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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ANRF Launches Call for Proposals Under J. C. Bose Grant (JBG)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 4:47PM by PIB Delhi

    The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has announced the launch of the J. C. Bose Grant (JBG), a new scheme, to recognize the outstanding performance and contributions of senior Indian scientists and engineers through this extra-mural funding opportunities to enhance their research in cutting-edge scientific and technological areas.

    The ANRF, an apex body to provide high-level strategic direction of scientific research in the country as per recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) aims to seed, grow and promote research and development (R&D) and foster a culture of research and innovation. It will support capacity building at all levels to strengthen the research ecosystem of the country.

    The J. C. Bose Grant is designed to support senior-level researchers who have demonstrated exceptional achievements, with evidence of excellence such as publications records and research outcomes, patents, technology transfers, awards, and grants etc. across various domains of science and technology (S&T) including agriculture, medicine, as well as humanities and social sciences at the interfaces of S&T.

    Participants must be active, senior Indian scientists or researchers with a proven track record of excellence, holding at least a Professor-level position or equivalent at an Indian institution/university.

    This grant provides an annual research funding of Rs. 25 lakhs for a duration of five years. Additionally, an annual overhead of Rs. 1.0 lakh will be provided to the implementing institution. If the Principal Investigator (PI) superannuates, during the term of the grants, it can be continued subject to the host institutions willingness to host the PI. The grant can be availed until the age of 68.

    For more details on eligibility, funding guidelines, and application procedures, please visit the ANRF Portal at https://www.anrfonline.in/ANRF/jcbose_anrf .

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    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2102312) Visitor Counter : 22

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ4: Ten-year Hospital Development Plan

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ4: Ten-year Hospital Development Plan
    LCQ4: Ten-year Hospital Development Plan
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         Following is a question by the Hon Tony Tse and a reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (February 12): Question:      The Government has implemented the first 10-year Hospital Development Plan (HDP) since 2016, setting aside $200 billion for the construction, redevelopment and expansion of a number of hospitals and the provision of other healthcare facilities. In 2018, the Government invited the Hospital Authority to commence planning for the second 10-year HDP, which is expected to cover 19 projects involving about $270 billion. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: (1) of the implementation of the first 10-year HDP, the estimated final expenditure, the additional annual recurrent expenditure involved and the assessment of the effectiveness of HDP; (2) of the planning for the second 10-year HDP, the projects to be covered and the expenditure (including recurrent and non-recurrent expenditures) to be involved; and (3) whether the formulation of the second 10-year HDP has taken into account circumstances and development trends emerged in recent years, including: the latest projections on the population and the supply and demand of healthcare manpower; the community’s greater emphasis on mental health, Chinese medicine and Chinese-‍Western medicine collaboration (especially for cancer treatment); the public’s demand for public dental services; the Government’s more proactive promotion of preventive and primary healthcare services; the continuous improvement in the quality of Mainland’s healthcare services and their enhanced accessibility to the Hong Kong public; the increasing number of Hong Kong people who are willing to go north for medical treatment and age in the Mainland; as well as the financial positions of the Government and Hospital Authority? Reply: President,      Having consulted the Hospital Authority (HA), my consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Tony Tse is as follows: (1) In 2016, the Government and the HA commenced the implementation of the First Hospital Development Plan (HDP) with $200 billion set aside for a total of 16 projects, covering the redevelopment and expansion of 11 hospitals, the construction of a new acute hospital, three community health centres and one supporting services centre.      Up till now, 14 out of those 16 projects have been upgraded to Category A with a total commitment of about $186,339 million (in money-of-the-day prices). Approval for upgrading the remaining health centre and community health centre building projects to Category A will also be sought later. Upon completion of the First HDP, it is anticipated that a total of about 2.2 million square metre of additional construction floor area, including an addition of 6 557 bed spaces (Note) and 94 operating theatres, will be provided for the whole public healthcare system. It is also anticipated that the total number of public hospital bed spaces under the HA will increase from about 30 000 in March 2022 to about 35 000 in 2031, while that of operating theatres from about 250 to about 350. Meanwhile, there will be more room for increasing service quotas of specialist and general out-patient clinics.      Among the projects, the new Phase 1 Building of the redevelopment project of Kwong Wah Hospital (KWH) was completed in late 2022, providing a construction floor area of about 145 000 square metre. As compared to the old KWH, four operating theatres, one cardiac catheterisation room, four endoscopy rooms, one magnetic resonance imaging room and a one-stop ambulatory care centre are provided additionally. For the new Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department, which is approximately three times the size of the old one, it has an additional Emergency Medicine Ward with 40 beds, isolation areas for infection control and other supporting facilities. With the commissioning of the new A&E department, the average waiting time for patients who, after treatment at the A&E department of KWH, need to wait before being admitted to the hospital has dropped by 24 per cent in the previous two quarters (i.e. the third and fourth quarters of 2024) as compared with the same period in 2023. Besides, upon the full operation of the North District Community Health Centre Building following its completion in the end of 2024, it is estimated that the total number of attendances of the general out-patient and family medicine specialist clinics of the North District Family Medicine Centre will increase by approximately 143 000 and 44 000 respectively.      Some capital works projects under the First HDP involve in-situ redevelopment. Taking the expansion of United Christian Hospital as an example, certain facilities have to be temporarily closed or adjusted and workspace is limited, with clinical services being maintained under limitations. The Health Bureau (HHB) and the HA would like to express their gratitude towards all healthcare staff for their patient-oriented spirit and standing fast at their posts to provide high-quality services under such conditions during the construction period, as well as towards the public for their understanding of the importance of the construction works in improving healthcare services and their patience towards the inconveniences arising from the construction works.      Since some of the projects under the First HDP remain underway while some other are pending commencement, there is currently no complete information on its final expenditure and evaluation of its effectiveness. As for the operating expenses of the new hospitals, they will be covered by the subvention allocated by the Government to the HA. The HA will enhance and provide additional services and make good use of the recurrent provision from the Government having considered the growth of service demands of clusters, the scale, progress and plans of various hospital redevelopment and expansion projects. The Government also reviews and administers the subvention to the HA in accordance with the prevailing mechanisms. (2) and (3) The Government announced under the 2018 Policy Address and set out in the 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21 Budgets that it has invited the HA to commence planning for the Second HDP. The preliminary idea of the projects under the Second HDP was presented by the then Food and Health Bureau (FHB) to the Legislative Council (LegCo) Panel on Health Services in April 2019. The preliminary planning idea back then, which was based on the 2014-based Territorial Population and Employment Data Matrix compiled by the Planning Department and population projections by the Census and Statistics Department up to 2031, was to implement the Second HDP within ten years from 2026 to 2035 to meet the projected service demand up to 2036. A total of 19 projects were covered in the plan back then with an aim to provide over 9 000 additional beds and other necessary healthcare facilities.      With the changes in the population structure, planning and development situation of Hong Kong, the HHB and the HA are currently reviewing the Second HDP. Amongst others, in view of the territory-wide and regional planning and development strategies as announced by the Planning Department, including the “Hong Kong 2030+: Towards a Planning Vision and Strategy Transcending 2030” and the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy, the corresponding population projections of Hong Kong including the latest changes in overall population, its distribution and demographics, as well as the population policy and talent attraction initiatives of the Government and more, the HHB and the HA have to adopt a planning horizon of up to 2040 and beyond for the Second HDP, and to project healthcare service demand and consider the supply and conditions of the land required, thereby optimising the Second HDP.      The Government also considers factors such as the needs for and cost-effectiveness of renovation, refurbishment, redevelopment or addition of facilities for individual hospitals, and the convenience of public access to healthcare services under various major transport infrastructure development plans for determining the distribution, scale and priority, etc. of various hospital development projects under the Second HDP. Upon completion of the review, the Government will announce the revision details of the Second HDP in due course. In the course of planning, the HA will forecast future service demand and corresponding healthcare manpower requirements and make corresponding assessments and planning, with a view to flexibly deploying manpower and recruiting additional staff during the commissioning of new hospital facilities and phased introduction of services.      In planning and implementing the Second HDP, the HA will proactively tie the projects in with the policy initiatives of the Government, especially those for healthcare reform, including the development of primary healthcare services, mental health services, and Chinese medicine services, integrated Chinese-Western Medicine, the third medical school and development into an international health and medical innovation hub, while providing better healthcare services to the public by reserving spaces in newly built hospital facilities to facilitate the development of various services, increasing resources as appropriate and optimising services. As for the use of healthcare services provided in the Mainland by Hong Kong citizens, the HHB has a strong determination to enhance local healthcare and shoulder the primary responsibility for the health of all citizens, while offering convenience to Hong Kong citizens across the boundary and closely monitoring the needs for cross-boundary healthcare services and the progress of the healthcare collaboration initiatives in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area under the principles of complementarity and mutual benefits.      Thank you, President. Note: The figures include the additional beds at Kai Tak New Acute Hospital, which are provided for the relocation of the services from Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH). Currently, QEH has around 1 940 beds and the reprovisioning of these beds will depend on the reallocation or redevelopment plan of its vacated buildings after its service relocation.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 12, 2025Issued at HKT 19:15

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ16: Tobacco duty

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Shiu Ka-fai and a written reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (February 12):     Question:     It has been reported that smoking prevalence has been reduced slightly from 9.5 per cent to 9.1 per cent, following the Government’s measures to increase tobacco duty by 31.48 per cent and 31.92 per cent in 2023 and last year respectively. Some members of the community have pointed out that while an increase in tobacco duty by more than 30 per cent should have brought substantially more tax revenue since there has not been any significant decrease in the number of smokers, the revenue from tobacco duty dropped from $7.93 billion before the duty increase in 2022-2023 to $7.25 billion afterwards in 2023-2024, and the tax revenue reduced even more significantly last year after the Government drastically increased tobacco duty again. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:     (1) of the monthly revenue from tobacco duty in the past three years (set out in the table below);(2) whether it has examined the reasons for reduction in the Government’s revenue from tobacco duty; whether it has assessed (i) the amount of revenue from tobacco duty reduced each year as a result of the increase in tobacco duty in 2023 and last year, and (ii) how much of such amount may be channelled to the market of illicit cigarettes; if it has assessed, of the details; if it has not assessed, the reasons for that;(3) of the number of illicit cigarettes seized, the market value of such illicit cigarettes and the number of persons arrested in each month of the past three years;(4) of the respective numbers of persons prosecuted by the Government for (i) trafficking and (ii) purchasing illicit cigarettes, as well as the penalties imposed on the convicted persons, in each of the past three years; and(5) whether it will consider restoring the tobacco duty rate to the level prior to the duty increase last year, with a view to bringing the revenue from tobacco duty back to the previous level, thereby increasing the Government’s revenue by billions of dollars and at the same time minimising the benefits brought to lawbreakers; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?Reply:President,     Having consulted the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau and the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED), the consolidated reply to the various parts of the Hon Shiu Ka-fai’s question is as follows.     Hong Kong is facing an ageing population and a continuous rising number of chronic disease patients. Numerous scientific studies have shown that smoking is the most important and preventable risk factor leading to chronic diseases and deaths. According to the estimation of the World Health Organization (WHO), the global economic loss caused by tobacco products amounts to US$1,800 billion annually, and a research of the University of Hong Kong in 2021 also revealed that the economic loss resulting from tobacco-induced health problems was estimated to be about HK$8.2 billion every year. It is therefore beyond doubt that smoking brings harm to the economy. On the contrary, that tobacco control harms the economy is disinformation created by the tobacco companies.     The results of the Thematic Household Survey (THS) on smoking pattern in 2023 conducted by the Census and Statistics Department showed that there are about 580 000 people in Hong Kong who are still daily smokers of conventional cigarettes, and nearly half of them are aged between 40 and 59. Smoking-induced diseases suffered by smokers who continue to smoke will pose a heavy burden on the healthcare system. In order to stop the tobacco hazards, the Government need to curb the use of tobacco and more importantly, prevent the public, especially the younger generation, from picking up smoking habit. Increasing tobacco duty is recognised internationally as the most effective means of reducing tobacco use. Through raising the costs of smoking, it provides a greater incentive for smokers to quit smoking, and dampens the eagerness of non-smokers, the youth in particular, to smoke.     Following an increase of tobacco duty by 60 cents in 2023-24, the Government has raised the tobacco duty by another 80 cents to $3.306 per stick in 2024-25. The measure can ensure that tobacco prices are maintained at a relatively high level which help prevent a rebound in smoking prevalence upon lifting of the mask-wearing requirements after resumption of normalcy after the epidemic, conveying a clear message to the society on the Government’s commitment and determination to safeguard public health through stringent tobacco control measures. The effectiveness of tobacco duty adjustment should be evaluated by whether it can effectively control and reduce the number of smokers, rather than the amount of additional revenue it brings to the Government.      Past experience in increasing tobacco duty indicated that increasing tobacco duty is conducive to reducing smoking prevalence. The greater the tax hike, the greater the drop in smoking prevalence. The number of calls to the Department of Health’s Integrated Smoking Cessation Hotline (Quitline) immediately after the increase in tobacco duty is also a sensitive indicator of smokers’ response (i.e. their intention to quit smoking) to the duty increase. In the first month after the duty increase was announced in the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 Budget, the number of calls to the Quitline increased by about three times respectively when compared to the monthly number of calls received in the previous three months, reflecting the strong intention of smokers to quit smoking as a result of the duty increase. The number of calls received by the Department of Health’s Quitline increased from about 7 400 in 2022 to about 9 300 in 2024, representing an increase of more than 20 per cent.     The tobacco duty revenue, as well as smoking prevalence/smoking consumption and arrival passengers statistics from 2018 to 2024 are set out at Annex I. As 2020-22 was within the epidemic period, the pre-epidemic situation of 2018-19 is also presented for ease of comparison. The figures revealed that the number of duty-paid cigarettes and tobacco duty revenue in 2024 have decreased by about 39.4 per cent and 23.0 per cent respectively compared with 2023, and by 46.7 per cent and 18.5 per cent respectively when compared with 2019 (i.e. before the epidemic).      Tobacco duty revenue is collected from tobacco products as a dutiable commodity imported into Hong Kong, and therefore the amount of revenue generated is affected by many factors. Apart from the local sales volume of duty-paid tobacco products, it also depends on the commercial decisions of tobacco companies such as pricing strategies, timing of import and quantity, storage capacity of duty-paid tobacco products (there are no relevant figures as the commercial behaviour of tobacco companies is not transparent), as well as tobacco products purchased, by arrival passengers, outside Hong Kong or at duty-free shops at border control points and brought into Hong Kong (whether legally or illegally (Note)). Cross-boundary travel was greatly affected during the epidemic and the public were unable to bring back duty-free cigarettes through border control points. Tobacco duty was about 20 per cent higher than that before the epidemic, indicating that cross-boundary passenger travel has a great impact on tobacco duty. The number of passenger arrivals in 2024 was close to 150 million, which has fully restored to the pre-epidemic level, with the number of passenger arrivals at land boundary control points being close to 125 million exceeding the pre-epidemic level. It is estimated that the tobacco products brought into Hong Kong by inbound passengers will inevitably have a significant impact on tobacco duty revenue.     At the same time, the local sales volume of duty-paid tobacco products is also affected by the smoking population and their average consumption, whereas the increased cost of smoking will reduce the consumption of tobacco products. The WHO pinpoints that every 10 per cent increase in cigarette price will reduce the overall tobacco consumption by four per cent in high-income regions. In aggregate, tobacco duty was raised by 73.5 per cent in 2023 and 2024. Following the increase of tobacco duty in 2023, the THS conducted from May to August in the same year revealed that smoking prevalence dropped from 10.2 per cent in 2019 and 9.5 per cent in 2021 to 9.1 per cent in 2023. The number of smokers is estimated to have decreased by 60 600 or 9.5 per cent. The number of cigarettes consumed by smokers per day also dropped from 12.7 sticks in 2019 and 2021 to 12.1 sticks in 2023, which together represented a 13.8 per cent reduction in tobacco consumption. The Government has further increased tobacco duty in 2024 and the relevant THS will be conducted at a later time. It is expected that the drop in demand for tobacco products would be reflected in the survey results.       On the other hand, illicit cigarettes activities have always existed and the rebound in cross-boundary freight after resumption from the epidemic might also lead to increase in illicit cigarettes activities. That said, industry statistics from international market research companies revealed that the sales of illicit cigarettes in Hong Kong did not show an upward trend. As a matter of fact, both the WHO and the World Bank have pointed out that there is no direct correlation between the increase in tobacco duty and illegal tobacco trade activities. Combatting illicit cigarette trading activities and raising tobacco duty should be regarded as complementary measures. Taking into consideration the above factors, we are of the view that the drop in tobacco duty is attributable to a number of factors. The full effect of tobacco duty in reducing tobacco use is to be ascertained subject to the availability of latest data, and at this stage, we cannot rule out the possibility that some of the revenue from tobacco duty may be lost as a result of illicit cigarettes activities, but there is no evidence to suggest that illicit cigarettes activities are the main cause of the drop in tobacco duty.     In any case, as an important pillar under the tobacco control strategy, the Government will spare no efforts in combatting illicit cigarettes. The C&ED will continue to adopt a multi-pronged approach and take stringent enforcement actions at all levels to combat the sale of illicit cigarettes. The monthly tobacco duty revenue and the relevant enforcement figures against illicit cigarettes (including smuggling, storage and distribution as well as sale) in the past three years are set out at Annex II. The increase in the number of seizures of illicit cigarettes reflects the effectiveness of the C&ED’s stepped-up enforcement actions against illicit cigarettes and the success of its enforcement strategy does not denote an expanding scale of illicit cigarettes activities.     The Government announced the “10 measures for tobacco control” in June last year. Stepping up enforcement against illicit cigarettes was accorded the highest priority among the 10 measures, including – (i) introducing a duty stamp system to distinguish duty-paid cigarettes from non-duty-paid cigarettes;(ii) requiring tobacco products being sold at a price lower than the tobacco duty need to be proved duty-paid;(iii) increasing the maximum penalty for handling, possessing, selling or buying duty-not-paid cigarettes; and (iv) listing the relevant offences under the Organised and Serious Crimes Ordinance (Cap. 455), so as to enable the C&ED to apply for freezing and confiscating illicit proceeds and assets associated with illicit cigarette activities by virtue of the Ordinance.     On duty stamp system, taking into account factors such as enforcement effectiveness and cost-effectiveness, we propose to require the affixing of duty-paid labels on the retail packages of cigarettes at this stage. Through the application of anti-forgery features and related digital technologies, frontline officers of the C&ED would be able to distinguish duty-paid cigarettes from duty-not-paid ones in a more effective manner, thereby enhancing enforcement efficiency. The C&ED expects that a pilot scheme on the duty stamp system will be rolled out in the middle of this year to work out the practical operating requirement of the scheme, which will then be launched next year at the earliest.      The Government expects that the above measures will increase the deterrent effect and enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement departments in combating illicit cigarettes. The Government will continuously review the effect of tobacco control measures as a whole and the pace of future adjustments in tobacco duty. Our ultimate aim is to further lower the smoking prevalence so that the whole society and our healthcare system does not have to pay a heavy price for smoking-related diseases.Note: Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 109), a person aged 18 or above may bring into Hong Kong 19 cigarettes duty-free for his own personal use.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chairs the first meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Cooperation in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chairs the first meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Cooperation in New Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi gave the mantra of ‘Sahkar Se Samriddhi’ by forming the Ministry of Cooperation in the interest of farmers and rural sector across the country

    Soon, PACS will also be able to sell Arline tickets

    The bill for the formation of “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University will be passed by the Parliament soon

    After the formation of the university, professionals’ coming to the cooperative sector will be able to get technical education, information and training related to accounting and administration

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 4:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah chaired the first meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Cooperation on ‘Initiatives taken and currently being taken to strengthen cooperative societies’ in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Union Ministers of State for Cooperation, Shri Krishan Pal and Shri Murlidhar Mohol, Members of the Committee, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation and senior officers of the Ministry. The committee discussed various issues related to the initiatives taken by the Ministry of Cooperation since its establishment and the current efforts being made to empower cooperative societies.

