NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India and Argentina Strengthen Cooperation in Lithium Exploration and Mining with a Landmark MoU

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 5:37PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, along with Secretary, Ministry of Mines, and senior officials of the Ministry of Mines, held a meeting with H.E. Raúl Alejandro Jalil, Governor of Catamarca, Argentina, in New Delhi today. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation in the mining sector, particularly in lithium exploration and investment opportunities. A key highlight of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL), a PSU under the Ministry of Mines, and the Provincial Government of Catamarca, Argentina, which will pave the way for deeper collaboration in exploration and resource development of critical minerals.

    Argentina, known for its vast lithium reserves as part of the ‘Lithium Triangle,’ is a crucial partner for India in securing essential minerals required for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage. The discussions covered ongoing lithium exploration efforts by Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) & Greenko in Catamarca and the possibilities of increasing participation of Indian companies in mining projects of Argentina. Both sides explored avenues for investment, long-term supply agreements, and joint ventures that would help strengthen India’s access to this critical mineral.

    Senior officials from both sides engaged in discussions on policy frameworks, regulatory aspects, and sustainable mining practices to ensure a mutually beneficial partnership. Additionally, there was a strong emphasis on knowledge exchange and infrastructure support to enhance India’s engagement in Argentina’s mining sector.

    With the signing of the MoU, India and Argentina have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties in the critical minerals domain. This collaboration is expected to accelerate lithium exploration projects, enhance resource security, and create new opportunities for Indian companies in the Latin American mining landscape.

    ****

    Shuhaib T

    (Release ID: 2104761) Visitor Counter : 82

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ10: Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon David Lam and a written reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (February 19):Question:     The Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme (CRCSP) has been implemented since 2016, under which participants will be arranged to undergo a Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) screening. According to the information released by the Government in December last year, about 60 per cent of the colorectal cancer patients diagnosed under CRCSP were in earlier stages (i.e. stage I and stage II) of cancer, which was higher than the 40 per cent of those who were not diagnosed under CRCSP. On the other hand, according to the information on the website of the Hong Kong Cancer Registry, among all cancers, the incidence rate of colorectal cancer dropped from the first place in 2016 to the third place in 2022, and the age-standardised mortality rate of colorectal cancer also dropped from about 14.1 to 12.7 per 100 000 population during the same period, indicating that CRCSP is effective in detecting colorectal cancer at an earlier stage and in lowering the mortality rate. However, there are views that only early detection and removal of advanced adenoma can further minimise the incidence rate of colorectal cancer. In recent years, studies have found that although FIT has a high sensitivity and specificity for colorectal cancer, the sensitivity for advanced adenoma ranges from 25 per cent to 34 per cent only, which is lower than that of the newer multi-target stool DNA test (about 42 per cent) and faecal bacterial gene markers test (about 57 per cent). Moreover, the Asian Pacific Association of Gastroenterology and the Asian-Pacific Society for Digestive Endoscopy do not even recommend the use of FIT for screening of colorectal polyps. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council whether it has plans to review CRCSP and consider adopting screening other than FIT for testing by participants; if so, of the relevant progress; if not, the reasons for that?Reply:President,     The reply, in consultation with the Department of Health (DH), to the question raised by Dr the Hon David Lam is as follows:     The Government attaches great importance to cancer prevention and control. In 2001, it established the Cancer Coordinating Committee (CCC) to formulate strategies for cancer prevention and control and to steer the direction of work covering cancer prevention and screening, surveillance, research and treatment. The CCC is chaired by the Secretary for Health and comprising members who are cancer experts, academics, doctors in public and private sectors as well as public health professionals. The Cancer Expert Working Group on Cancer Prevention and Screening (CEWG) established under the CCC regularly reviews local and international scientific evidence and makes recommendations on cancer prevention and screening applicable to the local setting.     From the public health perspective, the Government must carefully assess various factors when formulating a cancer screening programme with reference to evidence-based advice from the relevant experts. These include the local prevalence of the cancer concerned, the accuracy and safety of the relevant screening tools, and the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in reducing incidence and mortality rates. Meanwhile, a screening programme will lead the public and relevant medical specialties to change the demand and supply model of related medical services. The Government needs to carefully assess the impact of a screening programme on the current healthcare system to avoid a severe imbalance in the use of limited healthcare resources, with a view to ensuring the optimal use of the overall public health and healthcare resources.      Regarding screening for colorectal cancer (CRC), the CEWG recommends that average-risk (e.g. without hereditary bowel syndromes), asymptomatic individuals aged 50 to 75 should consider annual or biennial faecal occult blood test; or sigmoidoscopy every five years; or colonoscopy every 10 years.     Based on the CEWG recommendations, the Government launched the Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme (the Programme) in 2016, which currently subsidises asymptomatic Hong Kong residents aged between 50 and 75 to undergo screening tests every two years in the private sector. The programme adopts faecal immunochemical test (FIT) as the screening tool. If the FIT result is positive, the participant will be referred to an enrolled colonoscopy specialist to receive a colonoscopy examination subsidised by the Government. If the FIT result is negative, the participant is advised to undergo the screening two years later.      As of the end of 2024, the cumulative total number of eligible persons participated in the Programme was approximately 510 000. About 77 000 persons (15 per cent) had positive FIT results, about 40 000 persons (7.7 per cent) were diagnosed to have colorectal adenomas after colonoscopy examination, and about 3 400 persons (0.7 per cent) had CRC. In 2024, there were around 86 000 new participants in the Programme, a record annual high since its launch. Among the CRC cases diagnosed under the Programme, a preliminary analysis of around 2 400 cases has been conducted, and about 56 per cent of these cases were in earlier stages, while less than 40 per cent of CRC cases in the general population (excluding cases from the Programme) belonged to earlier stages. This demonstrates that participation in the Programme allows early detection and treatment of CRC, thereby leading to a more favourable prognosis.     Regarding the screening method, the Programme uses FIT as the primary screening tool, which is in line with practices of the CRC screening programmes of most overseas places (such as Singapore, the United Kingdom and Australia). The CEWG has reviewed the scientific evidence on other non-invasive tests for CRC screening such as stool DNA, RNA, “microbial marker” and blood DNA tests in 2023, including the Joint Asian Pacific Association of Gastroenterology (APAGE)–Asian Pacific Society of Digestive Endoscopy (APSDE) clinical practice guidelines on the use of non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosis of colorectal neoplasia published in 2023. Upon CEWG’s review, there was currently insufficient evidence on better effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in reducing CRC incidence and mortality by these newer non-invasive CRC screening tools. The CEWG therefore reaffirmed the recommendations on CRC screening. In general, the cost of FIT ranges from several dozens to several hundred dollars, while the service charge of other newer non-invasive CRC screening tests mentioned above could amount to several thousand dollars. The CEWG shall continue to keep in view further local and overseas scientific evidence and practice related to CRC screening.     Apart from participating in regular CRC screening, leading a healthy lifestyle is also important in the prevention of CRC. According to CEWG’s current recommendation on prevention of CRC, the public is advised to adopt healthy lifestyle such as increasing intake of dietary fibre, reducing consumption of red and processed meat, having regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight and waist circumference, avoiding drinking alcohol and smoking. The DH has long been promoting a healthy lifestyle as the primary strategy for cancer prevention. The DH makes every effort in stepping up public education related to cancers with a view to raising public awareness of cancer prevention and screening.      At the same time, the Primary Healthcare Commission is actively promoting the Life Course Preventive Care Plan via District Health Centres (DHCs)/DHC Expresses and family doctors. Based on the core principles of prevention-oriented and whole-person care, a personalised preventive care plan will be formulated to address the health needs of citizens across different life stages with reference to the latest evidence. Family doctors and primary healthcare professionals will collaborate to provide health advice and education on chronic disease and cancer screening, and healthy lifestyles according to personal factors, such as recommending persons aged 50 or above to undergo CRC screening.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Clarification on New FASTag Rule

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 5:02PM by PIB Delhi

    In reference to the news items carried by some publications regarding change of FASTag Rule declining transactions on FASTags which are not active for more than 60 minutes prior to read time and up to 10 minutes after read time, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) clarifies that the Circular No NPCI/2024-25/NETC/004A, dated 28.01.2025 issued by National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has no impact on FASTag customer experience.

    The Circular has been issued by NPCI to facilitate resolution of disputes between Acquirer Bank and Issuer Bank on FASTag status while vehicle crosses Toll Plazas.  The Circular also aims to ensure that the FASTag transactions are created within reasonable time of vehicle passing a Toll Plaza so that customers are not harassed by late transactions.

    All National Highway Toll Plazas operate on ICD 2.5 protocol which gives real-time tag status, hence the FASTag customers can recharge any time before crossing the Toll Plaza.

    Some Toll plazas on State Highways are still on ICD 2.4 protocol which needs regular updates of Tag status.  It is being planned to shift all such Toll plazas to ICD 2.5 protocol, shortly.

    The FASTag customers are encouraged to link their FASTag wallet to UPI/Current/Saving Accounts under auto-recharge setting to eliminate the need for manual recharges.  Customers can continue to recharge their FASTag any time before reaching the toll, using a variety of payment channels such as UPI, net banking, and more.

    ***

    G.D.Hallikeri / Henry

    (Release ID: 2104728) Visitor Counter : 35

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Commission for Scheduled Tribes celebrates its 22nd Foundation Day

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 4:58PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Shri Jual Oram lauded the proactive initiatives of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, emphasizing its vital role in implementing and monitoring the Forest Rights Act using its Constitutional powers. He was addressing the gathering at the 22nd Foundation Day celebrations of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes here today.

    Shri Jual Oram assured that the Tribal Ministry, in collaboration with the Commission, will continue working towards ensuring a better and dignified life, social justice, and holistic development for Scheduled Tribe communities. Highlighting key initiatives of the Central Government for Scheduled Tribes, he mentioned programs such as Eklavya Model Residential Schools, pre- and post-matric scholarships, and the National Overseas Scholarship. Additionally, he discussed the identification of 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) across the country as part of a specialized development plan.

