NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI USA: OP-ED: Seizing opportunities for Alaska with the Trump administration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    04.14.25
    I recently delivered my annual address to the Legislature in Juneau. I spoke about the success we’ve had in continuing our military build-up, including the possibility of re-opening the U.S. Navy base in Adak, to counter the unprecedented number of Russian and Chinese incursions near our air and waters.
    I spoke about our veterans and how we’re continuing to work to make sure they get the benefits they have earned. We’ve also passed significant legislation, the Social Security Fairness Act, to ensure that our other outstanding public servants — like teachers, firefighters, police officers — get the Social Security benefits they have earned. I spoke about our focus on making aviation safer, and the work we’re doing to help our hard-working fishermen and coastal communities, all of whom have experienced very rough times recently.
    But the heart of my speech centered on two visions for Alaska that have existed since statehood. One sees our state more run by an absent federal landlord who seeks to protect us and occasionally gives us scraps from the wealth of America’s table to keep us happy. This arrogant federal landlord view of Alaska reached its zenith under President Biden with his “Last Frontier lock-up” — 70 executive orders and actions exclusively focused on shutting down Alaska’s private sector economy, harming working families, and killing hundreds if not thousands of jobs.
    The other vision, which I believe most Alaskans support, envisions unlocking the wealth of Alaska to create sustainable, private sector economic growth and good-paying jobs. With the stroke of a pen on his first day in office, President Trump fully endorsed this vision by issuing an Alaska-specific executive order that undoes much of the Biden lock-up and sent an unmistakable message that unleashing Alaska’s extraordinary resources and growing our economy is a top priority of his administration.
    I encourage all Alaskans to read the EO, understand it, and most importantly, work to use it for the betterment of Alaskans. This executive order could help us achieve many of the big, long-sought ambitions in our state and create thousands of good-paying jobs.
    To be clear, this EO is not a panacea. But we are the only state in the country that got one. Alaska has never seen such a positive signal directly from a U.S. president that we should pursue our vision of a state that seeks private sector wealth and job creation with a federal government that is a partner in opportunity, not a hostile opponent.
    As I was delivering my speech in Juneau, the Interior Department released another order lifting the decades-obsolete Public Land Order 5150, long used to hinder major resource projects in our state. This order puts ANWR and NPR-A back on the table for responsible development and enables the State of Alaska to select lands along the Dalton Highway corridor for conveyance, including the land beneath the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, something Alaskans have been trying to get done since the 1970s.
    We’ve also seen major progress on a dream that has eluded our grasp for decades — the Alaska LNG project. As a state and federal official, I’ve been working on this project for over 15 years. I understand there is skepticism. We have been hearing about this for decades. But the potential transformative benefits for our state are so huge, and the geostrategic imperative for America and our Asian allies so compelling, that my team and I have, for years, kept ramming our shoulders into the cement wall of Alaska LNG, hoping someday that this wall would give way.
    As of late, a crack has developed — an 800-mile crack in this wall that shows undeniable progress.
    After the November election, I met with President Trump and pitched him and his team on the huge benefits of this project for America. I asked the president for his full backing, and we’ve gotten it.
    In his recent meeting with the Japanese Prime Minister, President Trump pressed him on the Alaska LNG project. And last month in his address to Congress, President Trump said:
    “My administration is also working on a gigantic natural gas pipeline in Alaska—among the largest in the world—where Japan, South Korea, and other nations want to be our partner with investments of trillions of dollars each. There’s never been anything like that one. It will be truly spectacular.”
    None of this progress happens by accident. I worked closely with Gov. Dunleavy and our teams to secure these actions.
    But we’re pushing on an open door. The Trump administration wants to help Alaska.
    In the past week, I’ve had productive discussions with President Trump, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other members of Trump’s cabinet on prioritizing the Alaska LNG project and, in particular, long-term Alaska LNG off-take agreements from countries like Japan, South Korea and Taiwan in their tariff agreement negotiations. Both Trump and Bessent have stated that this is one of their goals in these negotiations.
    In my speech, I respectfully asked our state legislators to find creative ways to build on this unprecedented momentum we’re seeing at the federal level for the Alaska LNG project, not stop it. To the naysayers and pessimists, I asked, what is the alternative for Alaskans? Importing gas from Canada or Mexico? If we do, energy prices are going to double or triple for our homes, businesses, schools, and hospitals. Low-cost energy will be closed for a generation, and the good-paying jobs and possibilities that go with the Alaska LNG project will flee our state — and so will our kids.
    To be clear, I don’t agree with everything the Trump administration has done, particularly some of the DOGE actions in Alaska.
    But difficult choices have to be made. Our $36 trillion national debt is at a dangerous and unsustainable level. Last year, we paid out more in interest on this debt — upwards of $950 billion — than we did to fund our military at about $870 billion. When you look at history, great powers begin to fail when they hit this precarious inflection point. These debt and spending levels also drive high inflation rates as we’ve seen over the past few years, which remain the top concern of Alaska families.
    I’ve spoken directly with DOGE and Trump administration leaders regularly on this effort. They know that some mistakes will be made, and they want to work with us to correct them. We have had some successes reversing or preventing certain actions — on things like GSA leases and frozen federal funding on numerous projects across our state — particularly if they undermine the President’s Alaska-specific EO to unleash Alaska’s economy.
    But it’s vital that we Alaskans not forget the bigger picture. We have opportunities like never before to grow our state’s economy, create thousands of good-paying jobs and permit and build our long-sought projects. Imagine what we could achieve with a nearly inexhaustible supply of our own affordable natural gas for the whole state. Imagine the private sector opportunities that could start here — a manufacturing base, thousands of good-paying jobs, a steady source of income for many years to come to our state’s coffers.
    We can’t lose sight of the vision arising from our frontier heritage. This vision built our state and is still brimming with strength, invention, energy, and opportunity.
    By:  Sen. Dan SullivanSource: Anchorage Daily News

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt Savitri Thakur holds key review meetings in Shillong to assess implementation of Central Schemes

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 7:37PM by PIB Shillong

    In line to strengthen the implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes and Programmes of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, a series of high-level meetings were held today in Shillong. The Minister of State for Women and Child Development, Smt. Savitri Thakur, conducted a comprehensive review with senior officials of the Government of Meghalaya’s Social Welfare Department. The discussions focused on assessing progress in flagship schemes such as Poshan Abhiyan, Mission Shakti, and Mission Vatsalya. During the meeting, the Minister emphasised the need for strengthening service delivery mechanisms at the grassroots level, especially in the functioning of Anganwadi Centres.

    The review highlighted critical areas including the need for regular and high-quality supplementary nutrition under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), improving infrastructure at Anganwadi Centres to ensure they are child- and women-friendly, leveraging technology for real-time monitoring and beneficiary tracking, encouraging active community participation, and capacity building of Anganwadi workers for improved service outcomes.

    Further, an in-depth review was held with the East Khasi Hills District Administration as part of the Minister’s visit to the North Eastern region. Attended by local MLA Ollan Singh Suin and representatives of various departments, the meeting included detailed presentations on the status of development schemes and infrastructure projects in the district. Discussions centred around the implementation of schemes related to women and child development, health, education, rural development, and livelihood generation, along with an assessment of progress in remote and rural areas and identification of key challenges.

    The Minister lauded the efforts of the state government and stated, “Despite the difficulties in connectivity and electricity, officials are working with dedication to ensure that all schemes are effectively implemented. I commend their efforts and encourage them to keep updating data on the Poshan Tracker, as these reports help the Ministry respond quickly to on-ground needs.”

    She further added, “We are committed to fulfilling Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat, and every step we take in empowering women and children brings us closer to that goal.

    Later, the Minister of State paid a courtesy call to the Governor of Meghalaya, Shri. C H Vijayashankar. The meeting included discussions on state-led initiatives to enhance women and child welfare and boost community-based interventions for inclusive development.

    The visit reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of strengthening the North Eastern region through focused development, inclusive growth, and enhanced delivery of welfare schemes. The meetings underscored the commitment of the Central and State Governments towards collaborative governance and improving the lives of women and children in Meghalaya. Field visits to Anganwadi Centres and project sites are scheduled for the next day to assess ground-level implementation and community engagement.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKMH to showcase over 130 sets of invaluable cultural relics including terracotta army of Emperor Qin Shihuang from Qin and Han dynasties (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HKMH to showcase over 130 sets of invaluable cultural relics including terracotta army of Emperor Qin Shihuang from Qin and Han dynasties
         Addressing the ceremony today (April 15), the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government established the Chinese Culture Promotion Office (CCPO) last year. The CCPO is dedicated to promoting Chinese culture and history-related activities, exchanges and collaborations, with the aim of promoting Chinese culture and enhancing the public’s cultural confidence and national identity. In collaboration with the HKMH, the CCPO launched the first flagship project, the General History of China Series, allowing the public to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the development of Chinese civilisation. The first exhibition of the series, “The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: The Ancient Civilisation of the Xia, Shang and Zhou Dynasties in Henan Province” launched last year, and the inaugural Chinese Culture Festival, have attracted a total of more than 1 million attendance, including 10 000 teachers and students. Nearly 20 per cent of the visitors were tourists. The Government hopes to showcase the unique charm of Chinese culture to the world through the precious historical and cultural treasures of the motherland, pursuing the mission of “telling good China’s stories”.

         Mr Chan added that the exhibition launched today is the second major exhibition of the General History of China Series. The Qin and Han dynasties were of great significance and marked the first unified China in history, profoundly influencing the course of the historical development of China for over 2 000 years.

         Other officiating guests at the opening ceremony included Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Qi Bin; Deputy Director of the Shaanxi Provincial Cultural Heritage Administration Mr Qian Jikui; the Deputy Chairman of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Mr Martin Liao; the Under Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau; the Chairman of Museum Advisory Committee, Professor Douglas So; and the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Manda Chan.

         Over 100 sets of carefully selected exhibits will be presented in this exhibition, originating from the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, the Hanyangling Museum, and the Shaanxi Academy of Archaeology (Shaanxi Archaeology Museum). More than half of these exhibits will be displayed in Hong Kong for the first time. Among the exhibits, 11 pieces/sets are grade-one national treasures with four of them to be exhibited outside the Mainland for the first time.

         Highlight exhibits include three terracottas from the Qin dynasty which are grade-one national treasures, and are on display in Hong Kong for the first time, including the Terracotta General, the highest-ranking warrior yet uncovered at the Terracotta Army Pits; the Terracotta Kneeling Musician believed to be striking a musical instrument; and the Terracotta Kneeling Archer, on which traces of red pigment from over 2 000 years ago can still be seen on the armour. The terracottas are displayed independently in glass showcases transparent on the four sides, allowing visitors to appreciate from all angles. 

         Another highlight exhibit is Bronze chariot No. 1 (replica), the original set of which was unearthed from the Bronze Chariots and Horses Pit, Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shihuang, Xi’an City, Shaanxi Province. It authentically replicates the form and structure of ancient chariot.

         The exhibition also showcases a series of pottery animal figurines from the Han dynasty, unearthed from the Han Yangling Mausoleum, Shaanxi Province, which reflect the prosperity of animal husbandry at the time. Among them, the pottery goat, wild dog and domestic dog are exhibited outside the Mainland for the first time.

         Other highlight exhibits include a bronze wild goose from the Qin dynasty, a pottery cast mould, a gold disc, naked warrior figurines in walking poses, painted cavalry figurines and tile end engraved with “Qian Qiu Wan Sui” from the Han dynasty.

         The exhibition will also portray Hong Kong’s development during the Qin and Han periods, featuring over 20 sets of archeological finds from Hong Kong, including “Wuzhu” bronze coins from the Han dynasty unearthed in So Kwun Wat in Tuen Mun, Sham Wan at Lamma Island, and Sham Wan Tsuen in Chek Lap Kok, as well as a pottery model of a house excavated from the Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb.

         Besides featuring valuable cultural relics, the exhibition is also complemented by multimedia programmes to allow visitors to uncover the terracotta army’s tailoring secrets and learn the Chinese characters and measurements in standardised units from the Qin and Han periods. The reading corner in the exhibition gallery displays a number of collections specially selected by the Hong Kong Public Libraries, covering topics of history of the Qin and Han dynasties and archaeology of Hong Kong. Through these collections, members of the public can learn about the long history, origins and development of China and explore the ancient Chinese civilisation. The interactive zone located in the main lobby on the first floor presents the development of the Lingnan region during the Qin and Han dynasties through displays, animations and interactive games.

         To tie in with the exhibition, the HKMH will organise a series of fascinating education and extension programmes, including four free public lectures by experts from Shaanxi and scholars from Hong Kong, free workshops for making items such as mini pottery terracotta warriors and clay mirrors. Teaching kits will be distributed to primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong, while outreach programmes and book displays will be arranged at the Hong Kong Public Libraries.
     