    Addressing the meeting, Shri Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi established a separate Ministry of Cooperation for the welfare of farmers and rural areas across the country and gave the mantra of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi”. He mentioned that the Modi government believes that both employment generation and prosperity of rural areas are possible through cooperation.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the cooperative movement was strong in the country for a few years after independence, but later it got weakened in most states. He mentioned that after the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation at the Centre, the first task was to create a database of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) in collaboration with the states and initiate the process of registering two lakh PACS. He said that the work to develop the National Cooperative Database is almost complete, and now, information about cooperative societies across the country, categorized by region, is available at one click. Shri Shah said that steps have been taken for the computerization of PACS. He added that in the coming times, there will not be a single panchayat in the country where PACS will not be available.

    Union Minister of Cooperation said that the model by-laws created to make PACS ‘viable’ have been adopted by almost all states in the country. He added that PACS have been linked to more than 20 activities and have now started providing services such as Common Service Centres, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, and other services.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the Ministry of Cooperation has introduced a bill for the establishment of “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University, it will be passed by the Parliament soon. The establishment of this university will provide technical education, accounting, administrative knowledge, and training to professionals entering the cooperative sector. Shri Shah added that this will ensure the availability of trained manpower in the cooperative sector.

    Union Minister of Cooperation said that national-level cooperative organizations such as National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL), National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL), and Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samriti Limited (BBSSL) have been established, which will help promote exports, organic products, and advanced seeds in the cooperative sector. He added that these initiatives will lead to significant changes in the cooperative sector in the coming years.

    Shri Amit Shah said, that it is the endeavour of the government that the cooperative sector gets the same opportunities as the corporate sector. He said that the Ministry of Cooperation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Reserve Bank, and Income Tax Department, has taken steps to make one tax structure for the corporate and cooperative sectors. Minister of Cooperation expressed confidence that the enterprises associated with the country’s cooperative sector will progress in competition with the corporate world and will fulfill Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi”. 

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation informed the Consultative Committee that a roadmap has been made for the rapid development of national federations associated with cooperation, in collaboration with Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO), Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and other federations. He mentioned that currently, PACS are involved in booking railway tickets, and expressed confidence that due to the initiatives of the Ministry of Cooperation, PACS will soon be able to sell airline tickets as well.

    Referring to the cooperative model of Gujarat, Shri Amit Shah said that today, women working in the cooperative sector in Gujarat have earned an annual income of 7.5 lakh crore, which is an achievement in itself. He mentioned that among these women, there was a woman having formal education only upto fourth grade, yet she earned a profit of 1.16 crore, setting a significant example of women empowerment.

    Shri Amit Shah said that in view of the regional disparity in the development of cooperatives in the country, the government is taking special steps to bring uniform balanced development in all the states.

    In the meeting, the committee members provided their suggestions on issues related to empowering cooperative societies in the country and appreciated the important steps taken by the government to strengthen the cooperative movement in the country.

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    RK/VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2102294) Visitor Counter : 56

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Office of Former Chief Executives

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Michael Tien and a written reply by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, in the Legislative Council today (February 12):
     
    Question:
     
         It has been reported that the Office of Former Chief Executives of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (the Office) located at Pacific Place in Admiralty will be relocated to the Immigration Tower in Wan Chai upon the expiry of lease. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the renovation costs involved in setting up the Office at Pacific Place in Admiralty; whether the relocation of the Office away from its present location will involve reinstatement costs; if so, of the estimated relevant expenditures;
     
    (2) of the estimated costs associated with the relocation of the Office and the estimated renovation costs of the new Office respectively;
     
    (3) as the Government announced in the 2017 Policy Address that it planned to reprovision the three government towers at the Wan Chai waterfront, including the Immigration Tower, so as to release the precious land in the Wan Chai district for convention, exhibition and commercial uses, and the Chief Executive indicated last month that the reprovisioning plan would be implemented as scheduled, whether the Government will, in the light of the prevailing economic environment, utilise the relevant sites for the more important use of promoting economic recovery; if so, of the progress and timetable of the relevant plan; and
     
    (4) whether it has assessed if the Office will need to be relocated again after it has been relocated to the Immigration Tower in Wan Chai in the light of the commencement of the reprovisioning plan mentioned in (3); if it has assessed and the result is in the affirmative, whether the Government will consider a longer-term option, so as to avoid wasting public money?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The reply to the question raised by the Hon Michael Tien is as follows:
     
     (1), (2) and (4) As the Office of Former Chief Executives (FCEO) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) at 28 Kennedy Road can only accommodate three former Chief Executives (former CEs) at most, and there was no suitable and available government premises at the time, a leasable office unit was thus identified at Pacific Place as office for the fourth former CE for a tenancy period of three years starting from May 2022. The renovation works was carried out by the Architectural Services Department at a cost of about $6.55 million, funded under Subhead 3101GX of Head 703 – Buildings.
     
         The tenancy of the office will expire in May this year. The Government had liaised with the landlord who agreed to take over the office in an as-is condition and no reinstatement works will be required. The Government plans to relocate the office to 23/F, Immigration Tower in Wan Chai for continuous operation. The renovation works is in progress and the estimated renovation cost is around $2.8 million.
     
         The Government will continue to provide support to all former CEs according to the recommendations set out in the Independent Commission on Remuneration Package and Post-office Arrangements for the Chief Executive of the HKSAR’s report, including appropriate office accommodation and administrative support, to facilitate their performance of promotional and protocol-related functions for Hong Kong.
     
    (3) The convention and exhibition (C&E) industry brings important contributions to Hong Kong’s economy by attracting high-spending overnight business visitors to Hong Kong, spurring economic activities and creating employment opportunities in sectors such as tourism, retail, catering, entertainment industries; while facilitating local small and medium enterprises to connect with international buyers and suppliers to develop new markets and explore business opportunities. In order to provide more C&E facilities to facilitate the long-term development of the Hong Kong C&E industry, the Government is taking forward the Wan Chai North Redevelopment project near the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre as planned. This project involves the redevelopment of the sites of the Wan Chai Government Offices Compound, Gloucester Road Garden and the Kong Wan Fire Station into C&E facilities, hotel and Grade A offices. Among others, with the funding approval of the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council, the Government has commenced the reprovisioning of Kong Wan Fire Station project to relocate the Kong Wan Fire Station to the site adjoining Fenwick Pier Street and Lung Hop Street.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Conditional extension of timeline to small and medium pharmaceutical manufacturers for compliance with revised Schedule ‘M’ notification

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 4:23PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has conditionally extended the due date for implementation of revised Schedule M (Good Manufacturing Practices provision) in respect of small and medium manufacturers having turnover of Rs. 250 crores or less, up to 31st December, 2025.

    On 28th December, 2023, the Government of India had notified revised Schedule M requirements wherein “good manufacturing practices” was upgraded to “good manufacturing practices and requirements of plan and equipment for pharmaceutical products”. The category of manufacturers was divided into two; the first category was of large manufacturers having turnover more than 250 crores. A timeline of 6 months was given to such manufacturers for compliance. For small and medium manufacturers having turnover less than or equal to 250 crores, a timeline of 12 months was given for compliance. The revised Schedule M requirements have been implemented for large manufacturers w.e.f. 28th June, 2024.

    Small and medium manufacturers had represented for extension of timeline to enable improvement in infrastructure, training of personnel and arranging financial resources. The same has been considered and the small and medium manufacturers have been given a time of 3 months from 11th February, 2025 to submit their plan for upgradation in Form A to the Central License Approving Authority. For such manufacturers who submit these details, the timeline of implementation would be extended till 31st December, 2025.

    The revised Schedule M requirements are a positive step towards ensuring the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products being manufactured in India.  The new regulations would enable the pharma companies to not only strengthen their domestic position but also become more competitive globally.

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    MV

    HFW/Extension of Revised Schedule M/12Feb2025/1

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DoT and CDRI Unveil Roadmap to Strengthen India’s Telecom Resilience

    Source: Government of India (2)

    DoT and CDRI Unveil Roadmap to Strengthen India’s Telecom Resilience

    Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) Released Disaster Risk and Resilience Assessment Framework
    CDRI presents a telecom resilience framework aligned with global resilience frameworks

    Key strategic measures identified to enhance telecom sector resilience

    DoT calls for collective action from the government, industry, and disaster agencies to build a disaster-resilient telecom ecosystem

    A disaster risk and resilience index developed for 5 States

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 4:09PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), in collaboration with the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), today launched a comprehensive report on Disaster Risk and Resilience Assessment Framework (DRRAF), marking a major step towards strengthening India’s telecom sector against disasters. The report is part of a comprehensive study on National and Sub-national Disaster Risk & Resilience Assessment for the Telecommunication Sector by CDRI. The study was conducted across five states—Assam, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, and Gujarat—focusing on disaster risks and resilience strategies specific to the telecom sector. DoT facilitated the necessary coordination with State Governments, Telecom Service Providers, and Infrastructure Providers to arrange the data required for the study.

    In his message in the inaugural session, Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary (Telecom) & Chairman, Digital Communications Commission (DCC), emphasized that building telecom resilience is a national priority. He reiterated DoT’s commitment for ensuring seamless connectivity prior, during, and after disasters, aligning with the UN’s ‘Early Warning For All by 2027’ initiative. He called for coordinated action from Government agencies, telecom operators, and disaster management bodies to ensure India’s telecom infrastructure remains robust in the face of natural calamities.

    Addressing the impact and potential of the study and framework, CDRI Director General Amit Prothi emphasized the telecom sector’s significant contribution to India’s GDP, highlighting that resilient telecom networks are critical for economic growth, disaster response, and uninterrupted connectivity. He further stated that the CDRI’s study offers a scalable model, actionable insights, and global best practices for resilient communication services.

    Recalling his experience with disasters, Mr. Manish Sinha, Member (F), DoT, emphasized the importance of telecom network post disasters. He further highlighted that technology has improved further. He further highlighted the outcomes of the study lays out a roadmap for minimizing service disruptions, strengthening infrastructure, and improving emergency response mechanisms.

    Emphasizing the importance of inter-ministerial coordination, Shri Sanjay Agrawal, DDG (DM), DoT, highlighted the invaluable support of all LSAs, TSPs, Infrastructure Providers, and Industry Associations (DIPA, COAI, IBF), along with government agencies such as NDMA and SDMAs. He added that their valuable insights and on-ground experiences have significantly enriched this study, ensuring that the recommendations are not only technically sound but also practically implementable.

    The DoT has been proactively implementing several strategic initiatives to enhance disaster preparedness and telecom resilience, including:

    · Real-time coordination with LSAs, State Governments, and telecom operators for rapid disaster response.

    · Nationwide implementation of an indigenous Cell Broadcast System for emergency alerts.

    · Deployment of Public Protection and Disaster Relief (PPDR) networks in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs.

    · Strengthening regulatory support for telecom operators to ensure quick restoration of services.

    · Promoting satellite-based communication and High Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) to maintain connectivity in disaster-hit regions.

    Key Insights and Recommendations from the Study:

    The study conducted a multi-hazard risk assessment across 0.77 million telecom towers, mapping risks from floods, cyclones, earthquakes, and other disasters. A disaster risk and resilience index has been developed to assess the vulnerability of telecom infrastructure based on disaster intensity, frequency, and impact.

    The Report has outlined a set of key recommendations aimed at strengthening the sector’s resilience and preparedness in the face of disasters. These recommendations emphasize a multi-pronged approach, combining technical enhancements, governance reforms, financial investments, and stakeholder collaboration.

    The key strategic recommendations include:

    • Enhancing technical planning and design to ensure telecommunications infrastructure can withstand disaster impacts.
    • Developing a robust multi-hazard information repository to enable data-driven risk management.
    • Implementing risk-informed governance to integrate disaster resilience into sectoral policies.
    • Developing risk-sharing instruments to safeguard telecom operators against financial vulnerabilities.
    • Establishing a cross-sectoral framework to drive stakeholder collaboration and coordinated response mechanisms.
    • Strengthening financial arrangements to support the resilience of critical telecom infrastructure.
    • Promoting last-mile connectivity and information access to ensure inclusivity during emergencies.
    • Leveraging digital and collaborative efforts to enhance service restoration in crisis situations.
    • Upscaling institutional capacity and last-mile expertise to improve emergency preparedness.
    • Implementing precise monitoring mechanisms to enhance service quality and reliability.

    These recommendations aim to fortify the telecom sector’s ability to withstand disasters, ensuring seamless connectivity and rapid restoration of services. With DoT’s leadership and multi-stakeholder engagement, the adoption of this roadmap will empower India’s telecom sector to effectively anticipate, respond to, and recover from disasters, ensuring uninterrupted communication even in times of crisis.

    With this risk and resilience study and framework, CDRI aims to mainstream resilience principles in telecom infrastructure at the policy and planning level, and promote cross-sectoral collaboration and coordination, both in India and globally.

    About CDRI

    The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), an international organization launched by the Prime Minister of India, is a global partnership of 49 members dedicated to climate and disaster-resilient infrastructure solutions. It is a partnership of national governments, UN agencies and programmes, multilateral development banks and financing mechanisms, the private sector, and academia. CDRI advances the cause of climate and disaster resilient infrastructure (DRI).

    ****

    Samrat/Allen

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cluster of influenza A cases in Kowloon Hospital

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Cluster of influenza A cases in Kowloon Hospital
    Cluster of influenza A cases in Kowloon Hospital
    *************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:     The spokesman for the Kowloon Hospital made the following announcement today (February 12):      Six patients (aged 70 to 97) in a male rehabilitation ward have presented with symptoms of fever or respiratory symptoms since February 8. Appropriate viral tests were arranged for the patients, and their test results were positive for Influenza A. Two patients passed away due to their underlying illnesses. One patient is in critical condition due to his underlying illness. The remaining three patients are in stable condition.      Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance.      The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up. 

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 12, 2025Issued at HKT 18:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri holds bilateral meetings with Defence Ministers of Zimbabwe, Yemen, Ethiopia, Gambia & Gabon on Day 3 of Aero India 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 4:03PM by PIB Delhi

    On the margins of Aero India 2025, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh held bilateral meetings with Minister of Defence, Zimbabwe Mrs Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri; Minister of Defense, Yemen Lt Gen Mohsen Mohammed Hussein Al Daeri; Minister of Defense, Ethiopia Mrs Aisha Mohammed (Eng.); Minister of Defence, Gambia Mr Sering Modou Njie and Minister of National Defence, Gabon Ms Brigitte Onkanowa in Bengaluru on February 12, 2025.  

    During the meeting with the Defence Minister of Zimbabwe, both sides reviewed existing bilateral defence cooperation and agreed to cooperate in areas of training, military courses and capacity building of the Armed Forces of Zimbabwe. Both leaders signed an MoU on defence cooperation and expressed confidence that this would lead to further deepening of ties. They underscored the importance of regular engagements between the Defence Ministers to effectively implement the MoU. Both countries affirmed their commitment to deepen collaboration between the defence industries for production and maintenance of assets. Cooperation in the fields of Military Medicine was also discussed. 

    During the meeting with the Ethiopian Defence Minister, both leaders expressed satisfaction at the growing bilateral defence ties. Acknowledging the importance of close and active engagement, both Ministers signed an MoU cooperation in the field of defence for institutionalising the ongoing ties. Both sides considered collaboration in various areas including military training, courses, peacekeeping and capacity building of the Armed Forces of Ethiopia. Discussions to further strengthen defence industry cooperation were also held and India’s emerging private sector was highlighted. 

    In the meeting with the Defence Minister of Yemen, both leaders took note of enhancing engagements in the field of defence. To take this a step further, both leaders held discussions for partnership in the field of military training, courses and capacity building of the Armed Forces of Yemen. The meeting gave an additional impetus and guidance to the deepening of the defence cooperation between India and Yemen.  

    During the meeting with the Gambian Defence Minister, both leaders reiterated their commitment to working together in defence domain. The two leaders reaffirmed their desire to enhance cooperation for capacity building, capability enhancement and sharing of best practices for the mutual benefits of both sides. Both sides also highlighted the huge potential for defence industry cooperation. 

    Raksha Mantri’s meetings with the Defence Minister of Gabon provided both sides with an opportunity to discuss the matters related to bilateral defence cooperation. Both leaders pledged to continue to deepen cooperation and focused their discussions on key issues related to training and capability enhancement of the Armed Forces. Both sides also explored the possibility to collaborate in the area of defence industry. 

     ***

    VK/Savvy

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s Index of Industrial Production records growth of 3.2% in December 2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 4:00PM by PIB Delhi

    The Quick Estimates of Index of Industrial Production (IIP) are released on 12th of every month (or previous working day if 12th is a holiday) with a six weeks lag and compiled with data received from source agencies, which in turn receive the data from the producing factories/ establishments. These Quick Estimates will undergo revision in subsequent releases as per the revision policy of IIP.

    2.        Key Highlights:

    1.  The IIP growth rate for the month of December 2024 is 3.2 percent which was 5.2 percent (Quick Estimate) in the month of November 2024.
    2.  The growth rates of the three sectors, Mining, Manufacturing and Electricity for the month of December 2024 are 2.6 percent, 3.0 percent and 6.2 percent respectively.
    3.  The Quick Estimates of IIP stands at 157.2 against 152.3 in December 2023. The Indices of Industrial Production for the Mining, Manufacturing and Electricity sectors for the month of December 2024 stand at 143.1, 156.2 and 192.8 respectively.
    4.  Within the manufacturing sector, 16 out of 23 industry groups at NIC 2 digit-level have recorded a positive growth in December 2024 over December 2023. The top three positive contributors for the month of December 2024 are – “Manufacture of basic metals” (6.7%), “Manufacture of electrical equipment” (40.1%) and “Manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products” (3.9%).
    5.  In the industry group “Manufacture of basic metals”, item groups “MS blooms/ billets/ ingots/ pencil ingots “, “Galvanized products of Steel (including colour coated tin plates, TMBP and Tin free steel)”, “Pipes and tubes of Steel”, have shown significant contribution in growth.
    6. In the industry group “Manufacture of electrical equipment”, item groups “Electric heaters”, “Transformers (Small)”, “End facing connector for optical fibres and cables” have shown significant contribution in growth.
    7. In the industry group “Manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products” item groups “Diesel”, “Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF)”, “Naphtha” have shown significant contribution in growth.
    8.  As per the use base classification, the indices stand at 157.7 for Primary Goods, 114.5 for Capital Goods, 169.3 for Intermediate Goods and 191.7 for Infrastructure/ Construction Goods for the month of December 2024. Further, the indices for Consumer durables and Consumer non-durables stand at 124.0 and 166.0 respectively.
    9.  The corresponding growth rates of IIP as per Use-based classification in December 2024 over December 2023 are 3.8 percent in Primary goods, 10.3 percent in Capital goods, 5.9 percent in Intermediate goods, 6.3 percent in Infrastructure/ Construction Goods, 8.3 percent in Consumer durables and (-)7.6 percent in Consumer non-durables (Statement III).  Based on use-based classification, top three positive contributors to the growth of IIP for the month of December 2024 are – Primary goods, Intermediate goods, and Infrastructure/ construction goods.
    10.   Monthly Indices and Growth Rate (in %) of IIP for the last 13 months

    3.       Along with the Quick Estimates of IIP for the month of December 2024, the indices for November 2024 have undergone the first revision and those for September 2024 have undergone final revision in the light of the updated data received from the source agencies. The Quick Estimates for December 2024, the first revision for November 2024 and the final revision for September 2024 have been compiled at weighted response rates of 91 percent, 95 percent and 96 percent respectively.

