Most Australians can look forward to a comfortable retirement. More than three in four retirees own their own home, most report feeling comfortable financially, and few suffer financial stress.
But our new Grattan Institute report paints a sobering picture for one group: retirees who rent in the private market. Two-thirds of this group live in poverty, including more than three in four single women who live alone.
Retirees who rent often have little in the way of retirement savings: more than half have less than A$25,000 stashed away. And a growing number of older Australians are at risk of becoming homeless.
But our research also shows just how much we’d need to boost Commonwealth Rent Assistance to make housing more affordable and ensure all renters are able to retire with dignity.
Today’s renters, tomorrow’s renting retirees
Home ownership is falling among poorer Australians who are approaching retirement.
Between 1981 and 2021, home ownership rates among the poorest 40% of 45–54-year-olds fell from 68% to just 54%. Today’s low-income renters are tomorrow’s renting retirees.
Age pensioners need at least $40,000 in savings to afford to spend $350 a week in rent, together with the Age Pension and Rent Assistance. That’s enough to afford the cheapest 25% of one-bedroom homes in capital cities.
But Australians who are renting as they approach retirement tend to have little in the way of retirement savings. 40% of renting households aged 55-64 have net financial wealth less than $40,000.
Rent assistance is too low
Our research shows that Commonwealth Rent Assistance, which supplements the Age Pension for poorer retirees who rent, is inadequate.
A single retiree needs at least $379 per week to afford non-housing essentials. marikun/Shutterstock
A typical single retiree needs at least $379 per week to afford essential non-housing costs such as food, transport and energy.
But we found a single pensioner who relies solely on income support can afford to rent just 4% of one-bedroom homes in Sydney, 13% in Brisbane, and 14% in Melbourne, after covering these basic living expenses.
With Rent Assistance indexed to inflation, rather than low-income earners’ housing costs, the maximum rate of the payment has increased by 136% since 2001, while the rents paid by recipients have increased by 193%.
A boost is needed
Our analysis suggests that to solve this problem, the federal government should increase the maximum rate of Rent Assistance by 50% for singles and 40% for couples.
The payment should also be indexed to changes in rents for the cheapest 25% of homes in our capital cities.
These increases would boost the maximum rate of Rent Assistance by $53 a week ($2,750 a year) for singles, and $40 a week ($2,080 a year) for couples.
This would ensure single retirees could afford to spend $350 a week on rent, enough to rent the cheapest 25% of one-bedroom homes across Australian capital cities, while still affording other essentials.
Similarly, retired couples would be able to afford to spend $390 a week on rent, enough to rent the cheapest 25% of all one- and two-bedroom homes.
Unlikely to push up rents
One common concern is that increasing Rent Assistance will just lead landlords to hike rents. But we find little evidence that this is the case.
International studies suggest that more than five in six dollars of any extra Rent Assistance paid would benefit renters, rather than landlords.
In Australia, there’s little evidence that recent increases in Rent Assistance have pushed up rents.
Our analysis of NSW rental bond lodgement data suggests areas with higher concentrations of Rent Assistance recipients did not see larger rent increases in the year after the payment was boosted.
That’s not surprising. Rent Assistance is paid to tenants, not landlords, which means tenants are likely to spend only a small portion of any extra income on housing.
Since rates of financial stress are even higher among younger renters, we propose that any increase to Rent Assistance should also apply to working-age households.
Boosting Rent Assistance for all recipients would cost about $2 billion a year, with about $500 million of this going to retirees.
Grattan Institute began with contributions to its endowment of $15 million from each of the federal and Victorian governments, $4 million from BHP Billiton, and $1 million from NAB. In order to safeguard its independence, Grattan Institute’s board controls this endowment. The funds are invested and contribute to funding Grattan Institute’s activities. Grattan Institute also receives funding from corporates, foundations, and individuals to support its general activities, as disclosed on its website.
Changes to investor visa settings will make New Zealand more attractive as an investment destination, says BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich.
We welcome the next move in the government’s foreign investment strategy to attract high net wealth individuals and their families. Investors bring international business networks, unique skills and expertise as well as capital to our country, says Mrs Rich.
A broader range of investment opportunities and internationally comparable settings will open the doors for investors that want to call New Zealand home. There is an opportunity for New Zealand businesses to leverage these networks for investment and international trade. We welcome these visa changes and look forward to continued efforts by the government to attract foreign investment and expertise.
The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.
The NZSA Youth Mentor Programme seeks Emerging Young Writers
Four secondary school students will have the opportunity to be mentored by one of New Zealand’s best professional authors in order to develop their craft and hone their writing skills.
The NZSA Youth Mentorship Programme offers aspiring young writers aged 15 -18 a mentorship, from May to November. The intent of the mentor programme is to foster and develop emerging writing talent with the support of established authors. There are 4 places awarded each year in the youth programme, and it is a game-changing opportunity for young writers.
NZSA has been running successful assessment and mentoring programmes since 1999 that aim are to nurture, encourage, inspire and develop emerging writers with the support of established writers through mentoring and assessment.
Comments from previous youth mentees Leo Reid from Hamilton had award-winning author Kyle Mewburn as their mentor in 2024 and had this to say: “Through the NZSA Youth Mentorship Program, I have developed my skills as an author outside of simply writing. My mentor Kyle was endlessly kind and patient with me and I feel I have grown into myself using her help. Kyle offered me the experience of working with a seasoned author as well as providing me with extremely beneficial feedback. I know I can apply these newfound skills to projects outside of the one I had been working on with Kyle. I will look back on this shared time with her as one of immense value to myself, on both a personal level and as a writer.”
“I feel that I improved my skills as a writer and made a great deal of progress in terms of my project — I now have a clear structure, a plan moving forward and many smaller pieces to work with and develop further. Michelle has helped me build confidence in my work and consider things I previously didn’t, such as pacing and specific characterisation, as well as highlighting my strengths,” said Stella Weston who was partnered with writer and editor, Michelle Elvy.
Yiyang Cao of Auckland had award-winning poet Siobhan Harvey for her mentor and said this about her experience, “I feel that I’ve developed significantly as a poet this year, a process that was well aided by the feedback exchanged with my mentor. Her suggestions on form and craft have been intriguing and helpful to me as I worked towards finding my own poetic voice. I’ve also achieved the goal I had entering the mentorship, of writing and compiling a personal anthology of 40 of my poems in 2023.”
The Youth Mentor Programme is run by the NZSA, the principal organisation representing writers in Aotearoa. We offer memberships for writers at all stages of their careers including students. Our assessment and mentorship programmes, such as our annual Youth mentorships, are offered with the support of Creative New Zealand.
About NZSA The NZSA represents over 1,800 writers in New Zealand. We offer support through advocacy and representation, professional development, information and guidance on publishing and the literary arts, administer prizes and awards and contract and business advice. We work to protect authors incomes and offer memberships for writers at all stages of their careers including students. Our many assessment and mentorship programmes, such as our annual Youth mentorships, are offered with the support of Creative New Zealand. NZSA is affiliated to International PEN, a voice that upholds freedom of speech and protests against writers falsely silenced and imprisoned around the world. www.authors.org.nz
New Zealand should be robust in its response to the “unacceptable” situation in Gaza but it must also back its allies against threats by the US President, says an international relations academic.