         The exhibition is jointly presented by the LCSD and the Shaanxi Provincial Cultural Heritage Administration, jointly organised by the HKMH and the Shaanxi Cultural Heritage Promotion Center, solely sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, in collaboration with the CCPO. Full support is provided by the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, the Hanyangling Museum, and the Shaanxi Academy of Archaeology (Shaanxi Archaeology Museum). For details of the exhibition and activities, please visit the website at hk.history.museum/en/web/mh/exhibition/The-Great-Unity.htmlIssued at HKT 22:50

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Reinforces Commitment to Energy Security and Exploration Growth: Shri Hardeep Singh Puri at OALP IX & Special DSF Signing Ceremony

    Source: Government of India

    India Reinforces Commitment to Energy Security and Exploration Growth: Shri Hardeep Singh Puri at OALP IX & Special DSF Signing Ceremony

    India Accelerates Scientific Exploration: 76% of Active E&P Area Opened Since 2014, 28 Blocks Awarded Under OALP Round-IX

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:12PM by PIB Delhi

    “The Indian hydrocarbon sector is entering a new era of accelerated exploration and development,” said Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, while addressing the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) Round-IX and Special Discovered Small Field (DSF) Signing Ceremony held here tonight. He highlighted that through investor-friendly reforms, swift approvals, scientific exploration, and a strong emphasis on sustainability, India is steadily building a resilient and future-ready energy ecosystem aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat.

    Addressing the  esteemed gathering of dignitaries, industry stakeholders, and investors, Shri Puri noted that today’s signing ceremony signifies much more than the completion of a procedural formality—it is a powerful testament to India’s unwavering commitment to reducing its import dependence and securing its energy future.

    With India currently reliant on imports for 88% of its crude oil and 50% of its natural gas needs, the urgency for domestic exploration and production has never been greater. As the Minister pointed out, “In the next two decades, 25% of the world’s incremental energy demand growth will come from India.”

    Reflecting on the past, Shri Puri acknowledged the challenges the Indian upstream sector faced between 2006 and 2016—a “dull decade” marred by policy paralysis and procedural delays, leading to the exit of global energy giants like BP, ENI, and Santos. However, the tide has turned. “We were determined to unlock India’s untapped energy potential, estimated at approximately 42 billion tonnes of oil and oil equivalent of gas,” he said.

    To that end, the Government has implemented a series of transformative reforms over the past decade. A key achievement has been the expansion of exploration activity, with the explored area of India’s sedimentary basins increasing from 6% in 2014 to 10% today, with a target of reaching 15%. The Minister reiterated the commitment to increasing exploration acreage to 1 million sq. km by 2030, highlighting the dramatic 99% reduction in “No-Go” areas within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

    Scientific, data-driven exploration has been a cornerstone of this strategy, backed by a ₹7,500 crore investment into new seismic data acquisition, aerial surveys in remote terrains, and stratigraphic wells. Importantly, geo-scientific data is now available for major basins on both coasts, with the National Data Repository being upgraded to a cloud-based platform to ensure faster, transparent access to seismic, production, and well data.

    The Minister proudly noted that 76% of the total area currently under exploration has been brought under active exploration only since 2014. Under OALP Round-IX alone, 28 blocks across eight sedimentary basins have been awarded, covering 1.36 lakh square kilometers—38% of which fall in areas previously designated as “No-Go.” Additionally, two blocks were awarded under the Special DSF Round, with a total of 60 bids received.

    “Congratulations to all the awardees. Your success will play a pivotal role in meeting our increasing energy demands as India continues its ascent as one of the world’s largest energy consumers,” Shri Puri said.

    Looking ahead, the Minister announced that OALP Round-X has already been launched at the India Energy Week 2025, offering 25 blocks across 13 sedimentary basins—covering the largest-ever acreage of 1.92 lakh square kilometers, with 51% falling in previously restricted zones.

    Furthermore, DSF Round-IV is being launched tonight, comprising 55 discoveries across nine contract areas with estimated reserves of 258.59 million metric tonnes of oil equivalent (MMTOE). All blocks have undergone rigorous technical vetting by global experts, and critically, all relevant data is being made freely available to potential investors.

    He also shared that under previous DSF Bid Rounds (I, II, and III), a total of 85 Revenue Sharing Contracts covering 175 fields have been awarded.

    Highlighting the potential in unconventional hydrocarbon sources, Shri Puri elaborated on India’s Coal Bed Methane (CBM) assets, currently estimated at 2,600 BCM. With 15 active CBM blocks—five already under production—the Government is preparing to launch a Special CBM 2025 Round to offer three new blocks (two in West Bengal and one in Gujarat), further diversifying India’s energy portfolio.

    In a major legislative update, the Minister announced that the amended Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948 (ORDA), will come into effect in April 15, 2025. This “landmark reform” modernizes India’s upstream regulatory framework and aligns it with international best practices.

    The Government has also been responsive to industry concerns through the establishment of a Joint Working Group (JWG) comprising private E&P operators, National Oil Companies, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons. “The JWG has submitted its report, and we are formally launching it this evening,” Shri Puri announced.

    In a move towards inclusive governance and legal clarity, the Minister also launched the draft PNG Rules Public Consultation Portal, encouraging industry and public stakeholders to share feedback. These rules will help shape future Model Revenue Sharing Contracts and streamline sectoral regulations.

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    MONIKA

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the acquisition of certain shareholding in SNV Aviation Private Limited (Akasa Air) by PI Opportunities Fund-I Scheme-II (PIOF), certain executives of PIOF, Claypond Capital Partners Private Limited (Claypond), and 360 ONE Private Equity Fund (360 Fund), through its various schemes and affiliates.

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the acquisition of certain shareholding in SNV Aviation Private Limited (Akasa Air) by PI Opportunities Fund-I Scheme-II (PIOF), certain executives of PIOF, Claypond Capital Partners Private Limited (Claypond), and 360 ONE Private Equity Fund (360 Fund), through its various schemes and affiliates.

    The Proposed Combination involves the acquisition of certain shareholding in Akasa Air by  PIOF, PI Executives, Claypond, and 360 Fund, acting through its investment manager, 360 ONE Alternates Asset Management Limited.

    PIOF is a trust established under the laws of India and registered as an Alternative Investment Fund with the Securities and Exchange Board of India and is setup to provide investors with risk-adjusted returns by way of a portfolio of significant and long-term equity investments in various growing entities.

    Claypond is an affiliate of the Pai Family Group. Pai Family Group has made financial investments in various sectors.

    360 Fund is registered with the SEBI as a Category II AIF and is established for the purpose of investing in various sectors in India and worldwide.

    Akasa Air is engaged in the business of providing domestic scheduled air passenger transport services, international scheduled air passenger transport services, air cargo transport services, and allied services including in-flight sales.

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the proposed combination involving Waverly Pte. Ltd (“Waverly”), TPG Growth V SF Markets Pte. Ltd (“Growth V”), TPG Growth III SF Pte. Ltd (“Growth III”), Asia Healthcare Holdings Pte. Ltd (“AHH Singapore”), Rhea Healthcare Private Limited (“Rhea”), Asia Healthcare Advisory Holdings LLP (“AHH LLP”), and Asian institute of Nephrology and Urology Private Limited (“AINU”).

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed combination involving Waverly Pte. Ltd (“Waverly”), TPG Growth V SF Markets Pte. Ltd (“Growth V”), TPG Growth III SF Pte. Ltd (“Growth III”), Asia Healthcare Holdings Pte. Ltd (“AHH Singapore”), Rhea Healthcare Private Limited (“Rhea”), Asia Healthcare Advisory Holdings LLP (“AHH LLP”), and Asian institute of Nephrology and Urology Private Limited (“AINU”).

    The proposed combination, inter alia, contemplates:

    1. Waverly’s proposed subscription of Ordinary Shares and Class F Redeemable Preference Shares in Asia Healthcare Holdings Pte. Ltd.;
    2. Certain rights accruing to Growth V in AHH Singapore and Rhea (including its downstream entities) and AHH LLP;
    3. Certain rights accruing to Growth III in AHH Singapore (solely in relation to matters pertaining to AINU and its downstream entities);
    4. Proposed acquisition of complete shareholding held by AHH Singapore in AINU, by Rhea (“AINU Transfer”);
    5.  Proposed issuance of equity shares by Rhea to AHH Singapore, as a consideration for the AINU Transfer.

    Growth III and Growth V are investment funds that are ultimately managed and controlled by TPG Inc. (“TPG”), which is a global, diversified investment firm. TPG, including its subsidiaries and affiliates, are together referred to as the “TPG Group”. TPG, the ultimate holding company of the TPG Group, is a company listed on NASDAQ. TPG primarily invests in complex asset classes such as private equity, real estate and public market strategies. The TPG Group operates in India through its various investments with a primary focus on sectors such as technology, healthcare, consumer and financial services.

    Waverly is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lathe Investment Pte. Ltd., which is in turn, wholly-owned by GIC (Ventures) Pte Ltd. Waverly is a special purpose vehicle organized as a private limited company in Singapore that is part of a group of investment holding companies managed by GIC Special Investments Private Limited.

    AHH is a Singapore incorporated company and is primarily engaged in long term investment holding activities and through its direct/ indirect subsidiaries, is active in providing healthcare services in the field of maternal, child, urology, nephrology and other related health care services in India. AHH Singapore is jointly owned and controlled by the TPG Group and GIC Group.

    Rhea is a specialty hospital chain that provides comprehensive women and childcare and vitro fertilization (post consummation of merger with Nova Medical Centers Private Limited). Rhea currently operates in 19 states and 3 union territories, in India.

    AINU, a single-specialty center in South India, is focused on providing healthcare services through hospitals, specializing in (i) urology care, (ii) nephrology care and (iii) dialysis and kidney transplant. They also provide radiology and pathology services to their patients. It has seven hospitals located across Hyderabad, Vishakhapatnam, Siliguri, Chennai and Secunderabad.

    AHH LLP is engaged in the business of providing advisory services in the areas of strategy, finance and other operational matters (excluding investment management, investment advisory or financial advisory services). Currently, AHH LLP solely provides advisory services to AHH Singapore and/or its downstream entities through providing an inside view into operation and financial control of companies operating in the healthcare sector

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves proposed transaction involving Aster DM Healthcare, BCP Asia, Centella and Quality Care India Limited

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed transaction involving Aster DM Healthcare, BCP Asia, Centella and Quality Care India Limited.

    The proposed transaction includes the proposed merger of Quality Care India Limited (QCIL) into Aster DM Healthcare Limited (Aster) by way of scheme of amalgamation, post which Aster will be renamed as Aster DM Quality Care Limited. Prior to the merger, Aster shall purchase 5.0% stake in QCIL from BCP Asia II TopCo IV Pte. Ltd. (BCP Asia) and Centella Mauritius Holdings Limited (Centella) in consideration of a primary share issuance by Aster. The existing shareholders of QCIL i.e., Centella, BCP and certain minority shareholders are proposed to hold certain stake in the merged entity with Centella holding less than 10% stake, without any control rights.

    Aster is a healthcare service provider operating in India through 19 hospitals with 4867 beds, 13 clinics, 215 pharmacies, and 232 labs and patient experience centers across 6 states in India. It is a part of the Aster Group.

    BCP is owned by funds advised and / or managed by affiliates of Blackstone Inc.

    Centella is owned and controlled by an entity, which is advised by the affiliates of TPG Inc. (TPG), the ultimate holding company of the TPG group. TPG, including its subsidiaries and affiliates, are together referred to as ‘TPG Group’.

    QCIL, is an unlisted public limited company, owned and controlled by Centella, and BCP. It operates a network of multi-specialty hospitals under the brand name CARE Hospitals, KIMS Health and Evercare across various cities in India. It has a network of 26 healthcare centers operating over 5,150+ beds across 14 cities offer over 30 medical specialties with a team of 2,500+ doctors.

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.​​​​​​​

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves acquisition of shares of TKE Group by Alat Technologies and the formation of joint venture by Alat Technologies and the TKE Group

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:05PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the acquisition of shares of TKE Group by Alat Technologies and the formation of joint venture by Alat Technologies and the TKE Group.

    The proposed combination relates to the: (a) indirect acquisition by Alat Technologies Company (ATC) of shareholding in Vertical Topco S.à r.l. (Vertical Topco), as a result of which ATC will acquire approximately 15% in the TKE Group (Proposed Topco Investment); and (b) the formation of a joint venture by ATC and the TKE Group (KSA JV) (Proposed KSA JV Transaction).

    ATC is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia. ATC is active globally and specializes in manufacturing: (a) semiconductors; (b) smart devices; (c) smart buildings; (d) smart appliances; (e) smart health; (f) advanced industrials; (g) next generation infrastructure; (h) electrification; and (i) artificial intelligence infrastructure.

    Vertical Topco is a limited liability company incorporated under the laws of Luxembourg. Vertical Topco is the holding company of the TKE Group. The TKE Group is active globally (in more than sixty countries) in the installation, modernization and servicing of elevators, escalators, moving walks, passenger boarding bridges, and stairlifts, as well as related ancillary products and activities.

    The proposed KSA JV will be active in the manufacture, supply, installation, and maintenance of vertical and horizontal transportation units (elevators, escalators, etc.) primarily in Saudi Arabia, and potentially in other countries of the MENA region.