    4.     Details of Quick Estimates of the Index of Industrial Production for the month of December 2024 at Sectoral, 2-digit level of National Industrial Classification (NIC-2008) and by Use-based classification are given at Statements I, II and III respectively. Also, for users to appreciate the changes in the industrial sector, Statement IV provides month-wise indices for the last 13 months, by industry groups (as per 2-digit level of NIC-2008) and sectors.

    5.     Release of the Index for January 2025 will be on Wednesday, 12th March 2025.

     

    Note: –

    1. This Press release (English and Hindi Version) is also available at the Ministry’s Website –http://www.mospi.gov.in.
    2. Detailed information pertaining to IIP is available at https://mospi.gov.in/iip and https://esankhyiki.mospi.gov.in/

     

     

    STATEMENT I: INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION – SECTORAL

    (Base: 2011-12=100)

    Month

     

    Mining

    Manufacturing

    Electricity

    General

    (100)

    (14.372472)

    (77.63321)

    (7.994318)

    		  

    2023-24

    2024-25

    2023-24

    2024-25

    2023-24

    2024-25

    2023-24

    2024-25

    Apr

    122.6

    130.9

    138.8

    144.6

    192.3

    212.0

    140.7

    148.0

    May

    128.1

    136.5

    143.1

    150.4

    201.6

    229.3

    145.6

    154.7

    Jun

    122.3

    134.9

    141.6

    146.6

    205.2

    222.8

    143.9

    151.0

    Jul

    111.9

    116.1

    142.1

    148.8

    204.0

    220.2

    142.7

    149.8

    Aug

    111.9

    107.1

    144.4

    146.1

    220.5

    212.3

    145.8

    145.8

    Sep

    111.5

    111.7

    141.5

    147.2

    205.9

    206.9

    142.3

    146.9

    Oct

    127.4

    128.5

    142.1

    148.3

    203.8

    207.8

    144.9

    150.2

    Nov

    131.3

    133.8

    139.3

    147.0

    176.3

    184.1

    141.1

    148.1

    Dec*

    139.5

    143.1

    151.6

    156.2

    181.6

    192.8

    152.3

    157.2

    Jan

    144.3

    		  

    150.8

    		  

    197.1

    		  

    153.6

    		  

    Feb

    139.7

    		  

    144.4

    		  

    187.2

    		  

    147.1

    		  

    Mar

    156.2

    		  

    156.2

    		  

    204.2

    		  

    160.0

    		  

    Average

    		                

    Apr-Dec

    122.9

    127.0

    142.7

    148.4

    199.0

    209.8

    144.4

    150.2

    Growth over the corresponding period of previous year#

    		      

    Nov

    7.0

    1.9

    1.3

    5.5

    5.8

    4.4

    2.5

    5.0

    Dec*

    5.2

    2.6

    4.6

    3.0

    1.2

    6.2

    4.4

    3.2

    Apr-Dec

    8.5

    3.3

    5.7

    4.0

    7.0

    5.4

    6.3

    4.0

    * Figures for December 2024 are Quick Estimates.

    NOTE: Indices for the months of September’24 and November’24 incorporate updated production data.

     

     

    STATEMENT II:  INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION – (2-DIGIT LEVEL)

    (Base: 2011-12=100)

    Industry

    Description

    Weight

    Index

    Cumulative Index

    Percentage growth#

    code

     

     

    Dec’23

    Dec’24*

    Apr-Dec*

     

    Dec’24*

    Apr-Dec*

     

     

     

     

     

    2023-24

    2024-25

     

    2024-25

    10

    Manufacture of food products

    5.302

    160.8

    151.9

    128.9

    126.1

    -5.5

    -2.2

    11

    Manufacture of beverages

    1.035

    101.3

    104.0

    108.3

    111.9

    2.7

    3.3

    12

    Manufacture of tobacco products

    0.798

    82.7

    89.1

    81.4

    82.8

    7.7

    1.7

    13

    Manufacture of textiles

    3.291

    112.3

    113.8

    107.8

    108.6

    1.3

    0.7

    14

    Manufacture of wearing apparel

    1.322

    113.1

    119.2

    103.6

    112.5

    5.4

    8.6

    15

    Manufacture of leather and related products

    0.502

    95.9

    89.2

    94.1

    92.2

    -7.0

    -2.0

    16

    Manufacture of wood and products of wood and cork, except furniture; manufacture of articles of straw and plaiting materials

    0.193

    97.7

    114.5

    96.7

    102.0

    17.2

    5.5

    17

    Manufacture of paper and paper products

    0.872

    78.1

    76.5

    79.1

    79.1

    -2.0

    0.0

    18

    Printing and reproduction of recorded media

    0.680

    95.5

    86.7

    88.9

    83.8

    -9.2

    -5.7

    19

    Manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products

    11.775

    141.9

    147.4

    131.9

    136.1

    3.9

    3.2

    20

    Manufacture of chemicals and chemical products

    7.873

    127.5

    130.3

    127.0

    129.9

    2.2

    2.3

    21

    Manufacture of pharmaceuticals, medicinal chemical and botanical products

    4.981

    286.3

    259.2

    236.0

    232.9

    -9.5

    -1.3

    22

    Manufacture of rubber and plastics products

    2.422

    106.9

    106.6

    107.7

    112.5

    -0.3

    4.5

    23

    Manufacture of other non-metallic mineral products

    4.085

    147.1

    151.2

    140.9

    144.3

    2.8

    2.4

    24

    Manufacture of basic metals

    12.804

    220.2

    234.9

    210.7

    224.4

    6.7

    6.5

    25

    Manufacture of fabricated metal products, except machinery and equipment

    2.655

    98.1

    107.3

    89.2

    95.7

    9.4

    7.3

    26

    Manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products

    1.570

    111.6

    114.5

    119.9

    129.3

    2.6

    7.8

    27

    Manufacture of electrical equipment

    2.998

    116.6

    163.3

    104.0

    129.8

    40.1

    24.8

    28

    Manufacture of machinery and equipment n.e.c.

    4.765

    115.5

    127.6

    118.7

    122.0

    10.5

    2.8

    29

    Manufacture of motor vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers

    4.857

    118.5

    116.4

    125.8

    129.9

    -1.8

    3.3

    30

    Manufacture of other transport equipment

    1.776

    137.2

    142.0

    140.6

    159.2

    3.5

    13.2

    31

    Manufacture of furniture

    0.131

    197.4

    241.1

    176.8

    226.3

    22.1

    28.0

    32

    Other manufacturing

    0.941

    70.5

    77.6

    86.8

    82.2

    10.1

    -5.3

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    05

    Mining

    14.372

    139.5

    143.1

    122.9

    127.0

    2.6

    3.3

    10-32

    Manufacturing

    77.633

    151.6

    156.2

    142.7

    148.4

    3.0

    4.0

    35

    Electricity

    7.994

    181.6

    192.8

    199.0

    209.8

    6.2

    5.4

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    General Index

    100.00

    152.3

    157.2

    144.4

    150.2

    3.2

    4.0

    * Figures for Dec 2024 are Quick Estimates.

    		              

     

     

    STATEMENT III: INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION – USE-BASED

    		  

    (Base :2011-12=100)

     

     

    Primary goods

    Capital goods

    Intermediate goods

    Infrastructure/ construction goods

    Consumer durables

    Consumer non-durables

    Month

    (34.048612)

    (8.223043)

    (17.221487)

    (12.338363)

    (12.839296)

    (15.329199)

     

    2023-24

    2024-25

    2023-24

    2024-25

    2023-24

    2024-25

    2023-24

    2024-25

    2023-24

    2024-25

    2023-24

    2024-25

    Apr

    142.2

    152.2

    92.4

    95.0

    152.0

    157.8

    169.8

    184.2

    108.1

    119.5

    154.7

    150.9

    May

    149.9

    160.9

    102.6

    105.3

    156.9

    162.4

    173.2

    186.3

    115.6

    130.2

    149.8

    154.0

    Jun

    146.7

    156.0

    107.4

    111.3

    154.2

    159.1

    170.9

    184.9

    116.8

    127.1

    146.7

    145.2

    Jul

    141.8

    150.1

    102.1

    114.0

    153.8

    164.6

    170.3

    179.7

    117.0

    126.6

    153.5

    147.1

    Aug

    145.4

    141.6

    107.4

    107.4

    157.4

    162.3

    176.8

    181.5

    123.2

    129.8

    148.3

    141.8

    Sep

    138.8

    141.3

    112.6

    116.5

    154.2

    160.8

    172.8

    178.8

    125.0

    132.9

    142.6

    145.7

    Oct

    146.1

    149.8

    106.1

    109.4

    157.5

    164.8

    175.9

    184.4

    123.0

    130.0

    142.4

    146.1

    Nov

    143.8

    147.7

    98.0

    106.6

    151.3

    158.6

    164.2

    177.5

    106.5

    121.5

    157.2

    157.9

    Dec*

    151.9

    157.7

    103.8

    114.5

    159.8

    169.3

    180.3

    191.7

    114.5

    124.0

    179.7

    166.0

    Jan

    154.3

    		  

    108.3

    		  

    163.8

    		  

    186.6

    		  

    121.4

    		  

    164.9

    		  

    Feb

    148.2

    		  

    106.7

    		  

    157.6

    		  

    179.5

    		  

    121.9

    		  

    149.9

    		  

    Mar

    163.1

    		  

    131.6

    		  

    169.2

    		  

    195.2

    		  

    129.9

    		  

    155.2

    		  

    Average

    		                        

    Apr-Dec

    145.2

    150.8

    103.6

    108.9

    155.2

    162.2

    172.7

    183.2

    116.6

    126.8

    152.8

    150.5

    Growth over the corresponding period of previous year#

    		              

    Nov

    8.4

    2.7

    -1.1

    8.8

    3.4

    4.8

    1.5

    8.1

    -4.8

    14.1

    -3.4

    0.4

    Dec*

    4.8

    3.8

    3.7

    10.3

    3.7

    5.9

    5.5

    6.3

    5.2

    8.3

    3.0

    -7.6

    Apr-Dec

    6.9

    3.9

    7.1

    5.1

    4.8

    4.5

    10.7

    6.1

    1.1

    8.7

    5.4

    -1.5
                               
    		 

     

    * Figures for December 2024 are Quick Estimates.

     

    NOTE: Indices for the months of Sept’24 and Nov’24 incorporate updated production data.

     

     

     

     

    STATEMENT IV:  MONTHLY INDEX OF INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION – (2-DIGIT LEVEL)

     

    (Base: 2011-12=100)

    Industry code

    Description

    Weight

    Dec-23

    Jan-24

    Feb-24

    Mar-24

    Apr-24

    May-24

    Jun-24

    Jul-24

    Aug-24

    Sep-24

    Oct-24

    Nov-24

    Dec-24

    10

    Manufacture of food products

    5.3025

    160.8

    158.9

    151.9

    142.4

    119.8

    116.4

    118.3

    119.9

    122.3

    120.5

    129.5

    136.5

    151.9

     

    11

    Manufacture of beverages

    1.0354

    101.3

    112.6

    120.0

    124.2

    123.8

    136.4

    125.2

    112.9

    100.3

    101.8

    103.2

    99.4

    104.0

     

    12

    Manufacture of tobacco products

    0.7985

    82.7

    84.6

    77.3

    78.3

    61.1

    88.1

    83.2

    81.3

    78.5

    91.2

    92.3

    80.4

    89.1

     

    13

    Manufacture of textiles

    3.2913

    112.3

    109.7

    104.1

    106.9

    105.3

    107.0

    106.2

    109.1

    109.4

    109.3

    111.2

    106.4

    113.8

     

    14

    Manufacture of wearing apparel

    1.3225

    113.1

    117.3

    125.6

    143.0

    105.1

    123.6

    122.6

    111.7

    112.5

    103.7

    104.0

    110.2

    119.2

     

    15

    Manufacture of leather and related products

    0.5021

    95.9

    99.9

    96.8

    95.9

    89.3

    102.6

    99.2

    102.0

    94.3

    89.5

    87.6

    76.1

    89.2

     

    16

    Manufacture of wood and products of wood and cork, except furniture; manufacture of articles of straw and plaiting materials

    0.1930

    97.7

    96.4

    101.7

    111.4

    84.3

    100.3

    103.8

    99.1

    108.1

    106.7

    103.1

    98.2

    114.5

     

    17

    Manufacture of paper and paper products

    0.8724

    78.1

    79.1

    79.2

    83.0

    75.6

    81.0

    79.8

    81.7

    83.0

    81.2

    78.3

    74.9

    76.5

     

    18

    Printing and reproduction of recorded media

    0.6798

    95.5

    91.3

    88.8

    91.6

    82.1

    91.9

    85.3

    84.4

    83.3

    84.7

    78.6

    77.3

    86.7

     

    19

    Manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products

    11.7749

    141.9

    134.7

    131.2

    142.4

    135.4

    140.7

    132.2

    140.9

    130.8

    128.8

    132.8

    135.6

    147.4

     

    20

    Manufacture of chemicals and chemical products

    7.8730

    127.5

    127.6

    125.4

    132.3

    127.0

    133.2

    131.7

    135.2

    129.5

    129.4

    129.2

    123.3

    130.3

     

    21

    Manufacture of pharmaceuticals, medicinal chemical and botanical products

    4.9810

    286.3

    245.6

    205.6

    228.0

    244.4

    245.0

    218.8

    224.7

    212.6

    222.9

    216.8

    251.4

    259.2

     

    22

    Manufacture of rubber and plastics products

    2.4222

    106.9

    112.8

    110.3

    116.3

    108.9

    112.4

    114.5

    116.9

    115.5

    117.6

    116.6

    103.5

    106.6

     

    23

    Manufacture of other non-metallic mineral products

    4.0853

    147.1

    147.5

    147.7

    165.4

    148.7

    149.1

    154.1

    136.3

    139.8

    137.6

    144.8

    137.1

    151.2

     

    24

    Manufacture of basic metals

    12.8043

    220.2

    226.9

    213.2

    232.1

    220.7

    225.9

    219.2

    223.7

    225.6

    219.7

    227.9

    222.1

    234.9

     

    25

    Manufacture of fabricated metal products, except machinery and equipment

    2.6549

    98.1

    95.1

    95.7

    115.0

    85.0

    97.8

    89.5

    93.7

    92.8

    99.5

    100.3

    95.0

    107.3

     

    26

    Manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products

    1.5704

    111.6

    120.8

    125.8

    134.7

    114.2

    136.5

    134.8

    130.9

    146.6

    146.7

    123.8

    115.9

    114.5

     

    27

    Manufacture of electrical equipment

    2.9983

    116.6

    108.1

    111.5

    124.7

    110.4

    122.7

    136.8

    131.8

    127.7

    128.1

    126.2

    121.1

    163.3

     

    28

    Manufacture of machinery and equipment n.e.c.

    4.7653

    115.5

    116.4

    121.0

    145.4

    108.0

    118.1

    125.3

    126.2

    122.9

    131.7

    120.3

    117.7

    127.6

     

    29

    Manufacture of motor vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers

    4.8573

    118.5

    140.5

    130.4

    130.5

    126.5

    134.4

    128.9

    133.5

    129.2

    132.6

    133.4

    134.4

    116.4

     

    30

    Manufacture of other transport equipment

    1.7763

    137.2

    149.5

    145.8

    175.7

    140.3

    153.2

    153.4

    155.0

    156.4

    189.0

    184.5

    159.4

    142.0

     

    31

    Manufacture of furniture

    0.1311

    197.4

    199.0

    227.7

    296.4

    220.8

    246.0

    217.0

    209.2

    226.2

    246.6

    227.8

    201.9

    241.1

     

    32

    Other manufacturing

    0.9415

    70.5

    76.6

    76.4

    90.0

    96.5

    72.5

    74.6

    83.3

    86.9

    99.5

    91.8

    56.9

    77.6

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    5

    Mining

    14.3725

    139.5

    144.3

    139.7

    156.2

    130.9

    136.5

    134.9

    116.1

    107.1

    111.7

    128.5

    133.8

    143.1

     

    10-32

    Manufacturing

    77.6332

    151.6

    150.8

    144.4

    156.2

    144.6

    150.4

    146.6

    148.8

    146.1

    147.2

    148.3

    147.0

    156.2

     

    35

    Electricity

    7.9943

    181.6

    197.1

    187.2

    204.2

    212.0

    229.3

    222.8

    220.2

    212.3

    206.9

    207.8

    184.1

    192.8

     

     

    		  

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    General Index

    100

    152.3

    153.6

    147.1

    160.0

    148.0

    154.7

    151.0

    149.8

    145.8

    146.9

    150.2

    148.1

    157.2

     
                                       

     

    * Figures for December 2024 are Quick Estimates

      NOTE: Indices for the months of Sept’24 and Nov’24 incorporate updated production data.

    Click here to download PDF

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CONSUMER PRICE INDEX NUMBERS ON BASE 2012=100 FOR RURAL, URBAN AND COMBINED FOR THE MONTH OF January 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 4:00PM by PIB Delhi

    I. Key highlights:

    1. Headline Inflation: Year-on-year inflation rate based on All India Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the month of January 2025 over January 2024 is 4.31% (Provisional). There is decline of 91 basis points in headline inflation of January, 2025 in comparison to December 2024. It is the lowest year-on-year inflation after August, 2024.

    1. Food Inflation: Year-on-year inflation rate based on All India Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI) for the month of January 2025 over January, 2024 is 6.02% (Provisional). Corresponding inflation rate for rural and urban are 6.31% and 5.53%, respectively. All India inflation rates for CPI(General) and CFPI over the last 13 months are shown below. A sharp decline of 237 basis point is observed in food inflation in January, 2025 in comparison to December, 2024. The food inflation in January, 2025 is the lowest after August, 2024.

    1. Rural Inflation: Significant decline in headline and food inflation in rural sector observed in January 2025. It is 4.64% (provisional) in January, 2025 while the same was 5.76% in December, 2024. The CFPI based food inflation in rural sector is observed as 6.31% in January, 2025 in comparison to 8.65% in December, 2024.