Otago University professor of international relations Robert Patman said the rest of the world also “should stop tip-toeing” around President Donald Trump and must stand up to any threats he makes against allies, no matter how outlandish they seem.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters told RNZ that New Zealand would not comment on the plan until it was clear exactly what was meant, but said New Zealand continued to support a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine.
Dr Patman said the president’s plan was “truly shocking and absolutely appalling” in light of the devastation in Gaza in the last 15 months.
It was not only “tone deaf” but also dangerous, he added, with the proposal amounting to “the most powerful country in the world — the US — dismantling an international rules=based system that [it] has done so much to establish”.
“This was an extraordinary proposal which I think is reckless and dangerous because it certainly doesn’t help the immediate situation. It probably plays into the hands of extremists in the region.
“There is a view at the moment that we must all tiptoe round Mr Trump in order not to upset him, while he’s completely free to make outrageous suggestions which endanger people’s lives.”
Professor Robert Patman . . . Trump’s plan for Gaza “truly shocking and absolutely appalling”. Image: RNZ
Winston Peters’ careful position on a potential US takeover of Gaza was “a fair response . . . but the Luxon-led government must be clear the current situation is unacceptable” and oppose protectionism, he said.
“[The government ] wants a solution in the Middle East which recognises both the Israeli desire for security but also recognises the political right to self determination of the Palestinian people — in other words the right to have a state of their own.”
New Zealand should also speak out against Trump’s threats to annex Canada, “our very close ally”, he said.
He was “not suggesting New Zealand be provocative but it must be robust”, Dr Patman said.
Greens also respond to Trump actions The Green Party said President Trump had been explicit in his intention to take over Gaza, and New Zealand needed to make its position crystal clear too.
Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick said the Prime Minister needed to stand up and condemn the plan as “reprehensible”.
“President Trump’s comments have been pretty clear to anybody who is able to read or to listen to them, about his intention to forcibly displace, or to see displaced, about 1.8 million Gazans from their own land, who have already been made refugees in their own land.”
France, Spain, Ireland, Brazil and other countries had been “unequivocal” in their condemnation of Trump’s plan, and NZ’s Foreign Affairs Minister should be too, she added.
“New Zealanders value justice and they value peace, and they want to see our leadership represent that, on the international stage. So [these were] really disappointing and unfortunately unclear comments from our Deputy Prime Minister.”
Yesterday Foreign Minister Winston Peters told RNZ that New Zealand still supported a two-state solution, but said he would not comment on Trump’s Gaza plan until officials could grasp exactly what this meant.
Dozens of countries have expressed “unwavering support” for the ICC in a joint statement, after the US President imposed sanctions on its staff.
The 125-member ICC is a permanent court that can prosecute individuals for war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and the crime of aggression against the territory of member states or by their nationals.
The United States, China, Russia and Israel are not members.
Trump has accused the court of improperly targeting the US and its ally, Israel.
Neither New Zealand nor Australia had joined the statement, but in a statement to RNZ the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had always supported the ICC’s role in upholding international law and a rules-based system.
University of Victoria law professor Alberto Costi said currently New Zealand is at little risk of sanctions and there’s no need for a stronger approach.
“At this stage there is no reason to be stronger. New Zealand is perceived as a state that believes in a rules-based order and is supportive of the work of the ICC.
“So there’s not much need to go further but it’s a space to watch in the future, should these sanctions become a reality.
“But as far as New Zealand is concerned, at the moment there is no need to antagonise anyone at this stage.”
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Three men have been rescued after being reported missing while rafting on the Waikaia River near Piano Flat.
Police were alerted at around 9.30pm yesterday that the men did not reach their designated pick-up point after a planned trip on the river.
After making initial enquiries overnight, Police Search and Rescue began the search at first light this morning.
Police would like to thank Fire and Emergency New Zealand for providing a Command Truck for a forward search base at Piano Flat.
Southern Lakes Helicopters – Te Anau assisted the search by providing a helicopter, which located two inflatable watercrafts in a gorge section of the river, about 6.5km north of Piano Flat.
At around 11.30am, one of the men was sighted by the helicopter near the river’s edge with a leg injury.
The other two men were located nearby a short time later, cold but otherwise uninjured.
The trio were winched from the river to safety by the helicopter and were medically assessed. The man with the leg injury was transported to hospital by Ambulance.
Police would like to thank Land Search and Rescue volunteers from Southland, Eastern Southland, Catlins, and Fiordland, alongside Amateur Radio Emergency Communications.
Police would also like to thank the public who provided vital information of the area and terrain.
China and Thailand on Saturday issued a joint statement pledging to strengthen cooperation in cracking down on online scam operations, human and drug trafficking and money laundering.
Online scam operations have plagued many Southeast Asian countries, including Myanmar, Cambodia and Thailand, becoming increasingly rampant in recent years. In these operations, people lured by false advertisements for high-paying jobs are trafficked into secretive compounds, where criminal groups force them to run online scams targeting victims worldwide, including in China.
Both sides stressed the urgency and necessity of enhancing cooperation to combat these transnational crimes. They agreed to further discussions to establish effective coordination mechanisms for tackling these crimes at an early stage and to promote judicial cooperation among Lancang-Mekong countries.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening military exchanges, joint training, defense industry collaboration, capacity building, and technology transfer to promote regional peace and stability.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of China-Thailand diplomatic ties. In their statement, both sides pledged to deepen cooperation in high-quality development, clean energy, the digital economy and green growth. They aim to boost bilateral trade by expanding market access, promoting high-quality products, and enhancing e-commerce collaboration.
Additionally, both sides emphasized the importance of connectivity in driving regional economic integration and shared development. They agreed to strengthen Belt and Road cooperation, including the China-Thailand railway project, to enhance regional connectivity.
As people travel back home from the Burt Munro Challenge, we remind motorists that our highways are not racetracks and there is no prize for getting home first.
Thousands of people are leaving the Invercargill region in the coming days, prompting our reminder to drive safely so you reach your destinations safely.
Ensure you plan your journey ahead and allow plenty of travel time in case of delays. With a significant increase in traffic heading out of the region, it is crucial to keep your cool all times.
Please drive to the conditions, obey all speed limits and restrictions, don’t drive impaired and keep your phone away. If you are feeling fatigued, pull over or have somebody else drive.
If you are on a motorcycle, wear all the appropriate safety gear and check your bike is road safe before setting off.
We hope everyone enjoyed the events in our region, and if you’re on the road, expect to see us out and about, making sure everyone’s safe.
The Government is modernising visa settings to incentivise migrants to invest in New Zealand. “Foreign investment has the potential to provide jobs for Kiwis, lift incomes by delivering new businesses and investing in existing ones. We should be rolling out the welcome mat and encouraging investor migrants to choose New Zealand as a destination for their capital,” Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis says. “Unfortunately, changes made to the Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa category by the previous government had the effect of discouraging potential investors from seeking New Zealand residence. Since 2022, migrants entering New Zealand under the AIP category have invested just $70 million. By contrast, in the two years prior to COVID-19 migrants invested $2.2 billion. “Rather than turning potential investors away, this Government is intent on welcoming people who want to contribute to New Zealand. We are already making it easier for digital nomads to work remotely while visiting here and have established Invest New Zealand to promote investment into this country,” Ms Willis says. “Capital is highly mobile and in an increasing complex world, people are looking for a safe and stable country to do business. We are now making our investor visa simpler and more flexible to incentivise investors to choose New Zealand as a destination not just for their capital, skills and international connections, but to build a life for themselves and their family here,” Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says. From 1 April the current complex weighting system for the AIP will be replaced with two simplified investment categories:
The Growth category will focus on higher-risk investments, including direct investments in New Zealand businesses. It will require a minimum investment of $5 million for a minimum period of three years. The Balanced category will focus on mixed investments, with the ability to choose ones that are lower risk. There will be a minimum investment of $10 million over five years.
