized that the solar sector is creating new skills, generating opportunities for MSMEs, and opening numerous avenues for youth employment.
Prime Minister underscored the government’s focus on ensuring adequate electricity and financial resources for small industries in smaller towns. He mentioned that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the government provided financial assistance worth lakhs of crores to support MSMEs. He further said that the definition of MSMEs has been revised to allow small industries to expand without fear of losing government support as they grow, while mentioning the introduction of special credit cards for small industries and an increase in credit guarantee coverage. He noted the recent 10-year milestone of the Mudra Yojana, under which ₹33 lakh crore in collateral-free loans have been disbursed. He emphasized that over 50% of the beneficiaries of this scheme are from SC, ST, and OBC families. He expressed the government’s commitment to enabling small industries to fulfill the big dreams of India’s youth.
Lauding the hard work of Haryana’s farmers, which contributes to every Indian’s plate, the Prime Minister emphasized that the governments at Center and state stands as a steadfast partner in the joys and challenges of farmers. He highlighted efforts to empower Haryana’s farmers, noting that the state government now procures 24 crops at MSP. He shared that lakhs of farmers in Haryana have benefited from the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, with claims exceeding ₹9,000 crore under the scheme. Additionally, he mentioned that ₹6,500 crore has been disbursed to Haryana’s farmers through the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, further supporting their livelihoods and growth.
Underlining the Haryana government’s decision to abolish the colonial-era water tax, relieving farmers from paying taxes on canal water, Shri Modi noted that over ₹130 crore in outstanding dues under this tax have also been waived. He emphasized the efforts of the Union and state government in providing new income opportunities for farmers and livestock owners. He mentioned the Gobardhan Yojana, which enables farmers to manage waste and generate income by producing biogas from cow dung, agricultural residues, and other organic waste. He shared that this year’s budget includes the announcement of 500 Gobardhan plants across the country. He highlighted the foundation stone laying of a new Gobardhan plant in Yamunanagar, which will save ₹3 crore annually for the municipal corporation. “Gobardhan Yojana is also contributing to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, furthering the mission of cleanliness and sustainability”, he further said.
Prime Minister underlined Haryana’s rapid progress on the path of development, mentioning his earlier visit to Hisar, where direct flight services to Ayodhya Dham were inaugurated. He also announced the new bypass for Rewari, which will ease traffic congestion in markets, intersections, and railway crossings, allowing vehicles to bypass the city smoothly. He noted that the four-lane bypass will reduce travel time between Delhi and Narnaul by an hour and congratulated the people on this achievement.
Emphasising that for them, politics is a medium of service—service to the people and the nation, Shri Modi stated, “our party delivers on its promises, as evident in Haryana”, where the government is fulfilling commitments made after being elected for the third term. He contrasted this with opposition-ruled states, citing betrayal of public trust. He pointed to the struggles faced by people in Himachal Pradesh, where development and welfare projects have stalled. In Karnataka, he highlighted rising costs of essentials like electricity, milk, bus fares, and seeds under current dispensation’s rule. He mentioned public dissatisfaction with the incumbent government in Karnataka, as seen on social media, and noted allegations of corruption, with even close associates of the Chief Minister acknowledging Karnataka’s ranking as number one in corruption.
Shri Modi criticized the current government in Telangana for neglecting its promises to the people and focusing on bulldozing forests, causing harm to nature and wildlife. He contrasted two models of governance and described his party’s model as genuine and dedicated to building a developed India, while the opposition’s as deceitful and focused solely on power. He highlighted the ongoing efforts in Yamunanagar as an example of his party’s commitment to progress.
Reflecting on the significance of Baisakhi and the 106th anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the Prime Minister honored the memory of the patriots who sacrificed their lives and highlighted the cruelty of the British regime. He emphasized another aspect of the massacre—the unwavering spirit of standing for humanity and the nation, exemplified by Shri Shankaran Nair. He further shared that Shankaran Nair, a renowned lawyer and high-ranking official in the British government, chose to resign and raise his voice against the atrocities of foreign rule. He fought the Jallianwala Bagh case single-handedly, shaking the foundations of the British Empire and holding it accountable in court. He described Shankaran Nair’s actions as a remarkable example of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,” showcasing how a man from Kerala stood against British power for a massacre in Punjab. He remarked that this spirit of unity and resistance was the true inspiration behind India’s freedom struggle and remains a driving force in the journey toward a developed India.