    2. Urban Inflation: Sharp decline from 4.58% in December, 2024 to 3.87% (Provisional) in January, 2025 is observed in headline inflation of urban sector. Similar decline is observed in food inflation which is decreased from 7.9% in December, 2024 to 5.53% in January, 2025.

    3. Housing Inflation: Year-on-year Housing inflation rate for the month of January, 2025 is 2.76%. Corresponding inflation rate for the month of December, 2024 was 2.71%. The housing index is compiled for urban sector only.

    4. Education Inflation: Year-on-year Education inflation rate for the month of January, 2025 is 3.83%. Corresponding inflation rate for the month of December, 2024 was 3.95%. It is combined education inflation for both rural and urban sector.

    5. Health Inflation: Year-on-year Health inflation rate for the month of January, 2025 is 3.97%. Corresponding inflation rate for the month of December, 2024 was 4.05%. It is combined health inflation for both rural and urban sector.

    6. Transport & Communication: Year-on-year Transport & communication inflation rate for the month of January, 2025 is 2.76%. Corresponding inflation rate for the month of December, 2024 was 2.64%. It is combined inflation rate for both rural and urban sector.

    7. Fuel & light: Year-on-year Fuel & light inflation rate for the month of January, 2025 is -1.38 %. Corresponding inflation rate for the month of December, 2024 was -1.33%. It is combined inflation rate for both rural and urban sector.

    8. The significant decline in headline inflation and food inflation during the month of January, 2025 is mainly attributed to decline in inflation of Vegetables, Egg, Pulses & Products, Cereals and Products, Education, Clothing and Health.

    9. Top five items with highest inflation: The top five items showing highest year on year Inflation at All India level in January 2025 are Coconut oil (54.20%), potato (49.61%), coconut (38.71%), garlic (30.65%), peas [vegetables] (30.17%).

    10. Top five items with lowest inflation: The key items having lowest year on year inflation in January, 2025 are jeera (-32.25%), ginger (-30.92%), dry chilies (-11.27%), brinjal (-9.94%), LPG (excl. conveyance) (-9.29%). For other data related to All India Item Index and Inflation, please visit the website www.cpi.mospi.gov.in.

    11. Top five major states with high Year on Year inflation for the month of January 2025 are shown in the graph below.

     

    1. All India Inflation rates (on point to point basis i.e. current month over same month of last year, i.e.

    January 2025 over January 2024), based on General Indices and CFPIs are given as follows:

     

    All India year-on-year inflation rates (%) based on CPI (General) and CFPI: January 2025 over January 2024

     

    January 2025 (Prov.)

    December 2024 (Final)

    January 2024

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    Inflation

    CPI (General)

    4.64

    3.87

    4.31

    5.76

    4.58

    5.22

    5.34

    4.92

    5.10

    CFPI

    6.31

    5.53

    6.02

    8.65

    7.9

    8.39

    7.91

    9.02

    8.30

    Index

    CPI (General)

    196.0

    190.6

    193.5

    198.4

    192.0

    195.4

    187.3

    183.5

    185.5

    CFPI

    198.8

    204.1

    200.7

    204.7

    210.3

    206.7

    187.0

    193.4

    189.3

                          Notes: Prov.  – Provisional, Combd. – Combined

     

    1. Monthly changes in the General Indices and CFPIs are given below:

         Monthly changes (%) in All India CPI (General) and CFPI: January 2025 over December 2024

    Indices

    January 2025 (Prov.)

    December 2024 (Final)

    Monthly change (%)

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    CPI (General)

    196.0

    190.6

    193.5

    198.4

    192.0

    195.4

    -1.21

    -0.73

    -0.97

    CFPI

    198.8

    204.1

    200.7

    204.7

    210.3

    206.7

    -2.88

    -2.95

    -2.90

           

    Note: Figures of January 2025 are provisional.

    1. Response rate: The price data are collected from selected 1114 urban Markets and 1181 villages covering all States/UTs through personal visits by field staff of Field Operations Division of NSO, MoSPI on a weekly roster. During the month of January 2025, NSO collected prices from 99.7% villages and 98.5% urban markets while the market-wise prices reported therein were 88.7% for rural and 93.1% for urban.

    2. Next date of release for February 2025 CPI is 12th March 2025 (Wednesday). For more details, please visit the website www.cpi.mospi.gov.in or esankhyiki.mospi.gov.in

    List of Annex

    Annex

    Title

    I

    All-India General, Group and Sub-group level CPI and CFPI numbers for December 2024(Final) and January2025(Provisional) for Rural, Urban and Combined (Annexure I)

    II

    All-India inflation rates (%) for General, Group and Sub-group level CPI and CFPI numbers for January 2025 (Provisional) for Rural, Urban and Combined (Annexure II)

    III

    General CPI for States for Rural, Urban and Combined for December 2024 (Final) and January 2025 (Provisional) (Annexure III)

    IV

    Year-on-year inflation rates (%) of major States for Rural, Urban and Combined for January 2025(Provisional) (Annexure IV)

    V

     Time Series Data for All India General CPI (Base 2012 =100) Since January 2013 (Annexure V)

    VI

     Time Series Data for All India Year-on-year inflation rates (%) based on General CPI (Base 2012=100) Since January 2014 (Annexure VI)

                              

                                                                                                                                                                                                            Annex I

    All-India General, Group and Sub-group level CPI and CFPI numbers for December 2024 (Final) and January 2025 (Provisional) for Rural, Urban and Combined (Base: 2012=100)

     

    Group Code

    Sub-group Code

    Description

    Rural

    Urban

    Combined

    Weights

    Dec. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

    Weights

    Dec. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

    Weights

    Dec.24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

    (1)

    (2)

    (3)

    (4)

    (5)

    (6)

    (7)

    (8)

    (9)

    (10)

    (11)

    (12)

     

    1.1.01

    Cereals and products

    12.35

    198.9

    199.8

    6.59

    196.5

    197.5

    9.67

    198.1

    199.1

     

    1.1.02

    Meat and fish

    4.38

    219.1

    220.9

    2.73

    228.7

    230.8

    3.61

    222.5

    224.4

     

    1.1.03

    Egg

    0.49

    209.8

    206.1

    0.36

    215.8

    210.8

    0.43

    212.1

    207.9

     

    1.1.04

    Milk and products

    7.72

    187.3

    187.7

    5.33

    187.9

    188.2

    6.61

    187.5

    187.9

     

    1.1.05

    Oils and fats

    4.21

    189.0

    189.0

    2.81

    174.6

    175.6

    3.56

    183.7

    184.1

     

    1.1.06

    Fruits

    2.88

    189.0

    192.1

    2.90

    192.4

    193.8

    2.89

    190.6

    192.9

     

    1.1.07

    Vegetables

    7.46

    242.4

    203.6

    4.41

    289.2

    245.6

    6.04

    258.3

    217.8

     

    1.1.08

    Pulses and products

    2.95

    212.4

    207.8

    1.73

    217.4

    213.0

    2.38

    214.1

    209.6

     

    1.1.09

    Sugar and Confectionery

    1.70

    130.0

    129.6

    0.97

    132.7

    132.4

    1.36

    130.9

    130.5

     

    1.1.10

    Spices

    3.11

    229.0

    227.3

    1.79

    224.1

    222.9

    2.50

    227.4

    225.8

     

    1.2.11

    Non-alcoholic beverages

    1.37

    186.7

    187.7

    1.13

    175.5

    176.6

    1.26

    182.0

    183.1

     

    1.1.12

    Prepared meals, snacks, sweets etc.

    5.56

    201.2

    201.7

    5.54

    211.7

    212.9

    5.55

    206.1

    206.9

    1

     

    Food and beverages

    54.18

    203.9

    198.8

    36.29

    209.4

    204.6

    45.86

    205.9

    200.9

    2

     

    Pan, tobacco and intoxicants

    3.26

    208.7

    208.2

    1.36

    212.2

    212.6

    2.38

    209.6

    209.4

     

    3.1.01

    Clothing

    6.32

    200.4

    200.6

    4.72

    190.0

    190.3

    5.58

    196.3

    196.5

     

    3.1.02

    Footwear

    1.04

    193.7

    193.9

    0.85

    175.6

    176.0

    0.95

    186.2

    186.5

    3

     

    Clothing and footwear

    7.36

    199.4

    199.7

    5.57

    187.8

    188.1

    6.53

    194.8

    195.1

    4

     

    Housing

    –

    –

    –

    21.67

    181.7

    182.5

    10.07

    181.7

    182.5

    5

     

    Fuel and light

    7.94

    182.3

    183.1

    5.58

    170.5

    170.6

    6.84

    177.8

    178.4

     

    6.1.01

    Household goods and services

    3.75

    187.0

    187.3

    3.87

    178.3

    178.8

    3.80

    182.9

    183.3

     

    6.1.02

    Health

    6.83

    200.2

    200.8

    4.81

    194.5

    195.4

    5.89

    198.0

    198.8

     

    6.1.03

    Transport and communication

    7.60

    176.7

    177.2

    9.73

    165.8

    166.1

    8.59

    171.0

    171.4

     

    6.1.04

    Recreation and amusement

    1.37

    181.5

    181.6

    2.04

    176.7

    177.0

    1.68

    178.8

    179.0

     

    6.1.05

    Education

    3.46

    192.2

    192.5

    5.62

    187.9

    188.0

    4.46

    189.7

    189.9

     

    6.1.06

    Personal care and effects

    4.25

    206.3

    208.4

    3.47

    208.0

    210.2

    3.89

    207.0

    209.1

    6

     

    Miscellaneous

    27.26

    190.8

    191.5

    29.53

    182.0

    182.6

    28.32

    186.5

    187.2

    General Index (All Groups)

    100.00

    198.4

    196.0

    100.00

    192.0

    190.6

    100.00

    195.4

    193.5

    Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI)

    47.25

    204.7

    198.8

    29.62

    210.3

    204.1

    39.06

    206.7

    200.7

    Notes:

    1. Prov.       : Provisional.

    2. CFPI        : Out of 12 sub-groups contained in ‘Food and Beverages’ group, CFPI is based on ten sub-groups, excluding ‘Non-alcoholic beverages’ and ‘Prepared meals, snacks, sweets etc.’.

    1. –   : CPI (Rural) for housing is not compiled.

    Annex II

    All-India year-on-year inflation rates (%) for General, Group and Sub-group level CPI and CFPI numbers for January 2025 (Provisional) for Rural, Urban and Combined (Base: 2012=100)

     

    Group Code

    Sub-group Code

    Description

    Rural

    Urban

    Combined

     

    Jan. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

    Jan. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

    Jan. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

     

    (1)

    (2)

    (3)

    (4)

    (5)

    (6)

    (7)

    (8)

    (9)

    (10)

    (11)

    (12)

     

    1.1.01

    Cereals and products

    187.5

    199.8

    6.56

    187.1

    197.5

    5.56

    187.4

    199.1

    6.24

     

    1.1.02

    Meat and fish

    209.9

    220.9

    5.24

    219.4

    230.8

    5.20

    213.2

    224.4

    5.25

     

    1.1.03

    Egg

    204.8

    206.1

    0.63

    206.1

    210.8

    2.28

    205.3

    207.9

    1.27

     

    1.1.04

    Milk and products

    182.6

    187.7

    2.79

    182.8

    188.2

    2.95

    182.7

    187.9

    2.85

     

    1.1.05

    Oils and fats

    161.2

    189.0

    17.25

    155.8

    175.6

    12.71

    159.2

    184.1

    15.64

     

    1.1.06

    Fruits

    169.7

    192.1

    13.20

    174.5

    193.8

    11.06

    171.9

    192.9

    12.22

     

    1.1.07

    Vegetables

    179.9

    203.6

    13.17

    226.2

    245.6

    8.58

    195.6

    217.8

    11.35

     

    1.1.08

    Pulses and products

    202.5

    207.8

    2.62

    207.7

    213.0

    2.55

    204.3

    209.6

    2.59

     

    1.1.09

    Sugar and Confectionery

    129.7

    129.6

    -0.08

    131.0

    132.4

    1.07

    130.1

    130.5

    0.31

     

    1.1.10

    Spices

    245.9

    227.3

    -7.56

    235.5

    222.9

    -5.35

    242.4

    225.8

    -6.85

     

    1.2.11

    Non-alcoholic beverages

    182.3

    187.7

    2.96

    169.8

    176.6

    4.00

    177.1

    183.1

    3.39

     

    1.1.12

    Prepared meals, snacks, sweets etc.

    195.0

    201.7

    3.44

    203.1

    212.9

    4.83

    198.8

    206.9

    4.07

     

    1

    Food and beverages

    187.7

    198.8

    5.91

    194.2

    204.6

    5.36

    190.1

    200.9

    5.68

     

    2

    Pan, tobacco and intoxicants

    203.2

    208.2

    2.46

    208.9

    212.6

    1.77

    204.7

    209.4

    2.30

     

    3.1.01

    Clothing

    195.3

    200.6

    2.71

    185.1

    190.3

    2.81

    191.3

    196.5

    2.72

     

    3.1.02

    Footwear

    190.4

    193.9

    1.84

    171.8

    176.0

    2.44

    182.7

    186.5

    2.08

     

    3

    Clothing and footwear

    194.6

    199.7

    2.62

    183.1

    188.1

    2.73

    190.0

    195.1

    2.68

     

    4

    Housing

    –

    –

    –

    177.6

    182.5

    2.76

    177.6

    182.5

    2.76

     

    5

    Fuel and light

    184.1

    183.1

    -0.54

    175.7

    170.6

    -2.90

    180.9

    178.4

    -1.38

     

    6.1.01

    Household goods and services

    182.9

    187.3

    2.41

    173.0

    178.8

    3.35

    178.2

    183.3

    2.86

     

    6.1.02

    Health

    193.2

    200.8

    3.93

    187.8

    195.4

    4.05

    191.2

    198.8

    3.97

     

    6.1.03

    Transport and communication

    172.0

    177.2

    3.02

    162.1

    166.1

    2.47

    166.8

    171.4

    2.76

     

    6.1.04

    Recreation and amusement

    177.2

    181.6

    2.48

    172.2

    177.0

    2.79

    174.4

    179.0

    2.64

     

    6.1.05

    Education

    185.8

    192.5

    3.61

    180.8

    188.0

    3.98

    182.9

    189.9

    3.83

     

    6.1.06

    Personal care and effects

    188.6

    208.4

    10.50

    189.9

    210.2

    10.69

    189.1

    209.1

    10.58

     

    6

    Miscellaneous

    183.4

    191.5

    4.42

    175.2

    182.6

    4.22

    179.4

    187.2

    4.35

     

    General Index (All Groups)

    187.3

    196.0

    4.64

    183.5

    190.6

    3.87

    185.5

    193.5

    4.31

     

    Notes:

    1. Prov.       : Provisional.

    2. –               : CPI (Rural) for housing is not compiled.

     

    Annex III

    General CPI for States for Rural, Urban and Combined for December 2024 (Final) and January 2025 (Provisional) (Base: 2012=100)

     

    Sl. No.

    Name of the State/UT

    Rural

    Urban

    Combined

    Weights

    Dec. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

    Weights

    Dec. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

    Weights

    Dec. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

    (1)

    (2)

    (3)

    (4)

    (5)

    (6)

    (7)

    (8)

    (9)

    (10)

    (11)

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    5.40

    199.5

    199.1

    3.64

    199.4

    199.2

    4.58

    199.5

    199.1

    2

    Arunachal Pradesh

    0.14

    199.1

    197.6

    0.06

    —

    —

    0.10

    199.1

    197.6

    3

    Assam

    2.63

    200.1

    198.4

    0.79

    196.7

    194.8

    1.77

    199.4

    197.7

    4

    Bihar

    8.21

    195.7

    189.7

    1.62

    203.1

    199.1

    5.14

    196.8

    191.1

    5

    Chhattisgarh

    1.68

    193.1

    188.9

    1.22

    185.9

    182.6

    1.46

    190.3

    186.5

    6

    Delhi

    0.28

    176.5

    175.2

    5.64

    171.2

    171.7

    2.77

    171.5

    171.9

    7

    Goa

    0.14

    183.6

    183.1

    0.25

    181.9

    182.7

    0.19

    182.6

    182.9

    8

    Gujarat

    4.54

    193.4

    191.0

    6.82

    182.8

    179.9

    5.60

    187.4

    184.7

    9

    Haryana

    3.30

    200.3

    197.5

    3.35

    186.3

    184.7

    3.32

    193.7

    191.5

    10

    Himachal Pradesh

    1.03

    182.9

    180.9

    0.26

    187.4

    185.3

    0.67

    183.7

    181.7

    11

    Jharkhand

    1.96

    191.5

    186.7

    1.39

    193.6

    191.0

    1.69

    192.3

    188.3

    12

    Karnataka

    5.09

    200.2

    199.9

    6.81

    200.9

    201.2

    5.89

    200.6

    200.6

    13

    Kerala

    5.50

    204.2

    205.4

    3.46

    199.1

    200.3

    4.55

    202.4

    203.6

    14

    Madhya Pradesh

    4.93

    196.6

    193.4

    3.97

    196.0

    193.8

    4.48

    196.4

    193.6

    15

    Maharashtra

    8.25

    196.3

    193.8

    18.86

    188.2

    186.8

    13.18

    190.9

    189.1

    16

    Manipur

    0.23

    239.4

    233.9

    0.12

    193.0

    191.0

    0.18

    224.7

    220.3

    17

    Meghalaya

    0.28

    179.5

    177.8

    0.15

    187.3

    187.4

    0.22

    181.9

    180.8

    18

    Mizoram

    0.07

    207.7

    207.4

    0.13

    183.1

    181.9

    0.10

    192.7

    191.8

    19

    Nagaland

    0.14

    202.5

    201.1

    0.12

    187.7

    186.9

    0.13

    196.2

    195.1

    20

    Odisha

    2.93

    204.9

    201.3

    1.31

    191.8

    189.4

    2.18

    201.2

    198.0

    21

    Punjab

    3.31

    191.3

    189.4

    3.09

    181.8

    179.9

    3.21

    187.0

    185.1

    22

    Rajasthan

    6.63

    193.6

    192.0

    4.23

    191.3

    189.2

    5.51

    192.8

    191.0

    23

    Sikkim

    0.06

    205.9

    203.7

    0.03

    189.9

    189.0

    0.05

    200.7

    198.9

    24

    Tamil Nadu

    5.55

    204.2

    203.8

    9.20

    200.8

    200.2

    7.25

    202.2

    201.7

    25

    Telangana

    3.16

    207.3

    205.9

    4.41

    200.2

    199.4

    3.74

    203.4

    202.3

    26

    Tripura

    0.35

    216.5

    209.9

    0.14

    207.7

    203.4

    0.25

    214.2

    208.2

    27

    Uttar Pradesh

    14.83

    198.5

    194.9

    9.54

    193.8

    191.2

    12.37

    196.8

    193.6

    28

    Uttarakhand

    1.06

    190.8

    188.5

    0.73

    195.8

    193.7

    0.91

    192.7

    190.4

    29

    West Bengal

    6.99

    201.9

    198.2

    7.20

    195.1

    193.4

    7.09

    198.7

    195.9

    30

    Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    0.05

    206.1

    203.2

    0.07

    192.0

    191.8

    0.06

    198.9

    197.4

    31

    Chandigarh

    0.02

    195.8

    192.0

    0.34

    181.2

    179.3

    0.17

    182.0

    180.0

    32

    Dadra & Nagar Haveli

    0.02

    183.8

    182.2

    0.04

    190.5

    188.5

    0.03

    188.3

    186.4

    33

    Daman & Diu

    0.02

    200.6

    199.5

    0.02

    190.3

    189.0

    0.02

    196.3

    195.1

    34

    Jammu & Kashmir*

    1.14

    205.8

    204.7

    0.72

    199.6

    197.5

    0.94

    203.6

    202.2

    35

    Lakshadweep

    0.01

    199.9

    197.5

    0.01

    190.8

    185.5

    0.01

    195.2

    191.4

    36

    Puducherry

    0.08

    210.8

    208.1

    0.27

    199.4

    198.8

    0.17

    202.3

    201.2

    All India

    100.00

    198.4

    196.0

    100.00

    192.0

    190.6

    100.00

    195.4

    193.5

    Notes:

    1. Prov.:  Provisional

    2. –:  indicates the receipt of price schedules is less than 80% of allocated schedules and therefore indices are not compiled.