Other changes include expanding the scope of acceptable investments and removing potential barriers to investment, such as the English language requirement. “Incentivising, simplifying and broadening the investment offerings will make New Zealand more attractive and accessible to more foreign high-value investors. These changes will turbocharge our economic growth, bringing brighter days ahead for all Kiwis,” Ms Stanford says.
There is no doubt that Australia has the best beaches in the world, and Tourism Australia’s official 2025 Best Australian Beaches list highlights just how extraordinary our coastline is.
For the first time Tasmania has won the title of Australia’s ‘best beach,’ with the coveted top spot going to a 10-kilometre section of pristine coastline in the Bay of Fires, stretching across a handful of beach bays from The Gardens to Binalong Bay.
Other notable beaches on the list include Little Lagoon which is an egg-shaped inlet at Shark Bay in Western Australia and Fishery Bay on the Eyre Peninsula which is located about 20 minutes southwest of Port Lincoln.
The Best Australian Beaches list helps international travellers and local holidaymakers, to discover hidden gems and explore different parts of the country beyond our capital cities.
Congratulations to all of the communities connected with the top 10 Best Australian Beaches for 2025:
Bay of Fires, Tasmania
Woolgoolga, New South Wales
Emily Bay Lagoon, Norfolk Island
North Kirra Beach, Queensland
Little Lagoon, Western Australia
Fishery Bay, South Australia
1770, Queensland
Scarborough Beach, Western Australia
Caves Beach, New South Wales
Cowes Beach, Victoria
Tourism Australia’s beach ambassador, Brad Farmer AM, curates the list each year, which helps to refine the top 10 from the almost 12,000 beaches on Australia’s mainland and islands.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell:
“There will be many families, just like mine, that love looking through the “Best Australian Beaches” list every year to pick which ones they want to visit next.
“It’s a very difficult job choosing just 10 places to highlight from the almost 12,000 beaches on Australia’s mainland and islands – but Tourism Australia’s beach ambassador does an exceptional and thorough job.
“I was thrilled to see Fishery Bay on the Eyre Peninsula in SA make the top 10 – my great grandfather was the first harbour master at nearby Arno Bay, which is also a stunning spot.
“This year’s list will highlight to the world what many in Australia know – that Bondi and Brighton are wonderful, but it’s worth the journey to regional SA to see some truly unique beaches.”
Images, vision and grabs are available via the Dropbox library.
A national Palestine advocacy group has hit back at critics of its “genocide hotline” campaign against soldiers involved in Israel’s war against Gaza, saying New Zealand should be actively following international law.
“Why is concern for the sensitivities of soldiers from a genocidal Israeli campaign more important than condemning the genocide itself?,” asked PSNA national chair John Minto in a statement.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters, the Chief Human Rights Commissioner Stephen Rainbow and the New Zealand Jewish Council have made statements “protecting” Israeli soldiers who come to New Zealand on “rest and recreation” from the industrial-scale killing of 47,000 Palestinians in Gaza until a truce went into force on January 19.
“We are not surprised to see such a predictable lineup of apologists for Israel and its genocide in Gaza from lining up to attack a PSNA campaign with false smears of anti-semitism,” Minto said.
He said that over 16 months Peters had done “absolutely nothing” to put any pressure on Israel to end its genocidal behaviour.
“But he is full of bluff and bluster and outright lies to denounce those who demand Israel be held to account.”
Deny illegal settler visas Minto said that if Peters was doing his job as Foreign Minister, he would not only stop Israeli soldiers coming to Aotearoa New Zealand — as with Russian soldiers in the Ukraine war — he would also deny visas to any Israeli with an address in an illegal Israeli settlement in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Whlle the commission said it had received 90 complaints about the hotline, it had also received eight complaints about immigration policy allowing Israeli soldiers to enter New Zealand under the visa waiver scheme that applies to Israel.
“Our campaign has nothing to do with Israelis or Jews — it is a campaign to stop Israeli soldiers coming here for rest and recreation after a campaign of wholesale killing of Palestinians in Gaza,” Minto said.
“To imply the campaign is targeting Jews is disgusting and despicable.
“Some of the soldiers will be Druse, some Palestinian Arabs and others will be Jews.”
The five-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab, shot 355 times by Israeli soldiers on 29 January 2024. Image: @Onlyloren/Instagram
Israeli soldiers are facing a growing risk of being arrested abroad for alleged war crimes committed in Gaza, with around 50 criminal complaints filed so far in courts in several countries around the world.
Earlier this month, a former Israeli soldier abruptly ended his holiday in Brazil and was “smuggled” out of the country after a Federal Court ordered police to open a war crimes investigation against him. The man fled to Argentina.
A complaint lodged by the Belgium-based Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF) included more than 500 pages of court records linking the suspect to the demolition of civilian homes in Gaza.
‘Historic’ court ruling against soldier The foundation called the Brazilian court’s decision “historic”, saying it marked a significant precedent for a member country of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to enforce Rome Statute provisions domestically in the 15-month Israeli war on Gaza.
The foundation is named in honour of five-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab who was killed on 29 January 2024 by Israel soldiers while pleading for help in a car after her six family members were dead.
According to The New Arab, the foundation has so far tracked and sent the names of 1000 Israeli soldiers to the ICC and Interpol, and has been pursuing legal cases in a number of countries, including Belgium, Brazil, Cyprus, France, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.
In November, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, together with a former Hamas commander, citing allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Minto accused the New Zealand Jewish Council of being “deeply racist” and said it regularly “makes a meal of false smears of anti-semitism”.
“It’s deeply problematic that this Jewish Council strategy takes attention away from the real anti-semitism which exists in New Zealand and around the world.
“The priority of the Jewish Council is to protect Israel from criticism and protect it from accountability for its apartheid policies, ethnic cleansing and genocide.
“We are demanding that accountability.”
NZ ‘going through the motions’ In a later statement, PSNA said the government had begun to “go through the motions” of questioning Israeli soldiers at the border but it was just a “look busy policy – too little too late”.
NZ requires Israelis to disclose IDF service details as condition for entry – a similar policy to Australia. Image: Times of Israel screenshot APR
Immigration questioning Israeli of soldiers about their military service in Gaza at the New Zealand border was revealed in a Times of Israel report today which said:
“New Zealand’s government immigration authority has begun to require Israelis applying for a visa to report details of their military service as a condition for entry, and at least one person has been denied admission after doing so.”
PSNA’s Minto said the government must also uphold the ICJ advisory opinion of 19 July 2024 which called on global governments to end support for Israel’s illegal occupation.