The Prime Minister concluded by urging everyone to learn about Shankaran Nair’s contributions and emphasized the Union and state governments continuous efforts to empower the pillars of society—poor, farmers, youth, and women. He expressed confidence that collective efforts will lead Haryana toward development.
The Chief Minister of Haryana, Shri Nayab Singh Saini, Union Ministers, Shri Manohar Lal, Shri Rao Inderjit Singh, Shri Krishan Pal Gurjar were present among other dignitaries at the event.
Background
Boosting power infrastructure in the region along with the vision of electricity reaching the last mile, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of 800 MW modern thermal power unit of Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram Thermal Power Plant at YamunaNagar. This unit, spread across 233 acres, worth around Rs 8,470 crore, will significantly boost Haryana’s energy self-sufficiency and provide uninterrupted power supply across the state.
Taking forward the vision of GOBARDhan, i.e. Galvanising Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan, Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of a Compressed Biogas Plant in Mukarabpur, in YamunaNagar. The plant will have an annual production capacity of 2,600 metric tonnes and will help in effective organic waste management, while contributing to clean energy production and environmental conservation.
Prime Minister also inaugurated the 14.4 km Rewari Bypass project, worth around Rs 1,070 crore under the Bharatmala Pariyojana. It will decongest Rewari city, reduce Delhi–Narnaul travel time by around one hour, and boost economic and social activity in the region.
हरियाणा लगातार तीसरी बार, डबल इंजन सरकार के विकास की डबल रफ्तार देख रहा है। आज यमुनानगर में विभिन्न विकास परियोजनाओं का लोकार्पण और शिलान्यास कर बेहद प्रसन्न हूं। https://t.co/hpFWZRiVa4
The celebrations of the 135th Ambedkar Jayanti were organized on April 14, 2025, by Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF), on behalf of the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, near the statue of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at the Parliament House Campus.
The event began with floral tributes by the President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla, Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment (SJ&E) and Chairman (DAF), Dr. Virendra Kumar, along with other dignitaries including Ministers, Parliamentarians and other invited guests in the morning.
Thereafter the event was opened for the public, where a huge number of people paid their tributes at the feet of the life-size statue of Babasaheb Ambedkar at the Prerna Sthal in Parliament House Lawns. During the event, Buddhist chants were performed by Buddhist monks, while artists from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting performed songs dedicated to Babasaheb Ambedkar.
Dr. Ambedkar Jayanti is annually celebrated by the DAF to commemorate the Birth Anniversary of the visionary social reformer, jurist, economist and politician, who was the chief architect of the Constitution of India. Dr. Ambedkar championed the cause of marginalized communities. His thoughts on social justice, equality, and democracy still continue to inspire generations.
The event was also graced by MoS (SJ&E), Shri B.L. Verma, Secretary (D/o SJ&E), Shri Amit Yadav, and other senior officers of the Ministry and DAF.
Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF)
The Dr. Ambedkar Foundation was constituted to disseminate the message and ideologies of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. In 1991, a Centenary Celebration Committee of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was constituted and was headed by the then Prime Minister of India. This committee decided to set up Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF). On March 24, 1992, Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF), an autonomous body was established under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, to disperse programmes and activities for furthering the visions and thoughts of Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar on a pan-Indian scale.
Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial (DANM)
The Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial (DANM) is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the life, work, and contributions of Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who was a renowned social reformer, orator, prolific writer, historian, jurist, anthropologist, and politician. The DANM museum houses a collection of personal belongings, photographs, letters, and documents related to Dr. Ambedkar’s life, including his education, social reform movements, and political career. There are also audio-visual exhibits to showcase his speeches and interviews.