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IREDA Reports Highest Ever PAT of ₹1,699 Crore for FY 2024-25, First Company in the NBFC and Banking Sector to Announce Audited Results

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 7:53PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has announced its Audited Standalone and Consolidated financial results for the Quarter and Year ended March 31, 2025, showcasing significant growth across key financial metrics. The company reported its highest ever Annual Profit After Tax of ₹1,699 crore. As the nation’s largest pure-play Green Financing NBFC, IREDA has once again set industry standards by publishing its Audited Financial Results within just 15-days. This milestone positions IREDA as the first company in the NBFC and Banking Sector, and the first PSU, to publish Audited Financial Results in just 15-days.

    The Board of Directors of IREDA, during a meeting held today, acknowledged the company’s outstanding performance and approved the Audited Standalone and Consolidated financial results for the Quarter and Year ended March 31, 2025.

    Key Financial Highlights (Standalone) – Q4 FY2024-25 vs Q4 FY2023-24:

    • Profit After Tax (PAT): ₹502 crore (↑49%)
    • Profit Before Tax (PBT): ₹630 crore (↑31%)
    • Revenue from Operations: ₹1,904 crore (↑37%)
    • Net Worth: ₹10,266 crore (↑20%)
    • Loan Book: ₹76,281 crore (↑28%)

    Key Financial Highlights (Standalone) – FY2024-25 vs FY2023-24:

    • Profit After Tax (PAT): ₹1,699 crore (↑36%)
    • Profit Before Tax (PBT): ₹2,104 crore (↑25%)
    • Revenue from Operations: ₹6,742 crore (↑36 %)
    • Net Worth: ₹10,266 crore (↑20%)
    • Loan Book: ₹76,282 crore (↑28%)

    Commenting on the results, Shri Pradip Kumar Das, CMD, IREDA, said, “IREDA’s sustained growth in revenue, profitability, and loan book underscores our strategic focus towards financing India’s renewable energy ambitions. We remain committed to being the enabler of India’s green energy transition through innovative financial solutions and strategic partnerships.”

    Shri Das also expressed his appreciation for Team IREDA for their unwavering dedication and excellence in achieving these milestones. He further extended his gratitude to Shri Pralhad Joshi, Hon’ble Union Minister of New & Renewable Energy, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution; Shri Shripad Naik, Hon’ble Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy; Ms. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, MNRE; other senior officials of MNRE and other ministry; and the Board of Directors for their continued support and invaluable guidance.

    **********

     

    Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2121943) Visitor Counter : 68

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) released the 32nd Report Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) for States/UTs of March, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) released the 32nd Report Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) for States/UTs of March, 2025

    59,271 PG cases were received by States/UTs as of 28th March, 2025

    A total of 59,523 grievances redressed by States/UTs till 28th March, 2025. Pendency in States/UTs stands at 1,90,976 grievances

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 7:46PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) released the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) 32nd monthly report for States/UTs for March, 2025. The said report provides a detailed analysis of types and categories of public grievances and the nature of disposal by the States/UTs.

    A total of 59,523 grievances were redressed by the States and Union Territories as of 28th March, 2025. The pendency of grievances on the CPGRAMS portal stands at 1,90,976 grievances across the States/UTs Governments, as of 28th March 2025.

    The report provides the data for new users registered on CPGRAMS through CPGRAMS Portal in the month of March, 2025. A total of 49,912 new users registered by 28th March, 2025, with maximum registrations from Uttar Pradesh (7,602) registrations.

    The said report also provides the state-wise analysis on the grievances registered through Common Service Centres as of 28th March, 2025. CPGRAMS has been integrated with the Common Service Centre (CSC) portal and is available at more than 5 lakh CSCs, associating with 2.5 lakh Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs). 7,150 grievances were registered through CSCs by 28th March, 2025, in which maximum grievances were filed from Uttar Pradesh (2,073 grievances) followed by Punjab (1409 grievances). It also highlights the major issues/categories for which the maximum grievances were registered through CSCs.

    Uttar Pradesh has received the maximum number of grievances as of 28th March, 2025 with the number standing at 22,369 grievances. 15 States/UTs have more than 1000 pending grievances as of 28th March, 2025. Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra disposed the maximum number of grievances in March, 2025, with the number standing at 21,113 and 3,785 grievances respectively. 16 States/UTs have disposed more than 1000 grievances in between 1st to 28th March, 2025.

    The report also includes the status of grants released under the Sevottam Scheme in the FY 2024-25. In the last three Financial Years (2022-23, 2023-24, 2024-25), 811 training courses have been completed, in which ~26,941 officers have been trained.

    S No.

    Financial Year

    Training Conducted

    Officers Trained

    1

    2022-23

    280

    8,496

    2

    2023-24

    236

    8,477

    3

    2024-25

    295

    9,968

    TOTAL

    811

    26,941

     

    Key Highlights for the month of March, 2025, are as follows:

    1. Status of Public Grievances on CPGRAMS:
    • From 1st to 28th March, 2025, 59,271 PG cases were received for the States/UTs and 59,523 PG cases were redressed
    • The monthly disposal in States/UTs increased from 50,088 PG cases at the end of February, 2025 to 59,523 PG cases as on 28th March, 2025
    1. Status of Pendency of Public Grievances on CPGRAMS
    • 23 States/UTs have more than 1000 pending grievances as on 28th March, 2025
    • For States/UTs, as on 28th March, 2025, there exists a pendency of 1,90,976 PG cases.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) released the 35th Monthly Report on Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) of Central Ministries/ Departments performance for the month of March, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) released the 35th Monthly Report on Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) of Central Ministries/ Departments performance for the month of March, 2025

    A total of 1,21,065 Grievances were Redressed by Central Ministries/Departments as of 28th March, 2025

    For the 33rd month in a row, the monthly disposal crossed 1 lakh cases in the Central Secretariat

    Department of Telecommunications, Department of Posts, and Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs topped in Group A category in the rankings released for the month of March, 2025

    Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Department of Heavy Industry topped in Group B category in the rankings released for the month of March, 2025

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 7:45PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) released the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) monthly report for March 2025, which provides a detailed analysis of types and categories of public grievances and the nature of disposal. This is the 33rdreport on Central Ministries/Departments published by DARPG.

    A total of 1,21,065 grievances were Redressed by Central Ministries/Departments as of 28th March, 2025. The Average Grievance Disposal Time in the Central Ministries/Departments from 1st March to 28th March, 2025 is 16 days. These reports are part of the 10-step CPGRAMS reform process which was adopted by DARPG to improve the quality of disposal and reduce the timelines.

    The report provides the data for new users registered through the CPGRAMS Portal in the month of March, 2025. A total of 49,912 new users registered by 28th March, 2025, with maximum registrations from Uttar Pradesh (7,602) registrations.

    The said report also provides the state-wise analysis on the grievances registered through Common Service Centres as of 28th March, 2025. CPGRAMS has been integrated with the Common Service Centre (CSC) portal and is available at more than 5 lakh CSCs, associating with 2.5 lakh Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs). 7,150 grievances were registered through CSCs by 28th March, 2025. It also highlights the major issues/categories for which the maximum grievances were registered through CSCs.

    The following are the Key Highlights of the DARPG’s monthly CPGRAMS report for March 2025 for Central Ministries/ Departments:

    1. PG Cases:
    • As of 28th March 2025, 1,16,970 PG cases were received on the CPGRAMS portal, 1,21,065 PG cases were redressed and there exists a pendency of 57,456 PG cases.
    1. PG Appeals:
    • As of 28th March 2025, 24,478 appeals were received and 21,400 appeals were disposed
    • The Central Secretariat has a pendency of 25,488 PG Appeals for the period 1st March 2025 to 28th March, 2025.
    1. Grievance Redressal Assessment and Index (GRAI) – till 28th March, 2025
    • Department of Telecommunications, Department of Posts, and Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs are amongst the top performers in the Grievance Redressal Assessment & Index within the Group A (more than equal to 500 grievances) as of 28th March, 2025.
    • Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Department of Heavy Industry are amongst the top performers in Grievance Redressal Assessment & Index within the Group B (less than 500 grievances) as of 28th March, 2025.

    The report also features 4 success stories of effective grievance resolution from Central Ministries/Departments:

    1. Grievance of Shri Prakash Kumar Agarwal – Delay in PF Withdrawal Claim

    Shri Prakash Kumar Agarwal faced delays in the processing of his PF withdrawal claim (Form 19) despite fulfilling all requirements. Having worked for over 12 years, he submitted his application, ensuring TDS exemption as per regulations. After repeated documentation requests over six months, he filed a grievance on the CPGRAMS Portal. Following that, concerned authorities processed his claim promptly, and the final PF settlement of ₹35,31,303/- was issued, resolving the matter within the same day.

    1. Grievance of Shri Vishal Verma – Non-Receipt of LPG Subsidy

    Shri Vishal Verma, holding an HP Gas LPG connection registered in the name of Ms. Anita Verma, faced subsidy non-receipt issues for several months. Upon inquiry at the LPG office, he was informed that his Aadhaar was not linked with NPCI, and he was advised to contact his bank. However, the bank confirmed that the Aadhaar was correctly linked with NPCI. Seeking a resolution, he filed a grievance on the CPGRAMS Portal. After verification by concerned authority, the subsidy was transferred to Ms. Anita Verma’s account.

    1. Grievance of Shri Souptik Sarkar – NFSC Fellowship Disbursement Delay

    Shri Souptik Sarkar, a Ph.D. student at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, faced difficulties in linking his account for the National Fellowship for Scheduled Castes (NFSC) under the UGC NET December session. Despite completing all formalities on the Canara Bank Scholarship Portal, his request was repeatedly rejected due to subject classification issues. Seeking resolution, he filed a grievance on the CPGRAMS Portal. In response, the authorities reviewed the case, and linking request under the NFSC scheme was approved based on an explanation from the Registrar of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Vishwavidyalaya.

    1. Grievance of Smt. Bhumika Naresh Gaikwad – National Overseas Scholarship Processing Delay

    Smt. Bhumika Naresh Gaikwad, selected under the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) 2024 for a Master of Commerce (Extension) at the University of Sydney, faced delays in receiving her final award letter. Despite completing all formalities, including income and caste verification, she awaited confirmation for months, leading to uncertainty and the need to defer her university intake. With no clear response from the NOS office, she filed a grievance on the CPGRAMS Portal. Following this, the concerned authority issued her final award letter, ensuring she could proceed without further disruptions. The grievance was promptly resolved within just three days of filing.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKSAR organises activities for 2025 National Security Education Day (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region:
     
    Launched today (April 15) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the National Security Education Day activities were hosted by the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (the Hong Kong National Security Committee) and supported by the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (LOCPG) and the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (OSNS). The Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council Mr Xia Baolong officiated at the opening ceremony of the National Security Education Day via video. Officiating guests attending the opening ceremony were the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Chairman of the Hong Kong National Security Committee, Mr John Lee; Director of LOCPG and National Security Advisor of the Hong Kong National Security Committee, Mr Zheng Yanxiong; Head of OSNS, Mr Dong Jingwei; Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the HKSAR, Mr Cui Jianchun; and Political Commissar of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison, Navy Rear Admiral Lai Ruxin.
     
    In his keynote speech delivered via video at the opening ceremony, Director Xia Baolong said that over the past decade, China had achieved historic successes in national security work, and Hong Kong had gone through an extraordinary journey from chaos to governance and then from governance to greater prosperity. History and reality tell us that external forces’ attempts to destabilise Hong Kong and use it to contain China will not change and can never succeed; the Chinese people will never accept bullying, and all Chinese people, including Hong Kong compatriots, cannot be intimidated or overwhelmed; Hong Kong compatriots have a long-standing tradition of patriotism and love for Hong Kong, and those who betray the Motherland and Hong Kong will never have a good ending.
     
    Director Xia pointed out that currently, the practice of “one country, two systems” has entered a new stage. The good situation in Hong Kong today has come at a great cost and should be treasured. We must consolidate and develop this good situation. We must face the problems related to the development and security in Hong Kong, be vigilant and stay united. Every individual, group, enterprise and organisation needs to work together with Hong Kong compatriots and all Chinese people to defend Hong Kong and the country, ensure high-quality development with high-level security, and promote the steady and sustained practice of “one country, two systems”.
     
         Director Xia mentioned three “beliefs”. It is believed that the national security institutions of the HKSAR will resolutely shoulder the sacred mission of maintaining national security and further strengthen the solid barrier for national security. It is believed that all sectors of Hong Kong society can actively fulfil their obligation to maintain national security and jointly protect their beautiful home – Hong Kong. It is believed that the business community and entrepreneurs can make Hong Kong their home, build their businesses, and contribute to both Hong Kong and the country with more practical actions.
     
    Director Xia pointed out, “Many public officials in Hong Kong have been unreasonably sanctioned by the United States for their work in maintaining national security, but they are not afraid, are working steadfastly to fulfil their duties, and are willing to sacrifice their own interests for the benefit of the country. They take concrete actions to love and protect the country and Hong Kong, and I am proud of them,”
     
         “It is hoped that Hong Kong’s business community and entrepreneurs will continue to play a leading role in driving economic development, carry forward the fine tradition of patriotism and love for Hong Kong, correctly understand the relationship between their own enterprises and the development of both Hong Kong and the nation, and always uphold righteousness and never forget national interests.”
     