    In his address during the Foundation Day programme, Chairperson of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, Shri Antar Singh Arya, elaborated on the activities of the Commission. He stated that since assuming office, the current Commission has been continuously visiting Scheduled Tribe communities across the country. The Commission has successfully implemented a 100-day action plan to review the progress of various states, districts, and public sector undertakings. He highlighted the work and achievements of the Commission and emphasized that it remains steadfast in its efforts to safeguard the rights and ensure the development of Scheduled Tribes.

    The event also featured speeches by Commission members, including Shri Nirupam Chakma, Dr Asha Lakra and Shri Jatothu Hussain, who shared their experiences and thoughts. The Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes, Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir, and Member of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes, Shri Vaddepally Ramchander, along with other dignitaries such as chairpersons, members, and secretaries of various national commissions, representatives of Scheduled Tribe communities, and university students, were also present at the event.

    During the inaugural session, the Secretary of the Commission, Shri Puneet Kumar Goel, welcomed the guests and presented an overview of the Commission’s key activities, successful cases and a brief introduction to its work. Following the inaugural session, various sessions on tribal community progress, development, skill enhancement, and entrepreneurship were conducted. Experts from the National Skill Development Corporation, academicians from Delhi University, and policymakers shared their insights during these sessions. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Joint Secretary of the Commission, Shri Amit Nirmal.

    ****

    PSF/DK

    (Release ID: 2104722) Visitor Counter : 48

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIAN NAVY’S FIRST TRAINING SQUADRON DEPARTS SIHANOUKVILLE PORT, CAMBODIA

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 4:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS) comprising – INS Sujata, and ICGS Veera departed from Sihanoukville, Cambodia on 17 Feb 25 marking the conclusion of a successful visit. During the three-day visit, the Indian Navy engaged with the Royal Cambodian Navy on various fronts, forging deeper bonds and strengthening Bridges of Friendship.

    A media interaction was organised, which was attended by Senior Officer, 1TS along with Commanding Officers of INS Sujata and ICGS Veera. The interaction highlighted the engagement of Indian Navy with regional Navies towards wider maritime cooperation and the role of First Training Squadron in furthering this mission. During the port call, Capt Anshul Kishore, Senior Officer, 1TS called on Admiral Tea Vinh, Commander, Royal Cambodian Navy (RCN) at Naval Headquarters, Phnom Penh. The meeting was also attended by VCNS, DCNS, COL, and Chief of Operations of the RCN. Discussions were held on issues of bilateral cross training, interoperability, joint exercises, regional security, and goodwill activities. The Senior Officer, 1TS also called on Governor of Sihanoukville province and Rear Admiral Mey Dina, Commander, Ream Naval Base.

     A Small Arms Simulator was handed over to the Royal Cambodian Army as a part of ongoing exchanges and defence engagement. Strengthening people-to-people ties, trainees of First Training Squadron and Royal Cambodian Navy participated in friendly sports fixtures enhancing camaraderie and mutual understanding. A guided walk-around of the ships was organised for the Indian community at Sihanoukville. A reception was hosted onboard, which was attended by Ambassadors and diplomats of various countries, senior leadership of Royal Cambodian Navy and Army, alongwith other distinguished members of the Indian Diaspora.

    The goodwill visit of 1TS reaffirms bilateral engagement and enduring maritime partnership between India and Cambodia aligned with the vision of SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region).

    ****

    VM/SPS                                                                                                        43/25

    (Release ID: 2104717) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Discussion held on “space oil drug” and cross-sectoral drug treatment and rehabilitation services between ND and healthcare professionals

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Discussion held on “space oil drug” and cross-sectoral drug treatment and rehabilitation services between ND and healthcare professionals
    Discussion held on “space oil drug” and cross-sectoral drug treatment and rehabilitation services between ND and healthcare professionals
    ******************************************************************************************

         Accompanied by the Cluster Chief Executive of New Territories East of the Hospital Authority (HA), Dr Chung Kin-lai, and the Hospital Chief Executive of Tai Po Hospital of the HA, Dr Sin Ngai-chuen, representatives of the Narcotics Division (ND) of the Security Bureau visited the designated ward for substance abusers at Tai Po Hospital yesterday (February 18) to learn about the support provided to drug abusers and to discuss with frontline professionals combating “space oil drug” and treatment for the relevant drug abusers.      Hong Kong has long adopted a multi-modality approach in providing drug treatment and rehabilitation (T&R) services to meet the different needs of drug abusers from different backgrounds. The HA plays a crucial role in this regard. During the meeting with the medical and allied health personnel of Tai Po Hospital, the Commissioner for Narcotics, Mr Kesson Lee, expressed gratitude for their tireless support for patients. He said, “Collaboration is an important approach for effective drug T&R services. The ND encourages hospitals to strengthen collaboration with different sectors on various fronts. For example, the cross-sectoral and cross-disciplinary collaborative model in Tai Po Hospital can effectively support drug-abusing patients, address their diverse backgrounds and T&R needs, and ultimately help them quit drugs.”      Regarding the prevailing problem of “space oil drug”, the medical and allied health professionals at Tai Po Hospital shared their research findings, observations, and treatment approaches for relevant patients. They noted a recent rise in the number of patients seeking medical services or even hospitalisation due to “space oil drug” abuse and expressed concerns that there was no shortage of young people among those patients. They also expressed worries about e-cigarettes becoming an apparatus for drug taking. Mr Lee indicated that the Government has launched targeted anti-“space oil drug” publicity in response to the situation and upon the listing of etomidate, the main active ingredient of “space oil drug”, and its three analogues (metomidate, propoxate and isopropoxate) as dangerous drugs on February 14, 2025. In addition to education and publicity, T&R is also a component in addressing the drug problem. He pointed out that the Government will continue to encourage drug abusers to quit drugs on their own volition and expressed hope that abusers of “space oil drug” would seek early assistance from service units such as Substance Abuse Clinics of the HA and Counselling Centres for Psychotropic Substance Abusers in the community. All participants in the meeting agreed that “space oil drug” could cause harm to physical and mental health, and young people are no exception.      For issues related to “space oil drug” or other drug problems, the public can contact professional social workers for information or assistance through WhatsApp or WeChat at 98 186 186, or call the 24-hour hotline at 186 186.

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

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Working Group for Enhancing Personalised Point-to-Point Transport Services under TAC convenes second meeting

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Working Group for Enhancing Personalised Point-to-Point Transport Services under TAC convenes second meeting
    Working Group for Enhancing Personalised Point-to-Point Transport Services under TAC convenes second meeting
    ******************************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Transport Advisory Committee:      The Working Group for Enhancing Personalised Point-to-Point Transport Services under the Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) convened its second meeting today (February 19).      The Working Group met with stakeholders including representatives of taxi trades and online car hailing platforms, and listened to their views and suggestions on the regulation of online car hailing platforms. After meeting with the trades, the Working Group was also briefed on the Transport Department (TD)’s work progress on the study to enhance personalised point-to-point transport services.      The Working Group will continue to advise on the study on personalised point-to-point transport services being conducted by the TD. After considering the study outcome by the TD and views of the stakeholders, the Working Group will focus on the proposed arrangements of regulating online car hailing platforms and prepare a submission for the Government’s consideration.      The TAC and the Working Group Chairman, Professor Stephen Cheung, said, “Today’s meeting with various stakeholders was held successfully. Having listened to their views in detail, the Working Group will consolidate and carefully consider the views received, and will submit to the Government as soon as possible a report on proposals of regulating online car hailing platforms to facilitate the healthy and sustainable development of personalised point-to-point transport services in the long run.”      Set up by the TAC in July 2024, the Working Group comprises a number of TAC members, representatives from relevant organisations/departments, namely the Insurance Authority and Tourism Commission, as well as representatives from the Transport and Logistics Bureau and the TD.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 19, 2025Issued at HKT 18:40

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya & Maharashtra CM, Sh. Devendra Fadnavis Undertakes ‘Jai Shivaji Jai Bharat’ Padyatra on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Jayanti in Pune, Maharashtra

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya & Maharashtra CM, Sh. Devendra Fadnavis Undertakes ‘Jai Shivaji Jai Bharat’ Padyatra on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Jayanti in Pune, Maharashtra

    Over 20,000 MY Bharat Youth Volunteers Join Padyatra to Celebrate Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Glorious Heritage

    Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life teaches us that true leadership is about selfless service and unwavering dedication to the nation: Dr. Mandaviya

    Padyatras Held Simultaneously Across All 36 Districts of Maharashtra to Honour Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 4:00PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis led the grand ‘Jai Shivaji Jai Bharat’ Padyatra on the historic occasion of the 395th Jayanti of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Pune, Maharashtra today. They were joined by over 20,000 MY Bharat Youth Volunteers, showcasing immense enthusiasm and reverence for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy.

    Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Smt. Raksha Khadse, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Shri Murlidhar Mohol, along with several State Ministers, MPs, MLAs, and MLCs, also participated in the grand padyatra, making it a remarkable tribute to the visionary Maratha leader.

    Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya urged the youth to draw strength from the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He emphasized that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s principles of Swabhiman (self-respect) and Samman (honour) continue to guide India’s youth in building a self-reliant and prosperous nation. Expressing gratitude for India’s rich heritage, he highlighted that leaders like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj have shaped the nation’s values and inspired generations with their courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the motherland. “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life teaches us that true leadership is about selfless service and unwavering dedication to the nation,” he stated.

    Dr. Mandaviya spoke about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s visionary governance, his efficient administration, and his deep respect for all sections of society. Taking inspiration from these ideals, he emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is working to strengthen the nation through progressive policies focused on good governance, social welfare, and economic growth. He highlighted the government’s commitment to empowering youth, fostering innovation, and instilling national pride—principles that align with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s vision of a resilient and self-reliant society. He urged the youth to take responsibility, as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did in his time, and contribute to making India a Viksit Bharat. “The youth are not just the future, they are the present force that will drive India towards greatness,” he remarked.

    Dr. Mandaviya further emphasized that India’s youth have the potential to be the driving force of national progress. He encouraged them to embrace qualities such as determination, integrity, and a sense of duty towards the country. Just as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj envisioned a strong and self-sufficient nation, today’s youth must work towards innovation, social harmony, and inclusive development. “By following Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s ideals, we can build a nation that stands tall with pride, resilience, and unity,” he affirmed. 

    Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, highlighted the global reverence for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, noting that his birth anniversary is celebrated not only in India but across 20 countries. He emphasized Shivaji Maharaj’s visionary leadership in governance, taxation, welfare policies, defense, and naval management. He also acknowledged Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s efforts in nominating 12 forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for UNESCO World Heritage status, expressing confidence in their forthcoming approval. He called upon the youth to uphold the principles of Shivaji Maharaj and contribute to nation-building.

    Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Smt. Raksha Khadse, in her address, highlighted the enduring legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a beacon of bravery, wisdom, and justice. She emphasized that his leadership and unwavering commitment to Swarajya continue to inspire the nation to uphold unity and righteousness. Reflecting on Maharashtra’s deep-rooted connection with Shivaji Maharaj’s ideals, she stated that just as he led a revolution by mobilizing the youth, the vision of a Viksit Bharat can be realized by uniting the young generation. Reaffirming Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s belief in the power of youth to shape the nation’s future, she called upon everyone to pledge their commitment to building a developed India guided by the principles of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

    Before commencing the grand ‘Jai Shivaji Jai Bharat’ Padyatra, the esteemed guests participated in the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative by planting a sapling, symbolizing their commitment to environmental sustainability and reverence for nature. Following this meaningful gesture, they led the grand procession, paying tribute to the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

    Covering a 4 km route, the Padyatra started from COEP College and made halts at AISSPMS College Pune (at the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj), Rani Laxmibai Chowk, and Goodluck Chowk, before concluding at Fergusson College.

    At each halting point, Maharashtra’s vibrant culture was on full display, with youth performing traditional dances and songs. The traditional sport of Mallakhamba was also showcased, reflecting the state’s rich heritage. Adding to the grandeur, Dhol Nagada performances welcomed the Padyatra at every stop, keeping the padyatra energized throughout the journey.

    The ‘Jai Shivaji Jai Bharat’ Padyatra in Pune, Maharashtra, marked the sixth in a series of 24 padyatras planned across the country to commemorate 75 years of the Constitution and celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage and diversity. This grand event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of over 20,000 youth in Pune alone. Additionally, simultaneous padyatras were held in all 36 districts of Maharashtra, with each district seeing the active involvement of around 3,000 participants, collectively paying tribute to the enduring legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2104697) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FEHD raids unlicensed cold store in Yuen Long District (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    FEHD raids unlicensed cold store in Yuen Long District (with photos)
    FEHD raids unlicensed cold store in Yuen Long District (with photos)
    ********************************************************************

         The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) raided an unlicensed cold store last night (February 18) at Tai Shu Ha Road West, Yuen Long.     During the operation, the FEHD arrested one person and initiated procedures on prosecution for the suspected operation of an unlicensed cold store. About 6 956 kilograms of chilled poultry with official health certificates were found on the premises, and about 173kg of chilled poultry and offal without official health certificates were seized for disposal.     Under the Food Business Regulation, the maximum penalty for operating an unlicensed cold store is a fine of $50,000 and six months’ imprisonment upon conviction.     “We will continue our stringent enforcement action against unlicensed food business to safeguard food safety and public health,” a spokesman for the FEHD said.     Members of the public can report any suspected illegal food business activities by calling the FEHD hotline at 2868 0000.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 19, 2025Issued at HKT 18:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MeitY introduces Digital Brand Identity Manual (DBIM) to harmonizes government’s Digital presence & hosts CIO Conference 2025 to strengthen India’s digital governance

    Source: Government of India

    MeitY introduces Digital Brand Identity Manual (DBIM) to harmonizes government’s Digital presence & hosts CIO Conference 2025 to strengthen India’s digital governance

    DBIM aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of “Reform, Perform, and Transform”, making India’s digital governance more accessible, inclusive, and citizen-centric: Shri Jatin Prasada

    DBIM Provides a toolkit for a uniform identity, Gov.In CMS for streamlined management, CCPS for centralized content, and social media guidelines for standardized communication.

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 3:44PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) yesterday marked a significant step in India’s digital governance with the launch of the Digital Brand Identity Manual (DBIM) and the inaugural Chief Information Officer (CIO) Conference 2025. Held in New Delhi, the event was presided over by Shri Jitin Prasada, Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology and Commerce & Industry and Shri S. Krishnan Secretary for Minister of Information Electronics Technology, under the Gov.In: Harmonisation of Government of India’s Digital Footprint initiative.

    Standardized and cohesive digital presence across platforms

    During launch Shri Jitin Prasada emphasized that the Digital Brand Identity Manual (DBIM) will enhance the government’s “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance” approach by introducing “Uniform Governance,” ensuring a standardized and cohesive digital presence across all ministries and platforms.

     He also highlighted that DBIM aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of “Reform, Perform, and Transform”, making India’s digital governance more accessible, inclusive, and citizen-centric, thereby strengthening the country’s e-governance ecosystem on a global scale. The initiative focuses on simplifying and standardizing government websites, ensuring that citizens from diverse backgrounds can easily navigate and access essential government services.

    In addition to above, he stressed the role of the Central Content Publishing System (CCPS) in making key government policies, schemes, and initiatives readily available, improving transparency and public engagement. He also emphasized the importance of innovation, agility and security in digital governance, leveraging AI-driven tools and robust security measures to build a seamless, trustworthy and future-ready digital ecosystem, contributing to India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

    Govt unveils DBIM for efficiency

    MeitY Secretary, S. Krishnan highlighted the Prime Minister’s directive to establish a common interface across government websites, ensuring a user-friendly and standardized digital experience. He emphasized a user-centric approach, where government portals must offer accessibility and efficiency comparable to private sector websites across both desktop and mobile devices. A unified digital branding manual (DBIM) has been introduced to enhance service delivery, and centralized content pushing will ensure consistent messaging across ministries, making government priorities more transparent.

     He also stressed the critical role of NIC in providing technological support and modernizing government infrastructure to meet evolving digital demands. With the digital economy set to reach 20% of GDP, the Secretary urged ministries to adopt digital tools for better service delivery.

     Features of DBIM initiative

    The DBIM launch was accompanied by the introduction of several critical components to harmonize India’s digital presence:

    • DBIM Toolkit for ensuring uniformity in digital identity.
    • Gov.In CMS Platform for streamlined website management.
    • Central Content Publishing System (CCPS) for centralized content governance.
    • Social Media Campaign Guidelines to standardize digital communication.

    The launch also featured the unveiling of the DBIM-compliant MeitY website, demonstrating a consistent and citizen-friendly digital experience. Additionally, four other ministry/department websites have migrated to the Gov.In CMS platform, with more set to follow.

    First CIO conference 2025: key discussions

    The First Chief Information Officer (CIO) Conference 2025 convened experts from MeitY, NIC, MyGov and various ministries to discuss the adoption and implementation of DBIM. Key discussions revolved around:

    • Harmonizing government websites under a unified digital brand identity.
    • Managing websites on the Gov.In platform for enhanced accessibility and performance.
    • Localizing content and optimizing digital services for inclusivity.
    • Compliance with Guidelines for Indian Government Websites and Apps (GIGW) and STQC Certification for quality assurance.

    The nationwide adoption of DBIM is set to revolutionize citizen engagement, strengthen trust, and enhance government service delivery in the digital space.

    Visit the newly launched DBIM-compliant MeitY website for information: https://www.meity.gov.in/

    Digital Brand Identity Manual (DBIM)

    As part of the Gov.In: Harmonisation of Government of India’s Digital Footprint initiative, the DBIM seeks to establish a standardized and seamless digital presence across government ministries, departments, and agencies. This initiative aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to transform governance through technology, ensuring accessibility, efficiency, and a more citizen-friendly digital experience.

    The primary objective of the DBIM is to create a unified and consistent digital brand for the Government of India. By standardizing elements such as color palettes, typography, and iconography, the manual not only ensures uniformity in look and feel but also strengthens the integrity of government-hosted data. This cohesive approach will enable government departments to present a compelling and trustworthy brand presence, both nationally and globally. The guidelines extend beyond websites to cover mobile applications and social media platforms, reinforcing a seamless user experience across all digital touchpoints.

    ****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar

    (Release ID: 2104686) Visitor Counter : 39

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Innovate2Educate

    Source: Government of India

    Innovate2Educate

    Learning With Fun And Innovation

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 3:38PM by PIB Delhi

    Learning With Fun And Innovation

    Introduction

    The Innovate2Educate Handheld Device Design Challenge is an exciting competition aimed at transforming children’s learning experiences. It is part of the Create in India Challenge Season 1 and is celebrated under WAVES (World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit), which will focus on four key pillars: Broadcasting & Infotainment, AVGC-XR, Digital Media & Innovation, and Films. Innovate2Educate aligns with Pillar 2 of WAVES dedicated to AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and cutting-edge technologies such as Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and the Metaverse).

    The event is being organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in partnership with The Indian Digital Gaming Society (IDGS) with Hack2Skill serving as the Innovation Partner and ICT Academy as the Skilling Partner. A total of 334 candidates have registered so far, including 3 international participants.

    Objective

    In this challenge academia, designers, engineers and innovators can participate to create a prototype of an educational handheld device that:

    1. Engages children in learning Mathematics
    2. Encourages problem-solving through puzzles
    3. Enhances cognitive skills with interactive content
    4. Is affordable and accessible for a broad audience

    Competition Guidelines

                                                               

    The competition guidelines emphasize designing an innovative handheld device that blends education with entertainment. Below are the key guidelines that participants should follow:

     

    Phases of the Competition

     

    The competition consists of three key phases each designed to guide participants from concept to final product. Below is an overview of the process from submitting initial ideas to presenting the finished prototypes.

    Registration Process

    Follow these steps to complete your registration:

    Step 1: Register Online

    Registration process will end on 23rd February, 2025 (11:59 PM IST)

    Step 2: Submit Your Concept

    Provide detailed sketches, descriptions and key features.

    Step 3: Develop and Submit Your Prototype

    Selected participants will be invited to create and submit a working prototype.