    3. *: Figures of this row pertain to the prices and weights of the combined Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir

    and Ladakh (erstwhile State of Jammu & Kashmir).

    Annex IV

     

    Year-on-year inflation rates (%) of major@ States for Rural, Urban and Combined for January 2025 (Provisional) (Base: 2012=100)

     

    Sl. No.

    Name of the State/UT

    Rural

    Urban

    Combined

    Jan. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

    Jan. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

    Jan. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Jan. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

    (1)

    (2)

    (3)

    (4)

    (5)

    (6)

    (7)

    (8)

    (9)

    (10)

    (11)

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    191.4

    199.1

    4.02

    191.5

    199.2

    4.02

    191.4

    199.1

    4.02

    2

    Assam

    189.3

    198.4

    4.81

    186.4

    194.8

    4.51

    188.7

    197.7

    4.77

    3

    Bihar

    180.9

    189.7

    4.86

    188.0

    199.1

    5.90

    181.9

    191.1

    5.06

    4

    Chhattisgarh

    176.8

    188.9

    6.84

    175.2

    182.6

    4.22

    176.2

    186.5

    5.85

    5

    Delhi

    169.9

    175.2

    3.12

    168.4

    171.7

    1.96

    168.5

    171.9

    2.02

    6

    Gujarat

    183.9

    191.0

    3.86

    173.2

    179.9

    3.87

    177.8

    184.7

    3.88

    7

    Haryana

    187.1

    197.5

    5.56

    176.6

    184.7

    4.59

    182.2

    191.5

    5.10

    8

    Himachal Pradesh

    173.6

    180.9

    4.21

    178.2

    185.3

    3.98

    174.4

    181.7

    4.19

    9

    Jharkhand

    183.3

    186.7

    1.85

    184.1

    191.0

    3.75

    183.6

    188.3

    2.56

    10

    Karnataka

    190.0

    199.9

    5.21

    191.8

    201.2

    4.90

    191.0

    200.6

    5.03

    11

    Kerala

    191.4

    205.4

    7.31

    189.3

    200.3

    5.81

    190.7

    203.6

    6.76

    12

    Madhya Pradesh

    183.9

    193.4

    5.17

    187.5

    193.8

    3.36

    185.4

    193.6

    4.42

    13

    Maharashtra

    188.9

    193.8

    2.59

    179.9

    186.8

    3.84

    182.9

    189.1

    3.39

    14

    Odisha

    188.5

    201.3

    6.79

    182.0

    189.4

    4.07

    186.7

    198.0

    6.05

    15

    Punjab

    180.6

    189.4

    4.87

    173.7

    179.9

    3.57

    177.5

    185.1

    4.28

    16

    Rajasthan

    184.3

    192.0

    4.18

    183.3

    189.2

    3.22

    183.9

    191.0

    3.86

    17

    Tamil Nadu

    193.4

    203.8

    5.38

    191.3

    200.2

    4.65

    192.2

    201.7

    4.94

    18

    Telangana

    201.2

    205.9

    2.34

    195.2

    199.4

    2.15

    197.9

    202.3

    2.22

    19

    Uttar Pradesh

    185.5

    194.9

    5.07

    184.3

    191.2

    3.74

    185.1

    193.6

    4.59

    20

    Uttarakhand

    180.6

    188.5

    4.37

    183.4

    193.7

    5.62

    181.6

    190.4

    4.85

    21

    West Bengal

    191.0

    198.2

    3.77

    187.9

    193.4

    2.93

    189.5

    195.9

    3.38

    22

    Jammu & Kashmir*

    194.3

    204.7

    5.35

    190.2

    197.5

    3.84

    192.9

    202.2

    4.82

    All India

    187.3

    196.0

    4.64

    183.5

    190.6

    3.87

    185.5

    193.5

    4.31

    Notes:

    1. Prov.     :  Provisional.

    2. *               : Figures of this row pertain to the prices and weights of the combined Union Territories of Jammu &                            Kashmir and Ladakh (erstwhile State of Jammu & Kashmir).

    3. @               : States having population more than 50 lakhs as per Population Census 2011.

     

    Annexure V

    Time Series Data for All India General CPI (Base 2012 =100) Since January 2013

     

    Year

    Jan

    Feb

    Mar

    Apr

    May

    Jun

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

    Oct

    Nov

    Dec

    2013

    104.6

    105.3

    105.5

    106.1

    106.9

    109.3

    111.0

    112.4

    113.7

    114.8

    116.3

    114.5

    2014

    113.6

    113.6

    114.2

    115.1

    115.8

    116.7

    119.2

    120.3

    120.1

    120.1

    120.1

    119.4

    2015

    119.5

    119.7

    120.2

    120.7

    121.6

    123.0

    123.6

    124.8

    125.4

    126.1

    126.6

    126.1

    2016

    126.3

    126.0

    126.0

    127.3

    128.6

    130.1

    131.1

    131.1

    130.9

    131.4

    131.2

    130.4

    2017

    130.3

    130.6

    130.9

    131.1

    131.4

    132.0

    134.2

    135.4

    135.2

    136.1

    137.6

    137.2

    2018

    136.9

    136.4

    136.5

    137.1

    137.8

    138.5

    139.8

    140.4

    140.2

    140.7

    140.8

    140.1

    2019

    139.6

    139.9

    140.4

    141.2

    142.0

    142.9

    144.2

    145.0

    145.8

    147.2

    148.6

    150.4

    2020

    150.2

    149.1

    148.6

    151.4

    150.9

    151.8

    153.9

    154.7

    156.4

    158.4

    158.9

    157.3

    2021

    156.3

    156.6

    156.8

    157.8

    160.4

    161.3

    162.5

    162.9

    163.2

    165.5

    166.7

    166.2

    2022

    165.7

    166.1

    167.7

    170.1

    171.7

    172.6

    173.4

    174.3

    175.3

    176.7

    176.5

    175.7

    2023

    176.5

    176.8

    177.2

    178.1

    179.1

    181.0

    186.3

    186.2

    184.1

    185.3

    186.3

    185.7

    2024

    185.5

    185.8

    185.8

    186.7

    187.7

    190.2

    193.0

    193.0

    194.2

    196.8

    196.5

    195.4

    2025

    193.5*

    Notes:

    1. * :Index Value for January 2025  is  Provisional.

    Annexure VI

     

    Time Series Data for All India Year-on-year inflation rates (%) based on General CPI (Base 2012=100) Since January 2014

     

    Year

    Jan

    Feb

    Mar

    Apr

    May

    Jun

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

    Oct

    Nov

    Dec

    2014

    8.60

    7.88

    8.25

    8.48

    8.33

    6.77

    7.39

    7.03

    5.63

    4.62

    3.27

    4.28

    2015

    5.19

    5.37

    5.25

    4.87

    5.01

    5.40

    3.69

    3.74

    4.41

    5.00

    5.41

    5.61

    2016

    5.69

    5.26

    4.83

    5.47

    5.76

    5.77

    6.07

    5.05

    4.39

    4.20

    3.63

    3.41

    2017

    3.17

    3.65

    3.89

    2.99

    2.18

    1.46

    2.36

    3.28

    3.28

    3.58

    4.88

    5.21

    2018

    5.07

    4.44

    4.28

    4.58

    4.87

    4.92

    4.17

    3.69

    3.70

    3.38

    2.33

    2.11

    2019

    1.97

    2.57

    2.86

    2.99

    3.05

    3.18

    3.15

    3.28

    3.99

    4.62

    5.54

    7.35

    2020

    7.59

    6.58

    5.84

    –

    –

    6.23

    6.73

    6.69

    7.27

    7.61

    6.93

    4.59

    2021

    4.06

    5.03

    5.52

    4.23

    6.30

    6.26

    5.59

    5.30

    4.35

    4.48

    4.91

    5.66

    2022

    6.01

    6.07

    6.95

    7.79

    7.04

    7.01

    6.71

    7.00

    7.41

    6.77

    5.88

    5.72

    2023

    6.52

    6.44

    5.66

    4.70

    4.31

    4.87

    7.44

    6.83

    5.02

    4.87

    5.55

    5.69

    2024

    5.10

    5.09

    4.85

    4.83

    4.80

    5.08

    3.60

    3.65

    5.49

    6.21

    5.48

    5.22

    2025

    4.31*

    Notes:

    1. * :Inflation Value for January  2025  is Provisional.

    2. – :Inflation was not compiled and released due to Covid-19 pandemic outbreak. 

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Ayush and Department of Social Justice & Empowerment Sign a Memorandum of Understanding to Enhance Geriatric Healthcare and Combat Substance Abuse

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Ayush and Department of Social Justice & Empowerment Sign a Memorandum of Understanding to Enhance Geriatric Healthcare and Combat Substance Abuse

    By leveraging the holistic approach of Ayush systems alongside social welfare initiatives, we aim to empower our senior citizens and those affected by substance abuse: Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Ayush

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 3:59PM by PIB Delhi

    In a landmark move aimed at improving the well-being of senior citizens and addressing the growing concern of substance abuse, the Ministry of Ayush and the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in New Delhi today. This strategic partnership seeks to implement Ayush-based interventions to promote geriatric healthcare and combat substance abuse.

    The MoU was signed in the presence of Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush, and Shri B.L. Verma, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Sh. Amit Yadav, Secretary and senior officials from both ministries were also present on the occasion.

    Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, stated, “Geriatric healthcare and substance abuse are critical areas that require special focus, especially as we face an ageing population and growing concerns around addiction. This collaboration between the Ministry of Ayush and the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment represents a significant step towards addressing these challenges. By leveraging the holistic approach of Ayush systems alongside social welfare initiatives, we aim to empower our senior citizens and those affected by substance abuse.”

    While addressing the gathering, the Union Minister of State, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri B L Verma, said, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, our government has taken several steps to ensure the welfare of our senior citizens. The signing of the MoU with the Ministry of Ayush will benefit our senior citizens in a big way. The development of elderly-specific training modules, treatment protocols, yoga training programs, sharing of preventive and curative practices, etc., under the MoU will go a long way in enabling our senior citizens to lead a healthy life. By joining hands with the Ministry of Ayush, I am sure that together we can provide comprehensive services to the community.”

    While highlighting the initiatives of the Ministry of Ayush for geriatric healthcare, the Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, stated, “We have various programmes and initiatives to address the challenges being faced by the ageing population, such as the Geriatric Healthcare Camps under the National Ayush Mission. The Ministry of Ayush remains committed to enhancing the health and well-being of senior citizens, and this MoU will boost our efforts to provide quality health care to the senior citizens.”

    Sh. Amit Yadav, Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, said, “By signing of MoU with Ayush, the Ministry will try to make this country a place free from any addiction of drugs with the help of Ayush by adopting their model of treatment and living a healthy life. And ensure that our senior citizens lead a healthy and dignified life by adopting a series of interventions devised through the Ministry of Ayush.

    The MoU is a pioneering step to develop cooperative initiatives for health promotion among senior citizens and those affected by substance abuse. By leveraging the strengths of Ayush systems, both Ministries committed to working together on various initiatives, including awareness programs, capacity-building for service providers and the establishment of geriatric health and de-addiction units under Ayush autonomous bodies.

    Key objectives of the MoU include:

    1. Cooperative Efforts: Developing cooperation, convergence, and synergy between the Ministry of Ayush and DoSJE to foster innovative initiatives for promoting the health of senior citizens, reducing the demand for drugs, addressing substance abuse, and aiding mental rehabilitation. This will be achieved through awareness generation and capacity building of service providers using Ayush systems.
    2. Research Promotion: Encouraging research in the areas of geriatric health, substance abuse, and mental health, with a focus on exploring the therapeutic benefits of traditional healthcare practices.
    3. Health Promotion Activities: Supporting additional activities for health promotion tailored to both the geriatric population and individuals affected by substance abuse.

    The MoU marks a significant milestone in India’s healthcare journey, combining the strengths of both Ayush systems and social justice initiatives to create a healthier and more inclusive society.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ12: Tackling smoking problems

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Lillian Kwok and a written reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (February 12):Question:     It is learnt that recent years have seen a trend of vapers getting younger, and there are even primary pupils among them, which is worrying. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:(1) of the number of cases reported by schools to the Government in each month of the past three years regarding students vaping or smoking at school;(2) of the numbers of enforcement actions and prosecutions initiated by the Government in each month of the past three years against the illegal sale of tobacco products by shop operators to persons under 18 years of age;(3) whether the Government will ramp up efforts in education and publicity about smoking bans, including educational efforts targeting such e-cigarette oils as “space oil” which contain illegal harmful substances; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and(4) whether the Government will allocate additional resources for smoking cessation counselling services to assist smokers in smoking cessation; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?Reply:President,     Having consulted the Security Bureau (SB) and the Education Bureau (EDB), the consolidated reply to the various parts of the Hon Lillian Kwok’s question is as follows:     The Government has been adopting a multi-pronged and progressive approach, including legislation, taxation, publicity, education, enforcement and promotion of smoking cessation services, in a bid to reduce the hazards caused by smoking products to the public and the society. Currently, the EDB does not require schools to report figures relating to the number of students who smoke e-cigarettes or cigarettes. The Census and Statistics Department conducts Thematic Household Surveys (THS) regularly to keep track of the local smoking situation. The THS results in 2023 showed that the percentage of daily conventional cigarette smokers among all persons aged 15 and above has dropped steadily from 11.1 per cent in 2010 to 9.1 per cent in 2023. The percentage of daily conventional cigarette smokers among teenagers aged 15 to 19 decreased continuously from 2.5 per cent in 2010 to 1.0 per cent in 2017. In the survey conducted in 2019, 2021 and 2023, the sample count for smokers aged 15 to 19 was too small to produce a representative prevalence estimate. Regarding e-cigarette use, in 2023, about 11 600 persons aged 15 and above reported daily use of e-cigarettes, accounting for 0.2 per cent of the population. The relevant sample count was also too small to produce a representative estimate of the proportion of such persons aged 15 to 19. The proportion of daily smokers from 2010 to 2023 is at Annex I. Separately, the Health Bureau (HHB) has commissioned the School of Public Health of the University of Hong Kong to conduct school-based surveys on smoking among students (school-based survey) since 2010, and the results of the last school-based survey conducted in 2023 showed that the smoking prevalence among primary and secondary school students (see Annex II) maintained at a low level.     However, over the years, tobacco companies have been using a myriad of tactics to lure young people to smoke so as to sustain their long-term profitability. Considering the harm brought about by tobacco products to the society, especially young people, there is a need for the Government to implement more effective and targeted tobacco control measures to combat smoking hazard and to prevent smoking prevalence from rebounding. Therefore, the Government announced in June last year the introduction of 10 tobacco control measures to safeguard the health of the community.     First, the findings of the THS showed that the younger the age group, the higher the rate of smoking flavoured cigarettes. For instance, among the conventional cigarette smokers aged from 20 to 29, over 70 per cent of them currently smoke flavoured cigarettes, while nearly 70 per cent smoked flavoured cigarettes when they first smoked. Besides, over 70 per cent of female smokers of conventional cigarettes currently smoke flavoured cigarettes; and over 60 per cent of current female smokers of conventional cigarettes smoked flavoured cigarettes when they first smoked (see Annex III). Scientific evidence shows that flavoured cigarettes, such as menthol or fruit-flavoured cigarettes, reduce the awareness of the hazard of tobacco and in turn increase the chances of non-smokers (especially teenagers) to start smoking. They also make consumers more vulnerable to getting into and continuing with the smoking habit. Flavoured cigarettes are indeed “sugar-coated poison”. Tobacco companies add flavours to conventional cigarettes to cover up the harshness of tobacco smoke, so as to lure members of the public, especially young people, to smoke and become addicted to smoking. The situation is worrying. The Government therefore proposes to prohibit adding flavours in conventional smoking products to counteract the intention of tobacco companies to use flavouring agents to disguise the toxicity of tobacco products and attract young people to smoke.     Secondly, alternative smoking products (ASPs) have rapidly gained popularity around the world in recent years. The Government resolutely banned the import, promotion, manufacture, sale or possession for commercial purposes of ASP on April 30, 2022, so as to reduce the chance for tobacco companies to use ASPs as another means to lure the public, especially the younger generation, to become addicted to smoking.     Recently, e-cigarette devices have even been used for drug abuse. E-liquid, mixed with drugs such as etomidate (commonly known as “space oil drugs”), a psychoactive substance, can be inserted into e-cigarette devices and heated to generate aerosol for smoking. By their appearance, “poisonous capsules” (or “zombie capsules”) containing “space oil drugs” or other regulated drugs or narcotics are no different from regular e-cigarettes capsules, and it is difficult to distinguish the ingredients by bare eye, thus largely increasing the possibilities of smokers to abuse drugs through ASPs anytime, anywhere and in a more covert manner. Young people may become addicted to drugs by smoking e-cigarettes containing “poisonous capsules” without realising it.     The Government will strengthen the control of etomidate, which is the main active ingredient of “space oil drugs”, and planned to gazette to list etomidate as a dangerous drug (i.e. narcotic) on February 14, 2025, so as to increase deterrence and enable law enforcement agencies to effectively respond to the relevant situation.     On publicity and education on the harmful effects of smoking and ASPs, the Department of Health (DH) and the Hong Kong Council on Smoking and Health (COSH) will strengthen their collaboration with the EDB to publicise the harmful effects of smoking and ASPs to students through seminars, dramas and mentorship programmes. The EDB has also been organising seminars and professional development programmes continuously for teachers to enhance their understanding and awareness of tobacco products, especially ASPs. On school curriculum, health education (including resistance to harmful substances) is a key component of values education. The Values Education Curriculum Framework (Pilot Version) issued in 2021 has further strengthened values education in related areas (including resistance to harmful substances including drugs, traditional tobacco products and ASPs) and outlined the expected learning outcomes for students across various key learning stages. The Whole School Health Programme launched by the DH will also step up publicity and education on tobacco hazards.     On the other hand, the Narcotics Division (ND) of the SB has been collaborating with various government departments, the COSH and non-governmental organisations to explain the harmful effects of “space oil drug” to the public through different channels, raise self-awareness on drug prevention among the public, and seek more ways to reach out to hidden drug abusers. To target drug traffickers selling “space oil drugs”, the Government is stepping up efforts to educate students on their harmful effects. The ND and the EDB will jointly launch an “anti-space oil drug” week in schools, during which a series of activities will be held, including talks, anti-drug video broadcast, anti-drug drama shows, with a view to preventing the spread of “space oil drugs” among the younger cohort and to tie in with the legislative work.      The relevant ban on ASPs has been in force for nearly three years. At present, there are no legal channels to import or purchase ASPs, and ASPs purchased for personal use before the ban came into effect should have been largely consumed after a certain period of time. Yet the findings of the aforementioned school-based survey indicated that the ratio of primary and secondary school students who smoke e-cigarettes to those who smoke conventional cigarettes is nearly one to one, suggesting that e-cigarettes, among other tobacco products, are particularly popular amongst the younger generation. It is worrying that young people are still exposed to ASPs despite the implementation of the ban on their import and sale. Prevailing legislation does not prohibit the possession of ASPs for non-commercial use. To suppress the continued circulation of ASPs, which are hazardous novel tobacco products, in Hong Kong and to tackle the problem of “poisonous capsules” at its root, the HHB will further strengthen the regulation of ASPs, including banning the possession of relevant products, so as to curb the emergence of ASPs as an alternative drug abuse product. Details will be announced later.     Thirdly, to prevent young people from smoking and suppress the harm posed by tobacco on them, the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Cap. 371) stipulates that no person shall sell any conventional smoking product to any person under the age of 18. The number of complaints/referrals received, the number of inspections conducted and the number of summonses issued by the DH in relation to the restrictions on the sale or giving of conventional smoking products under the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Cap. 371) from 2022 to 2024 are set out in Annex IV. For the comprehensive protection of the underaged, the Government proposes to further prohibit giving tobacco products to persons under the age of 18 such that the provider is to be held liable.     Fourthly, the Government has been actively conducting public education programmes on multiple fronts to promote a smoke-free environment. The DH collaborates with the COSH, non-governmental organisations and healthcare professionals to promote the harms of smoking and smoking cessation, including joining with district service organisations to disseminate smoke-free messages through promotional activities, smoking cessation competitions, smoking cessation counselling, targeting at young people, women, elderly groups, etc. Promoting smoking cessation is also an important pillar under the tobacco control strategy. Since 2021, the DH has launched the Quit in June campaign to promote smoking cessation services and one-week nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) trial packs have been distributed for free at more than 250 designated community pharmacies, smoking cessation clinics and District Health Centres (DHC)/DHC Expresses with a view to encouraging smokers to attempt quitting. Last year, the DH introduced a trial programme on the use of Chinese medicine ear-point patches for smoking cessation. So far, more than 3 500 NRT trial packs and more than 300 Chinese Medicine Ear-point Patch trial packs have been distributed, and most of the smokers who have tried the ear-point patches have found them helpful in alleviating the symptoms of addiction and the response has been very positive.     Besides, the DH has subvented two more service providers (increased from two to four) since last year to operate smoking cessation clinics focusing on counselling and pharmacotherapy, and is planning on subventing three more Chinese medicine smoking cessation service providers (increased from one to four) in the second half of this year to operate smoking cessation clinics focusing on counselling and acupuncture. It is expected that the number of service users can be increased by about 40 per cent and doubled respectively.     The Government will continue to step up the work on smoking cessation and explore various tobacco control measures in the medium and long term in order to eliminate the hazards posed by tobacco products on the society in all aspects and protect the health of the community under a progressive and multi-pronged approach.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ11: Work of the Joint Office for Investigation of Water Seepage Complaints