         Mr Lee expressed his gratitude to Director Xia Baolong for his care, guidance and support for Hong Kong all along. Mr Lee said, “The inspiring speech by Director Xia reminds us to not forget the past and to be vigilant about national security risks. We must also resolutely uphold national security and ensure the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong further.”
     
         At the opening ceremony, Mr Lee said, “The world is undergoing unprecedented changes at an accelerating pace. Hong Kong will face increasingly turbulent risks to national security in the future. We must remain vigilant, as the aftermath of the 2019 ‘black-clad’ violence has not yet ended. Anti-China subversive forces in Hong Kong continue to attempt a resurgence, engaging in ‘soft resistance’ and inciting hatred and resentment,”
     
         “Moreover, the United States’ wanton suppression of China and the HKSAR has become increasingly fanatical. In the face of the United States’ unbridled hegemonism, the HKSAR fully supports our country’s efforts to respond to the United States’ challenges, to defend China’s legitimate rights and interests, and to uphold international fairness and justice. At the same time, Hong Kong is committed to maintaining its status as a free port with virtually zero tariffs and pursuing open and free trade. With the resilience, adaptability, and indomitable spirit of the Hong Kong people, the city will once again navigate through adversity and emerge stronger, proving its worth as like pure gold standing the test of fire,”
     
         “The international landscape is complex and fast changing, and threats to national security can appear suddenly. We must always stay vigilant and, when embracing immense challenges, be prepared in the following four areas: (1) resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the ‘one country, two systems’ principle; (2) thoroughly implement the holistic approach to national security; (3) continuously improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security; (4) actively promote by way of education across society the need to safeguard national security of our own accord.”
     
         “The SAR government will fulfil its constitutional responsibility to safeguard national security, effectively resolve the conflicts and problems in the course of development and reforms, proactively identify, adapt to, and drive changes, deepen international exchanges and cooperation, and actively integrate into the broader national development landscape. At the same time, it will properly deal with all complex situations, spare no efforts in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests, and make greater contributions to the building of a strong country and the great rejuvenation of the nation.”
     
         In his speech, Director Zheng emphasised the need to further strengthen the foundation for the awareness of safeguarding national security; to better coordinate high-quality development with high-level security; and to actively pursue Hong Kong’s important mission in this new stage.
     
         “If our security foundations are not firmly supported or are unstable, our development will be precarious and will risk collapsing. Likewise, if we delay or neglect development, the foundation for our security will also become unstable. We must resolutely coordinate high-quality development with high-level security, and safeguard and advance the blossoming prospect and positive atmosphere that Hong Kong has been hard winning,”
     
         “It is essential to remember that building and developing Hong Kong well is, in itself, a powerful contribution to Chinese-style modernisation.”
     
         In his speech, Director Dong Jingwei stated, “We must not forget the painful scenes and lessons related to the proposed legislative amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance, and we must remain clear-eyed about the ever-changing and complex national security landscape while firmly establishing the belief that ‘development is one overriding principle; security is another’,”
     
         “National security has never been a blessing from others. Flattery leads nowhere; submission has no future; and pleading only guarantees elimination,”
     
         “On this new journey in the new era, Hong Kong’s national security work requires strategic confidence, a firm belief in victory, and a strong hold on the strategic initiative in safeguarding national security.”
     
         Commissioner Cui Jianchun stated in his speech that the United States prioritises its own interests above the common good of the international community, and such zero-sum mentality engenders division and confrontation, bringing significant instability and uncertainty to the world. 
     
         “I believe Hong Kong can proactively adapt to changes and seize opportunities, fully leveraging the core advantages of ‘one country, two systems’ and its role as a bridge connecting domestic and global markets. By steadfastly utilising its unique status as a free port, Hong Kong can make distinctive contributions to upholding the multilateral trading system and promoting the building of a shared future for the neighbouring communities!” 
     
         Rear Admiral Lai Ruxin in his speech said that since its stationing in Hong Kong, the Garrison has been resolutely implementing the “one country, two systems” principle, the Basic Law of the HKSAR, and the Garrison Law, and firmly safeguarding the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. 
     
         “All officers and soldiers of the Hong Kong Garrison will remain unwavering in following the Party’s command, enhancing combat readiness training, sincerely caring for Hong Kong and its people, and resolutely upholding national sovereignty, security, and Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and stability.” 
     
         The HKSAR Government has been comprehensively promoting national security education through creative approaches with rich content. In August last year, the National Security Exhibition Gallery (the Gallery) was established, which is the first thematic gallery in the HKSAR dedicated to the systematic promotion of national security education, and also the first national security education base in the HKSAR. In just eight months since its opening, the Gallery has already registered over 600 000 visits. To mark the 10th National Security Education Day this year, the Gallery launched a thematic exhibition last month to reflect on the development of national security education advanced by both the country and the HKSAR Government over the years. In addition, the National Security Education District Tutor Training Scheme started in November last year. So far, about 3 000 district tutors have completed the training and have shared national security messages with over 120 000 people in the communities. In this academic year, the “Territory-wide Inter-school National Security Knowledge Challenge” has, for the first time, introduced an English section for non-Chinese speaking secondary school students, in addition to the primary and secondary school sections. A total of 610 schools participated, with over 126 000 students taking part, which represented an increase of more than 20 per cent as compared to last year’s. After several rounds of competitions, a total of 130 students and their coaching teachers joined the National Security Education Study Tour to visit Beijing and Shanghai in December last year. At today’s opening ceremony, students from the study tour shared their experiences of the journey via a short play. Through heartfelt and lively dialogues in a time-travel setting, the young generation of Hong Kong won the approval of the guests in their display of the sense of national identity, the awareness in safeguarding national security of their own accord, and the aspiration to serve the country.
     
         Apart from the above, the disciplined services held a solemn and grand flag-raising ceremony on the morning of April 15, and “National Security Cup” sports events and open days before and after April 15. In addition, 18 District Councils have organised different events, including seminars, carnivals, competitions, lectures, for Hong Kong citizens to participate in and understand national security.
     
         The National Security Law of the People’s Republic of China stipulates that April 15 each year is the National Security Education Day. The aim of National Security Education Day is to raise citizens’ awareness of safeguarding national security and help them appreciate that everyone has a responsibility for safeguarding national security and that everyone should fulfil such responsibility.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: *Cargo traffic on National Waterways hits record high of 145.5 million tonnes in FY 2024-25*

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 7:43PM by PIB Delhi

    The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reached a significant milestone in cargo movement on National Waterways. For the fiscal year 2024-25, IWAI has successfully achieved record-breaking 145.5 million tonnes of cargo movement, marking an all-time high in the IWT sector. Along with this, the total number of operational waterways has gone up from 24 to 29 during the year.

    Exponential Growth in Cargo Traffic in last ten years

    Cargo traffic on National Waterways has increased from 18.10 MMT to 145.5 MMT between FY-14 and FY-25, recording a CAGR of 20.86%.

    In FY-25, traffic movement registered a growth of 9.34% year-on-year from FY-24. Five commodities i.e. coal, iron ore, iron ore fines, sand and fly ash constituted over 68% of total cargo moved on NWs during the year.

    The growth in cargo movement on national waterways is noteworthy. In the last few years, several pro-active policy measures and infrastructure initiatives have been taken to streamline cargo movement on NWs. 

    Jalvahak – Cargo Promotion Scheme

    Launched in December last year, the Jalvahak scheme promotes modal shift of cargo from other modes to IWT by incentivising cargo owners and movers to the extent of 35% of the total actual operating expenditure incurred on waterways journey. To give further push to the scheme, scheduled cargo services were made operational on NW-1, NW-2, and NW-16 via the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol. This scheme is expected to divert 800 million tonne-kilometers of cargo to the IWT mode, accounting for nearly 17% of the current 4,700 million tonne-kilometers of cargo on National Waterways.

    Digital Portal for getting NOCs to set up IWT structures on NWs

    The National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025 encourage private sector investment in the development of inland terminals on National Waterways, optimizing the use of India’s extensive waterways network. Private, public, and joint venture entities can develop jetties/terminals across the country by obtaining a simplified no-objection certificate (NOC) from IWAI through a digital portal.

    Other Initiatives to boost cargo movement

    Fairway Development Works: Development of fairways to ensure least available depth and smooth navigation. End-to-end dredging contracts have been issued for various identified stretches on national waterways.

    Ro-Ro/Ro-Pax Services: Introduction of Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) and Ro-Pax services on various National Waterways.

    Digital Solutions: Implementation of digital solutions like CAR-D portal and PANI portal for ease of doing business, Central database for registration of vessel and crew (Jalyaan and Navic) to promote digitisation, Naudarshika (National River Traffic and Navigational System) for safety and smooth operations of inland vessels.

    Besides, adequate waterways infrastructure including like IWT terminals, night navigation facility, navigational locks are being developed along NWs. These initiatives are expected to boost the growth of cargo movement through National Waterways, promoting a more efficient and sustainable mode of transportation.

    With the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, IWAI is committed towards developing waterways as a robust engine of growth. The Authority is expanding its footprint throughout the country, working extensively towards capacity augmentation of NW-1, NW-2, NW-3, and NW-16 among other waterways. The growth in cargo movement on national waterways is a clear indicator that the steps taken by IWAI are yielding positive results and will help in making IWT a preferred and reliable mode of transportation in the long run.  

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Defence Secretary calls on Italian Defence Minister in Rome to further enhance bilateral defence cooperation

    Source: Government of India

    Defence Secretary calls on Italian Defence Minister in Rome to further enhance bilateral defence cooperation

    11th India-Italy Joint Defence Committee meeting held; Focus on closer defence collaboration especially in technology and armament production

    MoU inked between SIDM & AIAD to foster closer cooperation between defence industries of both nations
               

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 7:32PM by PIB Delhi

    Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh visited Rome, Italy from April 14-15, 2025 on an official trip. The visit started with the Defence Secretary calling on the Defence Minister of Italy Mr Guido Crosetto. During the meeting, the two sides held productive discussions aimed at further enhancing defence cooperation as a key pillar of India-Italy strategic partnership.

    During his visit, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh co-chaired the 11th India-Italy annual bilateral Joint Defence Committee meeting with his Italian counterpart, Secretary General of Defence Ms Luisa Riccardi. They discussed a wide range of defence, security and industrial cooperation issues including maritime cooperation and information sharing arrangements between India and Italy with emphasis on Trans Regional Maritime Network. The situation in the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean Region also came up during the discussions.

    The Defence Secretary stressed on closer defence collaboration especially in technology and armament production, which is a priority area for India. He also brought out that the Government of India is proactively building an ecosystem for defence production and innovation within the country through conscious policy initiatives. India has developed a vibrant innovation and industrial ecosystem.

    In his keynote address during India-Italy Defence Industry Roundtable, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh shared his views on how the Indian defence industry has witnessed significant changes, particularly in the past few years through progressive reforms. He said that these reforms have been marked by the creation of a conducive environment for the growth of the Indian Industry through transparency, predictability and Ease of Doing Business.

    An MoU between Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and the Federation of Italian Companies for Aerospace, Defence and Security (AIAD) was also signed, marking a significant step toward fostering closer cooperation between the defence industries of both nations.

    The Defence Secretary was accompanied by a high-level Ministry of Defence delegation, comprising senior officials from Service Headquarters, Department of Defence and Department of Defence Production. A substantial industry delegation from SIDM also accompanied the Defence Secretary to foster closer B2B connections between the Indian and Italian defence industries.

    *******

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Labour & Employment signs MoU with Swiggy in Presence of Union Ministers Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Sushri Shobha Karandlaje

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Labour & Employment signs MoU with Swiggy in Presence of Union Ministers Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Sushri Shobha Karandlaje

    MoU to Enhance Gig and Logistics Employment Opportunities on NCS and Create Over 12 Lakh Job Opportunities in 2–3 years

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 7:08PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Labour & Employment and Swiggy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in New Delhi today, marking a significant step toward strengthening employment linkages in the gig and logistics sector through the National Career Service (NCS) portal. The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister of Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje.

    In his address, Dr. Mandaviya stated, “The National Career Service portal is a dynamic platform connecting job seekers and employers across India. With over 1.25 crore active job seekers and 40 lakh registered employers as of January 31, 2025, it is playing a crucial role in workforce mobilization. This partnership with Swiggy will further extend the portal’s reach into the fast-growing gig and platform economy, enabling access to flexible and location-based opportunities for millions of youth.”

    Dr. Mandaviya welcomed the collaboration and appreciated Swiggy’s commitment to potentially mobilize over 12 lakh job opportunities in the next 2–3 years through the NCS portal. “This collaboration represents a win-win model, while Swiggy will gain access to a diverse, skilled, and job-ready talent pool, lakhs of job seekers across the country will benefit from enhanced visibility and access to employment opportunities,” Union Minister said.

    Highlighting the platform’s accessibility and reach, Union Minister reiterated the government’s vision of making NCS a one-stop solution for employment, skilling, and counselling, and at the same time capable of hyperlocal job matching and supporting both domestic and international placements.