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid tribute to Bharat Ratna Babasaheb Ambedkar on his birth anniversary today. He remarked that Babasaheb’s principles and ideals will give strength and momentum for creation of a self-reliant and developed India.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Speech by FS at World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit – Main Forum on the Digital Intelligence Future (English only)
Professor Francis Gurry (Vice-Chairman of the World Internet Conference), (Secretary General of the World Internet Conference, Mr Ren Xianliang), (Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Qi Bin), (Chief Engineer of the Cyberspace Administration of China, Ms Sun Weimin), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
It is a great pleasure to join you all at the Asia-Pacific Summit of the World Internet Conference. The WIC has long served as a vital platform for global dialogue, enabling policymakers, business leaders, scholars and innovators to come together and explore the digital challenges and opportunities of our time, and to find new ways of working together. It is an honour for Hong Kong to host this event for the first time.
The global digital landscape
The Internet stands as the most transformative force of connection of our time. It is also a story of continuous reinvention, from static content in Web 1.0 to social media, e-commerce in Web 2.0, and to the age of Web 3.0 underpinned by blockchain technologies. Coupled with artificial intelligence (AI), this next-generation Internet is once again transforming the way we live and do business. AI-powered tools are enabling governments and businesses to deliver smarter and more responsive services. Decentralised finance and tokenisation, for example, are substantially reducing the cost and improving the efficiency of financial and business transactions.
The digital era today has created significant opportunities for new entrants. Consider the DeepSeek Moment. While global headlines often focus on the AI rivalry between the two great nations, it also reminds us of the innovative prowess and agility of startups, and the multiple pathways to technological progress. It has opened up a future where development will not be decided simply by size or resources, but also by creativity and the courage to pursue visionary ideas.
Despite the enormous progress, equitable digital access remains a global issue. Today, nearly one-third of the world’s population – or some 2.6 billion people – are still offline. For these communities, the absence of digital access means fewer opportunities for education, economic advancement and social inclusion.
Governments and regulators worldwide are also facing mounting challenges such as cybersecurity, data privacy and complexities of cross-border regulatory arbitrage. For example, it is estimated that cybercrime could cost the global economy over US$10 trillion in 2025 alone. This amount, ironically, exceeds the GDP of most nations. Yet, across jurisdictions, governance frameworks are still struggling to keep pace with the speed of technological change.
Currently, a more urgent concern is digital fragmentation. The trade war initiated by the United States is likely to extend beyond tariffs. We can foresee more barriers, “larger yards” and “higher walls”, which could stifle innovation and jeopardise global technological progress.
Hong Kong’s vision
Ladies and gentlemen, now allow me to turn to Hong Kong. How can we navigate these complex global dynamics to foster a more inclusive and interconnected digital environment? I hope our perspectives and experience can contribute to the current discussions on global digital development.
Our digital strategy is founded on the principles of openness and global connectivity. Under the “one country, two systems” principle, we champion the free flow of data and information – just as we do with goods and capital – as a cornerstone of our competitiveness and status as a free and open economy.
To seize new opportunities brought by the digital economy and address the associated challenges, we need a comprehensive and forward-looking strategy. That’s why, over the past two years, the HKSAR Government has put in place a concrete action plan, covering such areas as digital infrastructure and governance, digital transformation, cross-boundary flow of data and talent development.
A key part of this strategy is to enhance economic inclusiveness through digitalisation. For example, we are supporting SMEs in their digital transformation. At the same time, we have strengthened the sharing of data held by government departments with financial institutions, on a consent basis, to enhance the efficiency of credit assessments.
Another strategic objective is to unlock the full value of data. Hong Kong’s unique position as a convergence point for both Mainland and international data gives us a distinct advantage. This will help us not only in developing data-driven industries such as AI and health tech but also a data trading market in Hong Kong.
As we enter the “AI+” era, we will develop AI as a core industry for Hong Kong by the deep integration of AI across industries. Our efforts focus on five key fronts: computing power, algorithms, data, capital and talent. With our international connectivity, we also aim to position Hong Kong as a global hub for AI exchange, promoting dialogues, research collaboration and thought leadership.
A shared future in cyberspace
Ladies and gentlemen, looking forward, we believe there are several key priorities that must be addressed at the global level to ensure the healthy and inclusive development of the Internet.