“This means we should also deny entry to every Israeli wanting to visit here who has an address in an illegal Israeli settlement in the Occupied Palestinian Territories,” Minto added.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Curling event at Asian Winter Games
Updated: February 9, 2025 08:53Xinhua
Han Yu (R) and Wang Zhiyu of China compete during the mixed doubles bronze medal match of the curling event between Han Yu/Wang Zhiyu of China and Kathleen Sumbillo Dubberstein/Marc Pfister of the Philippines at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]Han Yu of China competes during the mixed doubles bronze medal match of the curling event between Han Yu/Wang Zhiyu of China and Kathleen Sumbillo Dubberstein/Marc Pfister of the Philippines at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]Han Yu (L) and Wang Zhiyu of China greet the audience before the mixed doubles bronze medal match of the curling event between Han Yu/Wang Zhiyu of China and Kathleen Sumbillo Dubberstein/Marc Pfister of the Philippines at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]Han Yu (R) and Wang Zhiyu of China clap hands during the mixed doubles bronze medal match of the curling event between Han Yu/Wang Zhiyu of China and Kathleen Sumbillo Dubberstein/Marc Pfister of the Philippines at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]Gold medalists Koana Tori (4th L)/Aoki Go(3rd L) of Japan, silver medalists Kim Kyeongae (2nd L)/Seong Jihoon(1st L) of South Korea, and bronze medalists Han Yu (2nd R)/Wang Zhiyu of China, pose for a group photo during the mixed doubles awarding ceremony of the curling event at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]Bronze medalists Han Yu (R, front)/Wang Zhiyu (L, front) of China attend the mixed doubles awarding ceremony of the curling event at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
There will be a visible Police presence in the Hawke’s Bay on Monday for the tangi of a senior member of the Mongrel Mob.
In the morning, the deceased will be taken from Mahora to Moteo for burial, with more than 100 gang members and associates possibly taking part.
Police have been working with whanau and gang leaders to minimise the impact to the community and the tangi itself. We have also been speaking with residents in the Mahora and Moteo Pa areas advising them of the increased presence of gang members and Police.
Our focus for the tangi is keeping people safe, preventing or minimising disruption to the public and responding to any unlawful behaviour. Neighbouring districts are providing additional policing teams to support the operation and help us monitor the movement of gang members through the region.
Illegal, antisocial or disruptive behaviour won’t be tolerated.
Police will take every opportunity to immediately intervene and enforce the law, including the Gangs Act 2024. In instances where immediate enforcement isn’t possible, officers are instructed to gather evidence that allows us to hold people accountable for their actions.
If you are on the roads, expect to see us; Police will be running checkpoints to breath test drivers, ensure passengers are properly restrained, and check that vehicles are roadworthy.
Everyone in the community has the right to be safe and feel safe.
If you see any illegal behaviour, call police on 111 if it is happening now, or make a report at 105.police.govt.nz if it’s after the fact.
By the time US President Donald Trump announced tariffs on China and Canada last Monday which could kickstart a trade war, New Zealand’s diplomats in Washington, DC, had already been deployed on another diplomatic drama.
Republican Senator Ted Cruz had said on social media it was “difficult to treat New Zealand as a normal ally . . . when they denigrate and punish Israeli citizens for defending themselves and their country”.
He cited a story in the Israeli media outlet Ha’aretz, which has a reputation for independence in Israel and credibility abroad.
But Ha’aretz had wrongly reported Israelis must declare service in the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) as part of “new requirements” for visa applications.
Winston Peters replied forcefully to Cruz on X, condemning Ha’aretz’s story as “fake news” and demanding a correction.
Winston Peters puts Ted Cruz on notice over the misleading Ha’aretz story. Image: X/RNZ
But one thing Trump’s Republicans and Winston Peters had in common last week was irritating Mexico.
His fellow NZ First MP Shane Jones had bellowed “Send the Mexicans home” at Green MPs in Parliament.
Winston Peters then told two of them they should be more grateful for being able to live in New Zealand.
‘We will not be lectured’ On Facebook he wasn’t exactly backing down.
“We . . . will not be lectured on the culture and traditions of New Zealand from people who have been here for five minutes,” he added.
While he was at it, Peters criticised media outlets for not holding other political parties to account for inflammatory comments.
Peters was posting that as a politician — not a foreign minister, but the Mexican ambassador complained to MFAT. (It seems the so-called “Mexican standoff” was resolved over a pre-Waitangi lunch with Ambassador Bravo).
But the next day — last Wednesday — news of another diplomatic drama broke on TVNZ’s 1News.
“A deal that could shatter New Zealand’s close relationship with a Pacific neighbour,” presenter Simon Dallow declared, in front of a backdrop of a stern-looking Peters.
TVNZ’s Pacific correspondent Barbara Dreaver reported the Cook Islands was about to sign a partnership agreement in Beijing.
“We want clarity and at this point in time, we have none. We’ve got past arrangements, constitutional arrangements, which require constant consultation with us, and dare I say, China knows that,” Peters told 1News.
Passports another headache Cook Islands’ Prime Minister Mark Brown also told Barbara Dreaver TVNZ’s revelations last month about proposed Cook Island passports had also been a headache for him.
“We were caught by surprise when this news was broken by 1News. I thought it was a high-level diplomatic discussion with leaders to be open and frank,” he told TVNZ this week.
“For it to be brought out into the public before we’ve had a time to inform our public, I thought was a breach of our political diplomacy.”
Last week another Barabara Dreaver scoop on 1News brought the strained relationship with another Pacific state into the headlines:
“Our relationship with Kiribati is at breaking point. New Zealand’s $100 million aid programme there is now on hold. The move comes after President [Taneti] Maamau pulled out of a pre-arranged meeting with Winston Peters.”
The media ended up in the middle of the blame game over this too — but many didn’t see it coming.
Caught in the crossfire “A diplomatic rift with Kiribati was on no one’s 2025 bingo card,” Stuff national affairs editor Andrea Vance wrote last weekend in the Sunday Star-Times.
“Of all the squabbles Winston Peters was expected to have this year, no one picked it would be with an impoverished, sinking island nation,” she wrote, in terms that would surely annoy Kiribati.
“Do you believe Kiribati is snubbing you?” RNZ Morning Report’s Corin Dann asked Peters.
“You can come to any conclusion you like, but our job is to try and resolve this matter,” Peters replied.
Kiribati Education Minister Alexander Teabo told RNZ Pacific there was no snub.
He said Kiribati President Maamau — who is also the nation’s foreign minister — had been unavailable because of a long-planned and important Catholic ordination ceremony on his home island of Onotoa — though this was prior to the proposed visit from Peters.
Public dispute “regrettable’ Peters told the same show it was “regrettable” that the dispute had been made public.
On Newstalk ZB Peters was backed — and Kiribati portrayed as the problem.
“If somebody is giving me $100m and they asked for a meeting, I will attend. I don’t care if it’s my mum’s birthday. Or somebody’s funeral,” Drive host Ryan Bridge told listeners.
“It’s always very hard to pick apart these stories (by) just reading them in the media. But I have faith and confidence in Winston Peters as our foreign minister,” PR-pro Trish Shrerson opined.
So did her fellow panellist, former Labour MP Stuart Nash.
“He’s respected across the Pacific. He’s the consummate diplomat. If Winston says this is the story and this is what’s happening, I believe 100 percent. And I would say, go hard. Winston — represent our interests.”