    Evaluation Criteria

    Participants submissions will be evaluated based on:

    1. Innovation: Originality and creativity in device design and content.
    2. Educational Value: Effectiveness in teaching math and enhancing cognitive skills.
    3. User Experience: How engaging and user-friendly the device is for children.
    4. Cost-effectiveness: Feasibility of producing the device at an affordable price.
    5. Durability and Design: Practicality and robustness of the design.

    Prizes

    The Innovate2Educate Challenge offers exciting prizes to reward creativity and innovation. Winners will receive cash prizes, support for prototype development and an opportunity to showcase their designs at prominent events.

    • Cash Prizes will be awarded to the top three designs.
    • Prototype Development Support: Assistance in refining and producing the winning prototype.
    • Showcase Opportunity: The winning design will be featured at key IDGS events and showcased to potential investors and manufacturers.

     

    References:

     

    Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kamna Lakaria

    (Release ID: 2104683) Visitor Counter : 75

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fifteenth Finance Commission Grants Released for the Rural Local Bodies of Bihar, Haryana and Sikkim

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 3:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Government has released Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) Grants during Financial Year 2024–25, for the Rural Local Bodies of Bihar, Haryana and Sikkim. Bihar gets the 2nd installment of Untied Grants amounting to Rs.821.8021 crores and withheld portion of 1st installment of Untied Grants amounting to Rs.47.9339 crores. These funds are for the all 38 District Panchayats, 530 eligible Block Panchayats and 8052 eligible Gram Panchayats which fulfilled the mandatory conditions for the release. While Rural Local Bodies in Haryana will get, 2nd installment of Untied Grants amounting to Rs.202.4663 crores and withheld portion of 1st installment of Untied Grants amounting to Rs.7.5993 crores. These funds are for the 18 eligible District Panchayats, 142 eligible Block Panchayats and 6195 eligible Gram Panchayats. Sikkim receives the 2nd installment of Untied Grants amounting to Rs.6.2613 crores during Financial Year 2024–25. These funds are for the 4 eligible District Panchayats and 186 eligible Gram Panchayats which fulfilled the mandatory conditions for release.  

    The Untied Grants will be utilized by Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)/ Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) for location-specific felt needs, under the Twenty-Nine (29) Subjects enshrined in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution, except for salaries and other establishment costs. The Tied Grants can be used for the basic services of (a) sanitation and maintenance of ODF status, and this should include management and treatment of household waste, and human excreta and fecal sludge management in particular and (b) supply of drinking water, rainwater harvesting and water recycling.

    ***

    Aditi Agrawal

    (Release ID: 2104685) Visitor Counter : 61

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Suspicious website related to DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Suspicious website related to DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited
    Suspicious website related to DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited
    **********************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:     The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited relating to a suspicious website, which has been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.           The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).           Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the website concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 19, 2025Issued at HKT 17:50

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India and Nepal Deepen Science and Technology Partnership with New Agreement

    Source: Government of India

    India and Nepal Deepen Science and Technology Partnership with New Agreement

    Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) Sign MoU to Strengthen Indo-Nepal Scientific Cooperation

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 3:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Marking a significant milestone in Science and Technology (S&T) cooperation between India and Nepal, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), India, and the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 18th February 2025 at CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL), New Delhi.

    The agreement, signed and exchanged by Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR, and Secretary, DSIR, and Prof. Dr. Dilip Subba, Vice-Chancellor, NAST, establishes a broad framework to promote bilateral scientific and technological collaboration.

    MoU for S&T cooperation between CSIR, India and NAST, Nepal being exchanged by Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, DG CSIR and Prof. Dr. Dilip Subba, Vice-Chancellor, NAST

    CSIR and NAST share a long history of cooperation, dating back to 1994, when an agreement between CSIR and then-RONAST (now NAST) was signed to promote joint research and technological development in areas of mutual interest. To execute the agreement, two Working Programmes were signed in 1997 and 2002, leading to the organization of several joint workshops and training programs that continued beyond the official period of these agreements.

    The newly signed MoU seeks to rejuvenate and expand this collaboration, enhancing scientific engagement between the two institutions.

    The renewed partnership under the 2025 MoU will be implemented through various collaborative activities, including the exchange of scientific information, research materials, and scientists, the organization of joint S&T seminars, workshops, and training programs, the execution of joint research projects, access to each other’s major research facilities, technology partnerships, and the twinning of institutions for capacity development. The cooperation will focus on mutually agreed areas, including biological sciences, food science and technology, water and environmental technologies, fuel and mining sciences, metallurgy, material sciences such as glass, ceramics, biomaterials, and nanotechnology, alternative energy, leather and footwear technologies, metrology, polymer sciences, and drug discovery.

    The apex-level meeting held during the signing was attended by senior leadership from CSIR, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, and NAST. Discussions centred on the most effective modes of collaboration and key focus areas for joint research and development efforts. Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, DG, CSIR, emphasized CSIR’s keen interest in strengthening its technology and capacity-building partnerships with Nepal through NAST. She underscored the enormous untapped potential for collaboration in multiple sectors and stressed the importance of swiftly putting the MoU into action with a targeted implementation plan.

    Vice-Chancellor of NAST, Prof. Dr. Dilip Subba, reaffirmed NAST’s commitment to this partnership, highlighting the value Nepal places on scientific cooperation with India. He noted that this MoU and the discussions held today would pave the way for a strengthened and enduring S&T relationship between the two nations. He also proposed the formation of subject-specific working groups to facilitate structured collaboration in priority areas.

    With the exchange of this MoU, CSIR and NAST have reaffirmed their shared vision of leveraging scientific and technological advancements to drive progress, innovation, and economic growth. The agreement marks a new era in Indo-Nepal scientific collaboration, opening new avenues for joint research and knowledge exchange between the two countries.

    *****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2104672) Visitor Counter : 129

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Resonate: The EDM Challenge

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Resonate: The EDM Challenge

    Pioneering the Next Wave of Electronic Music

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 3:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Pioneering the Next Wave of Electronic Music

    Introduction

    Resonate: The EDM Challenge is set to take centre stage at the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), bringing together global talent in Electronic Dance Music (EDM) to celebrate innovation, creativity, and collaboration in music production and live performance. Organised by the Indian Music Industry (IMI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B), this initiative is part of the “Create in India Challenge” and seeks to strengthen India’s status as a global centre for music fusion, electronic music, and DJing artistry.

    WAVES is built on four key pillars i.e. Broadcasting & Infotainment, AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics and Extended Reality), Digital Media & Innovation, and Films. The EDM Challenge is a part of the Broadcasting & Infotainment segment, which focuses on both traditional and evolving forms of information and entertainment delivery. This pillar prioritises content creation, empowers citizens through information, and explores new ways of taking music and entertainment to a global audience while adapting to the challenges of the 21st century.

    Taking place from 1-4 May 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre & Jio World Gardens, Mumbai, WAVES is a landmark platform designed to propel India’s Media & Entertainment (M&E) industry to greater heights. The summit will serve as a key forum for industry leaders, stakeholders, and creators to explore new opportunities, drive innovation, and shape the future of entertainment. At its core, the Create in India Challenges have already garnered over 73,000 registrations, fostering a dynamic environment for creative excellence. Through Resonate: The EDM Challenge, WAVES further cements India’s role in the global entertainment landscape.

    Eligibility and Participation Guidelines

    The competition is open to artists, composers, musicians, and performers from any country with prior experience in creating and producing Electronic Dance Music (EDM). The theme of the competition is “Resonate: The EDM Challenge” focusing on the use of Global music styles to create a cohesive and culturally rich musical piece.

    1. The last date to register for participation is 10th March, 2025.

     

    1. Participants must be at least 18 years old.

     

    1. Only individuals or creative teams (maximum of two members) may apply; corporate entities are not eligible.

     

    1. Each participant or team is allowed to submit only one application.

     

    1. Only human-created content is eligible; AI-generated music will not be considered.

     

    1. For a detailed understanding of the participation rules, please refer to the following link: Terms and Conditions.

     

    Challenge Format

     

     

    Submission Process

    1. Participants must email their participation interest to wavesatinfo@indianmi.org.
    1. Submission details must be provided using the designated template, available at the following link: Submission Template.

    Judging Criteria

     

    Prizes and Recognition

    References:

    Click here to see PDF:

    Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Saurabh Kalia

    (Release ID: 2104679) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Administration of estate of late Mrs Nina Wang

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ6: Administration of estate of late Mrs Nina Wang
    LCQ6: Administration of estate of late Mrs Nina Wang
    ****************************************************