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Kwok Wai-keung and a written reply by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, in the Legislative Council today (February 12):     Question:     Some members of the public have relayed that even through complaints about water seepage problems in building units have been lodged with the Joint Office for Investigation of Water Seepage Complaints (JO) formed by the Buildings Department and the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, the problems remain unresolved because the occupants of the units suspected of causing water leakage cannot be found, or water seepage has recurred after JO’s intervention and handling of the cases. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:(1) of the following statistics on cases of water seepage in buildings handled by JO in each of the past three years: the respective numbers of reports (i) received and (ii) handled, (iii) cases with consultants engaged to conduct investigation, (iv) cases with the source of water seepage successfully identified and investigation completed, (v) cases with the source of water seepage not identified but investigation terminated, (vi) cases referred to other government departments, (vii) cases with Nuisance Notices issued, cases with (viii) Warrants to Effect Entry into Premises and (ix) Nuisance Orders issued by the court, and cases with (x) prosecutions instituted and (xi) convictions secured, and set out in the table below a breakdown by District Council district and nature of cases (i.e. (a) cases handled for the first time and (b) recurring cases (i.e. those with water seepage reportedly occurring at the same address as a case previously handled));District Council district:                                                             (2) of the respective average costs incurred by the JO in handling cases mentioned in (1)(iii) and (iv) in the past three years;(3) given that according to the information of the JO, for simple and straightforward cases with the co-operation of the owners/occupants concerned, the investigation and tests can normally be completed within 90 working days, whereas for cases in which the investigation cannot be completed within 90 working days, the complainants will be notified of the investigation progress in writing, (i) whether the JO has broken down the 90 working days for handling cases into work stages and drawn up performance pledges for each of them; (ii) whether the JO will inform the complainants in writing of the relevant investigation and test results; if not, of the reasons for that; and (iii) among the cases mentioned in (1)(ii) in the past three years, of the number and proportion of those in which the investigation could not be completed within 90 working days;(4) given that in the reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council on January 10 last year, the authorities indicated that most of the cases in which the JO could not complete the investigation within 90 working days were more complicated (e.g. involving more than one source of water seepage, repeated or intermittent water seepage, requiring multiple tests to identify the source, and failure of owners or occupants to co-operate with the investigation), whether the authorities have kept a breakdown of such cases by the reasons for not being able to complete the investigation within 90 working days; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;(5) whether the authorities have compiled statistics on, among the cases referred to other government departments as mentioned in (1)(vi) in the past three years, (i) the number of cases in which the handling has been completed as well as the average time taken to handle them, and (ii) the number of cases in which the handling has yet to be completed; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;(6) as it is learnt that at present, the JO is conducting on a trial basis Stage II initial investigation and Stage III professional investigation in parallel under the General Procedures for Investigating Water Seepage in six “pilot districts” (i.e. Wong Tai Sin, North, Yuen Long, Islands, Tai Po and Kwai Tsing Districts), and has introduced new testing technologies such as infrared thermography and microwave tomography at Stage III in most districts, whether the authorities will consider standardising the relevant procedures, extending such new testing technologies across the territory, and conducting the Stage II and Stage III investigation procedures in parallel in all districts, so as to enhance investigation efficiency; if so, of the timetable; if not, the reasons for that; and(7) as there are views that water seepage or leakage caused by defective fresh water mains, gutters or waterproofing membranes at rooftops of buildings cannot be dealt with under the existing section 12(1)(b) of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132), resulting in JO having no alternative but to refer relevant complaints received to other government departments, and thus prolonging the time during which members of the public are subjected to nuisances, whether the authorities will consider amending the legislation to bring the aforesaid situation under the regulation of Cap. 132 or expanding the JO’s functions, so as to save the time required for referral of cases among government departments; if so, of the timetable; if not, the reasons for that?Reply:President,     If water seepage occurs in private buildings, the owners concerned may first co-operate among themselves to engage professionals/consultancy firms for carrying out water seepage investigation to identify the source of seepage and conducting necessary repair works to fulfill owners’ responsibilities of proper management, maintenance and repair of buildings. Consultancy firms or professionals are also available in the market to provide services for investigating and resolving water seepage problems. A list of consultancy firms and experts providing professional advice and services on water seepage problems has also been uploaded onto the websites of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) and the Buildings Department (BD) for public reference. When the water seepage condition concerned has caused health nuisance, risk to structural safety of the building or water waste, the Government will intervene to handle the case in accordance with the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132) (PHMSO), the Buildings Ordinance (Cap. 123) (BO) and the Waterworks Ordinance (Cap. 102) respectively.     If owners are unable to resolve water seepage problems in consultation with their neighbours, they can seek assistance from the Joint Office (JO) jointly set up by the FEHD and the BD. Through inter-departmental co-ordination, the JO seeks to identify the source of water seepage using one-stop and systematic testing methods and require the owners concerned to carry out repair works by exercising the powers conferred by the law, leveraging the expertise of relevant departments and with co-operation of the owners or occupants concerned.     Having consulted the Environment and Ecology Bureau and the FEHD, the replies to the various parts of the question are as follows:(1) The investigation of water seepage cases in buildings by the JO can be divided into the following stages (Note):     Stage I: Identify the water seepage situation;     Stage II: Conduct initial investigation; and     Stage III: Conduct professional investigation.     The statistics of water seepage cases in buildings and repeated reports handled by the JO in each of the past three years are set out at Annex.  (2) The manpower and expenses involved in handling each water seepage case by the JO vary, depending on factors such as the complexity (e.g. water seepage involving multiple sources of seepage or intermittent seepage), the investigations required for each case (e.g. not all cases will undergo Stage II or III investigations). The need to engage consultancy firms to assist in professional investigations also requires appropriate arrangements to be made in light of the actual circumstances (e.g. internal renovations of the premises affected by the water seepage), and the cost of each case also varies. Although the JO does not compile statistics of the relevant average cost, the annual cost of engaging consultancy firms for Stage III investigation is about $40 million.(3) For cases that are simple and easy to handle (i.e. officers can access the premises for investigation, there is no difficulty in tracing the source of water seepage, multiple sources or multiple tests are not involved, and there is no need to confirm the test results of the source of water seepage with government laboratories) and where the owners/occupants concerned are willing to co-operate in the investigation, the performance indicator of the JO is to complete the investigation within 90 working days from the receipt of the report and to notify the informant of the investigation results in writing.     Although the JO has not set specific performance pledges for each of the stages mentioned above, for such simple cases, investigation can generally be completed within 90 working days: the processing time for Stage I was six working days, 32 working days for Stage II, and 52 working days for Stage III.     Based on statistics of reported cases received, including those simple and easy to handle as well as those relatively complicated cases, the percentage of cases in which investigation could be completed within 90 working days from the receipt of the report and the informant could be notified of the investigation result was 70 per cent, 68.5 per cent and 65.4 per cent in 2021, 2022 and 2023 respectively. The corresponding figures for cases that could not be completed or for which the informant could not be notified of the results within 90 working days were 30 per cent, 31.5 per cent and 34.6 per cent respectively.      In addition to the performance indicator mentioned above, the existing performance pledges of the JO include contacting the informant within six working days upon receipt of a case about water seepage to arrange for investigation at the premises concerned; and issuing a Nuisance Notice within seven working days upon verification of the investigation results on the source of the water seepage nuisance.(4) The progress of investigation depends on multiple factors, including the complexity of cases. For example, a case may involve more than one source of water seepage, repeated or intermittent water seepage requiring multiple tests to identify the source, and co-operation of owners or occupiers with the JO’s investigation. Moreover, each case may involve more than one factor. The JO does not compile statistics on the reasons affecting the progress of investigation.     Nevertheless, the JO will continue to optimise the workflow for handling water seepage cases to expedite investigation. In terms of regulations, the Government is working on amending the relevant legislation on environmental hygiene, which include proposals to extend the time for entering premises suspected of causing public health nuisance (including water seepage in buildings) to the evening, as well as making non-compliance with the Notice of Intended Entry issued by government officers illegal, so as to enable government officers to promptly enter the relevant premises for investigation.     In terms of the handling process, the current procedure involves conducting Stage I and Stage II investigations first, and only proceeding to Stage III professional investigation if the water seepage source cannot be identified. The JO has implemented a pilot to carry out in parallel Stage II and Stage III investigations in six pilot districts, namely Wong Tai Sin, North District, Yuen Long, Islands, Tai Po, and Kwai Tsing. Under this arrangement, Stage III professional investigation can be carried out earlier without waiting for the results of Stage II investigation, which aims to reduce the investigation time required for most of the applicable cases by approximately 30 per cent from 90 working days to about 64 working days.  (5) Cases are referred to the relevant departments for appropriate follow-up and enforcement actions in accordance with their respective purview. For example, cases involving building structural issues, defective exposed drain pipes in buildings, or where suspected water seepage source involves “actionable” unauthorised building works will be referred to the BD; and cases involving defective water supply pipes will be referred to the Water Supplies Department (WSD). Therefore, the JO does not compile breakdown statistics of the number of cases completed by the relevant departments or their average processing time. The JO would explore the feasibility of periodically requesting the relevant departments to provide updates on the status of case processing.(6) The JO is implementing the pilot to carry out Stage II and Stage III investigations in parallel in the six pilot districts as mentioned in Part (4) above. The JO will review the effectiveness of the new investigation mode in the pilot districts, continuously optimise relevant workflow and technical guidelines, and assess resources, manpower arrangement, and the availability of consultancy service providers with a view to considering gradual extension of the parallel investigation mode to more districts.     Infrared thermography and microwave tomography (advanced testing technologies) used during Stage III professional investigation are mainly for detecting the location and extent of the water seepage area and whether waterproofing facilities of floor slabs are defective. Up to December 2024, the JO has extended the use of advanced testing technologies as a preferred investigation tool in the stage of professional investigation for applicable cases in 16 districts and the relatively complicated cases in the remaining two districts. The JO will review the supply of relevant service providers in the market and extend the application of advanced testing technologies to applicable cases in the remaining two districts progressively. Nevertheless, under special circumstances where the advanced technologies cannot be applied effectively due to site conditions, such as spalling of ceiling concrete affected by water seepage, uneven surfaces or tile finishes, blockage by pipes or other facilities on the ceiling, the JO has to continue to employ the conventional testing methods (such as colour water test for drains or ponding test for floor slabs) in order to identify the source of water seepage.(7) Upon receiving a report regarding water seepage in a building, the JO will send officers to the concerned premises to conduct inspections and tests. After confirming the source of the water seepage, if the source is a water nuisance specified in section 12 of the PHMSO, the JO would issue a Nuisance Notice to the owner(s) of the premises causing the water seepage problem. Other cases not involving nuisances under the PHMSO, including water seepage caused by water supply pipes, exposed drain pipes or rooftop issues, there is already a mechanism for referring the cases expediently in order to handle them effectively under the relevant regulations.     For example, in respect of water seepage cases caused by water supply pipes, the JO will immediately refer relevant cases involving continuous dripping or visible seepage of water supply pipes discovered during investigation to the WSD for follow-up in parallel. The WSD will investigate whether the cases has caused water wastage due to seepage in the water supply system. If so, the WSD will issue a repair notice to the registered user concerned in accordance with the Waterworks Ordinance and require them to repair the defective pipes within a specified period. If the user fails to comply with the requirements of the repair notice and complete the repair, the WSD will consider arranging disconnection of water supply.     In cases of water seepage caused by damaged waterproofing layers on building rooftops or rainwater pipes, if building structural safety hazards (such as spalling concrete from ceiling and rusty reinforcement) or problems with improper or defective exposed drain pipes (such as rainwater pipes or foul water pipes) are identified during the water seepage investigation, the JO will immediately refer the case to the BD for follow-up under the BO, including issuing advisory letters and/or building repair orders, investigation orders or drainage repair orders under the BO to the owners concerned. For defective buildings or drainage systems, any person who fails to comply with the statutory orders served on him under the BO for remedial works shall be liable to prosecution.Note: Generally speaking, the JO carries out investigation on water seepage cases in three stages. Stage I investigation ascertains whether the moisture content of the water seepage areas reaches 35 per cent or above. The JO will not investigate reports of water seepage with moisture content below 35 per cent. If the moisture content reaches 35 per cent or above, Stage II investigation will be arranged. Stage I (confirmation of water seepage) and Stage II (initial investigation, including monitoring of moisture content at the water seepage areas, dye tests for drain pipes, and reversible pressure tests for water supply pipes) are carried out by JO officers. If the source of water seepage cannot be identified, Stage III professional investigation will be conducted. In Stage III, the JO will engage contract consultancy firms to assist in carrying out investigation, including monitoring of moisture content at the water seepage areas, ponding tests for floor slabs, water spray test on walls, and reversible pressure tests for water supply pipes. New testing technologies such as microwave tomography and infrared thermography will be employed for suitable cases.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India – France Joint Statement on the visit of Shri Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India to France

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 3:22PM by PIB Delhi

    At the invitation of the President of the French Republic, H.E. Mr. Emmanuel Macron, the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, paid a visit to France on 10-12 February 2025. On 10 and 11 February 2025, France and India co-chaired the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit, gathering Heads of State and Government, leaders of international organizations, small and large enterprises, representatives of academia, non-governmental organizations, artists and members of civil society, in order to build on the important milestones reached during the Bletchley Park (November 2023) and Seoul (May 2024) summits. They underlined their commitment to take concrete actions to ensure that the global AI sector can drive beneficial social, economic and environmental outcomes in the public interest. Prime Minister Modi congratulated President Macron on France’s successful organization of AI Action Summit. France welcomed India’s hosting of the next AI Summit.

    This was Prime Minister Modi’s sixth visit to France, and follows President Macron’s visit to India in January 2024 as the Chief Guest for the 75th Republic Day of India. Prime Minister Modi and President Macron held bilateral discussions on the entire gamut of the exceptionally strong and multifaceted bilateral cooperation and on global and regional matters. Both leaders also went to Marseille where President Macron hosted a private dinner for Prime Minister Modi, reflecting the excellent relationship between the two leaders. They jointly inaugurated India’s Consulate General in Marseille. They also visited the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor facility.

    President Macron and Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed their shared vision for bilateral cooperation and international partnership, outlined in the Joint Statement issued following President Macron’s State Visit to India in January 2024 and in the Horizon 2047 Roadmap published during the visit of Prime Minister Modi to France in July 2023 as the Chief Guest of the Bastille Day Celebrations on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership. They commended the progress achieved in their bilateral cooperation and committed to accelerating it further across its three pillars.

    The two leaders reiterated their call for reformed and effective multilateralism to sustain an equitable and peaceful international order, address pressing global challenges and prepare the world for emerging developments, including in the technological and economic domains. The two leaders stressed, in particular, the urgent need for the reform of the United Nations Security Council and agreed to coordinate closely in multilateral fora, including on UNSC matters. France reiterated its firm support for India’s permanent membership of the UNSC. The two leaders agreed to strengthen conversations on regulation of use of the veto in case of mass atrocities. They held extensive discussions on long-term global challenges and current international developments and agreed to intensify their global and regional engagement, including through multilateral initiatives and institutions.

    Acknowledging the paramount importance of advancing scientific knowledge, research and innovation, and recalling the long and enduring engagement between India and France in those areas, President Macron and Prime Minister Modi announced the grand inauguration of the India-France Year of Innovation in New Delhi in March 2026 by launching its Logo.