    Under this MoU, Swiggy will integrate its gig opportunities—including delivery, logistics, and support roles—onto the NCS portal. This real-time integration will enhance visibility of gig jobs for NCS users, who will benefit from timely and verified work opportunities across urban and semi-urban areas.

    Mr. Dinker Vashisht, Chief of Cooperate Affairs, Swiggy, welcomed the collaboration and emphasized the importance of partnerships between Gig platform and government platforms to scale employment. “Swiggy’s journey showcases how digital entrepreneurship can transform livelihoods. This MoU will empower job seekers and align with our commitment to inclusive growth in the new-age economy.”

    It is one of the steps, in the series of signing MoUs with the private employers/ portals, other leading employment/ Gig platforms etc. to bridge the gap between jobseekers and private sector employment, enabling a holistic approach to public-private coordination in job facilitation.

    Salient Points of the MoU:

    • Swiggy will regularly post verified gig and delivery job opportunities on the NCS portal and conduct hiring through it.
    • API-based integration will ensure real-time job postings and seamless application tracking for users.
    • Focus on inclusive hiring, particularly promoting employment opportunities for youth, women, and those seeking flexible work.
    • The partnership is expected to support structured onboarding, digital empowerment, and awareness of worker welfare schemes.

    The Ministry of Labour & Employment remains committed to improving employment outcomes across sectors through the NCS portal and will continue engaging with the private sector to foster an enabling ecosystem for India’s diverse workforce.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LegCo Panel on Welfare Services and Subcommittee on Issues Relating to the Support for Persons with Disabilities jointly visit Siu Lam Integrated Rehabilitation Services Complex (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

        The Legislative Council (LegCo) Panel on Welfare Services and Subcommittee on Issues Relating to the Support for Persons with Disabilities conducted a joint visit to the Siu Lam Integrated Rehabilitation Services Complex (the Complex) today (April 15) to understand its operation since the opening in late February this year.
     
        Accompanied by the Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Ho Kai-ming, Members first visited the facilities of the Complex to understand how the design makes use of smart technology and rehabilitation equipment, while incorporating the surrounding natural environment to provide a safe and comfortable living environment for persons with intellectual disabilities, persons with physical disabilities and persons in mental recovery. Members noted that the Complex is jointly operated by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, SAHK and the New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association, providing 1 150 residential care places and 560 day training places through the medical-social collaboration model to enable quality medical services for the residents with fewer hospital visits.
     
        Members then exchanged views with the representatives of the Government and the three operators on issues such as daily operations, staff training and service quality.
     
        Members who participated in the visit were the Chairman of Panel, Reverend Canon Peter Douglas Koon and Panel member Mr Kenneth Leung; as well as the Chairman of the Subcommittee, Ms Lam So-wai and Subcommittee member Ms Chan Hoi-yan.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NITI Aayog launches Report on ‘Unlocking $25+ Billion Export Potential – India’s Hand & Power Tools Sector’

    Source: Government of India

    NITI Aayog launches Report on ‘Unlocking $25+ Billion Export Potential – India’s Hand & Power Tools Sector’

    Global trade market for power and hand tools worth ~$ 100 billion is projected to reach ~$ 190 billion by 2035

    Aims to achieve ~$ 25 billion exports in the next 10 years; generate ~35 lakh jobs

    Interventions include building world-class hand tool clusters with advanced infrastructure and addressing structural cost disadvantages through market reforms

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 6:02PM by PIB Delhi

    NITI Aayog launched a report on Hand and Power tools sectors – ‘Unlocking $25+ Billion Export Potential – India’s Hand & Power Tools Sector’. The report underscores the transformative potential of hand and power tools industry for India’s economic growth, delving into the challenges, policy headwinds, and necessary interventions vital for strengthening the Indian hand and power tool ecosystem. It outlines a strategic path for the sector to enhance its global competitiveness and capture a significantly larger share of the international market. The report was launched by Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog in the presence of Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member, Dr. Arvind Virmani, Member, and Shri BVR Subrahmanyam, CEO, NITI Aayog.

    The report suggests that the global trade market for power and hand tools, currently valued at approximately $ 100 billion, is projected to grow significantly, reaching around $ 190 billion by 2035. Within this market, hand tools account for $ 34 billion and are expected to expand to $ 60 billion by 2035, while power tools, including tool accessories, represent $ 63 billion and are anticipated to surge to $ 134 billion, with electrical tools comprising the majority. China dominates global exports, holding about 50% of the hand tools market with $ 13 billion and 40% of the power tools market with $ 22 billion, whereas India has a smaller presence, exporting $ 600 million in hand tools (1.8% market share) and $ 470 million in power tools (0.7% market share).

    One important finding of the report is that India has the potential to capture a larger share of the global market, targeting $ 25 billion in exports over the next decade, which could create approximately 35 lakh jobs by achieving a 10% market share in power tools and 25% in hand tools. Through fostering innovation, empowering our MSMEs, strengthening India’s industrial ecosystem, we can solidify the nation’s position as a reliable, high-quality global manufacturing hub. The potential rewards for Indian economy and its people are immense.

    The report also analyses the challenges which India may face, including a 14-17% cost disadvantage compared to China, driven by higher structural costs and smaller operational scale. This disadvantage stems from elevated raw material costs, such as steel, plastic, and motors, as well as lower labour productivity due to higher overtime wages and restrictions on overtime hours. Furthermore, higher interest rates and logistics costs for transporting goods from inland states to ports further hinder India’s competitiveness in the global market.

    To achieve India’s potential of $ 25 billion in power and hand tool exports over the next decade, the report delves into the issues impacting hand and power tools sectors and recommends three key categories of interventions which are essential. These include:

    1. Developing world-class hand tool clusters with advanced infrastructure is critical, requiring 3-4 clusters aggregating around 4,000 acres. These clusters operating under a public-private partnership (PPP) model would feature plug-and-play infrastructure, worker housing, and facilities like connectivity and convention centers to streamline operations.
    2. Addressing structural cost disadvantages through market reforms is necessary, including rationalizing Quality Control Order (QCO) restrictions and import duties on essential raw materials like steel and machinery, simplifying the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme by easing Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) requirements, and reducing penal provisions like interest on defaults. Additionally, reforms to building regulations and labour laws are needed to enhance competitiveness.
    3. Providing bridge cost support to offset cost disadvantages is crucial, though no additional support beyond existing schemes like Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) and duty drawbacks is required if factor market interventions are effectively implemented. However, the report estimates that in the absence of these reforms, an additional RS. 8,000 crores in bridge support will be necessary, which should be viewed as an investment rather than a subsidy, as it is expected to generate 2-3 times its value in tax revenue over the next five years.

    The report observes that the tools industry serves as a foundational pillar of the global manufacturing ecosystem. The Hand and Power Tools sector represents a significant opportunity to realise India’s ambition of becoming a ‘global manufacturing hub’. The report underlines that India stands at the cusp of becoming a developed nation i.e Viksit Bharat @ 2047, where the industrial eco-system will play a pivotal role. The Hand and Power Tools sector will help enhance our domestic manufacturing and expand our global footprint by $ 25 billion in the next 10 years, with the growth in the construction and DIY markets, augmenting the “Make in India” initiative and accelerating nation’s economic growth.

    The report can be accessed at: https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2025-04/India_Hand_Power_Tools_Sector_Report.pdf

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHP investigates case of invasive meningococcal infection epidemiologically linked with previous case

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CHP investigates case of invasive meningococcal infection epidemiologically linked with previous case 
    The new case involved a 69-year-old male with chronic diseases, who presented with fever, vomiting and a headache on April 9. He attended the Accident and Emergency Department of Tin Shui Wai Hospital on April 10 and was admitted for treatment on the same day. His cerebrospinal fluid specimen tested positive for Neisseria meningitidis upon laboratory testing. The clinical diagnosis was meningitis. The patient is now in a stable condition.
     
         An initial investigation revealed that the patient had no travel history during the incubation period. His home contacts have remained asymptomatic so far. The patient and the case announced yesterday worked in the same construction site at Block A of the United Christian Hospital (UCH) expansion project. The CHP believes the two cases are epidemiologically linked. The construction site locates outside the clinical service area of the hospital, and it did not involve nosocomial infection.

        The CHP staff has conducted epidemiological investigations at the abovementioned construction site, no other staff members at the construction site have developed relevant symptoms so far. The CHP has provided preventive medications to 56 staff members who worked in the same groups as the two patients, and conducted medical surveillance to all staff members of the construction site concerned. The CHP also provided health education to the staff members and advised the contractor to carry out disinfection at the shared facilities, including toilets, rest rooms and changing rooms. In addition, the CHP has followed up with the UCH and learnt that no staff members or patients have been infected at the UCH currently. 
    The CHP appealed to those who work in the construction site at the UCH expansion project and developed relevant symptoms to call the CHP hotline (2125 2374) for health assessment. The hotline will operate from today until April 25. The hotline will operate until 9pm today, and from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays), and from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays. They should seek medical advice immediately if they develop symptoms of infection, such as fever or feeling unwell. The public may visit the CHP’s websiteIssued at HKT 20:40

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 43 persons arrested during anti-illegal worker operations (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Immigration Department (ImmD) mounted a series of territory-wide anti-illegal worker operations codenamed “Swordfish”, for eight consecutive days from April 7 to April 14, targeting foreign domestic helpers (the helper) who breached their conditions of stay. A total of 43 persons, including 35 suspected illegal workers and eight suspected employers were arrested.
     
    During the operation, ImmD’s investigators raided 58 target locations including restaurants, retail stores, commercial and residential buildings. The suspected 35 illegal workers comprised eight men and 27 women, aged 20 to 60. Among them, seven persons were the current helpers, 14 persons were overstaying ex-helpers, nine persons were permitted to stay in Hong Kong on visitor status, two persons were found to be holders of recognisance forms, which prohibit them from taking any employment in Hong Kong, two persons were the imported workers and one person was the holder of an employment visa. ImmD investigators found most of the suspected illegal workers at restaurants performing various jobs, including dish washing, food processing and cleaning etc. A forged Hong Kong identity card was also found during the operation. Meanwhile, eight suspected employers, comprising three men and five women, aged 44 to 64, were in charge of the involved companies or restaurants and suspected of employing the suspected illegal workers. 
     
    Among the illegal workers arrested, 21 of them were charged respectively at the Shatin Magistrates’ Courts with offences including taking employment while being a person who, having been given permission to land in Hong Kong, had remained in Hong Kong in breach of their limit of stay imposed in relation to the permission, breaching of their conditions of stay in Hong Kong and possessing a forged Hong Kong identity card. The concerned illegal workers pleaded guilty to their respective charges and were sentenced to imprisonment ranging from 16 days suspended for one year to 14 months and three weeks. The cases are still under investigation, and the ImmD does not rule out the possibility of further arrests or prosecutions.
     
    “The helper should only perform domestic duties for the employer specified in the contract. The helper should not take up any other employment, including part-time domestic duties, with any other person. The employer should not require or allow the helper to carry out any work for any other person.” an ImmD spokesman said.
     
    The spokesman also said, “any person who contravenes a condition of stay in force in respect of him/her shall be guilty of an offence. Also, visitors are not allowed to take employment in Hong Kong, whether paid or unpaid, without the permission of the Director of Immigration. Offenders are liable to prosecution and upon conviction face a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to two years’ imprisonment. Aiders and abettors are also liable to prosecution and penalties.”
     
    Under the laws of Hong Kong, any person who makes false representation to an Immigration officer commits an offence. Offenders are liable to prosecution and, upon conviction, subject to the maximum penalty of a fine of $150,000 and imprisonment for fourteen years. It is also an offence to use or possess a forged Hong Kong identity card or a Hong Kong identity card related to another person. Offenders are liable to prosecution and upon conviction face a maximum fine of $100,000 and up to ten years’ imprisonment.
     
    The spokesman warned that, “As stipulated in section 38AA of the Immigration Ordinance, an illegal immigrant, a person who is the subject of a removal order or a deportation order, an overstayer or a person who was refused permission to land is prohibited from taking any employment, whether paid or unpaid, or establishing or joining any business. Offenders are liable upon conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to three years’ imprisonment.
     
    The spokesman reiterated that it is a serious offence to employ people who are not lawfully employable. Under the Immigration Ordinance, the maximum penalty for an employer employing a person who is not lawfully employable, i.e. an illegal immigrant, a person who is the subject of a removal order or a deportation order, an overstayer or a person who was refused permission to land, has been significantly increased from a fine of $350,000 and three years’ imprisonment to a fine of $500,000 and ten years’ imprisonment to reflect the gravity of such offences. The director, manager, secretary, partner, etc, of the company concerned may also bear criminal liability. The High Court has laid down sentencing guidelines that the employer of an illegal worker should be given an immediate custodial sentence.
     
    According to the court sentencing, employers must take all practicable steps to determine whether a person is lawfully employable prior to employment. Apart from inspecting a prospective employee’s identity card, the employer has the explicit duty to make enquiries regarding the person and ensure that the answers would not cast any reasonable doubt concerning the lawful employability of the person. The court will not accept failure to do so as a defence in proceedings. It is also an offence if an employer fails to inspect the job seeker’s valid travel document if the job seeker does not have a Hong Kong permanent identity card. Offenders are liable upon conviction to a maximum fine of $150,000 and to imprisonment for one year. In that connection, the spokesman would like to remind all employers not to defy the law by employing illegal workers. The ImmD will continue to take resolute enforcement action to combat such offences.
     