‘Totally silly’ response But veteran Pacific journalist Michael Field contradicted them soon after on ZB.
“It’s totally silly. All this talk about cancelling $104 million of aid is total pie-in-the-sky from Winston Peters,” he said.
“Somebody’s lost their marbles on this, and the one who’s possibly on the ground looking for them is Winston Peters.
“He didn’t need to be in Tarawa in early January at all. This is pathetic. This is like saying I was invited to my sister’s birthday party and now it’s been cancelled,” he said.
Not a comparison you hear very often in international relations.
“While the conspiracy around Kiribati and China has deepened, no one is noticing the still-viable Kiribati-United States treaty which prevents Kiribati atolls [from] being used as bases without Washington approval,” he added.
Kiribati ‘hugely disrespectful’ But TVNZ’s Barbara Dreaver said Kiribati was being “hugely disrespectful”.
In a TVNZ analysis piece last weekend, she said New Zealand has “every right to expect better engagement than it has been getting over the past year.”
Dreaver — who was born in and grew up in Kiribati and has family there — also criticised “the airtime and validation” Kwansing got in the media in New Zealand.
“She supports and is part of a government that requires all journalists — should they get a visa to go there — to hand over copies of all footage/information collected,” Dreaver said.
Kwansing hit back on Facebook, accusing Dreaver of “publishing inane drivel” and “irresponsible journalism causing stress to locals.”
“You write like you need a good holiday somewhere happy. Please book yourself a luxury day spa ASAP,” she told TVNZ’s Pacific Affairs reporter.
“Despite this media issue, the government of Kiribati remains convinced the strong bonds between Kiribati and New Zealand will enable a resolution to this unfortunate standoff,” it said.
Copping the blame Another reporter who knows what it’s like to cop the blame for reporting stuff diplomats and politicians want to keep out of the news is RNZ Pacific’s senior journalist and presenter Lydia Lewis.
Last year, Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese questioned RNZ’s ethics after she reported comments he made to the US Deputy Secretary of State at the Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga — which revealed an until-then behind closed doors plan to pay for better policing in the Pacific.
She’s also been covering the tension with Kiribati.
Is the heat coming on the media more these days if they candidly report diplomatic differences?
TVNZ Pacific senior journalist and presenter Lydia Lewis . . . “both the public and politicians are saying the media [are] making a big deal of things.” Image: RNZ Pacific
“There’s no study that says there are more people blaming the media. So it’s anecdotal, but definitely, both the public and politicians are saying the media (are) making a big deal of things,” Lewis told Mediawatch.
“I would put the question back to the public as to who’s manufacturing drama. All we’re doing is reporting what’s in front of us for the public to then make their decision — and questioning it. And there were a lot of questions around this Kiribati story.”
Lewis said it was shortly before 6pm on January 27, that selected journalists were advised of the response of our government to the cancellation of the meeting with foreign minister Peters.
Vice-President an alternative But it was not mentioned that Kiribati had offered the Vice-President for a meeting, the same person that met with an Australian delegation recently.
A response from Kiribati proved harder to get — and Lewis spoke to a senior figure in Kiribati that night who told her they knew nothing about it.
Politicians and diplomats, naturally enough, prefer to do things behind the scenes and media exposure is a complication for them.
But we simply wouldn’t know about the impending partnership agreement between China and the Cook Islands if TVNZ had not reported it last Monday.
And another irony: some political figures lamenting the diplomatically disruptive impact of the media also make decidedly undiplomatic responses of their own online these days.
“It can be revealing in the sense of where people stand. Sometimes they’re just putting out their opinions or their experience. Maybe they’ve got some sort of motive. A formal message or email we’ll take a bit more seriously. But some of the things on social media, we just take with a grain of salt,” said Lewis.
“It is vital we all look at multiple sources. It comes back to balance and knowledge and understanding what you know about and what you don’t know about — and then asking the questions in between.”
Big Powers and the Big Picture Kwansing objected to New Zealand media jumping to the conclusion China’s influence was a factor in the friction with New Zealand.
“To dismiss the geopolitical implications with China . . . would be naive and ignorant,” Dreaver countered.
Michael Field pointed to an angle missing.
“While the conspiracy around Kiribati and China has deepened, no one is noticing the still viable Kiribati-United States treaty which prevents Kiribati atolls being used as bases without Washington approval,” he wrote in his Substack.
In the same article in which Vance called Kiribati “an impoverished, sinking island nation” she later pointed out that its location, US military ties and vast ocean territory make it strategically important.
Questions about ‘transparency and accountability’ “There’s a lot of people that want in on Kiribati. It has a huge exclusive economic zone,” Lewis said.
She said communication problems and patchy connectivity are also drawbacks.
“We do have a fuller picture now of the situation, but the overarching question that’s come out of this is around transparency and accountability.
“We can’t hold Kiribati politicians to account like we do New Zealand government politicians.”
“I don’t want to give Kiribati a free pass here but it’s really difficult to get a response.
“They’re posting statements on Facebook and it really has raised some questions around the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability for all journalists . . . committed to fair media reporting across the Pacific.”
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
The Albanese Government is taking the fight to scammers and this has driven a 33 per cent drop in scam losses in 2024. This is a complete reversal of the trend under the Coalition which oversaw losses doubling year on year.
The Government has made preventing scams a priority, with more than $168 million invested in prevention measures.
Scamwatch data also shows a 35 per cent decrease in losses to investment scams and a more than 30 per cent decrease in losses to romance scams. These types of scams have been a focus for the National Anti‑Scam Centre, which collaborates with industry to disrupt scam activity, showing the success of the Government’s approach.
But it is not job done.
The Government has landmark legislation before the Parliament to establish the Scams Prevention Framework that will put Australia at the head of the pack when it comes to scams prevention and supporting consumers.
This legislation is the crucial next step in the Government’s fight against scams. It puts banks, telcos, and social media companies on the hook to stop these criminals stealing Australians’ hard‑earned money.
These laws will ensure industry has a significant incentive to shut down scam activity before it reaches Australians, preventing consumers from experiencing the financial and emotional toll of the scourge of scams.
The Parliament should support this legislation to stand with consumers against criminal scammers.
Comments attributable to Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, Stephen Jones:
“Only Labor has a plan to protect Australians from criminal scammers.
“Losses are going down and that’s a good sign, but Australians are still losing far too much.
“We want to make Australia the toughest target for scammers and our laws will put Australia at the head of the pack.
“The parliament should support these laws so that Australians have the best protections to keep their money safe.”
Department of Defense Spokesman John Ullyot provided the following readout:
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth met with Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles at the Pentagon to discuss key priorities to advance through the U.S.-Australia Alliance. The leaders discussed shared security concerns in the Indo-Pacific region, accelerating U.S. force posture initiatives in Australia, advancing defense industrial base cooperation on munitions, and key regional partnerships. The Secretary welcomed Australia’s $500 million contribution under AUKUS to the U.S. Submarine Industrial Base that it provided this week as a key element of advancing defense industrial collaboration between our two countries and strengthening the bilateral alliance with Australia.
Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs
Today I announce the appointment of Professor Mimi Tang as the inaugural Chair of the ASEAN-Australia Centre Advisory Board.
The ASEAN-Australia Centre was launched in November 2024, as part of the Albanese Government’s ongoing work to deepen engagement with Southeast Asia and support the implementation of Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040.