    Partnership for Security and Sovereignty

    Recalling the deep and longstanding defence cooperation between France and India as part of the Strategic Partnership, President Macron and Prime Minister Modi welcomed the continuation of the cooperation of air and maritime assets in line with the ambitious Defence Industrial Roadmap agreed in 2024. Both leaders commended progress in collaboration in construction of Scorpene submarines in India, including indigenization, and in particular the work carried out with a view to the integration of DRDO developed Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) into P75-Scorpene submarines and the analyses conducted regarding the possible integration of the Integrated Combat System (ICS) into the future P75-AS submarines. Both leaders welcomed the commissioning of the sixth and final submarine of the P75 Scorpene-class project, INS Vaghsheer, on 15 January 2025.Both sides welcomed the ongoing discussions in missiles, helicopter engines and jet engines. They also welcomed the excellent cooperation between the relevant entities in the Safran group and their Indian counterparts. Prime Minister Modi also invited the French Army to take a closer look at the Pinaka MBLR, emphasizing that an acquisition of this system by France would be another milestone in Indo-French defence ties. In addition, President Macron welcomed the decision to include India as an observer to the Eurodrone MALE programme managed by OCCAR, which is another step forward in the growing strength of our partnership in defence equipment programmes.

    Both leaders appreciated the regular conduct of military exercises in all domains including maritime exercises and joint patrolling by maritime patrol aircraft. They noted the recent visit of the French Carrier Strike Group Charles De Gaulle to India in January 2025, followed by the Indian Navy’s participation in the French multinational exercise La Perouse, and the future conduct of the Varuna exercise in March 2025.

    They welcomed the launch of FRIND-X (France-India Defence Startup Excellence) in Paris on 5-6 December 2024, involving the DGA and the Defence Innovation Agency, in line with the vision enshrined in HORIZON 2047 and the India-France Defence Industrial Roadmap. This collaborative platform brings together key stakeholders across both defence ecosystems, including defence startups, investors, incubators, accelerators, and academia, fostering a new era of defence innovation and partnership.

    In order to deepen the research and development partnerships in defence, both leaders stressed on the early launch of an R&D framework through a Technical Arrangement for cooperation in defence technologies between DGA and DRDO. Inaddition, both leaders welcomed the ongoing discussions between L’Office National d’Etudes et de Recherches Aérospatiales (ONERA) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to identify technologies for R&D partnerships. Further, India welcomes the participation of Indian students, alongside French students, in the challenge on distributed intelligencelaunched recently by Interdisciplinary Center for Defence and Security from the Institut Polytechnique de Parisand encourages organizing of more joint challenges in the future to evoke the interest of students in defence.

    Both leaders had a detailed conversation on international issues, including on the Middle-East and the war in Ukraine. They agreed to pursue their efforts to coordinate and remain closely engaged on a regular basis.

    The two leaders recalled the launch of the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) on the margins of the G20 Summit in Delhi in September 2023 and agreed to work together more closely on implementing the initiative. Both leaders stressed the importance of IMEC to foster connectivity, sustainable growth trajectories and access to clean energy across these regions. In this regard, they acknowledged the strategic location of Marseille in the Mediterranean Sea.

    They underlined the key importance of strengthening EU-India relations, in view of the upcoming India-EU summit at the earliest possible in New Delhi.

    They appreciated the growing cooperation in trilateral format with Australia and with the United Arab Emirates. They commended the joint military exercises that took place between France, India and the United Arab Emirates, as well as the participation of India, France and Australia in each others’ multilateral military exercises. At the invitation of the United Arab Emirates and India, France joined the Mangrove Alliance for Climate. They directed their concerned officials to work together with officials from the Governments of United Arab Emirates and Australia, towards identifying concrete projects of trilateral cooperation in the field of economy, innovation, health, renewable energy, education, culture, and the maritime domain, including under the IPOI and IORA as identified during the focal points meeting held virtually last year for both the trilateral dialogues.

    The two leaders underlined their common commitment to a free, open, inclusive, secure and peaceful Indo-Pacific region.

    They reiterated their desire to continue to deepen bilateral cooperation in the space sector. Taking note of the substantial contribution of the first two sessions of the India-France Strategic Space Dialogue to furthering this objective, they agreed to hold its third session in 2025. They commended the strength of the partnership between CNES and ISRO and supported the development of collaborations and synergies between their space industries.

    The two leaders reaffirmed their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism. They called for the disruption of terrorism financing networks and safe havens. They further agreed that no country should provide safe haven to those who finance, plan, support, or commit terrorist acts. The leaders also called for concerted action against all terrorists, including through designations of individuals affiliated with groups that are listed by the UN Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee. The two sides emphasized the importance of upholding international standards on anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism, consistent with Financial Action Task Force recommendations. Both countries reiterated their commitment to work together in FATF, No Money For Terror (NMFT) and other multilateral platforms.

    They commended the cooperation between the National Security Guard (NSG) of India and the Groupe d’Intervention de la Gendarmerie Nationale (GIGN) for agency-level cooperation in the field of counter-terrorism. The two leaders welcomed the outcomes of the counter-terrorism dialogue held in April 2024, reflecting the growing India – France counter-terrorism and intelligence cooperation. The two leaders also looked forward to the successful organization of Milipol 2025 in New Delhi.

    They welcomed the ongoing discussions to create a comprehensive framework for an enhanced bilateral cooperation in the civil aviation sector, which are at advanced stages.

    Prime Minister Modi and President Macron launched an India-France Roadmap on Artificial Intelligence (AI), rooted in the philosophical convergence in their approaches focusing on the development of safe, open, secure and trustworthy artificial intelligence. They welcomed the inclusion of Indian startups at the French Startup Incubator Station F. They also welcomed the expanded possibilities for using India’s real-time payment system – Unified Payments Interface (UPI) – in France. The two leaders reiterated the strategic significance of cyberspace and their wish to strengthen their coordination at the United Nations regarding the application of international law and the implementation of the framework for responsible State behaviour in cyberspace, as well as the need to address issues arising from the proliferation of malicious cyber tools and practices. They looked forward to the next India-France Strategic Cybersecurity and Cyberdiplomacy Dialogues to be held in 2025.

    Partnership for the Planet

    Prime Minister Modi and President Macron stressed that nuclear energy is an essential part of the energy mix for strengthening energy security and transitioning towards a low-carbon economy. Both leaders acknowledged the India-France civil nuclear ties and efforts in cooperation on the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, notably in relation with the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant Project. They welcomed the first meeting of the Special Task Force on Civil Nuclear Energy, and welcomed the signing of a letter of intent on Small Modular Reactor (SMR) and Advanced Modular Reactor (AMR) and the Implementing Agreement between India’s GCNEP, DAE and France’s INSTN, CEA for cooperation in training and education of nuclear professionals.

    The two leaders reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to jointly address the environmental crises and challenges including climate change and promoting sustainable lifestyles. The leaders welcomed the renewal of bilateral cooperation in the field of environment between the Ministries of Environment. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to the principles established by the Paris Pact for People and the Planet for reform of the international financing system towards supporting vulnerable countries in addressing both the eradication of poverty and the preservation of the planet. Both leaders affirmed the significance of United Nations Oceans Conference (UNOC-3) as an important milestone in international efforts towards conservation and sustainable use of oceans. In the context of upcoming UNOC-3 to be held in Nice in June 2025, France and India recognize the importance of the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity Beyond Areas of Natural Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement), as one of the pillars of inclusive and holistic international ocean governance. Having already signed the treaty, they called for its entry into force at the earliest. Prime Minister Modi offered India’s support to France for UNOC-3 in June 2025.

    They lauded the launching of the India-France Indo-Pacific Triangular Development Cooperation, aiming to support climate- and SDG-focused projects from third countries in the Indo-Pacific region. The two leaders welcome the partnership between Proparco and the concerned Indian microfinance institutions for an equity agreement of 13 million Euros in the areas of financial inclusion and women empowerment. They also commended the strong and fruitful cooperation within the framework of the Franco Indian presidency of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and the International Solar Alliance.

    Noting the record level of bilateral trade in 2024, they acknowledged that there is vast untapped potential for trade and investment between the two countries. Both leaders highlighted the need to maintain strong confidence for companies investing in France and in India. They commended the numerous economic cooperation projects announced in 2024 in the field of urban development. They recalled the participation of India as guest of honor of the 7th Choose France Summit in Versailles in May 2024. The two leaders were delighted with the organization of the bilateral CEOs Forum in November 2024 and February 2025.

    The two leaders expressed their satisfaction with the unprecedented momentum initiated for cooperation between the two Ministries of Health, with the first mission in Paris of India’s Ministry for Health and Family Welfare last January. Digital health, anti-microbial resistance and exchange of health professionals have been identified as the main priorities for bilateral cooperation in 2025. The two leaders welcomed the signature of a Letter of Intent between PariSante Campus and the C-CAMP (Centre for Molecular Platforms), and the creation of the Indo-French Life Sciences Sister Innovation Hub.

    Partnership for the People

    Recalling the ambition underpinning the Letter of Intent signed on the occasion of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France in July 2023, President Macron and Prime Minister Modi welcomed the signature of the Agreement between the National Museum in Delhi and France Muséums Développement in December 2024. This agreement paves the way for further collaboration as well as broader museum cooperation including training of Indian professionals. France offered to continue consultations on its participation in the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex.

    To celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the signing of the first cultural agreement between India and France in 1966, both sides agreed to undertake multiple cultural exchanges and programs in the context of the Year of Innovation 2026 which is a cross-sectoral initiative that includes culture.

    Prime Minister Modi congratulated President Macron on the successful organization of the Paris Olympics and Paralympics 2024 and thanked President Macron’s willingness to share France’s experience and expertise regarding the organization and securing of major international sporting events in the context of India’s bid to host the Olympics and Paralympics Games in 2036.

    Both Leaders welcomed the launch of a regional edition of the Raisina Dialogue focusing on Mediterranean issues in Marseille in 2025, to foster high-level dialogue involving representatives of governments, industry leaders, experts on trade and connectivity issues and other relevant stakeholders with an aim to enhance trade and connectivity between the Mediterranean and the Indo-Pacific regions.

    Both leaders welcomed the successful launch in September 2024 of the International Classes Scheme under which Indian students are taught French as a foreign language, and methodology and academic contents in highly reputed French universities in France during one academic year, before entering their chosen curricula in France. It will create conducive conditions to increase student mobility and meet the target of 30,000 Indian students in France by 2030. In that regard, they welcomed the rising number of Indian students in France, with 2025 figures expected to reach an unprecedented 10,000.

    Both leaders also welcomed the operationalization of the Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) under India-France Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA) which will facilitate two way mobility of youth and professionals, further strengthening the bonds of friendship between people of India and France. Moreover, both leaders stressed on early conclusion of the Memorandum of Understanding to foster cooperation in the fields of skill development, vocational education and training which will create opportunities for both countries to strengthen cooperation in this field.

    To foster their dynamic and comprehensive Strategic Partnership, both countries committed to constantly deepen their long-term cooperation following the ambitions expressed in the bilateral Horizon 2047 Roadmap.

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: List of Outcomes: Visit of the Prime Minister to France

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 3:20PM by PIB Delhi

    S. No. MoUs/ Agreements/ Amendments Areas

    1.

    India France Declaration on Artificial Intelligence (AI)

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    2.

    Launch of the Logo for the India-France Year of Innovation 2026

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    3.

    Letter of Intent between Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India and Institut National de Recherche en Informatique et en Automatique (INRIA) France to establish the Indo-French Center for the Digital Sciences

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    4.

    Agreement for hosting 10 Indian Startups at the French Start-up incubator Station F

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    5.

    Declaration of Intent on establishment of partnership on Advanced Modular Reactors and Small Modular Reactors

    Civil Nuclear Energy

    6.

    Renewal of MoU between Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), India and Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives of France (CAE), France concerning cooperation with Global Center for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP)

    Civil Nuclear Energy

    7.

    Implementing Agreement between DAE of India and CEA of France concerning cooperation between GCNEP India and Institute for Nuclear Science and Technology (INSTN) France

    Civil Nuclear Energy

    8.

    Join Declaration of Intent on Triangular Development Cooperation

    Indo-Pacific/ Sustainable Development

    9.

    Joint Inauguration of India’s Consulate in Marseille

    Culture/ People-to-People

    10.

    Declaration of Intent between The Ministry for the Ecological Transition, Biodiversity, Forests, Marine Affairs and Fisheries and The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in the Field of Environment.

    Environment

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister holds bilateral talks with President of France

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 3:24PM by PIB Delhi

    In a special gesture reflecting the personal rapport between the two leaders, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron flew together from Paris to Marseille in the French Presidential Aircraft yesterday. They held discussions on the full spectrum of bilateral relations and key global and regional issues. This was followed by delegation level talks after arrival in Marseille. The leaders reaffirmed their strong commitment to the India-France Strategic Partnership, which has steadily evolved into a multifaceted relationship over the past 25 years.

    The talks covered all aspects of the India-France strategic partnership. The two leaders reviewed cooperation in the strategic areas of Defence, Civil Nuclear Energy and Space. They also discussed ways to strengthen collaboration in the fields of Technology and Innovation. This area of partnership assumes greater salience in the backdrop of the just concluded AI Action Summit and the upcoming India-France Year of Innovation in 2026. The leaders also called for enhancing trade and investment ties and in this regard welcomed the report of the 14th India- France CEOs Forum.

    ⁠Prime Minister and President Macron expressed satisfaction at the ongoing collaboration in the fields of health, culture, tourism, education and people-to-people ties. They committed to further deepen engagement in the Indo-Pacific and in global forums and initiatives.

    A Joint Statement outlining the way forward for India- France ties was adopted after the talks. Ten outcomes in the areas of Technology and Innovation, Civil Nuclear Energy, Triangular Cooperation, Environment, Culture and People to People relations were also finalized (list attached).

    President Macron hosted a dinner in honour of Prime Minister in the coastal town of Cassis, near Marseille. Prime Minister invited President Macron to visit India.

    List of Outcomes: Visit of the Prime Minister to France (10-12 February 2025)

    S. No. MoUs/ Agreements/ Amendments Areas

    1.

    India France Declaration on Artificial Intelligence (AI)

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    2.

    Launch of the Logo for the India-France Year of Innovation 2026

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    3.

    Letter of Intent between Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India and Institut National de Recherche en Informatique et en Automatique (INRIA) France to establish the Indo-French Center for the Digital Sciences

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    4.

    Agreement for hosting 10 Indian Startups at the French Start-up incubator Station F

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    5.

    Declaration of Intent on establishment of partnership on Advanced Modular Reactors and Small Modular Reactors

    Civil Nuclear Energy

    6.

    Renewal of MoU between Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), India and Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives of France (CAE), France concerning cooperation with Global Center for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP)

    Civil Nuclear Energy

    7.

    Implementing Agreement between DAE of India and CEA of France concerning cooperation between GCNEP India and Institute for Nuclear Science and Technology (INSTN) France

    Civil Nuclear Energy

    8.

    Join Declaration of Intent on Triangular Development Cooperation

    Indo-Pacific/ Sustainable Development

    9.

    Joint Inauguration of India’s Consulate in Marseille

    Culture/ People-to-People

    10.

    Declaration of Intent between The Ministry for the Ecological Transition, Biodiversity, Forests, Marine Affairs and Fisheries and The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in the Field of Environment.

    Environment

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: List of Outcomes: Visit of the Prime Minister to France (10-12 February 2025)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 3:20PM by PIB Delhi

    S. No. MoUs/ Agreements/ Amendments Areas

    1.

    India France Declaration on Artificial Intelligence (AI)

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    2.

    Launch of the Logo for the India-France Year of Innovation 2026

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    3.

    Letter of Intent between Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India and Institut National de Recherche en Informatique et en Automatique (INRIA) France to establish the Indo-French Center for the Digital Sciences

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    4.

    Agreement for hosting 10 Indian Startups at the French Start-up incubator Station F

    Technology & Innovation, S&T

    5.

    Declaration of Intent on establishment of partnership on Advanced Modular Reactors and Small Modular Reactors

    Civil Nuclear Energy

    6.

    Renewal of MoU between Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), India and Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives of France (CAE), France concerning cooperation with Global Center for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP)

    Civil Nuclear Energy

    7.

    Implementing Agreement between DAE of India and CEA of France concerning cooperation between GCNEP India and Institute for Nuclear Science and Technology (INSTN) France

    Civil Nuclear Energy

    8.

    Join Declaration of Intent on Triangular Development Cooperation

    Indo-Pacific/ Sustainable Development

    9.

    Joint Inauguration of India’s Consulate in Marseille

    Culture/ People-to-People

    10.

    Declaration of Intent between The Ministry for the Ecological Transition, Biodiversity, Forests, Marine Affairs and Fisheries and The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in the Field of Environment.

    Environment

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Energy Week 2025 Showcases India’s Clean Cooking Gas Model: A Blueprint for the Global South

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 3:06PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri chaired a Ministerial Roundtable on Clean Cooking on the second day of India Energy Week 2025. Shri Puri highlighted India’s remarkable success in ensuring universal access to clean cooking gas through targeted subsidies, strong political will, digitization of distribution networks by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), and nationwide campaigns promoting cultural shifts towards clean cooking.

    The session brought together representatives from Brazil, Tanzania, Malawi, Sudan, Nepal, and industry leaders including the International Energy Agency (IEA), Total Energy, and Boston Consulting Group (BCG).

    Shri Puri emphasized that India’s model is not only successful but also highly replicable in other Global South nations facing similar energy access challenges. The Union Minister noted that under India’s Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), beneficiaries receive LPG access at a highly affordable cost of just 7 cents per day, while other consumers can avail themselves of clean cooking fuel at 15 cents per day. This affordability has been a game-changer in driving widespread adoption.

    During the discussion, international representatives shared their experiences and challenges in expanding access to clean cooking solutions. Hon. Dkt. Doto Mashaka Biteko, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Tanzania outlined its strategy to enable 80% of households to transition to clean cooking by 2030, leveraging subsidies and a mix of energy sources, including LPG, natural gas, and biogas. However, he acknowledged significant challenges, including financing constraints, the high cost of infrastructure, and the need for regulatory reforms to encourage private-sector participation.

    H.E. Dr. Mohieldien Naiem Mohamed Saied, Minister of Energy and Oil, Sudan, emphasized the need for private sector engagement to bridge gaps in LPG supply, as the country still imports a significant portion of its energy needs. Encouraging local cylinder production and ensuring cost-effective imports remain key hurdles in achieving broader adoption. Representatives of Rwanda and Nepal shared their efforts in reducing firewood dependency through electric stoves and biogas expansion.

    Mary Burce Warlick, Deputy Executive Director of IEA noted that India’s success offers valuable lessons for other countries, particularly in tackling challenges related to affordability, access, and infrastructure. She further emphasized the role of concessional financing and public-private partnerships (PPP) in expanding clean cooking access globally. Addressing cultural acceptance and regulatory adjustments, such as tax reductions, were also highlighted as crucial measures for large-scale adoption.

    Rahool Panandiker, Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG) highlighted India’s clean cooking transformation, underscoring its strong political commitment, effective subsidy targeting, and robust public awareness campaigns. He further credited India’s Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) for enabling last-mile LPG delivery through digital platforms, making adoption seamless. Panadiker also underscored the need for refining the cylinder refill model to ensure sustained usage and balancing affordability with economic sustainability.