         Following is a question by the Hon Judy Chan and a reply by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, in the Legislative Council today (February 19): Question:     The Department of Justice issued a statement last month, formally appointing Nina Wang Charity Management Limited as the trustee of the charitable trust of Mrs Wang’s estate. There are views that as it has almost been 10 years since the Court of Final Appeal handed down its judgment on the estate of over $140 billion, coupled with the high management fees of the charitable trust while yielding no social benefits, the trustee should release the estate for charitable purposes as soon as possible, particularly when the Government is facing a deficit and needs the support of the business sector to promote charitable causes. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: (1) whether it knows the relevant expenses incurred in dealing with the management, legal proceedings, etc, of the aforesaid charitable trust since the Court of Final Appeal handed down its judgment in 2015; (2) when the authorities plan to announce the membership of the trustee’s board of governors, the scheme of administration for the estate, and other relevant information; and (3) how it supports the trustee in fulfilling its responsibilities, including assisting the trustee in manpower deployment and formulation of relevant budgets, so as to facilitate the trustee’s vetting and approval of charity projects, conduct of fundraising, and preparation for setting up a “fund and a Chinese prize of worldwide significance similar to that of the Nobel Prize” in accordance with Mrs Wang’s testamentary wishes? Reply: President,       In relation to the Estate, the Secretary for Justice (SJ) has been actively following up on the blueprint of the scheme for administration of the Estate (Scheme) as laid down in the judgment of the Court of Final Appeal dated May 18, 2015, as well as the subsequent legal proceedings, court orders and directions in the legal capacity of the protector of charities. On May 16, 2024, the court approved the Scheme submitted by the SJ. The SJ then made an application to the court to appoint Nina Wang Charity Management Limited as the Trustee of the charitable trust under Mrs Wang’s Estate, with the court’s approval granted on November 21, 2024. The SJ has also appointed three independent individuals, namely Mrs Rita Fan Hsu Lai-tai, Mr Joseph Yam Chi-kwong and Mr Cheng Yan-kee, as members of the supervisory managing organisation (SMO) responsible for supervising the operation of the Trustee.      In relation to the Hon Judy Chan’s questions, I reply as follows: (1) The expenses incurred by the interim administrators in managing the Estate have been prescribed by the Court in the Appointment Order and are subject to the Court’s scrutiny. However, according to the court’s order, the relevant terms of the order are subject to confidentiality and cannot be disclosed without the court’s approval. The SJ in the capacity of the protector of charities will continue to follow up as appropriate so as to ensure that the interim administrators’ expenses are maintained at a reasonable level.      Regarding the expenses incurred in the related legal proceedings, we are unable to provide such information at this stage as the relevant legal proceedings are still ongoing, and the legal costs will have to be eventually taxed by the court. (2) As to when information regarding the composition of the Trustee’s board of governors, details of the Scheme and other information will be announced, according to the Scheme approved by the court, the Trustee will pursuant to the terms of the Scheme and its relevant Articles of Association disclose related information at a suitable time later. (3) The Trustee’s main duty is to implement the Court’s judgments and the relevant procedures under the Scheme. In view of the significant public interest involved, during the interim period the Department of Justice (DoJ) has been providing suitable support and assistance in respect of the preliminary work, including assisting the Trustee in forming its board of governors, so as to facilitate the Trustee to properly and expeditiously make use of the Estate for charitable purposes pursuant to the Scheme and the late Mrs Nina Wang’s wishes. Upon formal commencement of the Trustee’s operations, the same will be supervised, as I have mentioned earlier, by the SMO comprising three persons as provided for under the Scheme. The DoJ generally would not be directly involved with its operations unless necessary, but the SJ will, of course, in accordance with general legal principles continue to keep the matter in view in the capacity of the protector of charities, and exercise legal power to take appropriate actions when necessary.      The DoJ firmly believes that once the Trustee’s board of governors is established and commences its operations, the Trustee will do its utmost in administering the charitable trust under the supervision of the SMO, including considering to conduct independent auditing of the Trust assets, launching charitable projects, carrying out fundraising and establishing a “fund and a Chinese prize of worldwide significance similar to that of the Nobel Prize”, to fulfil Mrs Wang’s testamentary wishes and bring benefits to the country, including different sectors of Hong Kong society.      Thank you, President.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 19, 2025Issued at HKT 17:38

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India is no longer just a follower; it is now leading the way in multiple fields: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 3:04PM by PIB Delhi

    • India’s Space Sector Soars: From Chandrayaan-3 to Bharatiya Antariksh Station, Nation Emerges as a Global Leader in Space Exploration
    • India Leads Global Healthcare Innovation with DNA-Based COVID-19 Vaccine and First Herpesvirus Vaccine for Cervical Cancer
    • India’s Bioeconomy Booms: From $10 Billion to $140 Billion, Poised to Reach $250 Billion with Thriving Biotech Startups
    • India Pioneers Space Biology: Advancing Research in Space Medicine and Sustainable Life Beyond Earth
    • India’s Nuclear Energy Vision: 100 GW by 2047 to Drive Sustainability and Global Climate Leadership
    • India Rises as a Global Research Powerhouse, Poised to Lead the World in Scientific Publications by 2030
    • India’s Space Economy Poised for 10X Growth, Strengthening Global Leadership in Science and Bio-Manufacturing

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh has asserted that India is no longer just a follower but is now setting global benchmarks, offering leadership and pioneering innovations across sectors. He highlighted the remarkable advancements India has made in recent years, in the fields of space, biotechnology, and nuclear energy etc positioning itself as a key player on the world stage.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed out that India’s space sector has witnessed an unprecedented transformation, with a surge in ambitious missions and international collaborations. The Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) is a testament to India’s technological progress, paving the way for future space missions, including Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan-4, and the Bharatiya Antariksh Station, India’s upcoming international space station.

    India has also emerged as a preferred destination for satellite launches, earning global credibility. The nation has successfully launched 433 foreign satellites, of which 396 were deployed in the last decade alone, generating $157 million and €260 million in revenue from 2014-2023. The historic success of Chandrayaan-3, which made India the first country to land near the Moon’s south pole, has positioned ISRO at the forefront of lunar exploration. The world’s leading space agencies, including NASA, are now awaiting India’s findings from the Moon’s southern pole, a milestone that underscores the nation’s rising dominance in space research.

    The Minister also highlighted India’s pioneering role in biotechnology and bioeconomy. India became the first country to develop a DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine, demonstrating its leadership in vaccine research and development. Furthermore, India has introduced the first herpesvirus vaccine for cervical cancer, reinforcing its position as a leader in preventive healthcare.

    India’s bioeconomy has surged from $10 billion in 2014 to nearly $140 billion today, with projections to reach $250 billion in the coming years. The number of biotech startups has skyrocketed from just 50 in 2014 to nearly 9,000 today, making India a global hub for biotech innovation. In bio-manufacturing, India now ranks third in the Asia-Pacific region and 12th globally, with its influence expanding rapidly.

    India has also taken a bold step into space biology, laying the foundation for human survival beyond Earth. ISRO and the Department of Biotechnology have signed an MoU to advance space biotechnology research, focusing on growing plants in space to sustain long-term space missions. The study of space medicine and human physiology in extraterrestrial environments is becoming a critical area of research, and India is now setting global standards instead of just following them.

    India’s nuclear energy program, once met with scepticism, is now recognized for its peaceful and sustainable ambitions. The country has set an ambitious target of 100 gigawatts of nuclear energy by 2047, aiming to reduce carbon emissions by 50%, a commitment that is influencing global climate strategies. The world has now acknowledged India’s nuclear policy, which was envisioned by Homi Bhabha for peaceful purposes, as a model for responsible energy development.

    India’s scientific output is gaining global recognition, with the country now ranked fourth worldwide in scientific publications. Projections suggest that by 2030, India could surpass the United States to become the world’s top-ranked country in scientific research.

    India’s space economy is set to grow 5 to 10 times in the next decade, further solidifying its leadership. The nation’s rapid economic ascent is evident in its global rankings, including its 12th position in bio-manufacturing and fourth place in scientific research publications.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded by emphasizing that India’s rise is no longer just about catching up but about setting the agenda for the world. “The clock has turned 360 degrees. Earlier, we learned from others; now, the world is looking up to us. The traffic is both ways,” he remarked.

    *****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2104674) Visitor Counter : 20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Second Phase Development of Yuen Long South New Development Area invites in-situ land exchange applications

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Second Phase Development of Yuen Long South New Development Area invites in-situ land exchange applications
    Second Phase Development of Yuen Long South New Development Area invites in-situ land exchange applications
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Lands Department (LandsD) issued today (February 19) Practice Note No. 2/2025 inviting in-situ land exchange applications for designated development sites within the Second Phase Development of Yuen Long South New Development Area (YLS NDA). The Practice Note is available on the department’s website (www.landsd.gov.hk), which provides the location of sites available for in-situ land exchange applications, application criteria and conditions, and application deadlines, etc.     In accordance with the in-situ land exchange arrangements for the Enhanced Conventional New Town Approach as revised and promulgated in 2023 (please refer to Practice Note No. 13/2023) and taking into account other relevant considerations, the land exchange applications in this round cover two sites planned for industry development (about 4.9 hectares in total) which are mainly for logistics and storage uses, etc.     The deadline for land exchange applications this round is May 19, 2025, while the deadline for acceptance of binding basic terms offer (with premium) is May 19, 2026. Applicants may choose standard rates for premium assessment, as an alternative to the conventional case-by-case assessment mechanism. The applicable level of standard rates will be announced later this year. If an application cannot be concluded within the specified deadline, the Government will proceed with land resumption and commencement of construction works in order not to delay the works programme of the entire YLS NDA.     The YLS NDA and the adjacent HSK/HT NDA, together with the existing Yuen Long and Tin Shui Wai New Towns and the Lau Fau Shan/Tsim Bei Tsui/Pak Nai area under planning, are situated within the High-end Professional Services and Logistics Hub, one of the four major zones in the Northern Metropolis. This Hub can work with the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone and Nanshan District in Shenzhen in such areas as finance, professional services and logistics services, promoting and deepening high-end economic co-operation. The site formation and engineering infrastructure works for the First Phase Development of YLS NDA commenced in 2022, with the first batch of population intake targeted for 2029. Subject to funding approval by the Legislative Council, the site formation and engineering infrastructure works for the Second Phase Development is planned to commence from mid-2025.     According to the revised Recommended Outline Development Plan announced in 2020, the entire YLS NDA will provide about 32 900 housing units accommodating a population of about 98 700, and about 727 000 square metres of gross floor area for various industrial and commercial uses. Also, about 13 700 job opportunities will be created. The Government is now reviewing the development area, development intensity and housing provisions under the Third Phase Development of YLS NDA. The target to complete the review is within 2025.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 19, 2025Issued at HKT 20:20

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India and Nepal Deepen Science and Technology Partnershipwith New Agreement

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India and Nepal Deepen Science and Technology Partnershipwith New Agreement

    Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) Sign MoU to Strengthen Indo-Nepal Scientific Cooperation

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 3:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Marking a significant milestone in Science and Technology (S&T) cooperation between India and Nepal, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), India, and the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 18th February 2025 at CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL), New Delhi.

    The agreement, signed and exchanged by Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR, and Secretary, DSIR, and Prof. Dr. Dilip Subba, Vice-Chancellor, NAST, establishes a broad framework to promote bilateral scientific and technological collaboration.

    MoU for S&T cooperation between CSIR, India and NAST, Nepal being exchanged by Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, DG CSIR and Prof. Dr. Dilip Subba, Vice-Chancellor, NAST

    CSIR and NAST share a long history of cooperation, dating back to 1994, when an agreement between CSIR and then-RONAST (now NAST) was signed to promote joint research and technological development in areas of mutual interest. To execute the agreement, two Working Programmes were signed in 1997 and 2002, leading to the organization of several joint workshops and training programs that continued beyond the official period of these agreements.