The Centre’s programs and activities will strengthen Australia’s partnership with ASEAN and increase business, cultural and community connections. Professor Tang is an internationally recognised immunologist allergist and is a leading expert in food oral immunotherapy. She is Head of the Allergy Immunology Research Group and Director of the Allergy Translation Centre at Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Professorial Fellow at the University of Melbourne Department of Paediatrics and Consultant Immunologist Allergist at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital.
Professor Tang is also CEO and Scientific Founder of Prota Therapeutics, a biotech startup that is developing a novel treatment for peanut allergy. Her pioneering research has transformed the way food allergies are managed in children.
Professor Tang’s ties to Southeast Asia are strong. She was born in Singapore and spent her early childhood in Malaysia before moving to Australia in primary school. She credits her family’s move to Australia to her father’s involvement as a Malaysian participant of the original Colombo Plan.
Professor Tang’s personal and professional ties to Southeast Asia, combined with her research and business expertise will enable her to make a strong contribution to the ASEAN-Australia Centre.
Responding to a critical shortage of early childhood educators in Hawaiʻi, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Education, is launching a new Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) program in fall 2025.
UH leaders, lawmakers and educators gather at the UH Mānoa Children’s Center for a press conference announcing the new degree program
The goal of the program is to provide candidates with the needed competencies and experiences to nurture and guide children from birth through age 8, laying the foundation for their learning and discovery within their individual social-cultural contexts.
The program offers a full-time schedule with evening classes in a hybrid statewide format. Graduates will be recommended for a Hawaiʻi early childhood teaching license for preschool through third grade. The deadline to apply is March 1. The UH Mānoa College of Education held a joint news conference with Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke on February 7 at the UH Mānoa Children’s Center to encourage students to enroll.
“The College of Education is committed to addressing Hawaiʻi’s critical need for early childhood educators by providing a high-quality, accessible pathway for future teachers,” UH Mānoa College of Education Dean Nathan Murata said. “This new program reflects our dedication to supporting children, families and communities by ensuring a well-prepared workforce that understands the importance of early learning and care.”
Expanding early learning access
This initiative is a major step in streamlining the pathway to becoming a pre-K teacher by separating early childhood education from the broader K–8th grade track. It aligns with statewide efforts to expand early learning access, and emphasizes the critical role of care and learning from birth—a priority under the state’s Ready Keiki initiative, led by Luke. By 2032, Ready Keiki aims to provide preschool access for all Hawaiʻi 3- and 4-year-olds, creating more than 400 classrooms statewide. However, the expansion of early childhood education is being hindered by a lack of qualified teachers.
“Expanding access to early childhood education is at the heart of the Ready Keiki initiative, and this new degree program is a critical step in ensuring we have the qualified teachers needed to support Hawaiʻi’s youngest learners,” Luke said. “By streamlining the pathway to becoming a pre-K educator, we are investing in our children, families and the future of our state.”
The curriculum aligns with the National Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators, as well as the Interstate New Teacher Assessment Consortium Model Core Teaching Standards, ensuring graduates meet national benchmarks for high-quality teaching. Grounded in Hawaiʻi’s unique cultural and educational landscape, the program integrates community input to address local needs.
“I am incredibly excited for the students of this new program to be able to learn about early childhood from infancy through the early elementary school years through the lens of both education and care, both of which are fundamental aspects of working with Hawaiʻi keiki and families,” said Valley Varma, a teacher at the UH Mānoa Children’s Center and graduate of UH Mānoa’s early childhood education master’s program who has more than 30 years of experience in the early childhood education field. “I’m really proud and excited to see what comes from this new program.”
The BEd in ECCE program was developed through collaboration among UH Mānoa faculty and early childhood education faculty at multiple UH community colleges, including Honolulu CC, Kauaʻi CC, UH Maui College and Hawaiʻi CC.
“This new degree program is a testament to the power of collaboration across our UH campuses, ensuring that students statewide have access to high-quality training for critical early childhood education roles,” UH President Wendy Hensel said. “By preparing future educators to meet Hawaiʻi’s workforce needs, UH is helping to strengthen our communities and investing in a brighter future for our families.”
To apply and/or to sign up for virtual or in-person info sessions, visit the College of Education website.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) attended the Annual South Western Air Command (SWAC) Commanders’ Conference, which was held from 05 to 07 February 2025 at Headquarters South Western Air Command, Gandhinagar. He was received by Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command and was accorded a Ceremonial Guard of Honour, on arrival.
The CAS reviewed the operational preparedness of SWAC and commended all personnel for ensuring the highest level of operational readiness to take on any contingency.
In his address, the CAS highlighted the crucial role played by the command. He stressed on capability development and exhorted all personnel to imbibe the spirit of the lAF doctrine which envisages the lAF as an agile, adaptive and decisive aerospace power. He urged all commanders to continue their efforts towards maintaining a conducive environment for flying and operations as well as a healthy work life balance. He further advised them to keep abreast with latest developments in military aviation especially in the domains of space, cyber and electronic warfare.The CAS reiterated the importance of ensuring the smooth assimilation of Agniveervayu into the lAF, by closely monitoring and mentoring them.
The CAS appreciated the efforts of the Commanders especially duringExercise Tarang Shakti-24. In culmination, the CAS awarded trophies to stations for their noteworthy performances in various spheres.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
HKSAR Government condemns and rejects US Department of State’s interference with Hong Kong’s judicial proceedings HKSAR Government condemns and rejects US Department of State’s interference with Hong Kong’s judicial proceedings ******************************************************************************************
Regarding the erroneous remarks made by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor today (February 8) regarding Lai Chee-ying’s case concerning the Hong Kong National Security Law, openly exerting pressure to demand unconditional release of Lai Chee-ying, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) condemned and rejected such act, and released a statement to clarify relevant issues to set the record straight. A spokesman for the HKSAR Government pointed out that, “As the legal proceedings involving Lai Chee-ying are still ongoing, it is inappropriate for any person to comment on the details of the case. The HKSAR Government strongly urges any external forces to immediately stop interfering in the HKSAR’s internal affairs and the independent exercise of judicial power by the courts of the HKSAR.” The HKSAR Government has emphasised time and again that all cases (including the case in question) are handled strictly on the basis of evidence and in accordance with the law. All defendants will receive fair trial strictly in accordance with laws applicable to Hong Kong (including the Hong Kong National Security Law) and as protected by the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights. The spokesman stressed that, “Any attempt by any country, organisation, or individual to interfere with the judicial proceedings in the HKSAR by means of political power, thereby resulting in a defendant not being able to have a fair trial that one should receive, is a reprehensible act undermining the rule of law of Hong Kong and should be condemned.” “The HKSAR Government will continue to resolutely discharge the duty of safeguarding national security, prevent, suppress and punish in accordance with the law acts and activities endangering national security. At the same time, it will continue to safeguard the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong people in accordance with the law.”