    Responding to the potential of solar cookers in expanding clean cooking technologies across the Global South, Shri Puri highlighted that IOCL’s advanced solar cookers, featuring integrated solar panels, are priced at approximately $500 per unit with no additional costs over their lifecycle. The Union Minister added that while the current price point remains a challenge for widespread adoption, leveraging carbon financing and collaborating with the private sector could drive costs down, making solar cooking a viable alternative for millions.

    This initiative aligns with India’s broader efforts to diversify clean cooking options beyond LPG, reinforcing the country’s commitment to reducing reliance on traditional biomass fuels and cutting carbon emissions.

    Shri Puri concluded the discussion by reaffirming India’s commitment to supporting energy access initiatives worldwide. He underscored that the Indian model, backed by smart subsidies and sustainable policies, provides a scalable solution for other developing nations striving to achieve clean cooking access. He stressed that achieving universal clean cooking access is not merely an economic imperative but a moral one, given the severe health and environmental impacts of traditional biomass cooking.

    This roundtable reaffirmed India’s position as a global leader in energy transition and clean cooking solutions, setting the stage for greater international cooperation in achieving universal access to clean energy.

    About India Energy Week 2025

    India Energy Week was envisioned as more than just another industry conference—it was designed to be a dynamic platform redefining global energy dialogues. In just two years, this self-funded initiative has achieved precisely that, becoming the world’s second-largest energy event. The third edition, scheduled from February 11-14, 2025, at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, represents a significant milestone in shaping the global energy narrative.

    ****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ17: The supply and demand situations of private offices

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ17: The supply and demand situations of private offices
    LCQ17: The supply and demand situations of private offices
    **********************************************************

         Following is a question by the Hon Edmund Wong and a written reply by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, in the Legislative Council today (February 12): Question:      It has been reported that according to the estimation of a surveyor firm, the vacancy rate of Grade A private offices in Central has exceeded 13 per cent as at the end of December 2024, and the rents in the district are projected to further drop by 5 per cent in 2025. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:(1) of the average per-square-foot selling prices and monthly rents, as well as the vacancy rates, for various grades of private offices in Hong Kong in the past three years, together with a quarterly breakdown of such figures; (2) whether it has projected the supply and demand situations of various grades of private offices in various districts in the next five years; and (3) of the specific strategies to achieve a balance between the supply and demand of private offices in various districts so as to mitigate the problem of worsening vacancy rates; whether it will introduce a flexible mechanism for zoning sites in new development areas (e.g. ‍the Northern Metropolis) for commercial uses; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that? Reply: President,      In consultation with the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the reply to various parts of the question is as follows:      (1) The Rating and Valuation Department (RVD) obtains property transaction and rental information from a variety of sources for compiling and periodically publishing the average prices and average rents of private premises. For private offices, it has been the RVD’s established practice to conduct detailed analysis of the seven main private office districts. According to the Hong Kong Property Review 2024 published by the RVD last April, the total stock of private offices in Hong Kong at the end of 2023 amounted to around 13 100 000 square metres (sq m), comprising 66 per cent Grade A, 23 per cent Grade B and 11 per cent Grade C offices. Their quarterly average prices and average rents by grade in main sub-districts in the past three years (i.e. from 2022 to 2024) as published by the RVD are set out at Appendix 1 and Appendix 2 respectively.      In addition, the RVD also conducts year-end vacancy surveys on private premises every year to provide relevant data of their vacancy position in the Hong Kong Property Review. The year-end vacancy rates for private offices in Hong Kong by grade from 2021 to 2023 are tabulated below: 

    Year
    Grade A
    Grade B
    Grade C
    Overall

    2021
    12.5%
    13.1%
    9.3%
    12.3%

    2022
    15.1%
    15.1%
    8.8%
    14.4%

    2023
    16.0%
    14.9%
    9.0%
    14.9%

    Remarks: The vacancy rates for 2024 are still being collated, and will be released in the Hong Kong Property Review 2025 to be published later this year. (2) The Government does not estimate the demand for private offices in the short to medium term. As for supply of private offices, the RVD publishes in the Hong Kong Property Review each year the estimated completions of all grades of private offices in the coming two years. According to the Hong Kong Property Review 2024 published by the RVD last April, the estimated total completion of private offices in 2025 is around 136 000 sq m, constituting a slight fall as compared to 156 000 sq m in 2024. The estimated completions of private offices by grade in 2024 and 2025 are tabulated below: 

    Year
    Grade A(sq m)
    Grade B(sq m)
    Grade C(sq m)

    2024
    146 000
    9 300
    1 000

    2025
    126 400
    9 400
    300

    (3) The Government has been proactively taking various measures to promote the healthy development of the commercial property market, including:      (i) The Government will assess the situation pragmatically and roll out land in a prudent and paced manner. Taking into account the current economic environment, the office vacancy rates and the upcoming supply expected, the Government has not put up any commercial site for sale since the financial year 2023-24, the last piece of commercial site sold in recent years being the site at Sai Yee Street in Mong Kok in March 2023. (ii) The Government is proactively implementing industrial policies and competing for talents and enterprises, with a view to raising both the capacity and quality of the economy. By stepping up efforts in attracting enterprises and investment and promoting Hong Kong’s unique advantages, Hong Kong will continue to draw more Mainland and overseas enterprises and investment to set up or expand their operations here, including establishing new companies or upgrading existing business in Hong Kong to regional headquarters, thereby boosting demand for shops and office space. According to the results of the latest annual survey by Invest Hong Kong and the Census and Statistics Department, the number of companies in Hong Kong with overseas or Mainland parent companies rose to 9 960 in 2024, representing an annual growth of 10per cent and reaching a record high. The number of regional headquarters, regional offices and local offices of these companies also increased by more than 5 per cent, 4 per cent and 13 per cent respectively. In addition, by end 2024, the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises has successfully attracted nearly 70 strategic enterprises. The majority of these enterprises plan to establish their global or regional headquarters in Hong Kong, which will drive the demand for office space. (iii) In terms of land use planning, traditional office premises are mainly zoned “Commercial” (the “C” zone) on the statutory plans. Apart from office, the “C” zone generally accommodates various other always-permitted uses including hotel, eating place, shop and services, educational institution, exhibition or conference hall, place of recreation, sports or culture, place of entertainment, and information technology and telecommunications industries (such as data centres, data processing/computer centres). In other words, the current planning regime provides flexibility for developers to pursue other non-office commercial uses within the “C” zone, taking into account market conditions and business considerations. In addition, the recently amended planning guidelines for the Hung Shui Kiu / Ha Tsuen New Development Area in the Northern Metropolis no longer specify the allocation of floor space of commercial sites to office and retail uses. This is to reserve sufficient flexibility in planning to enable timely response to market changes.(iv) When planning the new development areas in the Northern Metropolis, we will suitably propose individual sites for a wider range of uses to cater for the changing market needs. For example, sites near the proposed Northern Link Railway Station are zoned “Other Specified Uses” annotated “Mixed Use” on the San Tin Technopole Outline Zoning Plan. This is to endow the area with flexibility in development, allowing various uses including commercial, residential, educational, cultural, recreational and entertainment uses, either vertically within a building or horizontally over a spatial area.   (v) For certain sizable development projects that involve larger investment, the Development Bureau (DEVB) will maintain close communication with the market and relevant industries, gauging the views of the stakeholders on the development direction of the project and the tender conditions. For example, the DEVB invited the market last December to submit expression of interest for the three pilot areas of large-scale land disposal in the Northern Metropolis, hoping to collect market views and suggestions in order to finalise the open tender details and conditions later. (vi) The Northern Metropolis is a development project spanning across a number of years. We are mindful of the need for flexibility in planning to timely meet the needs of the society and industry development. Even if the relevant statutory plans have designated the permitted land uses for sites within the Northern Metropolis, the current planning regime caters for adjustment by allowing applications for planning permission and amendment of plans. The Town Planning Board will holistically consider these applications in light of prevailing circumstances. 

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 12, 2025Issued at HKT 17:45

    NNNN

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  • MIL-OSI Global: We interviewed hundreds of Israelis and Gazans – here’s why we fear for the ceasefire

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nils Mallock, PhD Candidate, Department of Psychological and Behavioural Science, London School of Economics and Political Science

    As the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas enters its fourth week, attention is now focusing on its more difficult second phase. And already the prospects of this proceeding as originally planned are looking extremely fragile.

    Hamas said it will delay the release of more Israeli hostages, arguing that Israel has breached the ceasefire conditions. Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, has responded with the threat that if the hostage exchange doesn’t take place as scheduled then the fighting in Gaza would start again.

    Any agreement can only hold if it is supported by ordinary people, and if it reflects their perspectives – something easily overlooked in the public debate and foreign policy engagement.

    We conducted large representative surveys in Israel and Gaza in early January, days before the ceasefire was announced. This consisted of interview with over 1,400 respondents in a demographically matched online panel of the Jewish Israeli population, and as part of an in-person survey in Gaza. Respondents were matched by age, occupation, gender, education and religious group.

    Our findings have not been peer reviewed yet, but a preliminary report is available at the Open Science Foundation repository.

    Our data shows why 16 months of extreme violence and suffering have created psychological barriers to peace. They also suggest ways to achieve a more positive future.

    The immediate findings are sobering. In Israel, opposition to a two-state solution remains at an all-time high, with 62% of participants rejecting the idea – up from 46% before October 7.

    Nearly half of Israelis we spoke to were against living side by side, and one in five dismissed even the possibility of personal contact with Palestinians.

    In Gaza, the prospects of living side by side with Israelis are equally deemed unrealistic. Less than 31% of respondents supported any interpersonal contact. And less than half saw the formation of two states as an option to end the conflict.

    Contrary to one popular belief, direct exposure to the war does not by itself explain these increased hostilities. The attacks by Hamas on and since October 7 have left profound scars and reopened historical trauma for many, as have Israel’s relentless military attacks throughout Gaza.

    But according to our data, having immediate family members affected by the war or experiencing displacement was not associated with more extreme attitudes. For all the aggression taking place so far, the psychological blast radius is bigger than the physical one.

    Love and hate

    The key roadblock to peace may lie in each side’s understanding of why the other engages in violence. We asked Israelis and Palestinians why people from their group supported violence during the war, and why people from the other side supported violence. We found a profound asymmetry in both populations.

    Palestinians and Israelis said that attacks from their side were more motivated by what psychologists call “ingroup love” (care and concern for their own people) than by “outgroup hate” (passionate dislike of the other side). Yet both Israelis and Palestinians thought that the other side’s violence was more motivated by hatred.

    Why is this important? Social psychological studies demonstrate that the belief that we are hated by another group decreases our desire and optimism for diplomatic solutions, instead leading to an inclination to either separate from or destroy the other. Indeed, surveys conducted in September 2024 by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research found that most Israelis and Palestinians believed that the other side intended to commit genocide.

    Our data now shows that the more Israelis believed that Gazans were more motivated by outgroup hate than ingroup love, the more likely they were to believe that the October 7 attacks indicated genocidal intent.

    On both sides, it was this belief that the other was motivated by hate that explains the strengthened desire for social separation and blocking acceptance of reconciliation proposals. Nobody wants to interact with a group they think is predominantly hate driven.

    This is bad news for those attempting to implement and expand the ceasefire against these challenges. Perceived outgroup hate weakens their ability to recruit popular support for peace and strengthens the hand of spoilers.

    Bridging the divides

    Not all indicators are worsening, however. Snapshots of public opinion do not capture the way views can change. Compared to six months ago, more Israelis now favour diplomatic efforts over continued military action to resolve the crisis. And if the new hostage release deal holds firm, this trend may continue.

    Our research suggests that there is a hardened radical group making up about 20% in both populations who appear to resist any compromise on their moral and political beliefs. But most populations show fluctuating attitudes over time and in response to changing conditions. As violence becomes less salient, views may shift.

    Nevertheless, we should not ignore each side’s misperception of the motives of the other, but instead try to correct them. Research shows that correcting misperceptions of norms can be difficult, but when successful can change attitudes and behaviour.

    The risk now lies in a too narrow focus among current decision-makers – a delegitimised and fragmented Palestinian leadership, an infighting Israeli government, and a transaction-minded administration in Washington – seeking to secure political deals that deliver results on paper.

    For the ceasefire to endure, the policy focus will need to shift to bridging a deeper psychological divide.

    Jeremy Ginges receives funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation.

    Nils Mallock does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. We interviewed hundreds of Israelis and Gazans – here’s why we fear for the ceasefire – https://theconversation.com/we-interviewed-hundreds-of-israelis-and-gazans-heres-why-we-fear-for-the-ceasefire-249522

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Football for the Goals – Concacaf on the Initiative | SDGs | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    In this episode of the Football for the Goals Q&A video series, we sit down with Jason Roberts, former professional footballer and Chief Development Officer of Concacaf (Confederation of North, Central America, and Caribbean Association Football), to explore the organization’s commitment to the Football for the Goals initiative.

    Concacaf is the governing body for football in its region, overseeing international and club competitions such as the Concacaf Gold Cup and the Concacaf Champions Cup. It works to develop and promote the sport across its member nations while ensuring fair play, inclusivity, and growth at all levels.

    ——————————-

    Football for the Goals is a United Nations initiative that provides a platform for the global football community to engage with and advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is an opportunity to build on football’s powerful and influential reach and to work together to become agents of change by aligning messaging, strategies and operations with the aspirations of the SDGs.

    This initiative will inspire and guide the world of football – from confederations, national associations, leagues and clubs, to players’ associations, organized fan groups, as well as media and commercial partners – to build on existing sustainability approaches and to implement SDG strategies that lead to behavioural change.

    Members may not only aspire to develop sustainable practices, but may also act as champions of the SDGs during the Decade of Action (2020-2030). Members will use their visibility and outreach power via tournaments, players, corporate brand exposure, media and fan communities to raise the profile of the SDGs through amplification and advocacy. They will inspire action by demonstrating how these sustainable practices can be mainstreamed through any business model, including sport.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uziuPQq2GhY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Deportation Operations | CBP

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) participates and assists with illegal alien and criminal deportation operations.

    Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
    Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
    Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
    Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov

    #cbp
    #lawenforcement
    #deportation

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zM7bEESXR9g

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU climate policy as the cause of the hardships facing chemical industry workers in Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province – P-000611/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000611/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kosma Złotowski (ECR)

    The chemical industry in Europe is being put under increasing pressure by EU regulations, such as the Fit for 55 package. As a result, the Qemetica Soda Polska plant in Janikowo has had to suspend production due to the crisis on the European soda ash market.

    European chemical producers cannot compete with companies outside the EU, especially those in Turkey, which can supply soda ash to the EU market at much lower prices because they do not have to meet stringent emissions or environmental standards. As a result, European companies are being pushed out of the market, which is leading to production cuts and will inevitably result in job cuts in the future.

    • 1.What steps will the Commission take to level the playing field for European soda producers and protect the EU chemical industry from unfair competition from non-EU companies?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to revise climate and environmental policy objectives that are detrimental to the competitiveness of EU heavy industry or introduce protective measures to compensate for differences in production costs and to protect jobs in Europe?
    • 3.If companies in the chemical sector are forced to reduce their workforce due to excessive European climate regulations, can they benefit from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers?

    Submitted: 11.2.2025

    Last updated: 12 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Tackling medicines shortages in the EU – P-000606/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000606/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Aurelijus Veryga (ECR)

    Addressing the issue of medicines shortages in the EU requires taking into account not only the physical shortage of medicines – caused as much by the lack of production of active pharmaceutical ingredients as by disruptions in the production of medicines themselves and the inadequate forecasting of demand – but also the relative shortage of medicines resulting from issues related to the availability of medicines at competitive prices and the reimbursement regime. In most cases, long-established and widely used medicines are considered to be critical, but occasionally new and innovative medicines with different mechanisms for ensuring accessibility should also be considered critical. The completely uneven situation and the opacity of the process lead to very different prices and timelines for inclusion in reimbursement schemes across the EU.

    In 2017-2019, the Visegrad + Lithuania initiative to jointly negotiate on medicines and explore opportunities for the joint purchasing of expensive innovative medicines was implemented. The COVID-19 pandemic led to the discontinuation of this initiative. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a mechanism was put in place where not only were the prices and procurement of vaccines agreed at EU level, but Member States also contributed financially to the funding of vaccine development.

    • 1.What measures does the Commission intend to take in the new Critical Medicines Act to ensure the affordability and availability of new and innovative medicines and medical devices?
    • 2.Are there plans to establish a common EU procurement mechanism for innovative medicines based on the voluntary principle?
    • 3.Is consideration being given to entrusting the coordination and implementation of public procurement at EU level to the European Medicines Agency?

    Submitted: 10.2.2025

    Last updated: 12 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission decides to refer BULGARIA, SPAIN, HUNGARY, NETHERLANDS, AUSTRIA, PORTUGAL and FINLAND to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to transpose the Directive on Non-Performing Loans

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 12 Feb 2025 Today, the European Commission decided to refer Bulgaria, Spain, Hungary, Netherlands, Austria, Portugal and Finland to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to transpose the Directive on Non-Performing Loans (Directive(EU) 2021/2167).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Inclusion of fibre-based and bio-based materials in the forthcoming circular economy act – E-000119/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000119/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elsi Katainen (Renew)

    The transition to a circular economy is crucial for achieving sustainability and reducing environmental impacts in the EU. Fibre-based and other bio-based materials play a significant role in this transition, due to their renewable nature and their high potential recyclability. Ensuring the effective collection and recycling of these materials is essential for maximising their contribution to the circular economy.

    In light of the upcoming circular economy act:

    • 1.The harmonisation of collection systems should be done consistently and efficiently in the Member States. How does the Commission plan to incorporate specific measures and strategies to boost the collection and recycling of fibre-based and other bio-based materials in the circular economy act?
    • 2.Targeted incentives and regulatory adjustments should be considered to promote the use of bio-based materials. What initiatives will the Commission introduce to support the development and integration of bio-based materials within the circular economy framework, over traditional non-renewable alternatives?

    Submitted: 14.1.2025

    Last updated: 12 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Commissioner Várhelyi : “European Health Union: Recent Commission Action and Beyond” – Committee on Public Health

    Source: European Parliament

    Olivér Várhelyi during the confirmation hearing 2024 © European Union, 2024 – EP

    On 20 February, SANT Members will hold an exchange of views with Olivér Várhelyi, Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare on the topic of : “European Health Union: Recent Commission Action and Beyond”.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: February infringements package: key decisions

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Infringement decisions Brussels, 12 Feb 2025 In its regular package of infringement decisions, the Commission pursues legal action against Member States for failing to comply with their obligations under EU law. These decisions aim to ensure the proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: In-Depth Analysis – Assessing the Debt Sustainability Analysis Methodology in the EU’s New Economic Governance Framework – 12-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This in-depth analysis reviews the Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) that guides the implementation of the new Economic Governance Framework. It evaluates the adequacy of the methodology, with a focus on the changes introduced in the DSA to make it fit for the multi-annual character of the framework. While the DSA is not far from the state-of-art, the way the framework handles uncertainty is suboptimal. The study notes a few other areas where the analysis could be improved, namely potential output and structural primary balance estimation, sovereign borrowing strategies, and fiscal multipliers. The study also discusses whether the framework is sufficiently transparent, and presents venues through which the European Parliament can foster a transparent debate about the methodology underpinning the DSA exercise

    MIL OSI Europe News –