    The newly signed MoU seeks to rejuvenate and expand this collaboration, enhancing scientific engagement between the two institutions.

    The renewed partnership under the 2025 MoU will be implemented through various collaborative activities, including the exchange of scientific information, research materials, and scientists, the organization of joint S&T seminars, workshops, and training programs, the execution of joint research projects, access to each other’s major research facilities, technology partnerships, and the twinning of institutions for capacity development. The cooperation will focus on mutually agreed areas, including biological sciences, food science and technology, water and environmental technologies, fuel and mining sciences, metallurgy, material sciences such as glass, ceramics, biomaterials, and nanotechnology, alternative energy, leather and footwear technologies, metrology, polymer sciences, and drug discovery.

    The apex-level meeting held during the signing was attended by senior leadership from CSIR, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, and NAST. Discussions centred on the most effective modes of collaboration and key focus areas for joint research and development efforts. Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, DG, CSIR, emphasized CSIR’s keen interest in strengthening its technology and capacity-building partnerships with Nepal through NAST. She underscored the enormous untapped potential for collaboration in multiple sectors and stressed the importance of swiftly putting the MoU into action with a targeted implementation plan.

    Vice-Chancellor of NAST, Prof. Dr. Dilip Subba, reaffirmed NAST’s commitment to this partnership, highlighting the value Nepal places on scientific cooperation with India. He noted that this MoU and the discussions held today would pave the way for a strengthened and enduring S&T relationship between the two nations. He also proposed the formation of subject-specific working groups to facilitate structured collaboration in priority areas.

    With the exchange of this MoU, CSIR and NAST have reaffirmed their shared vision of leveraging scientific and technological advancements to drive progress, innovation, and economic growth. The agreement marks a new era in Indo-Nepal scientific collaboration, opening new avenues for joint research and knowledge exchange between the two countries.

    *****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2104672) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Coal Organizes Roadshow on Opportunities in the Coal Sector & Commercial Coal Mine Auctions in Kolkata

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 2:58PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Coal successfully organized a Roadshow on ‘Opportunities in the Coal Sector & Commercial Coal Mine Auctions’ at Kolkata today. Secretary, Ministry of Coal, Shri Vikram Dev Dutt was the chief guest and graced the occasion accompanied by Ms. Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary and Nominated Authority Ministry of Coal, reinforcing the Ministry’s commitment to supporting stakeholders. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from industry leaders, investors, and stakeholders, showcasing the Government’s commitment to transforming the coal sector through progressive reforms and transparent policies.

    In her welcome addresses Ms. Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary and Nominated Authority, Ministry of Coal reassured investors of the Ministry’s commitment to supporting them throughout the investment process. She emphasized the streamlined clearance processes and continuous enhancements to the ease of doing business in the sector. Ms. Brar stated that the Ministry is dedicated to ensuring a seamless investment journey for all stakeholders, backed by a transparent regulatory framework and accelerated project approvals. She also highlighted the Government of India’s progressive policies promoting coal gasification and underground mining to diversify coal utilization methods, reduce environmental impact, and enhance mining efficiency. She reiterated the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to good governance, maintaining the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and transparency, while being open to dialogue, feedback, and collaboration with stakeholders.

    In his keynote address, Secretary, Ministry of Coal Shri Vikram Dev Dutt emphasized the Ministry’s vision to unlock the untapped potential of India’s coal resources. He highlighted how ongoing reforms are fostering sustainable growth and delivering mutual benefits to all stakeholders, ensuring that India’s coal sector remains a strong driver of economic growth and energy security. Shri Dutt also mentioned the Ministry’s active coordination with various State Governments and various Ministries, including the Ministry of Environment and Forests, to expedite early clearances and enhance logistical support through Ministry of Railways. Secretary, emphasized that underground mining will have its place in upcoming auctions, offering a sustainable and efficient approach to coal extraction while minimizing environmental impact.

    He urged private players to not just invest in mining but also contribute meaningfully to the communities they operate in. He emphasized that the industry owes much to society and should strive to set new benchmarks in afforestation, restoration, and welfare initiatives. “Our growth must be inclusive, and our progress must leave a lasting, positive impact on both people and the planet,” he affirmed.          

    The Roadshow featured comprehensive presentations on the upcoming commercial coal mine auctions, offering insights into investment prospects and policy frameworks. It also provided a platform for investors to engage with key decision-makers, explore new business avenues, and gain a deeper understanding of India’s evolving coal sector landscape.

    The event also served as an interactive platform for stakeholders, including industry leaders, potential investors, mining experts, and policymakers, to exchange insights and explore collaborative opportunities. Stakeholders were able to gain clarity on the auction process, better understand regulatory frameworks, and learn about investment incentives. This engagement reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to creating an investor-friendly ecosystem, ensuring stakeholders can capitalize on the growing opportunities within the coal sector and contribute to India’s energy security and sustainable growth.

    The Roadshow in Kolkata marks a significant milestone in the Ministry of Coal’s efforts to unlock new avenues for investment and foster growth in India’s coal sector, further reinforcing the country’s position as a global leader in coal production.

    ****

    Shuhaib T

    (Release ID: 2104668) Visitor Counter : 81

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tender awarded for site in Tung Chung

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Tender awarded for site in Tung Chung
    Tender awarded for site in Tung Chung
    *************************************

         The Lands Department announced today (February 19) that the tender for a site, Tung Chung Town Lot No. 55 at Area 106B, Tung Chung, New Territories, has been awarded to the highest tenderer, Land Castle Limited (parent company: Sun Hung Kai Properties Limited), on a 50-year land grant at a premium of $602,000,000.     The tenderers, other than the successful tenderer, in alphabetical order, with the name of the parent company where provided by the tenderer in brackets, were:(1) Able Best Limited;(2) Strong Associate Limited (K. Wah International Holdings Limited); and(3) Top Brilliant Limited (Sino Land Company Limited).     Tung Chung Town Lot No. 55 has a site area of about 10 648 square metres and is designated for private residential purposes. The minimum gross floor area is 22 361 sq m, and the maximum gross floor area that may be attained is 37 268 sq m.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 19, 2025Issued at HKT 17:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointments to Advisory Committee on the Northern Metropolis and its four sub-committees

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government announced today (February 19) the appointment of non-official members to the Advisory Committee on the Northern Metropolis (ACNM) and its four sub-committees for a new term of two years, from February 10, 2025, to February 9, 2027.
          
         The membership lists of the ACNM and its four sub-committees for the new term are at the Annex. The newly appointed members of the ACNM include Ms Cheng Jie, Mr Lee Shing-put, Mr Sunny Lee Wai-kwong, Mr Timothy Ma Kam-wah and Mr Simon Ng Ka-wing, who will also serve on the respective sub-committees under the ACNM. Additionally, Professor Karl Tsim Wah-keung is appointed as a new co-opted member of the Sub-committee on Development of Industries.
          
         The ACNM is chaired by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan. The four sub-committees under the ACNM are the Sub‑committee on Planning, Land and Conservation; the Sub-committee on Development of Industries; the Sub-committee on Transport and Other Infrastructure; and the Sub-committee on Promotion and Public Engagement. The sub-committees aim to conduct in-depth discussions on relevant areas and provide recommendations.
          
         Mr Chan said, “The Northern Metropolis is a crucial component of Hong Kong’s social and economic development. It serves as the carrier of a new engine of economic growth, playing a pivotal role in advancing innovation and technology, deepening integration with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and dovetailing with the overall national development strategy. Also, the Northern Metropolis creates high-quality career opportunities and living environments for the public. The development of the Northern Metropolis has been advancing on all fronts at full speed. The valuable insights provided by the ACNM members are instrumental in our work.” He expressed gratitude to members of the last term for their contributions. He also looks forward to working closely with members of the new term to continue promoting the development of the Northern Metropolis.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Composite Interest Rate: End of January 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Composite Interest Rate: End of January 2025
    Composite Interest Rate: End of January 2025
    ********************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:      The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced today (February 19) the composite interest rate at the end of January 2025 (Note 1).           The composite interest rate, which is a measure of the average cost of funds of banks, decreased by 8 basis points to 2.16 per cent at the end of January 2025, from 2.24 per cent at the end of December 2024 (see Chart 1 in the Annex). The decrease in composite interest rate reflected the decreases in the weighted funding cost for deposits and interbank funds during the month (see Chart 2 in the Annex) (Note 2).           The historical data of the composite interest rate from the end of the fourth quarter of 2003 to the end of January 2025 are available in the Monthly Statistical Bulletin on the HKMA website (www.hkma.gov.hk). Note 1: The composite interest rate is a weighted average interest rate of all Hong Kong dollar interest-rate-sensitive liabilities, which include deposits from customers, amounts due to banks, negotiable certificates of deposit and other debt instruments, and all other liabilities that do not involve any formal payment of interest but the values of which are sensitive to interest rate movements (such as Hong Kong dollar non-interest bearing demand deposits) on the books of banks. Data from retail banks, which account for about 90 per cent of the total customers’ deposits in the banking sector, are used in the calculation. It should be noted that the composite interest rate represents only average interest expenses. There are various other costs involved in the making of a loan, such as operating costs (e.g. staff and rental expenses), credit cost and hedging cost, which are not covered by the composite interest rate.Note 2: Since June 2019, the composite interest rate and weighted deposit rate have been calculated based on the new local “Interest rate risk in the banking book” (IRRBB) framework. As such, these figures are not strictly comparable with those of previous months.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 19, 2025Issued at HKT 16:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from Auglaize County of State of Ohio in US suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Import of poultry meat and products from Auglaize County of State of Ohio in US suspended
    Import of poultry meat and products from Auglaize County of State of Ohio in US suspended
    *****************************************************************************************

         ​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (February 19) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Auglaize County of the State of Ohio in the United States (US), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the area with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.     A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 79 630 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 19.6 million poultry eggs from the US last year.     “The CFS has contacted the American authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 19, 2025Issued at HKT 16:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Record of discussion of meeting of Exchange Fund Advisory Committee Currency Board Sub-Committee held on January 8