Ends/Saturday, February 8, 2025Issued at HKT 20:52
LOK SABHA SPEAKER CALLS UPON YOUTH TO TURN TOWARDS BOOKS FOR STRENGTH AND INSPIRATION IT AUGURS WELL THAT ‘NEW DELHI WORLD BOOK FAIR 2025’ COINCIDES WITH MAHA KUMBH AND 75 YEARS OF INDIAN CONSTITUTION – LOK SABHA SPEAKER
LOK SABHA SPEAKER RELEASES TWO BOOKS BY SHRI GULAB KOTHARI AT ‘NEW DELHI WORLD BOOK FAIR 2025’
Posted On: 08 FEB 2025 7:47PM by PIB Delhi
New Delhi; 08 February, 2025:Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla has called upon people, especially young minds, to turn towards books for strength and inspiration. Books are the true guiding force in both personal and societal growth as they are the permanent records of knowledge, preserving ideas and legacies for future generations, he noted. The Speaker urged the youth to embrace books as a source of inspiration, motivation, and strength to overcome challenges.
Shri Birla made these observations today as he launched two books — ‘Stree: Deh se Aage’ and ‘Mind Body Intellect’— authored by renowned journalist and Chief Editor of Rajasthan Patrika, Shri Gulab Kothari, at the ongoing New Delhi World Book Fair 2025.
आज “नई दिल्ली – विश्व पुस्तक मेला” में पत्रिका समूह के प्रधान संपादक श्री गुलाब कोठारी जी द्वारा लिखी दो पुस्तकों ‘स्त्री : देह से आगे’ और ‘बॉडी माइंड इंटेलेक्ट’ का विमोचन किया। सामाजिक सरोकारों से जुड़े श्री कोठारी जी ने अपने साहित्य और विचारों से सदा ही मानव मन को प्रेरित किया… pic.twitter.com/aKhkOmtbj4
Addressing the gathering, Shri Birla highlighted the invaluable role of books in providing guidance, wisdom, and strength, especially in challenging times. He emphasized that books are not only lifelong companions but also serve as teachers from where knowledge can be acquired anytime, anywhere.
It augurs well that this year’s book fair coincides with two significant events, the Maha Kumbh Mela and the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution, said Shri Birla. He described the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj as a symbol of faith and devotion, while calling the World Book Fair a “Maha Kumbh of knowledge and culture,” where literature, ideas, and thought converge to inspire society towards progress. He underlined the significance of the Constitution as the foundation of Indian democracy, stating that it provides the guiding principles for national growth and development.
Shri Birla praised Shri Gulab Kothari as not just a journalist but also a prominent thinker, philosopher, and humanist. In context of today’s book release, Shri Birla commended Shri Kothari’s insightful comparison of Vedic wisdom with contemporary perspectives, particularly in relation to the evolving role of women in society. He also appreciated the books for their profound exploration of consciousness and inner strength, stating that it would encourage readers to connect with their higher selves and understand the deeper aspects of life.
The Ministry of Defence, on February 08, 2025, signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited in New Delhi for procurement of 28 EON-51 systems for 11 New Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels and three Cadet Training Ships for the Indian Navy at a total cost of Rs 642.17 crore, including taxes under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category.
EON-51 is an Electro Optical Fire Control System which provides search, detection and classification of targets using Electro Optical and Thermal Imagers devices. The scheme will generate employment over a period of three years and encourage active participation of various Indian industries including MSMEs, thus significantly contributing to the Government’s efforts to achieve ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, continued his visit to Harbin today (February 8) to visit the Hong Kong, China Delegation, who are actively participating in the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025, and to watch some events to cheer for Hong Kong athletes. He also visited cultural and tourism facilities and met with Hong Kong young people currently on exchange in Harbin.
In the morning, Mr Lee and the officials visited the athletes’ village to meet with members of the Hong Kong, China Delegation to the Asian Winter Games to learn about their preparations. Afterwards, they watched speed skating, short track speed skating and ice hockey events to support the participating Hong Kong athletes.
Noting that the Hong Kong, China Delegation is the largest ever to participate in the Asian Winter Games and that the athletes are making every effort in their preparations, Mr Lee expressed his delight at being able to personally watch the competitions and cheer the athletes on. He encouraged the Hong Kong athletes to give their utmost and encouraged Hong Kong citizens to cheer for the national team and the Hong Kong team.
In the evening, Mr Lee attended a dinner with the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC). He thanked the SF&OC for providing thoughtful arrangements and assistance to the Hong Kong, China Delegation for their participation in the Asian Winter Games.
Mr Lee today also met with Hong Kong young people participating in an exchange programme organised by InspiringHK Sports Foundation to understand their experiences and insights during the trip. Highlighting that the Asian Winter Games is a major sports event held once every four years, he encouraged the participating young people to seize the precious opportunity to enjoy the exciting competitions, experience winter sports, and learn about the history and culture of Harbin.
Mr Lee and the officials also visited Central Street and nearby cultural and tourism facilities today to learn more about the latest developments in the local cultural and tourism industry. Central Street, established in 1898, was transformed in 1997 into the country’s first commercial pedestrian street.
Mr Lee will continue his visit tomorrow (February 9).
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurates multiple water supply schemes under Jal Jeevan Mission in Kathua, J&K; schemes to provide tap water to thousands of residents of 10 villages ”300 plus water supply schemes with an estimated cost of 1369.57 crore rupees being taken up in district Kathua under Jal Jeevan Mission”: Dr Singh
Union Minister calls for effective implementation of the schemes to attain their saturation
“Inspired by Prime Minister Modi’s call of Nation First, Modi 3.0 dispensation working with Whole of Government approach in the service of citizens”: Dr Jitendra Singh
Posted On: 08 FEB 2025 5:19PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh today called for effective implementation of all the water supply schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission in Jammu and Kashmir to attain their saturation. He was addressing a public gathering in village Jasrota here after inaugurating seven water supply schemes under Jal Jeevan Mission.
The schemes costing 25.31 crore rupees will benefit 15,881 souls, covering 2584 households in 10 villages, including Jasrota, Rakh Hoshyari, Padyari, Saktha Chak, Bhadoli Charpad and Mangtian. The Minister informed that a total of 303 water supply schemes, with an estimated cost of 1369.57 crore rupees, are being taken up in district Kathua under Jal Jeevan Mission. Dr Singh pointed out that certain issues being faced in the proper implementation of the schemes on the which are being sorted out in coordination with J&K government.
Presenting a report card of the works done in his Parliamentary constituency in the first 100 days of the Narendra Modi Government 3.0, he enumerated the key projects like the prestigious Chattergala tunnel and Delhi to Katra Expressway corridor, saying these ambitious projects are nearing their completion. Crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi with creating a new work culture, Dr Jitendra Singh stated that the government is focused on completing the stalled projects to boost connectivity in remote parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr Jitendra Singh said that inspired by the Prime Minister’s call of ‘Nation First’, the present dispensation is working with a ‘Whole of Government’ approach in the service of the masses across the country. The Minister said that once completed, the strategic Chattergala tunnel to be game-changer in providing all-weather connectivity between Doda and Lakhanpur will be a game-changer in providing all-weather connectivity between Doda and Lakhanpur. He informed the gathering that it has now been decided to build nine additional underpasses along Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, fulfilling a public demand.
Underlining the potential of tourism to create employment opportunities and boost livelihoods, Dr Jitendra Singh said steps are also being taken to promote tourism in places such as Basohli and Mantalia in the region. The Minister informed that
Mansar area of Udhampur district is also being developed as a tourist destination under Swadesh Darshan scheme.