The first is digital governance. As emerging technologies become more powerful and pervasive, our regulatory frameworks must evolve accordingly, addressing issues such as cybersecurity, data privacy and ethical use of AI. In Hong Kong, we advocate for a balanced, pro-innovation regulatory approach, putting in place appropriate safeguards while encouraging innovation. Our approach to Web 3 and digital assets is a good case in point.
The second is bridging the digital divide. For many developing economies, digital access is a powerful enabler for inclusive growth – improving education, expanding financial inclusion and enhancing public service delivery. I’m glad to report that in Hong Kong, many of our startups have developed innovative and robust solutions in these areas. They are eager to share their technologies with emerging economies.
The third is talent development. In the age of AI, digital literacy is no longer optional – it is essential. This imperative goes beyond formal education and calls for partnerships between the public and private sectors. In Hong Kong, we are working closely with leading tech companies – including Tencent, Alibaba, Lenovo, SenseTime, and startups at Science Park and Cyberport – to deliver technology training and share their entrepreneurial experience with students. Our aim is to cultivate the interest of the next generation and prepare them for a dynamic and innovation-led future.
Concluding remarks
Ladies and gentlemen, the challenges and opportunities of the digital age transcend borders. In this era of rapid technological transformation, what we need is more dialogue, sharing and co-operation so that we can drive the development in Internet, AI and other emerging technologies for the common good of humanity.
On that note, I wish this Summit every success, and I hope each of you will find the discussions ahead insightful, productive and inspiring. Thank you very much.
Issued at HKT 16:36
The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India today released the first edition of International Technology Engagement Strategy for Quantum, marking a significant step toward articulating India’s outward-facing strategy in Quantum Science, Technology and Innovation (QSTI), with the intent to accelerate discovery, foster innovation, and catalyse adoption across critical sectors.
The report was officially unveiled by PSA Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood during the Office of PSA’s podcast on the occasion of World Quantum Day 2025, celebrated every year on April 14. This report comes with a special significance because of 2025 being the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQST) designated by the United Nations and member states.
The strategy report provides a foundational landscape analysis to enable domestic and foreign stakeholders in government, academia, and industry to formulate context-specific action points aligned with their engagement goals complementing the ambitions of India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM) and other ongoing efforts by various agencies and stakeholders in the ecosystem.
Talking about the importance of Quantum Tech, Prof. Sood highlighted it is an area where no country wants to be left behind because it is important for strategic autonomy and there cannot be strategic autonomy without being quantum safe. Further speaking about gaps and potential in the sector for India, he stated, “India has to invest in Quantum hardware, we have to reduce our dependencies on imports, and advancements in all areas of quantum computing can help with that. We need to bring much more funds for startups, and de-risk the investment — which means we need to create markets for the products. And this is where all the players, be it government, private sectors, academia, or startups, play a role to create this ecosystem,” he added. “We need to be an active player in defining the global standards for Quantum Tech. This is a gap we need to fill. Because once we have that, we will also play a role in standardisation efforts, and that is what leads to strategic autonomy. We have to do that very proactively and ensure that we have these global standards because our market is not only the Indian market but global.“
While talking about NQM, Prof. Sood mentioned that the mission being very efficiently rolled out by the Department of Science and Technology ( DST ) under the leadership of Secretary DST looks at the complete life cycle of this frontier technology – the R&D needed, what does it take to translate that R&D to technology and how to make a product from that for the market scale up. He also explained the key features of the hub-and-spoke model that is being implemented by NQM at the national scale involving 152 researchers from 43 institutions across 17 states and 2 UTs .
This inaugural edition of ITES-Q provides a comprehensive overview of both global and national quantum ecosystems, covering analysis of investments, talent development, institutional strengths, research publications, intellectual property, startups, supply chains, and industrial activity. The ITES-Q is thought out to facilitate impactful partnerships and particularly add value to the efforts of Indian missions abroad in strengthening bilateral and multilateral engagements for QSTI.
The ITES is an initiative of the Office of the PSA to GoI, designed to strengthen and elevate India’s Technology Diplomacy efforts across critical and emerging domains.