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Record of discussion of meeting of Exchange Fund Advisory Committee Currency Board Sub-Committee held on January 8
    Record of discussion of meeting of Exchange Fund Advisory Committee Currency Board Sub-Committee held on January 8
    ******************************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority: (Approved for Issue by the Exchange Fund Advisory Committee on February 5, 2025) Report on Currency Board Operations (October 19 – December 24, 2024)———————————————————————————-     The Currency Board Sub-Committee (Sub-Committee) noted that the Hong Kong dollar (HKD) traded within a range of 7.7656 – 7.7848 against the US dollar (USD) during the review period. The HKD exchange rate moderated slightly in the first half of November amid a pullback of the local stock market, and then recovered in December. HKD interbank rates continued to track the USD rates while also being affected by local supply and demand. Meanwhile, following the decreases in the target range for the US federal funds rate in early November and mid-December, many banks reduced their Best Lending Rates by a total of 37.5 basis points, and the Best Lending Rates in the market ranged from 5.25 per cent – 5.75 per cent at the end of the review period. The Convertibility Undertakings were not triggered and the Aggregate Balance was stable at around HK$45 billion. No abnormality was noted in the usage of the Discount Window. Overall, the HKD exchange and interbank markets continued to trade in a smooth and orderly manner.     ​The Sub-Committee noted that the Monetary Base increased to HK$1,958.14 billion at the end of the review period. In accordance with the Currency Board principles, all changes in the Monetary Base had been fully matched by changes in foreign reserves.     ​The Report on Currency Board Operations for the review period is at Annex.Monitoring of Risks and Vulnerabilities——————————————     The Sub-Committee noted that with the incoming US administration, uncertainties over US fiscal sustainability and trade policies, the future policy direction of the US Federal Reserve and the global economic outlook had increased considerably.     The Sub-Committee noted that in Mainland China, the introduction of a series of new policy measures since late-September 2024 had boosted asset market sentiment and led to some signs of improvement in the real economy moving into Q4 2024. At the Central Economic Work Conference and the Politburo Meeting in December 2024, the authorities further signalled more stimulus measures. However, the economic outlook was still subject to the tussle between the challenging external environment and domestic policy response. The renminbi exchange rate had remained relatively stable against the currency basket but had recently come under pressure against the USD amid a strengthening dollar, reversing the rally in August and September 2024.      ​     The Sub-Committee noted that in Hong Kong, the economy continued to grow but the momentum had softened in Q3 2024 amid subdued private consumption and decelerated growth of merchandise exports. Looking ahead, Hong Kong’s economy was expected to grow moderately in 2025, with downside risks stemming from the US policy rate path, global growth prospects, and the trade policies under the new US administration. Despite the sharp increase in housing market transactions in October and November 2024, market sentiment had softened in recent weeks amid increased concerns about a slower pace of US interest rate cuts. Meanwhile, the commercial real estate markets remained subdued especially in the office segment.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 19, 2025Issued at HKT 16:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ5: Complaints handled by Medical Council of Hong Kong

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Hoi-yan and a reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (February 19):
     
    Question:
     
         This Council passed in 2018 the amendments to the Medical Registration Ordinance, with the aim of improving the complaint investigation and disciplinary inquiry mechanism of the Medical Council of Hong Kong (MCHK) to address the problem of a backlog of cases. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council if it knows:
     
    (1) the average time taken by MCHK to handle a complaint case at present, and the average processing times at the consideration stage by Preliminary Investigation Committee and the inquiry stage respectively;
     
    (2) the total number of complaint cases received by MCHK in each of the past five years and, among them, the respective numbers of cases in which inquiries were held and the complaints were determined to be substantiated, with a breakdown by the type of medical practitioners involved (i.e. private medical practitioners, medical practitioners employed by the Hospital Authority, as well as medical practitioners of the Department of Health); and
     
    (3) among the complaint cases handled by MCHK in each of the past five years, the respective numbers of cases in which the handling time was less than two years, two to four years, five to seven years, and eight years or more; among these cases, the shortest, longest and median time taken from the lodging of the complaint by the complainant to the completion of all procedures, and the main reasons for cases taking a longer time to handle (i.e. more than two years)?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
              
         Healthcare professions in Hong Kong observe the principle of professional autonomy. Their statutory regulatory bodies were established by legislations. They are responsible for the registration of professionals, and maintaining and uplifting relevant professional standard and conduct. These regulatory bodies must be accountable to the public in discharging their duties, ensuring that Hong Kong can maintain healthcare professional standards and safeguarding the broader interests of the community.
     
         The Medical Council of Hong Kong (MCHK) is a statutory body established under the Medical Registration Ordinance (MRO) with the objectives of developing and facilitating medical professional competencies and standards, safeguarding ethical conduct and protecting patients. The MCHK is empowered by the MRO to regulate the medical profession, including handling the registration of medical practitioners, organising Licensing Examinations, formulating codes and guidelines for the profession, and conducting disciplinary inquiries against complaints made by members of the public in respect of professional misconduct of medical practitioners.
     
         Handling complaint cases is an important function of the MCHK. The mechanism of complaint investigation and disciplinary inquiries must be fair, impartial, transparent and efficient, in order to ensure healthcare professional standards and patients’ safety, and facilitate mutual trust between patients and healthcare professionals. The Government’s role is to ensure that the operation models of regulatory bodies keep up with time and the system work smoothly to meet the changing needs of society. To that end, the Government keeps the MRO under regular review to enable the MCHK to better carry out its various statutory functions, including the function of handling complaints, and propose amendments to the MRO to enhance the efficiency of the complaint-handling mechanism where necessary.
     
         With regard to the complaint-handling mechanism which was unable to operate effectively due to statutory limitations in the MRO, leading to a backlog of complaint cases, the Government proposed to amend the MRO in 2017 to enhance the efficiency and flexibility of the mechanism. Newly introduced measures include setting up inquiry panels under the MCHK to conduct inquiries, increasing participation of lay persons in inquiry proceedings, and increasing the number of assessors. The legislative amendment was passed by the Legislative Council in 2018, enhancing the efficiency of the MCHK in handling complaints. After the legislative amendment, the number of inquiry cases heard per year increased from an average of 25 before 2018 to an average of 48 in the past five years, marking an increase of 90 per cent. The average time for processing a disciplinary inquiry case also dropped from around six years to an average of 3.5 years. 

         At present, the establishment of the MCHK Secretariat comprises 30 civil service posts, and contract staff are also engaged. The Government will review the services provided by the Secretariat for the MCHK from time to time, and increase its operational efficiency through various measures, such as increasing the use of information technology and organisational structure to better support the MCHK in discharging its statutory duties. The Government will also consider suitably increasing manpower and other resources for the Secretariat where necessary.
     
         In response to the Hon Chan Hoi-yan’s question, after consulting the MCHK Secretariat, the consolidated reply is as follows:
     
         In the past five years, the number of complaint cases the MCHK received per year ranged from around 500 to over 3 000. The number of cases requiring disciplinary inquiries and involving doctors in private practice and in the public sector, and the number of substantiated cases, are set out at Annex 1.
     
         The MCHK had concluded over 8 700 complaint cases in the past five years. The average time taken since receipt of complaints till conclusion of cases is 27 months. In 98 per cent of these cases, disciplinary procedures were completed within four years after receiving the complaint. Other cases that required longer processing time were usually more complex in nature, requiring time to examine relevant medical record(s), seek medical experts’ report(s), and consult legal advice, etc. Among these complaint cases, the Preliminary Investigation Committees (PICs) dismissed around 7 000 cases for being frivolous or complainant not providing further information, decided that no inquiry by an inquiry panel was to be held in around 1 500 cases, and referred three cases involving the physical and mental condition of the medical practitioner to the Health Committee for consideration. Disciplinary inquiries were required in only 221 cases, i.e. less than 3 per cent. Those some 8 700 concluded complaint cases, broken down by processing time, are set out at Annex 2.
     
         President, the Government will continue to strive for reforms to enhance healthcare quality and efficiency, including inviting major institutions in the Hong Kong healthcare sector to establish the Institute for Medical Advancement and Clinical Excellence last December as a professional platform to develop evidence-based clinical protocols and explore the feasibility of devising service quality and efficiency standards for healthcare services with the plan to consult the sector within this year. 
     
         Regulatory bodies of healthcare professions must also undergo constant reform to meet the expectation of the community. The Government will keep the operation of the MCHK under ongoing review, and is happy to listen to the views of different sectors.
     
         Thank you, President. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: TRIFED signs MoUs with Meesho, IFCA & Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Industrialisation

    Source: Government of India

    TRIFED signs MoUs with Meesho, IFCA & Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Industrialisation

    The collaboration to promote livelihood generation of tribal community

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 1:29PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant move to transcend from B2C to B2B approach for tribal communities, Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd (TRIFED) has entered into a strategic partnership with Meesho, Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA) and Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Industrialization (MGIRI) to facilitate tribal businesses. Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) were signed on 18th February during the ongoing flagship event ‘Aadi Mahotsav’, held at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in the National Capital being from 16 to 24 February 2025, marking a pivotal step in ensuring the implementation of the B2B approach and augmentation of the tribal product market.

    The principal objective of the MoU with Meesho is to facilitate the onboarding of tribal products onto their social commerce platform, accompanied by training and capacity-building initiatives for tribal suppliers. Whereas the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA) will assist in establishing long-term collaborations with culinary professionals and hotel chains through their technology platform. Furthermore, the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Industrialization (MGIRI) has partnered with the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) as the knowledge partner to conduct training and capacity building for artisans.

    These MoUs were exchanged by General Managers of TRIFED with Ms Prachi Bhuchar, Head of Public Policy & Government Affairs, Meesho, Chef Manjit Gill, IFCA and Dr. Ashutosh A. Murkute, Director, MGIRI respectively in the presence of Shri Ashish Chatterjee, Managing Director, TRIFED on various aspects leading to social economic development of tribal communities across the country. With this and several other ventures, TRIFED continues further with its efforts to enable the economic welfare of these communities and bring them closer towards mainstream development.