Dr Jitendra Singh stated that in the times to come, district Kathua will become a major hub of economy activity, offering avenues of self-employment to the local youth. He mentioned that the district has earned a unique distinction for having North India’s first Bio-tech Park, Seed Processing Plant and North India’s only Homeopathic College. The Minister urged the youth avail the subsidy being provided by the government for the promotion of Khadi to earn their own livelihoods.
Minister for Jal Shakti, J&K Government, Javed Ahmed Rana; MLA, Jasrota, Rajiv Jasroti; MLA, Bani, Dr Rameshwar Singh; MLA, Hiranagar, Vijay Kumar Sharma; Vice Chairman, DDC, Kathua, Shri Raghunadan Singh Bablu, representatives of PRIs and officials from Department of Jal Shakti were among those present on the occasion.
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan launches 41 books under PM YUVA 2.0 at NDWBF 2025 Shri Dharmendra Pradhan releases Hindi translation of The Saga of Kudopali: The Unsung Story of 1857
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan releases Malayalam translation of the works of 14th-century mathematician and astronomer Sri Madhava
Writings and creativity of young authors will enrich our literary landscape and give a new direction to intellectual discourse – Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
Books in Indian languages in every corner of India is a national mission – Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
Posted On: 08 FEB 2025 4:10PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, launched 41 new books under the PM YUVA 2.0 scheme at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 today. The Governor of Tripura, Shri Indrasena Reddy Nallu, graced the event as the guest of honour.
While addressing the gathering, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan congratulated the 41 young authors whose books were unveiled. Expressing confidence in their potential, he stated that their writings and creativity would enrich the literary landscape and provide a new direction to intellectual discourse.
The Minister expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for conceptualizing the PM YUVA Scheme, highlighting its transformation into a national movement. He emphasized its significant impact on mentoring and nurturing budding authors, fostering proud ambassadors of Indian culture, heritage, history, languages, and literature, and bringing to light the stories of unsung heroes of the freedom struggle.
Shri Pradhan further underscored that promoting books in Indian languages across the country is a national mission. He described initiatives like PM YUVA as groundbreaking steps in this direction. He also emphasized that the recently announced ‘Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme’ in this year’s budget would add momentum to this national endeavour.
Acknowledging the pivotal role of the National Book Trust (NBT) in making books and literature accessible in Indian languages, he urged the institution to embrace technology and collaborate with domestic and international publishers to take India’s rich literary heritage and linguistic traditions to a global audience.
The Minister also visited the Exhibition Halls and congratulated NBT for organizing one of the world’s largest book fairs. Calling it a “Gyan-Kumbh” of literature, languages, knowledge, people, and cultures, he described the fair as a reader’s paradise—an ideal platform to discover new books, immerse in literature, meet authors, and connect with fellow book lovers.
Additionally, Shri Pradhan released the Hindi version of The Saga of Kudopali: The Unsung Story of 1857. He announced that the book would soon be available in 12 Indian and two foreign languages, ensuring a wider reach and deeper impact. He also released Sangama Madhavante Randu Krithikal, the Malayalam translation of the works of 14th-century mathematician and astronomer Sri Madhava.
The event was attended by Dr. Vineet Joshi, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education; Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy; Prof. Milind Sudhakar Marathe, Chairman, NBT; Prof. M. Jagdeesh Kumar, Chairperson, UGC; and Shri Yuvraj Malik, Director, NBT.
The 15th edition of the Biennial Aero-India International Seminar commenced in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 08, 2025. The two-day seminar has been organised by the Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC) of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in association with the Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI) as a prelude to Aero India 2025, which will be held in Bengaluru from February 10 to 14, 2025.
The seminar is a premier event in the global aerospace arena. The theme this year is‘Futuristic Aerospace Technologies: Challenges in Design Validation’, highlighting discussions and deliberations on Emerging Trends in Futuristic Aerospace Technologies and Military Airworthiness & Certification: Challenges in Design and Testing.
International delegates attending the event are from prominent foreign companies like Airbus Defence and Space from Spain; Collins Aerospace, GE Aerospace, Martin-Baker, MBDA and Rolls-Royce from UK, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems from Israel, and SAFRAN France. Indian Industry participating in the seminar includes Abeyaantrix Solutions, Ansys Inc., Globals Inc., JSR Dynamics Pvt. Ltd, RAPHE mPhibr, and TAQBit Labs Private Limited.
The seminar offers a platform to explore collaborative research opportunities and forge strategic partnerships, advancing the future of aerospace and defence technologies. A total of 12 technical sessions covering various topics on Challenges in Design Validation on Futuristic Aerospace Technologies are scheduled. The seminar on‘Futuristic Aerospace Technologies: Challenges in Design Validation’focuses on various topics such as Cutting-Edge Technologies for System Design and Validation, Innovative Approaches for Airworthiness & Certification, Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to enhance Future of Aviation, Pioneering Advancements in Electronics and Sensing Technology, Global Insights into Next–Gen Propulsion Systems, Emerging Trends in Military Aviation, Innovations driving Human Missions beyond Earth.
Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman ISRO Dr V Narayanan was the Chief Guest of the event, while Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat was the Guest of Honour. President, AeSI Dr G Satheesh Reddy was also present on the occasion. About 1,100 delegates are participating from DRDO, Defence PSUs, Armed Forces and Private Industries, including MSMEs. Further, 33 speakers from both India and abroad will deliver technical talks on a range of topics in the domain.
Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar chairs Central Advisory Committee (CAC) for the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) PM-AJAY plays a crucial role in addressing Socio-economic disparities, empowering SC individuals and promoting Inclusive Growth: Dr. Virendra Kumar
Posted On: 08 FEB 2025 3:40PM by PIB Delhi
A meeting of the Central Advisory Committee (CAC) for the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) was held today under the Chairmanship of Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment and Chairperson of the CAC. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of the scheme and formulating strategies aimed at the socio-economic upliftment of Scheduled Castes (SC) communities across India.
Dr. Virendra Kumar thoroughly discussed the implementation of the scheme and emphasized the overarching objectives of PM-AJAY for overall Socio-Economic development of SC populated villages and SC beneficiaries.
In the meeting State Cabinet Ministers along with Senior Officers from States/UTs, Chairperson of National Commission for Scheduled Castes, representatives of Union Ministries of Finance, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Rural Development, Women and Child Development, NITI Ayog, and other members of the Central Advisory Committee participated. All the members appreciated the objectives and implementation of scheme in addressing the needs of SC communities.
Extensive discussion of the three components of the scheme i.e Adarsh Gram, Grant-in-aid and Hostel component was done by CAC members and the important role of states/UTs were outlined. The members of CAC appreciated the significant progress made under the scheme’s three core components.
The committee further deliberated on strategies to expand the scheme’s reach to the larger SC population and enhance its effectiveness. Emphasis was placed on strengthening collaboration at the States and District levels, fostering greater community participation, ensuring timely project implementation, and monitoring the outcomes to achieve maximum impact.
Dr. Virendra Kumar reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to the holistic development of SC communities, stating, “PM-AJAY plays a crucial role in addressing socio-economic disparities. Through focused interventions and collaborative efforts, we are working towards empowering SC individuals and promoting inclusive growth.”
The meeting concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to intensify their efforts in realizing the objectives of the scheme and ensuring sustainable development for SC communities across the nation.