    Under the existing mechanism, the ImmD will, as a standard procedure, conduct an initial screening of vulnerable persons, including illegal workers, illegal immigrants, sex workers and foreign domestic helpers who are arrested during any operation with a view to ascertaining whether they are trafficking in persons (TIP) victims. When any TIP indicator is revealed in the initial screening, the officers will conduct a full debriefing and identification by using a standardised checklist to ascertain the presence of TIP elements, such as threats and coercion in the recruitment phase and the nature of exploitation. Identified TIP victims will be provided with various forms of support and assistance, including urgent intervention, medical services, counselling, shelter, temporary accommodation and other supporting services. The ImmD calls on TIP victims to report crimes to the relevant departments immediately.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INSV TARINI FLAGGED OFF FROM CAPE TOWN FOR THE FINAL LEG OF THE NAVIKA SAGAR PARIKRAMA II EXPEDITION

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 5:28PM by PIB Delhi

    INSV Tarini was ceremonially flagged off from the Royal Cape Yacht Club for the final leg of her journey to Goa on 15 Apr 25, at 1030 hours local time (1400 hrs IST). The send-off was graced by the presence of the Officiating Consul General of India in Cape Town, the Defence Attaché of India to South Africa, members of the RCYC Governing Council, and representatives of the Indian community in Cape Town.

    The circumnavigation is a significant endeavour aimed at promoting ocean sailing in India, showcasing the strength and resilience of Indian women in uniform, and highlighting India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.

    As part of the ongoing Navika Sagar Parikrama II, INSV Tarini, proudly crewed by Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A, made a scheduled stopover at Cape Town, South Africa.

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2117120

    During her port call at Cape Town, INSV Tarini served as a hub for numerous outreach and diplomatic engagements. The vessel played host to several esteemed guests including:

    •        Shri Prabhat Kumar, Hon’ble High Commissioner of India to South Africa.

    •        Mr Reagan Allen, Deputy Speaker of the Western Cape.

    •        Mr Johnathan Rhodes, former international cricketer and a friend of India.

    •        Ms Kirsten Neuschäfer, winner of the prestigious Golden Globe Race 2022–23 and a noted solo circumnavigator.

    •        Smt Ruby Jaspreet, Counsel General of India at Cape Town.

    •        Members of the Indian diaspora and local dignitaries.

    This visit also provided an opportunity for cultural exchange and highlighted the growing maritime cooperation between India and South Africa.

    In addition to hosting high-profile guests, the crew of INSV Tarini engaged in a series of interactive events aimed at promoting gender equality, women’s empowerment, and India’s capability in indigenous boat building. These included:

    •        A special interaction with students from the Indian diaspora.

    •        Experience sharing with prominent citizens, and members of the diplomatic community at RCYC, Cape Town, where the officers shared insights into their journey, the challenges of ocean sailing, and the vision behind Navika Sagar Parikrama.

    •        A formal session with faculty and Select students at the University of the Western Cape.

    •        Engagement with Naval Cadets at the Naval College, inspiring the next generation of naval officers.

    •        Interaction with young aspiring sailors of the Royal Cape Yacht Club(RCYC) Sailing Academy, promoting maritime spirit and camaraderie.

    The crew also utilized the stop to undertake routine and essential maintenance of INSV Tarini, ensuring the vessel remains in peak operational condition for the final stretch of the voyage.

    INSV Tarini is expected to reach Goa by end May 2025, marking the successful completion of yet another proud chapter in India’s maritime history. The Navika Sagar Parikrama II continues to be a beacon of women empowerment, maritime excellence, and national pride.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Centre for Joint Warfare Studies Hosts Defence Literature Festival ‘Kalam & Kavach 2.0’ in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 5:15PM by PIB Delhi

    The Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS), under the aegis of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with Pentagon Press, successfully hosted the second edition of the Defence Literature Festival ‘Kalam & Kavach 2.0’ at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. This year’s theme was ‘Securing India’s Rise through Defence Reforms’.

    The event, held on April 15, 2025, focused on Defence Technology and Future Warfare, particularly in the context of defence manufacturing. It was aligned with the Prime Minister’s call for ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India) and highlighted key aspects of acquisition & procurement reforms.

    The event brought together distinguished experts from the Armed Forces, strategic policymakers, industry leaders, and domain specialists to deliberate on critical issues affecting India’s national security. Discussions included several cutting-edge topics including Technology & Future Warfare; the role of AI, cyber technologies, quantum computing, drones, space technology, and semiconductors in modern military operations; Defence Manufacturing & Aatmanirbharta, Acquisition & Procurement Reforms.

    The event focused on charting a strategic roadmap for its national security, diplomacy and development. It also covered the progress made on adoption of niche technologies, enhancing multi-domain and cross-domain operational capabilities to include land, air, sea, cyber and space. The agenda also included contemporary maritime security paradigms, future challenges and the way ahead to further the combat capability.

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh declared 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms,’ marking a transformational year aimed at converting the Armed Forces into a technologically-advanced, combat-ready force. This vision underscores the nation’s commitment to multi-domain, integrated operations and emphasises a mission-mode approach to defence reforms, facilitating technology transfer, and improving public-private partnerships.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected ketamine worth about $13 million at airport (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected ketamine worth about $13 million at airport (with photo) 
    A male passenger, aged 40, arrived in Hong Kong from Paris, France, today. During customs clearance, Customs officers found the batch of suspected ketamine inside his check-in suitcase. The man was subsequently arrested.
     
    The arrestee has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug and will appear at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (April 16).
     
    Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.
     
    Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.
     
    Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
     
    Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk 
    Issued at HKT 20:30

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi holds telephonic conversation with the Prime Minister of Denmark H.E. Ms. Mette Frederiksen

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi holds telephonic conversation with the Prime Minister of Denmark H.E. Ms. Mette Frederiksen 

    The leaders discussed various aspects of bilateral relations as well global developments

    The leaders looked forward to their meeting in Norway on the sidelines of the forthcoming India-Nordic Summit

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 6:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Denmark H.E. Ms. Mette Frederiksen had a telephonic conversation today. Both leaders discussed various aspects of bilateral relations as well as global developments.

    2.     Recalling high-level exchanges between both countries ever since the launch of the Green Strategic Partnership in 2020, the leaders noted the expansion of the Green Strategic Partnership in various fields which have created favorable conditions for Danish investments in India to contribute to green transition. The leaders also discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest.

    3.     Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he was looking forward to the 3rd India- Nordic Summit scheduled to be held later this year in Norway, and his meeting with Prime Minister Frederiksen at that time.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 2025 Southwest Monsoon likely to be above normal, says IMD’S Long Range Forecast for the Southwest Monsoon Seasonal Rainfall

    Source: Government of India

    2025 Southwest Monsoon likely to be above normal, says IMD’S Long Range Forecast for the Southwest Monsoon Seasonal Rainfall

    Seasonal rainfall expected at 105% of LPA with a margin of ±5%

    Enso conditions neutral, but la Niña-like atmospheric patterns observed neutral ENSO likely to persist throughout the monsoon season

    Indian ocean dipole remains neutral ahead of monsoon 2025 climate models predict continued neutral IOD conditions through the season

     Below-normal snow cover in Eurasia for last three months may boost Indian monsoon

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 5:45PM by PIB Delhi

    Highlights

     a) The southwest monsoon seasonal (June to September) rainfall over the country as a whole during 2025 is most likely to be above normal (>104% of the Long Period Average (LPA)). Quantitatively, the seasonal rainfall over the country as a whole is likely to be 105% of LPA with a model error of ± 5%. The LPA of the season rainfall over the country as a whole for the period 1971-2020 is 87 cm.

     b) Currently, Neutral El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions are prevailing over the equatorial Pacific region. However, the atmospheric Circulation features are similar to La Nina conditions. The latest Monsoon Mission Climate Forecast System (MMCFS) as well as other climate model forecasts indicate that the Neutral ENSO condition are likely to continue during the monsoon season.

    c)At present, neutral Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) conditions are present over the Indian Ocean and the latest Climate models forecast indicates that the Neutral IOD conditions are likely to continue during the southwest monsoon season.

    d)The snow cover areas of northern hemisphere and Eurasia during the last three months (January to March, 2025) were below normal. The winter and spring snow cover extent over Northern Hemisphere as well as Eurasia has in general an inverse relationship with the subsequent Indian summer monsoon rainfall. IMD will issue the updated forecasts for monsoon season rainfall in the last week of May 2025.

    1. Background

    Since 2003, India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been issuing the operational long-range forecast (LRF) for the southwest monsoon seasonal (June-September) rainfall averaged over the country as a whole in two stages. The first stage forecast is issued in April and the second stage or updated forecast is issued by the end of May. In 2021, IMD has implemented a new strategy for issuing monthly and seasonal operational forecasts for the southwest monsoon rainfall over the country by modifying the existing two stage forecasting strategy. The new strategy uses both dynamical and statistical forecasting system. Multi-Model Ensemble (MME) forecasting system based on coupled global climate models (CGCMs) from different global climate prediction centres, including IMD’s Monsoon Mission Climate Forecast System (MMCFS) are used.

    As per the new LRF strategy, the first stage forecast issued in middle of April consists of the quantitative and probabilistic forecasts for the country as a whole, and the spatial distribution of probabilistic forecasts for the tercile categories (above normal, normal, and below normal) of the seasonal (June-September) rainfall over the country.

    The second stage forecast issued around end of May consist of update for the seasonal rainfall forecast issued in April along with the probabilistic forecasts for the seasonal rainfall over the four homogenous regions of India (northwest India, central India, south Peninsula and northeast India) and monsoon core zone (MCZ). In addition, quantitative and probabilistic forecasts for the country as a whole, and the spatial distribution of probabilistic forecasts for the tercile categories (above normal, normal, and below normal) of the June rainfall over the country are also issued during the second state forecast.

    In continuation to the above forecasts, monthly rainfall forecast is issued around end of June, July and August respectively for the subsequent one month. In addition, quantitative and probabilistic forecasts for the country as a whole, and the spatial distribution of probabilistic forecasts for the tercile categories for the second half of the season rainfall is issued around end of July along with the forecast for August.

    2. Forecast for the 2025 Southwest Monsoon Season (June–September) rainfall over the country as a whole during 2025.

    The forecast based on both dynamical and statistical models suggests that quantitatively, the monsoon seasonal rainfall is likely to be 105% of the Long Period 3 3

    Average (LPA) with a model error of ± 5%. The LPA of the season rainfall over the country as a whole for the period 1971-2020 is 87 cm.

    The five category probability forecasts for the Seasonal (June to September) rainfall over the country as a whole are given below, which suggests that there is strong probability (59%) of southwest monsoon seasonal rainfall likely to be in the above normal category or higher (>104% of LPA).

    Category

    Rainfall Range

    (% of LPA)

    Forecast Probability (%)

    Climatological

    Probability (%)

    Deficient

    < 90

    2

    16

    Below Normal

    90 – 95

    9

    17

    Normal

    96 -104

    30

    33

    Above Normal

    105-110

    33

    16

    Excess

    > 110

    26

    17

    The MME forecast for the southwest monsoon season rainfall during 2025 was prepared based on the April initial conditions of a group of coupled climate models which have higher prediction skill over the Indian monsoon region.

    The spatial distribution of probabilistic forecasts for tercile categories (above normal, normal and below normal) for the seasonal (June to September) rainfall during 2025 is shown in Fig.1. The spatial distribution suggests above-normal seasonal rainfall is very likely over most parts of the country except some areas over Northwest India, Northeast India and South Peninsular India, where below-normal rainfall is likely. The white-shaded areas within the land area represent no signal from the model with equal probabilities for all the tercile categories of rainfall.

    3. Sea Surface Temperature (SST) Conditions in the equatorial Pacific & Indian Oceans

    Currently, neutral ENSO conditions are prevailing over the equatorial Pacific region. However, the atmospheric Circulation features are similar to La Nina conditions. The latest MMCFS as well as other climate models forecast indicates that neutral ENSO conditions are likely to continue during the monsoon season.

    At present, neutral IOD conditions are present over the Indian Ocean and the latest climate model forecast indicates that the neutral IOD conditions are likely to continue during the southwest monsoon season.

    As sea surface temperature (SST) conditions over the Pacific and the Indian Oceans are known to have a strong influence on the Indian monsoon, IMD is carefully monitoring the evolution of sea surface conditions over these Ocean basins.

    4. Snow Cover over the Northern Hemisphere

    The winter and spring snow cover extent over Northern Hemisphere as well as Eurasia has in general an inverse relationship with the subsequent Indian summer monsoon rainfall. The areas of northern hemisphere snow cover and Eurasian snow cover during January to March, 2025 were observed to be below normal.

    Fig.1.Probability forecast of tercile categories* (below normal, normal, and above normal) for the seasonal rainfall over India during southwest monsoon season (June -September), 2025. The figure illustrates the most likely categories as well as their probabilities. The white shaded areas represent no signal from the model with equal probabilities for all the tercile categories.

    (*Tercile categories have equal climatological probabilities, of 33.33% each).

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DRI intercepts 7.56 kg cocaine worth around Rs. 75.6 crore at IGI Airport from an in-bound passenger from Dubai, one held

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 4:50PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant operation against drug trafficking, acting on specific intelligence, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intercepted an Indian national upon her arrival from Dubai at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, on 14.04.2024, New Delhi.

    The baggage of the passenger, after a thorough inspection, was found to contain five empty handbags / purses. Upon cutting open the inner layers of these five bags, 10 packets of white-coloured powder weighing 7.56 kg and worth around Rs. 75.6 crore, were found concealed and tested positive for cocaine.

    The apprehended individual was arrested under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The DRI is pursuing further investigations to uncover the source of the drugs and identify any potential networks involved in the smuggling operation.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IBC to organise two-day International Conclave in Arunachal Pradesh on 21st & 22nd April 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 4:43PM by PIB Delhi

    The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture is hosting a two-day International Conclave at Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh, titled “Buddha Dhamma and the Culture of North-East India” on 21-22 April 2025. The event is likely to be attended by the Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Shri Pema Khandu. The Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Chowna Mein who hails from this region, is also likely to participate.

    North- East India, comprising Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura, is a significant centre for Buddhist traditions, monastic culture, and heritage. The region has preserved and propagated various Buddhist traditions, including Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Vajrayāna.

    The Government of India is actively involved in several initiatives to promote Buddhist tourism, heritage conservation, and cultural exchange programmes to strengthen the presence of Buddha Dhamma in the region. To explore the significance of “Buddha Dhamma and the Culture of North – East India”, IBC is organising the 2-day event at the Multipurpose Cultural Hall, Namsai.

    While the first day will include three panel discussions on – its historical relevance, art and culture of the region and cultural impact of Buddha Dhamma on the neighbouring countries, and vice versa, the second day will be dedicated to practicing Vipassana and praying for world peace at the famous Golden Pagoda.

    Historically, Buddha Dhamma reached North-East India during the reign of Emperor Ashoka and expanded to other neighbouring regions. It has played a crucial role in the Buddhist cultural corridor connecting India to Southeast Asia.

    Besides, the North- East India is home to several indigenous tribes that have integrated Buddha Dhamma with their traditional customs. Diverse Buddhist traditions, Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Vajrayāna, flourish here.

    A backgrounder on Buddhism in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh is attached: –

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2121860) Visitor Counter : 57

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SB fully promotes National Security Education Day (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Today (April 15) marks the 10th National Security Education Day. The Security Bureau (SB) and its disciplined services and auxiliary services, together with other parties, held various activities including a flag-raising ceremony by disciplined services, the finals and award presentation ceremony of the Territory-wide Inter-school National Security Knowledge Challenge, and the launching ceremony of the new national security comic book Andy and Security Bear, with a view to creating an engaging atmosphere for safeguarding national security and enhancing public awareness of safeguarding national security.

    The SB and its disciplined services jointly held a flag-raising ceremony at the Hong Kong Police College this morning. The ceremony started with a music performance by the Police Band, followed by a march-in of the disciplined services ceremonial guard. The Police flag party then marched into the venue and conducted the flag-raising ceremony with the playing and singing of the national anthem. Officiating at the ceremony, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, said that the flag-raising ceremony instils passion and loyalty towards the country and the people, as well as deepens the understanding of the responsibility and mission to safeguard national security. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government will continue to leverage the strengths of the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance to build a strong line of defence to maintain security and stability in the HKSAR, and to provide solid institutional safeguards to promote good governance.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CONSUMER PRICE INDEX NUMBERS ON BASE 2012=100 FOR RURAL,

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation

    CONSUMER PRICE INDEX NUMBERS ON BASE 2012=100 FOR RURAL,

    URBAN AND COMBINED FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH, 2025

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 4:00PM by PIB Delhi

    I. Key highlights:

    1. Year-on-year inflation rate based on All India Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the month of March, 2025 over March, 2024 is 3.34% (Provisional). There is a decline of 27 basis points in headline inflation of March, 2025 in comparison to February, 2025. It is the lowest year-on-year inflation after August, 2019.
    1. Food Inflation: Year-on-year inflation rate based on All India Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI) for the month of March, 2025 over March, 2024 is 2.69% (Provisional). Corresponding inflation rate for rural and urban are 2.82% and 2.48%, respectively. All India inflation rates for CPI (General) and CFPI over the last 13 months are shown below. A sharp decline of 106 basis point is observed in food inflation in March, 2025 in comparison to February, 2025. The food inflation in March, 2025 is the lowest after November, 2021.
    1. The significant decline in headline inflation and food inflation during the month of March, 2025 is mainly attributed to decline in inflation of Vegetables, Eggs, Pulses & products, Meat & fish, Cereals & Products and Milk & products.
    2. Rural Inflation: Sharp decline in headline and food inflation in rural sector observed in March, 2025. The headline inflation is 3.25% (provisional) in March, 2025 while the same was 3.79% in February, 2025. The CFPI based food inflation in rural sector is observed as 2.82% in March, 2025 in comparison to 4.06% in February, 2025.
    3. Urban Inflation: Marginal increase from 3.32% in February, 2025 to 3.43% (Provisional) in March, 2025 is observed in headline inflation of urban sector. However, significant decline is observed in food inflation from 3.15% in February, 2025 to 2.48% in March, 2025.
    4. Housing Inflation: Year-on-year Housing inflation rate for the month of March, 2025 is 3.03%. Corresponding inflation rate for the month of February, 2025 was 2.91%. The housing index is compiled for urban sector only.
    5. Fuel & light: Year-on-year Fuel & light inflation rate for the month of March, 2025 is 1.48%. Corresponding inflation rate for the month of February, 2025 was -1.33%. It is the combined inflation rate for both rural and urban sector.
    6. Education Inflation: Year-on-year Education inflation rate for the month of March, 2025 is 3.98%.  The inflation rate observed in the month of February, 2025 was 3.83%. It is the combined education inflation for both rural and urban sector.
    7. Health Inflation: Year-on-year Health inflation rate for the month of March, 2025 is 4.26%. Corresponding inflation rate for the month of February, 2025 was 4.12%.  It is the combined health inflation for both rural and urban sector.
    8. Transport & Communication: Year-on-year Transport & communication inflation rate for the month of March, 2025 is 3.30%. Corresponding inflation rate for the month of February, 2025 was 2.93%. It is combined inflation rate for both rural and urban sector.
    9. Top five items with highest inflation: The top five items showing highest year on year Inflation at All India level in March, 2025 are coconut oil (56.81%), coconut (42.05%), gold (34.09%), silver (31.57%) and grapes (25.55%)
    10. Top five items with lowest inflation: The key items having lowest year on year inflation in March, 2025 are ginger (-38.11%), tomato (-34.96%), cauliflower (-25.99%), jeera (-25.86%) and garlic (-25.22%). For other data related to All India Item Index and Inflation, please visit the website www.cpi.mospi.gov.in.
    11. Top five major states with high Year on Year inflation for the month of March, 2025 are shown in the graph below.

     

    1. All India Inflation rates (on point to point basis i.e. current month March, 2025 viz-a-viz last Month, i.e. February, 2025 and over same month of last year i.e. March, 2024), based on General Indices and CFPIs are given as follows:

     

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

    March, 2024

     

    March, 2025 (Prov.)

    February, 2025 (Final)

    March, 2024

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    Inflation

    CPI (General)

    3.25

    3.43

    3.34

    3.79

    3.32

    3.61

    5.51

    4.14

    4.85

    CFPI

    2.82

    2.48

    2.69

    4.06

    3.15

    3.75

    8.55

    8.41

    8.52

    Index

    CPI (General)

    193.9

    189.9

    192.0

    194.5

    190.1

    192.5

    187.8

    183.6

    185.8

    CFPI

    193.1

    198.2

    194.9

    194.8

    199.8

    196.6

    187.8

    193.4

    189.8

                          Notes: Prov.  – Provisional, Combd. – Combined

     

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

         Monthly changes (%) in All India CPI (General) and CFPI: March, 2025 over February, 2025

    Indices

    March 2025 (Prov.)

    February, 2025 (Final)

    Monthly change (%)

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    Rural

    Urban

    Combd.

    CPI (General)

    193.9

    189.9

    192.0

    194.5

    190.1

    192.5

    -0.31

    -0.11

    -0.26

    CFPI

    193.1

    198.2

    194.9

    194.8

    199.8

    196.6

    -0.87

    -0.80

    -0.86

                                  Notes: Prov.  – Provisional, Combd. – Combined

     

    1. Response rate: The price data are collected from selected 1114 urban Markets and 1181 villages covering all States/UTs through personal visits by field staff of Field Operations Division of NSO, MoSPI on a weekly roster. During the month of March, 2025, NSO collected prices from 100% villages and 98.6% urban markets while the market-wise prices reported therein were 89.8% for rural and 92.6% for urban.
    2. Next date of release for April, 2025 CPI is 12th May, 2025 (Monday). For more details, please visit the website www.cpi.mospi.gov.in or esankhyiki.mospi.gov.in

     

    List of Annex

    Annex

    Title

    I

    All-India General, Group and Sub-group level CPI and CFPI numbers for February, 2025 (Final) and March, 2025 (Provisional) for Rural, Urban and Combined (Annexure I)

    II

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

    III

    General CPI for States for Rural, Urban and Combined for February, 2025 (Final) and March, 2025 (Provisional) (Annexure III)

    IV

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

    V

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

    VI

                                                                                                     

    Annexure- I

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

    Group Code

    Sub-group Code

    Description

    Rural

    Urban

    Combined

     

    Weights

    Feb. 25 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

    Weights

    Feb. 25 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

    Weights

    Feb. 25 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

     

    (1)

    (2)

    (3)

    (4)

    (5)

    (6)

    (7)

    (8)

    (9)

    (10)

    (11)

    (12)

     

     

    1.1.01

    Cereals and products

    12.35

    200.6

    200.8

    6.59

    198.6

    198.9

    9.67

    200.0

    200.2

     

     

    1.1.02

    Meat and fish

    4.38

    219.1

    218.1

    2.73

    229.0

    228.3

    3.61

    222.6

    221.7

     

     

    1.1.03

    Egg

    0.49

    194.9

    185.3

    0.36

    200.0

    190.3

    0.43

    196.9

    187.2

     

     

    1.1.04

    Milk and products

    7.72

    187.6

    187.9

    5.33

    188.4

    188.3

    6.61

    187.9

    188.0

     

     

    1.1.05

    Oils and fats

    4.21

    188.9

    189.7

    2.81

    176.0

    177.4

    3.56

    184.2

    185.2

     

     

    1.1.06

    Fruits

    2.88

    195.1

    201.6

    2.90

    198.7

    204.7

    2.89

    196.8

    203.0

     

     

    1.1.07

    Vegetables

    7.46

    181.2

    171.0

    4.41

    216.8

    204.3

    6.04

    193.3

    182.3

     

     

    1.1.08

    Pulses and products

    2.95

    200.2

    194.3

    1.73

    205.1

    199.3

    2.38

    201.9

    196.0

     

     

    1.1.09

    Sugar and Confectionery

    1.70

    131.4

    133.1

    0.97

    133.8

    135.0

    1.36

    132.2

    133.7

     

     

    1.1.10

    Spices

    3.11

    224.8

    222.9

    1.79

    222.1

    220.5

    2.50

    223.9

    222.1

     

     

    1.2.11

    Non-alcoholic beverages

    1.37

    188.3

    188.9

    1.13

    177.3

    178.0

    1.26

    183.7

    184.3

     

     

    1.1.12

    Prepared meals, snacks, sweets etc.