    President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu had inaugurated the festival on February 16, 2025 in the august presence of Shri Jual Oram, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs; Shri Durga Das Uikey, MoS Tribal Affairs; Ms. Bansuri Swaraj, Member of Parliament, New Delhi.

     

    About TRIFED: TRIFED is an organization under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, dedicated to the socio-economic development of tribal communities through the marketing development of tribal products. TRIFED has been organising “Aadi Mahotsav – National Tribal Festival” to provide direct market access to the tribal master-craftsmen and women in large metros and State capitals. The theme of the festival is “A Celebration of the Spirit of Entrepreneurship, Tribal Craft, Culture, Cuisine and Commerce”, which represents the basic ethos of tribal life.

    About Meesho: Meesho is an Indian e-commerce platform that primarily focuses on social commerce. It allows individuals and small businesses to sell products online through their portal and often through social media channels like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. The platform provides a wide range of products including clothing, accessories, home goods, and more.

    About IFCA: The Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA) is a professional organization dedicated to the development and promotion of the culinary arts in India. It serves as a national body that represents the interests of chefs and culinary professionals across the country. The IFCA works to advance the culinary profession through education, networking, and collaboration among chefs, culinary educators, and the hospitality industry.

    About MGIRI:

    *The Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Industrialization (MGIRI) is an institution in India dedicated to promoting rural industrialization. It was established to carry forward the vision of Mahatma Gandhi regarding sustainable rural development and self-reliance through the promotion of small-scale and cottage industries.

    ******

    Pawan Singh Faujdar/Divyanshu Kumar

    (Release ID: 2104628) Visitor Counter : 10

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ2: Monitoring of public organisations

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Kennedy Wong and a reply by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, in the Legislative Council today (February 19):Question:     There are views pointing out that the Reports of the Director of Audit (the Reports) in recent years have revealed the governance problems of quite a number of public organisations, and this has aroused concerns about the Government’s ability to monitor public organisations. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:(1) as it has been reported that, to the Director of Audit’s surprise, the arrangements concerning claims for allowances as put in place by some organisations receiving subventions from government funds are contrary to government guidelines, whether the authorities will review how to enhance the monitoring of such organisations, so as to comply with the guidelines on the governance of public organisations in respect of a key element therein relating to robust internal control as well as reporting and monitoring mechanisms;(2) as it has been reported that the Audit Commission will place more emphasis on conducting audits on public organisations, funds and social welfare organisations in the future, of the details of the specific work plan; whether the organisations concerned include statutory bodies such as the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, which receive relatively substantial government subventions; and(3) of the number of public organisations which needed to improve their governance in the light of the recommendations made in the Reports in the past five years, and whether it has looked into the average time taken by such organisations to implement the relevant improvement measures; whether it will step up efforts in monitoring the progress of the relevant work of public organisations; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?Reply:President,     Thank you Dr the Hon Kennedy Wong for the question, offering me a chance to talk about the monitoring of public organisations. The Government attaches great importance to good corporate governance of public organisations and monitors these organisations under a multi-pronged approach. Enhancing corporate governance of public organisations not only uplifts their overall efficiency and cost effectiveness, but also plays an integral role in facilitating effective implementation of the organisations’ policies and work objectives. Generally speaking, while respecting the need for public organisations to maintain flexibility in operation and its independence, the Government considers the objectives of setting up the organisations and the powers conferred on them, and formulates regulatory mechanisms for these organisations as appropriate and necessary. Detailed arrangements are mapped out by the relevant bureaux.      In consultation with the Administration Wing and the Audit Commission (AUD), our reply to Dr the Hon Kennedy Wong’s question is as follows: (1) Public organisations should devise a proper governance framework, having regard to the size of the public organsations, the nature of their work and relevant Ordinances. The relevant bureaux should also ensure that a good governance framework is in place in the organisations under their purview. Such arrangements generally consist of the following elements: (i) To set clear work objectives;(ii) To make a clear delineation of roles and responsibilities between the Government, the governing body and the senior management of the public organisation; and(iii) To put in place robust internal monitoring and reporting systems.     Bureaux also appoint appropriate personnel (e.g. those with relevant experience and professional knowledge) to the governing bodies of the public organisations, with a view to monitoring the organisations in an effective manner.     In terms of financial control, subvented organisations are required to prepare a budget annually and submit audited financial accounts to the Government. Where necessary, the Government may include the relevant organisations into the scope of audit by the AUD having regard to the actual circumstances. The subvented organisations should also develop comprehensive understanding of the relevant guidelines pertaining to the management and control of government funding, put in place an appropriate system of cost control and monitoring, and abide by the principle of financial prudence with a view to ensuring proper use of public money and cost-effectiveness. The relevant bureaux will also formulate appropriate monitoring measures, such as drawing up service level agreements and setting out consequences of non-compliance with the responsibilities therein, to maintain effective supervision. This will be done having regard to the organisations’ individual targets, nature and circumstances.     Where the Director of Audit (the Director) selects individual public organisations for conducting Value for Money (VFM) audits, the respective bureaux/Controlling Officers (COs) should give their full co-operation and supervise the public organisations under their purview in implementing the audit recommendations conscientiously. They should also review how to strengthen monitoring of the relevant organisations in accordance with the elements of robust internal control and reporting/monitoring systems as set out in the guidelines on governance of public organisations.      In a nutshell, the Government has strived to enhance the governance of public organisations on various fronts. Bureaux will conduct reviews on the governance of public organisations under their purview from time to time to ensure their effective operation and good governance.(2) The AUD conducts VFM audits on a wide range of subjects, with a view to ensuring proper use of public money. In addition to bureaux and departments, the AUD may conduct audits on various bodies such as public organisations, funds and social welfare organisations, having regard to the following circumstances: (i) The body receives more than half of its income from public money; (ii) The Director is empowered under an Ordinance to audit the accounts of the body and there are currently 23 such bodies. The Director reviews and conducts audits on the economy and efficiency with which these bodies have used their resources in performing their functions and exercising their powers; (iii) The Chief Executive authorises the Director to audit the accounts and records of the body in the public interest; or(iv) By virtue of an agreement made between the Government and the individual body, the Director is empowered to audit the body’s accounts and records. Examples include social welfare organisations funded under the Lump Sum Grant Subvention System.     As the Hong Kong Trade Development Council does not meet the above criteria, it does not fall into the Director’s scope of audit.     In selecting VFM audit projects and according priorities, the Director takes into account a number of factors, including the materiality of projects, their timeliness, the public money and risks involved, and the benefits to be brought about. Until the reports are tabled in the Legislative Council (LegCo), the issues under the AUD’s investigation are confidential. Therefore, we cannot disclose the specific work plans. (3) Among the 10 reports which the Director prepared from 2020 to 2024, 12 chapters involved audit recommendations for 12 public organisations to improve their governance. Of these public organisations, six have fully implemented the recommendations made by the AUD and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of LegCo. On average, it takes about 1.5 years for the said organisations to implement all the recommendations.     The Government makes regular reports to the LegCo implementation progress of various recommendations in the form of Government Minutes and Annual Progress Reports. In addition to efforts by the relevant bureaux/COs in monitoring their public organisations in implementing audit recommendations seriously and expeditiously, the AUD would also discuss with the PAC the progress of audited organisations (including public organisations) in implementing the recommendations.      Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Defence Secretary co-chairs 13th Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee meeting in Kuala Lumpur

    Source: Government of India

    Defence Secretary co-chairs 13th Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee meeting in Kuala Lumpur

    Both countries enhance cooperation in domains of defence industry, maritime security, multilateral engagements & emerging areas

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 12:49PM by PIB Delhi

    The 13th meeting of Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee (MIDCOM) took place in Kuala Lumpur on February 19, 2025. The meeting was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and Secretary General of Ministry of Defence, Malaysia Mr Lokman Hakim Bin Ali. Both sides expressed happiness at the growing bilateral defence cooperation with regular engagements between the two Armed Forces in recent years.

    The two sides held wide-ranging discussions on effective & practical initiatives to further expand bilateral defence engagements and regional & global issues. Both chairs identified steps to further enhance cooperation in emerging areas such as cyber security and AI. They identified ways to deepen existing collaboration, particularly in the defence industry, maritime security, and multilateral engagements. They agreed to form a joint focus group to address non-traditional maritime security threats.

    Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to fully implement the new initiatives under the defence pillar of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, as envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and his Malaysian counterpart Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the latter’s visit to India in August 2024.

    India and Malaysia also exchanged the finalised Terms of Reference (ToR) on the establishment of Strategic Affairs Working Group. This forum will act as a consultative mechanism intermediate between the MIDCOM and the two sub-committees to progress all aspects of bilateral defence cooperation.

    Both sides also exchanged the finalised ToR on the establishment of Su-30 forum as an outcome of MIDCOM. Su-30 Forum will enable closer cooperation between the two Air Forces in exchanging expertise and best practices in Su-30 maintenance.

    The Defence Secretary highlighted the capability of the Indian defence industry, particularly its potential to collaborate with the Malaysian companies and the Armed Forces in their capability enhancement and modernisation. He congratulated Malaysia on assuming the chairmanship of ASEAN and ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus and wished MoD, Malaysia the best for conduct of ADMM Plus and ASEAN Defence Senior Officials’ Meeting meetings this year.

    India supports ASEAN centrality and unity, which is a crucial element of India’s Indo-Pacific Vision. The Defence Secretary reiterated India’s support to Malaysia’s endeavours as ASEAN chair in promoting a stronger, unified, and prosperous ASEAN that plays a central role in shaping the evolving dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region.

    India considers Malaysia as an important partner in the Indo-Pacific as Malaysia lies at the confluence of three key foreign policy visions i.e. Act East Policy, SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.

    ***

    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2104611) Visitor Counter : 13

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly embraces National eVidhan Application

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 FEB 2025 12:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly has embraced the National eVidhan Application (NeVA) and become a Digital House.

    The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami and Speaker Smt. Ritu Khanduri inaugurated the National eVidhan Application in the Assembly. The Governor of Uttarakhand, Shri Gurmit Singh also graced the event.

    ***

    SS/ISA

    (Release ID: 2104607) Visitor Counter : 112

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –