Source: South Australia County Fire Service
Issued on
04 May 2025 12:20
Issued for
WINGFIELD in WESTERN METROPOLITAN AREA.
Warning level
Advice – Threat is Reduced
Action
The threat of this fire has reduced however people are reminded to take care in the area. Smoke will reduce visibility in the area and there is a risk of falling trees and branches.
For updates, check the MFS website at mfs.sa.gov.au or phone the Information Hotline on 1800 362 361.
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 4, 2025.
Too many journalists remain silent over the Gaza genocide, a threat to our media credibility
Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – By David Robie on World Press Freedom Day 2025 I ask you now: Do not stop speaking about Gaza. Do not let the world look away. Keep fighting, keep telling our stories – until Palestine is free. These are not my words, although I believe and
Labor makes Senate gains, and left-wing parties will hold a Senate majority
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne On Saturday, Labor won a thumping victory in the House of Representatives, and this has carried over to the Senate results. Only 35% of enrolled voters have
Rabuka salutes Fiji media but warns against taking freedom for granted
By Anish Chand in Suva Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has paid tribute to all those working the media industry in his message to mark World Press Freedom Day. He said in his May 3 message thanks to democracy his coalition government had removed the “dark days of oppression and suppressions”. “Today as we join
Albanese increases majority and Dutton loses seat in stunning election landslide
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The Albanese government has been re-elected with a substantially increased majority, and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has lost his seat, in a crushing defeat of the Coalition. As of late Saturday night, there was a two-party swing to Labor of
Labor wins election in landslide: full results
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Digital Storytelling Team, The Conversation The Conversation, CC BY-SA Digital Storytelling Team does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. – ref. Labor
Labor wins surprise landslide, returned with a thumping majority
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne With 52% of enrolled voters counted, The Poll Bludger has Labor ahead in 92 of the 150 House of Representatives seats, the Coalition in 43, the Greens
Labor routs the Coalition as voters reject Dutton’s undercooked offering
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra In a dramatic parallel, what happened in Canada at the beginning of this week has now been replicated in Australia at the end of the week. An opposition that a few months ago had looked just possibly on track to
Dutton and the Coalition did not do the work, and misread the Australian mood
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Kenny, Professor, Australian Studies Institute, Australian National University The former federal director of the Liberal Party, Brian Loughnane, used to tell media companies that their practice of commissioning expensive opinion polls right through a parliamentary term was a waste of money. Election 2025 seemed to vindicate
Labor wins with a superior campaign and weak opposition – now it’s time to make the second term really matter
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Wallace, Professor, School of Politics Economics & Society, Faculty of Business Government & Law, University of Canberra Superior campaigning by the Labor machine, a lift in the personal performance of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and a woeful campaign by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have seen Labor
Albanese’s government might not thrill, but it has shown unity and competence – and that’s no mean feat
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Frank Bongiorno, Professor of History, ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University The Coalition’s election campaign of 2025 has a strong claim to be considered among the worst since federation. I know of none more shambolic. Barely a day passed without some new misstep
Palestine protesters march on TVNZ, accuse broadcaster of bias on Gaza
Asia Pacific Report About 1000 pro-Palestinian protesters marked World Press Freedom Day — May 3 — today by marching on the public broadcaster Television New Zealand in Auckland, accusing it of 18 months of “biased coverage” on the genocidal Israeli war against Gaza. They delivered a letter to the management board of TVNZ from Palestine
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3
Summary
Company Announcement Date:
May 02, 2025
FDA Publish Date:
May 03, 2025
Product Type:
Food & BeveragesProduceFoodborne Illness
Reason for Announcement:
Recall Reason Description
Potential Foodborne Illness – Salmonella
Company Name:
Ray & Mascari Inc
Brand Name:
Brand Name(s)
Ray & Mascari Inc.
Product Description:
Product Description
Tomatoes
Company Announcement
Ray & Mascari Inc. of Indianapolis, Indiana, is recalling 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes packaged in clam shell containers [20 oz. (1 lb. 4 oz) 567g] with UPC# 7 96553 20062 1, and a master case label with Lot# RM250424 15250B or Lot# RM250427 15250B because of the potential for them to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.
The recalled tomatoes were sold by Gordon Food Service Stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
Ray & Mascari Inc. was notified by Hanshaw & Capling Farms of Immokalee, Florida that they were recalling the lot of tomatoes Ray & Mascari Inc. received and repacked into 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes. Hanshaw & Capling Farms initiated the recall due to the possible presence of Salmonella in their facility. Customers who received the recalled lots have been notified and provided information to further contact their customers and distribution centers with recall instructions.
This product is sold in plastic clamshells containing 4 tomatoes. The 4- count plastic clam shells have a VINE RIPE TOMATOES label containing a Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc., Indianapolis, IN 46204. The master case would be a cardboard produce box with a lid, containing 12 4 count containers. The master case label would have Lot# RM250424 15250B or Lot# RM250427 15250B.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
Consumers who have purchased these 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes should discard the product and do not consume. Consumers with questions or reports of any illness may contact Ray & Mascari Inc. at 1-317-637-0234, Monday- Saturday, 6am-5pm EST.
Company Contact Information
Consumers:
Ray & Mascari Inc.
1-317-637-0234
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Content current as of:
05/03/2025
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Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation
APEC economies are accelerating collective action on long-standing structural barriers limiting women’s economic participation, ranging from inadequate care infrastructure and underrepresentation in global value chains to gender-based violence and unequal access to innovation.
Under the theme “Women’s Economic Participation for Sustainable Growth,” the first meeting of the APEC Policy Partnership on Women and the Economy (PPWE) held in Jeju, Korea, from 3 to 5 May is mobilizing policymakers, experts and stakeholders to advance targeted, cross-sector strategies that embed gender equality at the heart of economic recovery and sustainable growth in the Asia-Pacific.
Opening the three-day meeting, Acting Minister of Gender Equality and Family of Korea, Shin Young-sook, underscored the importance of regional collaboration to share policies and strengthen solidarity on gender equality.
“With the goal of advancing gender equality and women’s economic empowerment in the Asia Pacific region, APEC member economies established this meeting as a platform to share concrete policies and laid a foundation for stronger solidarity,” said Acting Minister Shin.
Recognizing the forum’s continued efforts over the decades, Acting Minister Shin highlighted landmark frameworks including the Framework for the Integration of Women in APEC (1999), the La Serena Roadmap for Women and Inclusive Growth (2019) and the Putrajaya Vision 2040.
“These milestones have highlighted the importance of increasing women’s participation in the labor market, strengthening women’s leadership and women’s empowerment and collecting sex-disaggregated data.”
“APEC has also contributed to promoting women’s economic empowerment through women’s active participation in trade and investment, the digital economy and sustainable growth,” Acting Minister Shin added.
In line with Korea’s APEC 2025 priorities of “Connect, Innovate, Prosper”, Acting Minister Shin outlined three areas of gender-responsive action.
“Under Connect, we aim to strengthen the global response to keep our society safe from gender-based violence,” she said. “Through Innovate, we are focused on advancing women’s empowerment and economic participation in the digital and AI sectors. And under Prosper, we seek to rebuild care systems in response to demographic shifts, laying the foundation for a more sustainable future.”
In her opening remarks at the meeting, Anita Peña, the Chair of the PPWE acknowledged the group’s continued role in policy exchange and collaboration.
“Approximately 26 meetings have been held providing a robust platform for economies to exchange perspectives and collaboratively strengthen policies aimed at advancing women’s economic empowerment,” she said.
Peña highlighted key focus areas of the 2025 meeting, including global value chain resilience, the care economy, resilient economies and women’s roles in science, health and environmental resilience.
She emphasized that these focus areas draw on PPWE’s deep expertise across the Asia-Pacific and benefit from strong leadership within various APEC fora.
“By fostering cross-fora collaboration through PPWE dialogues, we not only strengthen synergies across APEC, but also highlight the central role of women’s economic empowerment in shaping inclusive and resilient policy outcomes across the region,” Peña added
A policy discussion on women’s participation in global value chains explored inclusive strategies for strengthening women’s leadership and access across supply networks. Persistent gender gaps in access to trade finance, digital skills and leadership pathways continue to limit the economic potential of women-owned businesses. Cross-sector partnerships, inclusive trade policy design and stronger support mechanisms were emphasized as key enablers to boost women’s meaningful integration into global supply chains.
A second policy session explored how preventing violence against women and girls is fundamental to enabling inclusive, sustainable economic growth, especially in the digital age. Delegates examined the growing prevalence and complexity of both offline and online gender-based violence across the region
The discussion called for stronger legislation, improved data and digital safety systems, and intersectional support for vulnerable groups as essential components of a gender-inclusive policy framework.
“I sincerely hope that this meeting provides APEC members with an opportunity to explore strategies for effectively addressing the global women’s economic agenda and to engage in meaningful discussion that strengthen cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region,” concluded Acting Minister Shin.
For media inquiries, please contact:
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Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. –
By David Robie on World Press Freedom Day 2025
I ask you now: Do not stop speaking about Gaza.
Do not let the world look away.
Keep fighting, keep telling our stories – until Palestine is free.
These are not my words, although I believe and support them absolutely. They are the words of Palestinian journalist Hossam Shabat in his final message left behind when he was killed by an Israeli air strike on March 24.
His message is a poignant one today, especially today which is May 3 — World Press Freedom Day.
It is a message that I have been carrying in my heart since even earlier, since the assassination of another Palestinian journalist, the famous Shireen Abu Akleh, who was murdered by Israeli sharpshooters six days after Media Freedom Day in 2022 while reporting in Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank.
It was her blatant killing in plain view on live video with impunity that signalled how the rogue state Israel was flaunting all international laws and accountability with contempt. And it was a hint of how it would it conduct itself in this disaster.
According to the United Nations Human Rights Office in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OHCHR), since October 2023, Israeli occupation forces have killed 211 Palestinian journalists, including 28 women reporters reporting on Gaza. At least 47 journalists have been killed while on duty, and at least 49 media people are languishing in Israeli detention or hidden in prisons, mostly without charge.
Why? To silence the journalists.
To silence their storytelling, as Hossam Shabat indicated in his final message.
And for more than 18 months Israel has refused access to Gaza by international journalists.
Why? To kill the truth. To stop the world’s media from exposing the Israeli lies and their controlled narrative.
But it hasn’t worked. The Zionists are losing control of the narrative — and they know it. As Amnesty International called it this week, the mass atrocity is a “livestreamed genocide” thanks due to the courage and dedication of the Gazan reporters and citizen journalists.
A year ago — on this very day — the Gazan journalists were honoured with the UNESCO Guillermo Cano Prize in Santiago, Chile, in recognition of their “unique suffering and fearless reporting”.
Who would have thought this grotesque war, this obscene war would still be causing such terrible suffering more than year later?
And we can’t even really call it a war at all because it is continuous massacres carried out by one of the most advanced and powerful military machines in the world, supplied and aided by the United States, on one side, with a relatively tiny resistance force armed with small arms on the other.
Gaza is a “killing field – and civilians are in an endless death loop”, as the UN Secretary General, António Guterres, said the other day. Horrendous!
And since the Cano award for the Gazan journalists, a further 111 media workers have been killed by Israel.
In the latest survey by Reporters Without Borders 2025 World Press Freedom Index released yesterday, global zones have been flagged where press freedom is “entirely absent and practising journalism is particularly dangerous”.
“This is the case in Palestine, where the Israeli army has been annihilating journalism for more than 18 months, killing more than 200 media professionals — including at least 43 murdered while working — and imposing a blackout on the besieged strip.”
Just a couple of weeks ago, a group of French and international journalists staged a “die-in” in Paris. They lay down on the steps of the Opera-Bastille as a street theatre representation of the unprecedented scale of the killing of journalists.
It was organised by Reporters Without Borders, and secretary-general Thibaut Bruttin said:
“The difficulty of making the cause of Palestinian journalists heard is proof that the insidious poison of the Israel armed forces has sometimes even penetrated our own narrative.
“I have never seen a war in which, when a journalist is killed, you are told that they were really a terrorist.”
Bruttin also reflected: “I think it must be said that solidarity is a form of strength. It is a source of strength, I hope, for Palestinian journalists to whom we send these images and to whom we express our solidarity through words and action.
“And I also think that is an appeal to the media profession, and it’s true that this demonstration is happening late, perhaps too late. It must be recognised.
“In the 10 years that I have been working at Reporters Without Borders, this is the first time that I have been asked if the journalist was really a journalist when they were killed. This had never happened. Never.
“And I think we must salute all those who have been marching and all those professionals who have come and who say: ‘Yes, we must continue to report what is happening but we must also protest and do more. Journalists are being targeted. And they are also being defamed after their deaths.’”
In January 2024, I wrote an article for Declassified Australia headlined: “Silencing the messenger: Israel kills journalists, while the West merely censors them.”
I declared then that reporting Israel’s war on Gaza had become the greatest credibility challenge for journalists and media of our times.
“Covering the conflict has opened divisions among media groups about fairness and balance that have become the most bitter since the climate change and covid pandemic debates when media ‘deniers’ and ‘bothsideism’ threatened to undermine the science.”
It shocks me that so many journalists have remained silent. They should also be on the streets like us and reporting the truth. To me, the deafening silence is a betrayal of the 50 years of truth to power journalism that I have grown up with.
Silence is complicity.
Finally, I would like to quote from PSNA’s co-chair John Minto in the letter that we are taking today to Television New Zealand appealing for an independent review of 1News reporting on Palestine/Israel.
Minto says: “Over the past 18 months of industrial scale killing of Palestinians by the Israeli military in Gaza we have been regularly appalled at the blatantly-biased reporting on the Middle East by Television New Zealand.
“TVNZ’s reporting has been relentlessly and virulently pro-Israel . . .
“The damage to human rights, justice and freedom in the Middle East by Western media such as TVNZ is incalculable.”
I endorse and support these comments and call a halt to Israel deliberately targeting of Palestinian journalists. Let the truth be told, as Hossam told us, over and over again and prevent this blatant Western attempt to “normalise” genocide.
Dr David Robie is editor of Asia Pacific Report and convenor of Pacific Media Watch. He gave this address at the World Press Freedom Day rally in “Palestine Corner” in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s Te Komititanga Square on 3 May 2025.
This article was first published on Café Pacific.
Source: South Australia County Fire Service
Issued on
04 May 2025 12:00
Issued for
KAPINNIE 5km North of Kapinnie in the Lower Eyre Peninsula of South Australia.
Warning level
Advice – Monitor Conditions
Action
Monitor local conditions and stay informed if you are in this area. Decide what you will do if the situation changes.
At this time there is no threat to life or property and firefighters are attending this fire.
More information will be provided by the CFS when it is available.
Source: South Australia County Fire Service
Issued on
04 May 2025 11:24
Issued for
WINGFIELD in WESTERN METROPOLITAN AREA.
Warning level
Advice – Avoid Smoke
Action
Smoke from WINGFIELD is visible from the North South Motorway and moving towards Cormack Road.
Smoke can affect your health. You should stay informed and be aware of the health impacts of smoke on yourself and others.
Symptoms of exposure includes shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing, burning eyes, running nose, chest tightness, chest pain and dizziness or light-headedness.
If you or anyone in your care are having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention from your local GP. If your symptoms become severe, call 000.
More information will be provided by the MFS when it is available.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne
On Saturday, Labor won a thumping victory in the House of Representatives, and this has carried over to the Senate results.
Only 35% of enrolled voters have been counted in the Senate so far, compared with 71% in the House. It’s likely that the current Senate count is biased to Labor, so Labor is likely to drop back in some states as more votes are counted.
There are 76 senators, who have six-year terms, with about half up for election at every House election. Each state has 12 senators, with six up for election, and the territories have two senators each, who are all up for election.
Senators are elected by proportional representation with preferences. A quota in a state is one-seventh of the vote, or 14.3%. In the territories, it’s one-third or 33.3%. I had a Senate preview on April 16.
Comments on each state are below. I disagree with the ABC’s view that Labor is “likely” to win a third New South Wales seat. Putting this seat into the doubtful column reduces Labor to an overall 27 senators with the Greens on 11, so the two main left-wing parties would hold a minimum 38 of the 76 seats in the new Senate.
This would represent a two-seat gain for Labor (one in Queensland, one in South Australia). Labor has reasonable chances to gain further Senate seats.
If Labor and the Greens combined hold the minimum 38 seats after the election, Labor will only need one more vote to pass legislation supported by the Greens but opposed by right-wing parties. Independent David Pocock, former Green Lidia Thorpe and former Labor senator Fatima Payman will be good options.
In NSW, Labor has 2.6 quotas, the Coalition 1.9, the Greens 0.9 and One Nation 0.4. Labor would win three seats on current primaries, but the Senate swing to them is much greater than in the House, so they will drop back.
In Victoria, Labor has 2.4 quotas, the Coalition 1.9, the Greens 1.0, One Nation 0.3 and Legalise Cannabis 0.3. Labor is likely to drop back, with the final seat likely a three-way contest between Labor, One Nation and Legalise Cannabis.
In Queensland, Labor has 2.1 quotas, the Liberal National Party 1.8, the Greens 0.9, One Nation 0.5 and former LNP senator Gerard Rennick 0.35. One Nation is the favourite to win the sixth seat.
In Western Australia, Labor has 2.4 quotas, the Liberals 1.7, the Greens 1.1, One Nation 0.4, Legalise Cannabis 0.3 and the Nationals 0.3. Labor would be the favourite to win the sixth seat on current counting, as the Liberals would absorb right-wing preferences that would otherwise help One Nation.
In SA, Labor has 2.6 quotas, the Liberals 1.8, the Greens 1.0 and One Nation 0.4. Labor won the House vote in SA by 58.4–41.6, so the Senate result looks plausible. Labor and the Greens are likely to win four of SA’s six Senate seats.
In Tasmania, Labor has 2.4 quotas, the Liberals 1.5, the Greens 1.2, Jacqui Lambie 0.5, One Nation 0.4 and Legalise Cannabis 0.3. It’s difficult to determine which parties are the favourites to win the last two seats.
In the ACT (two senators), Pocock has been easily re-elected with 1.3 quotas, and Labor will win the second seat. In the Northern Territory, Labor and the Country Liberals will win one seat each.
There are many seats where the electoral commission selected the incorrect final two candidates on election night and now needs to redo this count. Labor could lose Bean, Fremantle or Calwell to independents. Labor could also lose Bullwinkel or Bendigo to the Coalition.
The Greens have lost Brisbane and Griffith to Labor. They lost Brisbane after falling to third behind Labor and the LNP and Griffith because the LNP fell to third and their preferences will help Labor. Labor is narrowly ahead against the Greens in Wills.
In Greens leader Adam Bandt’s Melbourne, there was a substantial primary vote swing to Labor and against Bandt, and the electoral commission needs to redo the preference count between Bandt and Labor.
Teal independents in Kooyong, Goldstein and Curtin are likely to retain their seats, but they didn’t gain substantial swings that usually occur when an independent elected at the last election recontests. It’s possible they’ve become too associated with the left in their seats. Fortunately for them, the left won a thumping victory at this election.
Adrian Beaumont does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. Labor makes Senate gains, and left-wing parties will hold a Senate majority – https://theconversation.com/labor-makes-senate-gains-and-left-wing-parties-will-hold-a-senate-majority-255848
By Anish Chand in Suva
Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has paid tribute to all those working the media industry in his message to mark World Press Freedom Day.
He said in his May 3 message thanks to democracy his coalition government had removed the “dark days of oppression and suppressions”.
“Today as we join the rest of the international community in celebrating World Press Freedom Day, let us recommit ourselves to the values and ideals of our fundamental human rights freedom of expression and the freedom of the press,” said Rabuka, a former coup leader.
“With our recent history, let as not take this freedom for granted.”
Rabuka also remembered the late Sitiveni Moce who died in 2015.
RNZ Pacific reports Moce was left paralysed and bedridden in 2007 after being assaulted by soldiers shortly after the 2006 military coup.
“Today is also an opportune time to remember those in the media fraternity that made the ultimate sacrifice.”
‘Brave photographer’
“In particular, I pay tribute to my ‘Yaca’ (namesake), the late Sitiveni Moce who died in 2015.
“This brave newspaper photographer was set upon by a mob in Parliament House in 2000, and again by some members of the disciplined forces in 2007 for simply carrying out his job which was to capture history in still photographs.
“His death is a sombre reminder of the fickleness of life, and how we must never ever take our freedoms for granted.”
Republished from The Fiji Times with permission.
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 8:55PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, 3 May 2025
On the third day of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai, the Motion Picture Association (MPA) unveiled a comprehensive report highlighting the transformative impact of India’s film, television and streaming sectors on the national economy. Hon’ble Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan and Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the MPA, were present at the launch.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Murugan commended the MPA’s global leadership and acknowledged the growing influence of Indian cinema on international audiences. “Films like RRR and Baahubali have proven that Indian stories resonate across languages and geographies,” Dr. Murugan said.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a creator-first ecosystem backed by policies, production incentives and strong intellectual property protections. Citing recent anti-piracy reforms, he stressed the importance of safeguarding creators’ rights in the digital age.
“Cinema is not just an economic engine. It is a vital diplomatic and cultural bridge. India looks forward to deepening its partnership with the Motion Picture Association to co-create a globally respected and secure creative industry,” he added.
Charles Rivkin expressed his enthusiasm about MPA’s ongoing partnership with India during what he called a “pivotal moment” for the country’s entertainment industry. “India’s creative economy is poised for extraordinary growth, and the MPA is proud to support this journey,” Rivkin said.
Sharing the key findings after unveiling the report, Rivkin said that the Indian film, TV, and streaming industries supported 2.6 million jobs and generated more than $60 billion as per the annual economic output. He said that the MPA’s member studios are deeply committed to fostering the growth of India’s entertainment sector through investments, partnerships, and advocacy for forward-looking policies.
Rivkin underscored the alignment between the MPA’s objectives and Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for creative economy, highlighting India’s strengths in storytelling, visual effects and global content export.
The session concluded with a video presentation of the MPA report’s key highlights, signaling a shared vision between policymakers and global media leaders for a future driven by collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth.
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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rabee/ Riyas/ Darshana | 169
(Release ID: 2126614) Visitor Counter : 51
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 8:48PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, 3 May 2025
The inaugural edition of WAVES Bazaar, held from May 1st to 3rd, 2025, in Mumbai, concluded with resounding success, establishing itself as a premier platform for international business collaboration in the creative industries. Organised under the umbrella of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), the marketplace recorded business transactions exceeding ₹800 crore across the Film, Music, Radio, VFX, and Animation sectors. With deal-making still underway, the total valuation is projected to surpass ₹1000 crore in a few days.
Key Highlights
A key highlight of the Bazaar was the Buyer-Seller Market which witnessed over 3,000 B2B meetings, generating revenue upwards of ₹500 crore, with additional deals expected to close in the coming days. Curated screenings of films at the 80-seat venue drew enthusiastic responses and appreciation for the selected films. The Bazaar also helped emerging creators pitch their IPs to a global network of buyers and collaborators, generating significant interest and fostering new partnerships.
In a major achievement in international collaborations between India and New Zealand, Film India Screen Collective and Screen Canterbury NZ, led by Petrina D’Rozario, announced a collaborative proposal, inspired by WAVES, to launch the first-ever Indian Film Festival in New Zealand, aimed at deepening tourism, cultural exchange and co-production ties between the two countries.
The announcement of the Prime Video & CJ ENM Multi-Year Collaboration was a key highlight of the Bazaar as the strategic partnership was unveiled to distribute premium Korean content globally. With its launch expected in June 2025 with Head Over Heels, the deal includes streaming in over 240 countries, featuring 28 subtitle languages and 11 dubbed versions. The initiative highlights Asia’s growing creative presence on global streaming platforms.
Another initiative that added value to the Bazaar was the announcement of the film Devi Chowdhurani, which became the India’s first official Indo-UK co-production. Backed by the Ministry of I&B, NFDC, FFO, and Invest India, the a pre-teaser of the film was unveiled at the Bazaar. The historical epic, set during the Sanyasi-Fakir rebellion, stars Prosenjit Chatterjee and Srabanti Chatterjee, with music by Pandit Bickram Ghosh.
The announcement of the launch of the feature film Violated was another initiative that vindicated the purpose of WAVES Bazaar. A bold psychological thriller, Violated marks the directorial debut of Dimple Dugar. Celebrated for its strong female-led narrative, the film is co-produced by Fusion Flicks from the UK and JVD Films, signalling Dugar’s transition from commercial to feature filmmaking.
With its impactful debut, WAVES Bazaar has not only positioned itself as a global hub for creative collaboration but also set the stage for a new era of cross-border storytelling and industry transformation.
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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rabee/ Riyas/ Darshana | 168
(Release ID: 2126611) Visitor Counter : 49
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 8:01PM by PIB Delhi
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) observed its 31st Foundation Day today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The occasion was attended by Shri Manohar Lal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs & Power, as the Chief Guest. Smt. Rekha Gupta, Hon’ble Chief Minister, GNCTD, was present as the Guest of Honour.
Hon’ble Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs and Power, Shri Manohar Lal ji, joins Hon’ble Chief Minister Smt Rekha Gupta ji on the occasion of the 31st Foundation Day of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
In his address, the Hon’ble Minister highlighted the significant role that Delhi Metro plays in the daily life of the common citizen in Delhi. He emphasized that easy, reliable, and safe mobility is the fundamental right of every citizen, and that urban transport systems like the Delhi Metro have become an indispensable part of urban living.
Looking ahead, the Hon’ble Minister underlined that by 2047, nearly 50% of India’s population will reside in urban areas, making it imperative to plan and strengthen urban mobility infrastructure today. He shared a visionary idea of adding cargo compartments to metro trains, enabling small businessmen, vendors, and hawkers to seamlessly transport their goods across the city — a step that would save time, reduce energy consumption, and enhance business efficiency for the urban working class.
Furthermore, Shri Manohar Lal ji emphasized the need to integrate green and renewable energy solutions in metro operations, aligning with the nation’s sustainable development goals. He reiterated that metro systems will be the lifeline of every city in India, and their continued expansion and modernization is key to building smart, inclusive, and future-ready urban centers.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Shri Katikithala Srinivas, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and Chairman, DMRC; Shri Dharmendra, Chief Secretary, GNCTD; and Dr. Vikas Kumar, Managing Director, DMRC.
During the programme, DMRC’s Annual Awards were presented to individuals and teams for their exemplary contributions to the organization.
The recognitions included:
• *Metro Woman of the Year*: Ms. Preeti, Senior Station Controller/Train Operator
*Metro Man of the Year*: Shri Suresh Pawar, Senior Station Manager/Line Supervisor
• *Best Metro Station*: Karol Bagh Metro Station
• *Best Metro Depot*: Kalindi Kunj Depot
• *Rajbhasha Puruskar*:Ms. Anjali, Senior Customer Relations Assistant
A special award was also presented to the Metro Adventure Club (MAC) team for its year long activities promoting team spirit and bonding among DMRC employees.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi Smt. Rekha Gupta also congratulated Delhi Metro on the occasion. “The place that Delhi Metro has made in the hearts of the people, it is indeed nothing less than the lifeline.
There is a ‘feel good factor’ when a passenger enters the Delhi Metro. They keep it clean, and they follow the rules as well. There has been a behavioural change,” she said during her address.
The event was a time to reflect at how far Delhi Metro has come and to appreciate the hard work of everyone who has been part of this journey. It was also a reminder of DMRC’s continued focus on providing safe, dependable, and eco-friendly travel to the people of Delhi and the surrounding areas.
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SK
(Release ID: 2126593) Visitor Counter : 32
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
    Police reclassified an assault occasioning actual bodily harm (AOABH) case in Mong Kok yesterday (May 2) as murder.
    At 6.33am yesterday, Police received a report from a staff member of a hotel on Prince Edward Road West that a woman collapsed in a room.
    Police officers sped to the scene and found the 46-year-old woman lying on a chair. Sustaining injuries to her face, she was rushed to Kwong Wah Hospital in unconscious state and was certified dead at 5.23pm on the same day.
    Initial investigation revealed that the deceased was allegedly assaulted by a man with a hard object. The assailant then fled away.
    Police arrested the 42-year-old man in Mong Kok for AOABH yesterday. He is being detained for enquiries.
    Upon further investigation, Police reclassified the case as murder. Post-mortem examinations will be conducted later to ascertain the cause of death.
    Active investigation by the District Crime Squad of Mong Kok District is under way. Anyone who witnessed the case or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 8741.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
DoJ stages large-scale rule of law drama “Rule of Law Academy – Adventure to the Stars” today and tomorrow
The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, and the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, make their debut in “Rule of Law Academy – Adventure to the Stars”. Playing the roles of the Principal and Vice-principal of the Rule of Law Academy respectively, they lead students on a thrilling adventure to practise the spirit of respect, integrity, justice and law-abidingness in order to win the honor of “Rule of Law Star”, thereby conveying the important messages of “uphold justice, uphold the rule of law”.
By integrating knowledge and creativity with rich interactive elements, the drama aims to encourage students and parents to practise the spirits of integrity, mutual respect, equality and law-abiding awareness in their daily choices and actions, and to make rule of law education an integral part of family education.
The DoJ has launched the “Rule of Law through Drama” project since 2021. Through lively, interesting and interactive performances, students can learn the proper concept of the rule of law, enhance their law-abiding awareness and cultivate a law-abiding spirit. The project has been well received with over 300 drama performances presented for primary schools in various districts across the territory since its launch.
Issued at HKT 21:01
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Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 6:31PM by PIB Delhi
The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced the launch of the Mediation Association of India and addressed the First National Mediation Conference 2025 in New Delhi today (May 3, 2025).
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the Mediation Act, 2023 was the first step in consolidating the civilisational legacy. Now we need to add momentum to it and strengthen its practice. She emphasised that the dispute resolution mechanism under the Mediation Act should be effectively extended to rural areas so that the Panchayats are legally empowered to mediate and resolve the conflicts in villages. Social harmony in villages is an essential prerequisite of making the nation strong, she said.
The President said that mediation is an essential part of the delivery of justice, which is at the heart of the Constitution of India – our founding text. Mediation can speed up the delivery of justice not only in the specific case under consideration, but also in other cases, by reducing the burden on courts of a large number of litigations. It can make the overall judicial system much more efficient. It can thus open up the developmental pathways that might have been blocked up. It can enhance both the ease of doing business and the ease of living. Mediation, when we see it this way, becomes a key instrument to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The President said that India has a long and rich tradition of judicial mechanisms in which out-of-court settlements were more of a norm than exception. The institution of Panchayat is legendary for fostering amicable resolutions. The Panchayat’s endeavour was not only to resolve the dispute but also to remove any bitterness among the parties about it. It was a pillar of social harmony for us. Unfortunately, the colonial rulers ignored this exemplary legacy when they imposed an alien legal system on us. While the new system did have a provision for mediation and out-of-court resolution, and the old tradition of alternative mechanisms did continue, there was no institutional framework for it. The Mediation Act, 2023 plugs that loophole and has a number of provisions that will form the foundation of a vibrant and effective mediation ecosystem in India.
The President said that the First National Mediation Conference is not a mere ceremonial event; it is a call to action. It calls upon us to collectively shape the future of mediation in India — by nurturing trust, building professional capabilities, and making mediation accessible to every citizen, across all sections of society. The establishment of the Mediation Association of India is a significant step forward in carrying this legacy into the future. It institutionalizes and promotes mediation as a preferred, structured, and widely accessible mode of dispute resolution — an approach that is timely and much needed in today’s dynamic and complex world.
The President said that we should see effective dispute and conflict resolution as not merely a legal necessity but a societal imperative. Mediation fosters dialogue, understanding and collaboration. These values are essential for building a harmonious and progressive nation. It will lead to the emergence of a conflict-resilient, inclusive and harmonious society.
Click here to see the President’s address.
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MJPS/SR/SKS
(Release ID: 2126534) Visitor Counter : 14
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 6:26PM by PIB Delhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today extended his congratulations to Mr. Anthony Albanese on his election as the Prime Minister of Australia.
In a post on X, he wrote:
“Congratulations @AlboMP on your resounding victory and re-election as Prime Minister of Australia! This emphatic mandate indicates the enduring faith of the Australian people in your leadership. I look forward to working together to further deepen the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and advance our shared vision for peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.”
Congratulations @AlboMP on your resounding victory and re-election as Prime Minister of Australia! This emphatic mandate indicates the enduring faith of the Australian people in your leadership. I look forward to working together to further deepen the India-Australia…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 3, 2025
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MJPS/SR/SKS
(Release ID: 2126526) Visitor Counter : 85
Source: Government of India
Restoration demands significant investment of money, time, and skilled resources: Shehzad Sippy
Despite the deluge of new content, the industry must work to preserve its foundational works: Kamal Gianchandani
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 6:18PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, 3 May 2025
Indian cinema took center stage at WAVES 2025 with an insightful panel discussion titled “Beyond Nostalgia: The Business of Restored Classics.” Curated under the expert moderation of renowned film trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the session brought together industry stalwarts to deliberate on the significance, challenges, and future of restoring cinematic gems for contemporary audiences.
The conversation opened with Kamal Gianchandani, a key voice in the film exhibition and distribution space, who emphasized the urgent need to make classics accessible on digital platforms. “So many of our films disappear from public memory because they aren’t readily available. Audiences constantly tell us they want to revisit the classics,” he noted, adding that despite the deluge of new content, the industry must work to preserve its foundational works.
Shehzad Sippy, representing the legacy of iconic cinema, reflected on the evolution of filmmaking and the unique storytelling methods of earlier decades. “Filmmaking was a different art then, and audiences today are curious to experience that era. But restoration demands significant investment of money, time, and skilled resources,” he said.
Film producer and actor Jackky Bhagnani highlighted the unpredictable nature of audience preferences. “People’s time is precious—they want quality content. What resonates is often subjective, seasonal, or driven by mood. But regardless of the era, we always strive to give our best,” he stated.
Bringing a policy and heritage perspective, Prakash Magdum, Additional Director General, PIB & CBC, Ahmedabad, shed light on government’s efforts to preserve India’s cinematic legacy. “Indians are deeply nostalgic. While the older generation seeks to relive the magic of their youth, the younger generation is eager to experience the classics they’ve heard so much about. Film restoration is a meticulous process involving multiple stakeholders, but with cutting-edge technology, we’re able to stay true to the original vision,” he explained.
He further elaborated on the ambitious National Film Heritage Mission, an initiative led by the Government of India aimed at preserving, digitizing, and restoring cinematic treasures. “Classic films are more than entertainment—they are a reflection of our collective cultural identity and heritage. The challenge is enormous, especially with factors like temperature and humidity affecting film reels, and the growing complexities of digital data preservation. Yet, this responsibility must be met with urgency and dedication”, flagged Shri Magdum.
The panel served as a powerful reminder that restored classics are not merely relics of the past, but vibrant carriers of culture, emotion, and legacy. As the business of restoration gains momentum, it is clear that the fusion of technology, passion, and policy will be key to ensuring that India’s cinematic heritage continues to inspire generations to come.
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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ Lekshmipriya/ Swadhin/ Darshana | 167
(Release ID: 2126525) Visitor Counter : 12
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 10:47PM by PIB Delhi
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out maiden flight-trials of Stratospheric Airship Platform from Sheopur Trial site in Madhya Pradesh on May 03, 2025. Developed by Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment, Agra, the airship was launched carrying an instrumental payload to an altitude of around 17 kms.
Data from onboard sensors was received and would be utilised for development of high-quality fidelity simulation models for future high-altitude airship flights. Envelop pressure control and emergency deflation systems were deployed in flight for their performance evaluation. Trial team recovered the system for further investigation. The total duration of the flight was about 62 minutes.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has congratulated DRDO for the successful maiden flight-trial of the system. He stated that this system will uniquely enhance India’s earth observation and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance capabilities, making the country one of the few countries in the world having such indigenous capabilities.
Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat congratulated the DRDO team involved in design, development and trial of the system. He said the prototype flight is a milestone towards realisation of lighter-than-air high-altitude platform systems that can remain airborne for very long endurance at stratospheric heights.
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SR/Savvy
(Release ID: 2126640) Visitor Counter : 17
Source: Government of India
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation directs NCEL to explore new opportunities for export of sugar, aromatic rice of Tripura, organic cotton, and coarse grains from cooperative sugar mills
Shri Amit Shah suggests partnership with big companies for export of fresh vegetables to Gulf countries and special potato varieties
NCEL should work on the ambitious target of exporting three specific products worth ₹ 2 lakh crore which have never been exported before
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah says NCOL should work with the target of turnover of more than ₹ 300 crore in the financial year 2025-26
BBSSL plays a vital role in strengthening India’s seed ecosystem – Shri Amit Shah
Home Minister also stressed upon the need to work on sugarcane varieties with high sugar content and low water requirement
BBSSL Centre set up at Kalol, Gujarat will develop high yielding, short maturity and low water requirement varieties of crops like pigeon pea, black gram, maize
Setting up of tissue culture facility is imperative to ensure availability of plants of high genetic potential for top 10 banana producing states
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:53PM by PIB Delhi
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chaired a high-level review meeting in New Delhi to review the progress of National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL), National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) and Bharatiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Ltd (BBSSL). The meeting was attended by Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, senior officials of the Ministry, and Shri Anupam Kaushik, Shri Vipul Mittal and Shri Chetan Joshi (Managing Directors of NCEL, NCOL and BBSSL respectively).
Addressing the meeting, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, these three national cooperative institutions were created by the Ministry of Cooperation with the approval of the Union Cabinet in 2023, with the aim to act as umbrella organizations for cooperative exports, organic production and promotion of quality seeds. He said that these are being operated under the ‘Whole of the Government’ approach in collaboration with the concerned Ministries/Departments/Agencies.
To realize the vision of “Prosperity through Cooperation” of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, many initiatives and historic schemes have been started under the guidance of the Ministry of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, which is promoting the cooperative sector at a fast pace.
NCEL (National Cooperative Exports Limited):
Shri Amit Shah directed NCEL to explore new opportunities for export of sugar from cooperative sugar mills, aromatic rice of Tripura, organic cotton, and coarse grains. Shri Amit Shah also suggested possibilities of partnership with big companies for export of fresh vegetables to Gulf countries and special potato varieties.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation set an ambitious target of ₹2 lakh crore exports by NCEL of three new and specific products which are not currently being exported from India. Along with this, Shri Shah directed to route all exports of cooperative institutions through NCEL so that about ₹20,000-30,000 crore turnover and net profit after taxes and operating costs can go back to the cooperatives.
Shri Amit Shah also suggested setting up of NCEL offices in Africa and Myanmar for pulses import and developing a dedicated website to enable cooperative members to understand the global demand and share their supply capacity.
NCEL was set up under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act and has made remarkable progress in its first year. In FY 2024-25, it gave membership to more than 10,000 cooperative institutions and achieved a turnover of ₹4,283 crore, with a net profit of ₹122 crore.
NCEL has expanded its exports to 28 countries, with key products being: basmati and non-basmati rice, marine products (especially shrimp), coarse cereals, wheat, fruits and vegetables, animal products, spices and plantation products. It has also signed strategic agreements (MoUs) with 61 importers from Senegal, Indonesia and Nepal.
NCOL (National Cooperative Organics Limited):
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that the organic products procured by NCOL are also being supplied to big brands like Amul, Bigbasket, thereby providing more volume and cost advantage to the ‘Bharat Organics’ brand. Shri Amit Shah said that soon its products will be available in Reliance stores across India.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah, 22 products under the ‘Bharat Organics’ brand are currently available in Delhi-NCR and there are plans to launch it in major metros. The products include cereals, pulses, spices and sweets products.
Shri Amit Shah appreciated the efforts of NCOL and set a target of turnover of more than ₹300 crore in the financial year 2025-26. He has also directed to form groups of certified organic farmers at the state level and integrate them at a higher level.
In the zero year of commercial operation in the financial year 2025-26 itself, NCOL has given membership to more than 7000 cooperatives in various categories and transacted a quantity of more than 1200 metric tonnes, which was procured from more than 2000 farmers. Its turnover so far has been ₹ 10.26 crores.
The uniqueness of the brand lies in its ‘Authenticity & Sustainability’ approach, every product batch is being tested for pesticide residues as per ‘Organic India’ standards and the report is being shared with the consumers in the form of a QR code and this customer oriented initiative is being implemented for the first time in the industry.
BBSSL (Indian Seeds Co-operative Society Limited):
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah underlined the important role of BBSSL in strengthening the seed ecosystem of India and said that it is imperative to establish tissue culture facility to ensure availability of plants of high genetic potential for top 10 banana producing states. He said that the recently established state-of-the-art BBSSL Centre at Kalol in Gujarat will work towards development of high yielding, low maturity and low water requirement varieties of crops like tur, urad, maize. He also emphasized the need to work on sugarcane variety with high sugar content and low water requirement. Shri Amit Shah has urged BBSSL to develop seeds of Lachka fodder crops for sale through NDDB and Amul network. Shri Amit Shah also emphasized on promoting seed production for processing varieties like potato especially for French fries under the Seed Production Programme for Processing Varieties. To ensure timely availability of breeder seeds, the Union Minister of Cooperation directed the Ministry of Cooperation to coordinate with the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure timely supply of required breeder seeds.
The Minister appreciated the efforts of BBSSL and reiterated the Government’s commitment to empower agricultural cooperatives through innovation, quality inputs and institutional support.
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RK/VV/RR/PR/PS
(Release ID: 2126629) Visitor Counter : 77
Source: Government of India
UN Vesak 2025 Celebrations Witness Unprecedented Turnout as India’s Buddhist Heritage Touches Hearts in Vietnam
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:24PM by PIB Delhi
More than one lakh devotees have paid their reverent homage to the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha, currently enshrined at Thanh Tam Pagoda, located within the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Binh Chanh District, Ho Chi Minh City. The Holy Relics were brought from India by an official delegation led by Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju and Andhra Pradesh Minister Shri Kandula Durgesh, joined by senior monks and officials.
Since early morning, the stupa housing the relics—recognized as a National Treasure of India—has seen continuous inflow of devotees. A line stretching nearly three kilometers formed on Saturday, underscoring the profound spiritual resonance and devotion among the Vietnamese people.
The Sacred Relics, including a portion of the skull bone of Lord Buddha (Shakyamuni), were excavated in 1898 by British archaeologist William Claxton Peppe in Kapilavastu, near the India-Nepal border. These relics are enshrined in a gold-plated stupa crafted by Thai artisans in 1997, featuring 109 grams of gold at its pinnacle—a testimony of the global reverence for Buddha.
Transported aboard an Indian Airforce aircraft, the relics arrived at Tan Son Nhat International Airport on May 2, 2025, and were ceremonially escorted to Thanh Tam Pagoda. The public exposition of these relics is being conducted under stringent security arrangements, reflecting their sacred and diplomatic importance—equivalent to a state leader’s visit.
The Holy Relics will remain in Vietnam until May 21, 2025, as part of the UN Day of Vesak celebrations. They will travel to key Buddhist sites including Ba Den Mountain National Tourist Area (Tay Ninh), Quan Su Pagoda (Hanoi), and Tam Chuc Pagoda (Ha Nam), fostering stronger spiritual and cultural ties between India and Vietnam.
The United Nations Day of Vesak 2025, themed “Unity and Inclusivity for Human Dignity: Buddhist Insights for World Peace and Sustainable Development,” will be observed from May 6–8. The global event is expected to host over 1,200 delegates from 85 countries and territories, including heads of state, religious leaders, and scholars.
India’s participation and the hosting of these sacred relics represent the profound civilizational bond and shared Buddhist heritage between the two nations.
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Sunil Kumar Tiwari
(Release ID: 2126627) Visitor Counter : 50
Source: Government of India
Community Radio is a tool to reach out to citizens in all corners of the country; they take important development initiatives to all: Dr. L. Murugan
8th National Community Radio Conference held at WAVES 2025 in Mumbai
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 4:26PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, May 3, 2025
The 8th National Community Radio Conference was organized by the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, on the sidelines of the World Audio-Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), in Mumbai today. Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. L. Murugan honoured 12 outstanding community radio stations with the 10th National Community Radio Awards at the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr L. Murugan congratulated the winners and said that the national conference is aimed to strengthen the community media landscape in India through innovation, inclusiveness, and impact. The Union Minister of State said that Community Radio is a tool to reach out to citizens in all corners of the country. The Community Radios around the country are serving some or the other welfare purpose and supporting good causes, including promotion of Indian tradition and culture, he added. The community radio stations are also taking PM Shri Narendra Modi’s vision and important development initiatives of the central government to all parts of the country. These stations are adding a new dimension of welfare activities for various communities and groups, like women and tribal community among others.
Speaking about the first edition of WAVES 2025, Dr. L. Murugan stated that new ideas will evolve from it and that creative economy is a sunrise sector that will play a major role in the coming days.
List of Community Radio Stations which were awarded under four different themes
Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Prithul Kumar Joint Secretary (Broadcasting) and MD, NFDC, and IIMC Vice Chancellor Dr. Anupama Bhatnagar were present amongst the dignitaries on the occasion.
The conference brought together representatives from more than 400 Community Radio (CR) Stations across the country on one platform to provide an opportunity for dialogue and collaboration. At present, there are 531 CR Stations across the country. The conference emphasized the seminal role of Community Radio in public communication and awareness generation and also their potential in social development.
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PIB Team WAVES 2025 Rajith/LekshmiPriya/Sriyanka/CShekhar | 164
(Release ID: 2126478) Visitor Counter : 97
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Commissioner of Police inspects passing-out parade of Police Cadet Training at HK Police College
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Chow Yat-ming encouraged the cadets to uphold the core values of “Wisdom, Courage, Integrity, and Perseverance” and to embody the “Cadet Spirit” of the Police Cadet School. He recalled since the establishment of the Cadet School in 1973 until the completion of its historic mission in 1990, over 4 000 elites have been trained and most of them have joined the Force to serve the community.
Mr Chow mentioned the “Diploma of Applied Education – Police Cadet Training” Programme was launched in 2024. The Police Force collaborated with the Caritas Institute of Community Education, the Hong Kong College of Technology as well as the Hong Kong Institute of Technology to offer a programme equipping aspiring police recruits with comprehensive academic, physical, and psychological preparation.
Taught by experienced police officers, most of whom are Cadet School alumni, in the programme offered by the Police College, the curriculum features experiential learning and a “hell week” outdoor training, designed to strengthen cadets’ mentality and values, serving as a good preparation for the cadets to proceed directly to a 27-week foundation training at the Police College after completing the diploma, passing medical and character assessments.
Mr Chow highlighted that colleagues graduating from the Cadet School are loyal to missions and never give up. He commended the cadets for demonstrating resilience and teamwork, perfectly establishing the exemplary image and spirit of “Cadets” during their training. He encouraged cadets to transform the resilience and confidence gained from training into motivation for future challenges, and to uphold the principle of “acting with integrity even when alone,” always prioritise the public’s interests and embody the Force’s motto of “Serving Hong Kong with Honour, Duty and Loyalty.”
He expressed gratitude to the former Deputy Principals of the Cadet School and over 60 “Cadet” alumni present at the passing-out parade, commending their contributions to the Force and to Hong Kong, while highlighting the enduring unity of the “Cadet” community.
Mr Chow further inspired the cadets with the phrase “Physical strength is finite, but willpower is limitless”, encouraging them to remember their instructors’ teachings, cherish their camaraderie and uphold the proud traditions of the “Cadets”, while continue to contribute to Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability.
Issued at HKT 13:54
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Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 3:56PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai | May 3, 2025
Ted Sarandos, Co-CEO of Netflix, while talking to actor Saif Ali Khan in an engaging conversation on the third day of the inaugural World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) at Jio World Centre in Mumbai today, said that the streaming platforms had enabled democratization of film making in India.
The conversation on the theme “Streaming the New India: Culture, Connectivity, and Creative Capital” explored the evolving landscape of storytelling in the digital era, the impact of streaming on creative freedom, and India’s growing presence on the global entertainment map.
When asked about the future of storytelling, Sarandos said, “It’s very difficult to predict where storytelling is headed. But what remains constant is the intent to connect with audiences. Post-COVID, we saw a 2 billion dollar investment into India, which is a clear sign of the country’s dynamic shift in content creation and consumption.”
Saif Ali Khan, reflecting on his collaboration with Netflix in the popular series Sacred Games, emphasized the transformative power of streaming platforms. “Earlier, we had to conform to rigid formats. Streaming has liberated actors and filmmakers from those constraints. Now, people across the globe can watch our stories, which they might have missed in traditional cinema,” he said.
Elaborating on the democratization of filmmaking in India, he said, “audiences can access diverse stories anytime, and creators have more freedom to tell them. It’s a continuous cycle of watching and making.”
Addressing the coexistence of cinema and streaming, Sarandos reaffirmed that theatrical releases still hold value. “Cinemas are not outdated. Streaming and theaters are not competitors. They can move ahead coexisting each other as the market before us is huge,” he said.
Saif echoed the sentiment, adding that the most meaningful projects for him are those rooted in Indian culture. “If someone abroad asks me about my films, I talk about Omkaara or Parineeta — films deeply connected to our culture. There’s something incredibly thrilling about telling our own stories to the world,” he said.
Both Sarandos and Saif praised WAVES as a platform that amplifies the creative synergy between global and Indian storytellers. Sarandos praised the initiative, saying, “If the ideas presented here work, they’ll succeed beyond imagination. WAVES is a fantastic platform for that momentum.”
The WAVES summit continues to bring together visionaries and industry experts from across the globe to shape the future of the entertainment industry through dialogue, innovation, and cultural exchange.
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PIB TEAM WAVES | Rajith/LekshmiPriya/Riyas/CShekhar |163
(Release ID: 2126467) Visitor Counter : 18
Source: Government of India
Repairability Index enabling framework applies to
Smartphones and Tablets
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 11:03AM by PIB Delhi
The Committee constituted for the Framework on Repairability Index (RI) in Mobile and Electronic Sector has submitted its Report to Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India.
The committee’s recommendations have been framed in alignment with the best global practices without causing any impediment to the industry with regard to innovation and ease of doing business. The Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are required to self-declare the Repairability Index based on a standards scoring criteria provided in the framework with no additional compliance burden.
Further, the committee recommended that the Repairability Index should be displayed at the point of sale/purchase, E-commerce platforms and in form of QR code on packaged products to enable consumer to make informed choices.
Repairability Index aims to create an ecosystem , where consumers choose options that align with the ethos of ‘mindful utilization’ of their products over ‘wasteful consumption’. By empowering consumers with ease and hassle-free repair options, the Department of Consumer Affairs is reaffirming its commitment to a self-reliant, sustainable, and consumer-friendly economy.
Pertinently, an analysis of grievances received at National Consumer Helpline (NCH) indicates that large number of consumers witness issues while seeking repair for their mobile phone and tablets. There has been significant rise in complaints in Mobiles and Tablets product category from 19,057 in 2022-2023 followed by 21,020 in 2023-2024 and further to 22,864 in 2024-2025, which also highlighted a pressing need to improve repair accessibility and ensure greater transparency of repair and post-sale service-related information to consumers.
In September 2024, the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), constituted a committee under the chairmanship of Shri Bharat Khera, Additional Secretary for developing the framework of the Repairability Index (RI).
The committee included
The committee was mandated to recommend a robust framework for Repairability Index (RI) in Mobile and Electronics Sector. Based on the deliberations, the committee has identified smartphones and tablets as a product category for notification in the initial phase of Repairability Index in Mobile and Electronics Sector.
The committee identified priority parts which are most prone to frequent failures and have high functional relevance as below:
Several meetings of the Committee were conducted to deliberate and discuss for identifying parameters for Repairability Index. Repairability is assessed on six core parameters, namely
Scoring criteria was evolved for each of these parameters and weightages were decided. After aggregation of weightages for priority parts, a RI on a five-point numeric scale is arrived at.
The Committee actively engaged with a wide array of relevant stakeholders, including manufacturers, industry associations, consumer advocacy groups, and representatives of government. These consultations were vital for gathering diverse perspectives and ensuring the proposed framework is practical, effective, and addresses the needs and challenges faced by the consumers in India to utilize their product as long as they want.
As India continues its rapid technological advancement and more and more consumers have access to a variety of consumer products, the need for robust after sales support and equitable repair practices is becoming increasingly crucial. For countless consumers, both in rural and urban areas, access to affordable repair options is fundamental.
In view of this growing demand for a robust repair ecosystem, the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) had launched the Right to Repair Portal India in 2022, to facilitate relevant repair associated information between the companies and consumers in 4 (four) sectors namely, Automobile, Mobile and Electronics, Consumer Durables and Farming Equipment.
Over the last two years, consistent efforts have been made by the Department to use this portal for dissemination of repair related information. More than 65 companies across above four sectors have on boarded the portal and offer relevant repair related information to consumers.
Over the past few years, the rapid growth of the smartphone and tablet market in India has significantly transformed the digital landscape, with smartphones and tablets becoming integral to daily life for millions of people. A National Workshop was conducted in August 2024 wherein it was unanimously agreed that a Repairability Index framework in Mobile and Electronics sector will help consumers assess the ease of repairability of smartphones and tablets and enable them to make an informed choice amongst products available in market based on their repairability.
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Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma
(Release ID: 2126409) Visitor Counter : 103
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 3:34PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, 3 May 2025
The Day 3 of the inaugural WAVES Summit 2025 witnessed an insightful session titled Spotify House: Evolution of Folk Music in India at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. Hosted under the ‘WAVES Culturals and Concerts’ segment, the session brought together leading voices from India’s folk music and cultural space for a conversation on the living tradition of folk.
Renowned storyteller and host Roshan Abbas moderated the discussion. The panel featured celebrated lyricist and CBFC Chairperson Prasoon Joshi, folk singer Malini Awasthi, music composer Nandesh Umap, singer and composer Papon, and acclaimed performer Ila Arun.
Panellists discussed how Indian folk music continues to thrive as a living, collective tradition. They agreed that folk is not a relic of the past but a force deeply embedded in daily life and passed down across generations. Prasoon Joshi described folk as a “tactile feel of life” and a dynamic expression of shared human experience.
The conversation revolved around efforts to bring folk music into the mainstream. The panellists appreciated platforms like Spotify and initiatives like WAVES for including folk in larger cultural narratives. Nandesh Umap called folk “an open university,” stressing its inclusive and democratic nature.
Papon recounted his journey with folk music, including a memorable moment in Serbia when Assamese folk songs received a standing ovation. He highlighted how Indian folk resonates globally when presented with authenticity. Ila Arun and Malini Awasthi echoed the sentiment, stressing that the roots of folk music lie in community and emotion.
Prasoon Joshi noted, “When you seek yourself, you write poetry. When you subsume yourself, you write folk.” This statement captured the essence of the discussion as a genre rooted in collective identity and constantly reshaped by those who live it.
The panel underscored the vast diversity within Indian folk traditions, with each state offering a unique musical idiom. They called for systemic support to nurture this diversity and credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for enabling platforms like WAVES that bring traditional art forms to the forefront.
The discussion also addressed the need for innovation. The panellists emphasised that while the essence of folk must be preserved, its form should evolve to speak to new generations. They encouraged creative reinterpretations that remain true to cultural roots yet appeal to contemporary audiences.
The session featured spontaneous musical moments. Several panellists broke into impromptu singing, bringing the spirit of folk to life. The audience enjoyed an authentic and immersive experience.
The session ended with a unified call to listeners, institutions, and creators to support India’s folk heritage. The panellists urged that folk must not only be preserved but also celebrated and shared widely.
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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ Lekshmipriya/ Darshana | 162
(Release ID: 2126464) Visitor Counter : 77
Source: Government of India
Nominations to be submitted online through the official Rashtriya Puraskar Portal
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 10:44AM by PIB Delhi
The Government of India has invited nominations for the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) 2025, a prestigious national-level award conferred annually by the President of India to recognize exceptional achievements of children across the country. The last date for submission of nominations is 31st July 2025. All nominations must be submitted online through the official Rashtriya Puraskar Portal at https://awards.gov.in.
Nominations are open to children aged between 5 and 18 years (as on 31st July 2025). Any individual or institution may nominate children with exceptional achievements for PMRBP. Children may also apply through self-nomination.
To apply, applicants must first register or log in on the portal by providing details such as First Name, Last Name, Date of Birth, Applicant Type (Individual/Organisation), Mobile Number, Email ID, Aadhaar Number, etc. and CAPTCHA verification. Once registered, they should select the “Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025” under the Ongoing Nominations section and click on “Nominate/Apply Now.” Applicants must then choose the relevant award category and indicate whether the nomination is for themselves or for someone else.
The application form requires nominee details, a concise narrative (maximum 500 words) describing the achievement and its impact, and the upload of supporting documents (PDF format, up to 10 attachments) and a recent photograph (in jpg/jpeg/png format). Applications can be saved as drafts and edited before final submission. Once reviewed and submitted, a downloadable copy of the application will be available for reference.
The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar honours young individuals below the age of 18 (as on 31st July 2025) who have demonstrated excellence in the following six categories: Bravery, Social Service, Environment, Sports, Art & Culture, and Science & Technology.
The objectives of Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awards are to celebrate and amplify the achievements of India’s youth in diverse spheres, to inspire peers nationwide by showcasing real-life role models and to foster an enabling environment for children’s holistic development.
For more information and to nominate, please visit https://awards.gov.in.
Do you know a young hero whose story can inspire the entire nation?
Nominate them today at 👉 https://t.co/7nl4GXleo8
Hurry! The last date to submit is 31st July 2025.#PMRBP2025 #VeerBaalDiwas@PIBWCD | @mygovindia | @PMOIndia | @EduMinOfIndia pic.twitter.com/i3gVto5gzh— Ministry of WCD (@MinistryWCD) May 2, 2025
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SS/MS
(Release ID: 2126399) Visitor Counter : 42
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 3:25PM by PIB Delhi
To commemorate World Intellectual Property (IP) Day 2025, the National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), under the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, organized a national workshop titled “Driving Innovation with IP: Strategic Approaches to Commercialization” at the historic Faculty Hall, IISc.
Jointly supported by key institutions including IIIT Bangalore, CMTI, C-DOT, Central Silk Board, BeST Cluster, IPTel, and IISc, the event brought together over 250 in-person and 500 virtual participants from academia, research, startups, industry, PSUs, and government to deliberate on IP management and commercialization strategies.
Commodore Amit Rastogi (Retd.), CMD, NRDC, delivered the keynote, emphasizing NRDC’s role in scaling academic innovations via initiatives like NETRA, Design Clinic, and blended financing to Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) 7–9. He announced upcoming projects including a Technology Exchange Portal, IP Fairs, and a National Tech Translation Organization (NTTO), reinforcing the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Prof. Govindan Rangarajan, Director, IISc, underlined the need for structured IP protection in academia and acknowledged efforts to address cultural barriers to patenting.
Key dignitaries included Ms. Manjushree N, IAS, Commissioner, DCTE GoK, Prof. Suryasarathi Bose (IISc), Dr. U T Vijay (KSCST), Prof. Debabrata Das (IIIT-B), Dr. S Manthira Moorthy (CSB), and Shri Prakash Vinod (CMTI)—all advocating for deeper academia-industry collaboration and robust IP ecosystems.
A MoA was signed between NRDC and IIIT Bangalore to facilitate tech commercialization.
Along with it a Tripartite Licensing Agreement signed between NRDC, CSIR-CFTRI, and M/s Varre Corporate Solutions for CSIR-CFTRI’s Spirulina Cereal and Choco Bar technology.
Dr. Dilip Krishnaswamy (C-DOT) and Dr. Vishal Rao (Innaumation Medical Devices) shared insights on embedding IP into business strategy.
Dr. B. K. Sahu (NRDC) presented strategies for overcoming commercialization barriers.
Two major panel discussions featured leaders from Biocon Academy, BeST, CSIR-CFTRI, IIIT Innovation Centre, and IPTeL, focusing on bridging gaps between research and market, effective licensing strategies, and the critical role of policy and institutional mindset shifts.
The workshop concluded with a unified call to action for scaling India’s innovation ecosystem through strategic IP commercialization, fostering national development and global competitiveness.
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NKR/PSM
(Release ID: 2126460) Visitor Counter : 65
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 3:20PM by PIB Delhi
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has issued a notification prohibiting import of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan to India.
This will prohibit import of goods from Pakistan directly or through any other trade route.
The directive, issued via Notification No. 06/2025-26 dated 2nd May 2025, has come into effect immediately. A new paragraph, Para 2.20A, has been inserted in the FTP 2023:
“Direct or indirect import or transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan, whether or not freely importable or otherwise permitted, shall be prohibited with immediate effect, until further orders. This restriction is imposed in the interest of national security and public policy.”
The detailed notification is available on the DGFT website at https://dgft.gov.in.
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Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas
(Release ID: 2126458) Visitor Counter : 30
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:12AM by PIB Delhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today condoled the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa.
The PMO India handle in post on X said:
“Saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected: PM @narendramodi”
Saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected: PM @narendramodi
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 3, 2025
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MJPS/SR/SKS
(Release ID: 2126392) Visitor Counter : 69
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 3:10PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, 3 May 2025
A high-profile breakout session titled “Digital Dreams & Cinematic Visions: Madhya Pradesh as the Next Creative Hub” was held today at Waves 2025. The session was moderated by Naman Ramachandran, International Correspondent of Variety.
Renowned producer and director Ekta Kapoor officially launched the Film Tourism Policy 2025 of the Madhya Pradesh government. The session also witnessed the launch of the AVGC XR Policy 2025 and the Second Phase of the Madhya Pradesh Film Cell Portal.
Speaking on the occasion, Ekta Kapoor emphasized that while choosing a film destination, factors like rebate, ease of obtaining permissions, visual scenery, and ease of shooting are paramount.
Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, IAS, Principal Secretary, Tourism Department, Government of Madhya Pradesh, highlighted that MP is the heart of Incredible India and is fast becoming the heart of filmmakers as well. He noted the state’s shooting-friendly environment, rich history and heritage, and ready talent pool. The state has one of the best benchmark financial incentive policies and a simplified single portal system for permissions, ensuring ease of shooting. He mentioned that the 2.0 policy marks an improvement with increased incentives and special provisions for repeat shooting. Extra incentives will be extended to films using local languages and local talent as well as films made in other Indian languages that shoot in MP. He added that Madhya Pradesh is aiming to give Mumbai a run for its money by branding the state through facilitating filmmaking.
Shri Sanjay Dubey, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of IT and DST, Government of Madhya Pradesh, said the new AVGC policy will support pre and post-production and also promote related sectors like animation, gaming, and VFX. He emphasized the government’s proactive and risk-taking approach in supporting filmmakers.
Shobha Sant, CEO of Creativeland Studios and a seasoned producer, shared her experiences from the film Stree 2, shot in MP using local talent and technicians. She cited international productions like Lion and A Suitable Boy, also shot in the state. An upcoming Australian co-production has also chosen MP as its location. Remarking that no complaints have ever been reported by film teams located in Madhya Pradesh added that “People who come once to Madhya Pradesh, want to keep coming back”.
Other dignitaries in the panel, Jyotirmoy Saha, CEO of August Media Group, stated that the new policies will catalyze the formation of creative hubs across the state while Ashish Kulkarni, Chairman, FICCI AVGC sector, spoke on the other attractions of Madhya Pradesh, including its cuisine, the Tribal Museum, and the Global Skills Park.
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PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ Athira/ Darshana | 161
(Release ID: 2126457) Visitor Counter : 17