    5.56

    202.4

    202.9

    5.54

    214.0

    214.9

    5.55

    207.8

    208.5

     

    1

     

    Food and beverages

    54.18

    195.4

    194.0

    36.29

    201.3

    200.1

    45.86

    197.6

    196.2

     

    2

     

    Pan, tobacco and intoxicants

    3.26

    209.0

    209.7

    1.36

    213.4

    213.8

    2.38

    210.2

    210.8

     

     

    3.1.01

    Clothing

    6.32

    200.7

    201.0

    4.72

    190.8

    191.2

    5.58

    196.8

    197.1

     

     

    3.1.02

    Footwear

    1.04

    194.1

    194.3

    0.85

    176.2

    176.7

    0.95

    186.7

    187.0

     

    3

     

    Clothing and footwear

    7.36

    199.8

    200.0

    5.57

    188.6

    189.0

    6.53

    195.4

    195.6

     

    4

     

    Housing

    –

    –

    –

    21.67

    183.7

    183.6

    10.07

    183.7

    183.6

     

    5

     

    Fuel and light

    7.94

    182.8

    182.7

    5.58

    171.0

    171.3

    6.84

    178.3

    178.4

     

     

    6.1.01

    Household goods and services

    3.75

    187.7

    187.3

    3.87

    179.1

    179.6

    3.80

    183.6

    183.7

     

     

    6.1.02

    Health

    6.83

    201.6

    202.4

    4.81

    196.3

    197.4

    5.89

    199.6

    200.5

     

     

    6.1.03

    Transport and communication

    7.60

    177.7

    178.1

    9.73

    166.6

    166.9

    8.59

    171.9

    172.2

     

     

    6.1.04

    Recreation and amusement

    1.37

    181.9

    181.1

    2.04

    177.3

    177.7

    1.68

    179.3

    179.2

     

     

    6.1.05

    Education

    3.46

    192.6

    193.1

    5.62

    188.2

    188.6

    4.46

    190.0

    190.5

     

     

    6.1.06

    Personal care and effects

    4.25

    214.2

    216.8

    3.47

    216.3

    219.2

    3.89

    215.1

    217.8

     

    6

     

    Miscellaneous

    27.26

    192.9

    193.5

    29.53

    183.8

    184.6

    28.32

    188.5

    189.2

     

    General Index (All Groups)

    100.00

    194.5

    193.9

    100.00

    190.1

    189.9

    100.00

    192.5

    192.0

     

     

    Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI)

    47.25

    194.8

    193.1

    29.62

    199.8

    198.2

    39.06

    196.6

    194.9

     

     

     

    Notes:

    1. Prov.       : Provisional.
    2. CFPI        : Out of 12 sub-groups contained in ‘Food and Beverages’ group, CFPI is based on ten sub-groups, excluding ‘Non-alcoholic beverages’ and ‘Prepared meals, snacks, sweets etc.’.
    1. –   : CPI (Rural) for housing is not compiled.

    Annexure- II

     

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

     

    Group Code

    Sub-group Code

    Description

    Rural

    Urban

    Combined

     

    Mar. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

    Mar. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

    Mar. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

     

    (1)

    (2)

    (3)

    (4)

    (5)

    (6)

    (7)

    (8)

    (9)

    (10)

    (11)

    (12)

     
     

    1.1.01

    Cereals and products

    189.3

    200.8

    6.08

    188.5

    198.9

    5.52

    189.0

    200.2

    5.93

     
     

    1.1.02

    Meat and fish

    217.9

    218.1

    0.09

    226.7

    228.3

    0.71

    221.0

    221.7

    0.32

     
     

    1.1.03

    Egg

    192.7

    185.3

    -3.84

    194.3

    190.3

    -2.06

    193.3

    187.2

    -3.16

     
     

    1.1.04

    Milk and products

    183.2

    187.9

    2.57

    183.6

    188.3

    2.56

    183.3

    188.0

    2.56

     
     

    1.1.05

    Oils and fats

    160.2

    189.7

    18.41

    154.7

    177.4

    14.67

    158.2

    185.2

    17.07

     
     

    1.1.06

    Fruits

    172.8

    201.6

    16.67

    176.7

    204.7

    15.85

    174.6

    203.0

    16.27

     
     

    1.1.07

    Vegetables

    182.5

    171.0

    -6.30

    222.6

    204.3

    -8.22

    196.1

    182.3

    -7.04

     
     

    1.1.08

    Pulses and products

    199.7

    194.3

    -2.70

    205.0

    199.3

    -2.78

    201.5

    196.0

    -2.73

     
     

    1.1.09

    Sugar and Confectionery

    128.0

    133.1

    3.98

    130.1

    135.0

    3.77

    128.7

    133.7

    3.89

     
     

    1.1.10

    Spices

    236.3

    222.9

    -5.67

    228.2

    220.5

    -3.37

    233.6

    222.1

    -4.92

     
     

    1.2.11

    Non-alcoholic beverages

    182.1

    188.9

    3.73

    170.3

    178.0

    4.52

    177.2

    184.3

    4.01

     
     

    1.1.12

    Prepared meals, snacks, sweets etc.

    195.9

    202.9

    3.57

    204.6

    214.9

    5.03

    199.9

    208.5

    4.30

     

    1

    		  

    Food and beverages

    188.5

    194.0

    2.92

    194.4

    200.1

    2.93

    190.7

    196.2

    2.88

     

    2

    		  

    Pan, tobacco and intoxicants

    204.0

    209.7

    2.79

    210.2

    213.8

    1.71

    205.7

    210.8

    2.48

     
     

    3.1.01

    Clothing

    195.8

    201.0

    2.66

    185.8

    191.2

    2.91

    191.9

    197.1

    2.71

     
     

    3.1.02

    Footwear

    191.1

    194.3

    1.67

    172.3

    176.7

    2.55

    183.3

    187.0

    2.02

     

    3

    		  

    Clothing and footwear

    195.1

    200.0

    2.51

    183.8

    189.0

    2.83

    190.6

    195.6

    2.62

     

    4

    		  

    Housing

    –

    –

    –

    178.2

    183.6

    3.03

    178.2

    183.6

    3.03

     

    5

    		  

    Fuel and light

    181.0

    182.7

    0.94

    167.4

    171.3

    2.33

    175.8

    178.4

    1.48

     
     

    6.1.01

    Household goods and services

    183.3

    187.3

    2.18

    174.0

    179.6

    3.22

    178.9

    183.7

    2.68

     
     

    6.1.02

    Health

    194.3

    202.4

    4.17

    189.1

    197.4

    4.39

    192.3

    200.5

    4.26

     
     

    6.1.03

    Transport and communication

    172.0

    178.1

    3.55

    161.9

    166.9

    3.09

    166.7

    172.2

    3.30

     
     

    6.1.04

    Recreation and amusement

    177.8

    181.1

    1.86

    172.8

    177.7

    2.84

    175.0

    179.2

    2.40

     
     

    6.1.05

    Education

    186.1

    193.1

    3.76

    181.2

    188.6

    4.08

    183.2

    190.5

    3.98

     
     

    6.1.06

    Personal care and effects

    191.3

    216.8

    13.33

    192.8

    219.2

    13.69

    191.9

    217.8

    13.50

     

    6

    		  

    Miscellaneous

    184.2

    193.5

    5.05

    176.0

    184.6

    4.89

    180.2

    189.2

    4.99

     

    General Index (All Groups)

    187.8

    193.9

    3.25

    183.6

    189.9

    3.43

    185.8

    192.0

    3.34

     

     

     

    Consumer Food Price Index

    187.8

    193.1

    2.82

    193.4

    198.2

    2.48

    189.8

    194.9

    2.69

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Notes:

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

     

    Annexure- III

     

    General CPI for States for Rural, Urban and Combined for February, 2025 (Final) and March, 2025 (Provisional) (Base: 2012=100)

     

    Sl. No.

    Name of the State/UT

    Rural

    Urban

    Combined

     

    Weights

    Feb. 25 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

    Weights

    Feb. 25 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

    Weights

    Feb. 25 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25 Index
    (Prov.)

     

    (1)

    (2)

    (3)

    (4)

    (5)

    (6)

    (7)

    (8)

    (9)

    (10)

    (11)

     

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    5.40

    196.3

    195.7

    3.64

    198.5

    197.9

    4.58

    197.1

    196.5

     

    2

    Arunachal Pradesh

    0.14

    196.9

    196.2

    0.06

    —

    —

    0.10

    196.9

    196.2

     

    3

    Assam

    2.63

    196.8

    195.8

    0.79

    194.4

    194.0

    1.77

    196.3

    195.4

     

    4

    Bihar

    8.21

    187.8

    187.4

    1.62

    197.8

    197.2

    5.14

    189.3

    188.8

     

    5

    Chhattisgarh

    1.68

    186.6

    185.7

    1.22

    181.4

    180.8

    1.46

    184.6

    183.8

     

    6

    Delhi

    0.28

    174.5

    174.2

    5.64

    171.6

    171.8

    2.77

    171.8

    171.9

     

    7

    Goa

    0.14

    184.0

    185.6

    0.25

    182.1

    182.8

    0.19

    182.8

    183.9

     

    8

    Gujarat

    4.54

    189.4

    188.7

    6.82

    178.6

    179.0

    5.60

    183.3

    183.2

     

    9

    Haryana

    3.30

    196.2

    196.1

    3.35

    184.0

    184.6

    3.32

    190.5

    190.7

     

    10

    Himachal Pradesh

    1.03

    180.0

    179.4

    0.26

    184.9

    184.7

    0.67

    180.9

    180.4

     

    11

    Jharkhand

    1.96

    186.2

    185.1

    1.39

    189.6

    189.8

    1.69

    187.5

    186.9

     

    12

    Karnataka

    5.09

    199.1

    198.3

    6.81

    201.0

    201.0

    5.89

    200.1

    199.8

     

    13

    Kerala

    5.50

    207.6

    207.5

    3.46

    201.6

    201.4

    4.55

    205.5

    205.3

     

    14

    Madhya Pradesh

    4.93

    191.5

    191.1

    3.97

    192.4

    192.4

    4.48

    191.9

    191.6

     

    15

    Maharashtra

    8.25

    192.4

    192.0

    18.86

    186.7

    186.6

    13.18

    188.6

    188.4

     

    16

    Manipur

    0.23

    229.5

    227.2

    0.12

    189.2

    188.7

    0.18

    216.7

    215.0

     

    17

    Meghalaya

    0.28

    178.6

    178.2

    0.15

    186.5

    186.0

    0.22

    181.1

    180.6

     

    18

    Mizoram

    0.07

    207.3

    207.1

    0.13

    181.5

    181.9

    0.10

    191.6

    191.7

     

    19

    Nagaland

    0.14

    202.4

    201.5

    0.12

    184.4

    184.3

    0.13

    194.7

    194.2

     

    20

    Odisha

    2.93

    196.4

    195.3

    1.31

    186.7

    186.1

    2.18

    193.7

    192.7

     

    21

    Punjab

    3.31

    188.6

    188.8

    3.09

    178.3

    179.3

    3.21

    184.0

    184.5

     

    22

    Rajasthan

    6.63

    190.5

    189.9

    4.23

    188.2

    188.1

    5.51

    189.7

    189.3

     

    23

    Sikkim

    0.06

    203.1

    201.4

    0.03

    188.1

    187.8

    0.05

    198.2

    197.0

     

    24

    Tamil Nadu

    5.55

    202.3

    200.3

    9.20

    199.2

    198.3

    7.25

    200.5

    199.1

     

    25

    Telangana

    3.16

    203.4

    202.2

    4.41

    199.9

    198.5

    3.74

    201.5

    200.2

     

    26

    Tripura

    0.35

    208.5

    209.8

    0.14

    200.0

    199.4

    0.25

    206.3

    207.1

     

    27

    Uttar Pradesh

    14.83

    193.1

    192.8

    9.54

    190.2

    190.2

    12.37

    192.1

    191.9

     

    28

    Uttarakhand

    1.06

    187.2

    187.4

    0.73

    192.3

    192.7

    0.91

    189.1

    189.4

     

    29

    West Bengal

    6.99

    196.8

    196.5

    7.20

    193.8

    193.4

    7.09

    195.4

    195.0

     

    30

    Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    0.05

    200.1

    200.1

    0.07

    188.2

    187.6

    0.06

    194.0

    193.7

     

    31

    Chandigarh

    0.02

    189.9

    190.0

    0.34

    177.5

    177.6

    0.17

    178.2

    178.3

     

    32

    Dadra & Nagar Haveli

    0.02

    178.5

    176.7

    0.04

    186.3

    185.2

    0.03

    183.7

    182.4

     

    33

    Daman & Diu

    0.02

    197.6

    196.9

    0.02

    186.8

    186.4

    0.02

    193.1

    192.5

     

    34

    Jammu & Kashmir*

    1.14

    204.7

    205.4

    0.72

    197.7

    197.7

    0.94

    202.2

    202.7

     

    35

    Lakshadweep

    0.01

    198.3

    197.9

    0.01

    188.1

    189.6

    0.01

    193.1

    193.7

     

    36

    Puducherry

    0.08

    206.6

    203.9

    0.27

    197.6

    196.5

    0.17

    199.9

    198.4

     

    All India

    100.00

    194.5

    193.9

    100.00

    190.1

    189.9

    100.00

    192.5

    192.0

     

    Notes:

    1. Prov.:  Provisional
    2. –:  indicates the receipt of price schedules is less than 80% of allocated schedules and therefore indices are not compiled.
    3. *: Figures of this row pertain to the prices and weights of the combined Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir

    and Ladakh (erstwhile State of Jammu & Kashmir).

     

    Annexure- IV

     

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

    Sl. No.

    Name of the State/UT

    Rural

    Urban

    Combined

     

    Mar. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

    Mar. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

    Mar. 24 Index
    (Final)

    Mar. 25

    Index
    (Prov.)

    Inflation Rate
    (%)

     

    (1)

    (2)

    (3)

    (4)

    (5)

    (6)

    (7)

    (8)

    (9)

    (10)

    (11)

     

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    191.6

    195.7

    2.14

    191.9

    197.9

    3.13

    191.7

    196.5

    2.50

     

    2

    Assam

    189.4

    195.8

    3.38

    184.8

    194.0

    4.98

    188.5

    195.4

    3.66

     

    3

    Bihar

    182.2

    187.4

    2.85

    188.7

    197.2

    4.50

    183.1

    188.8

    3.11

     

    4

    Chhattisgarh

    177.4

    185.7

    4.68

    174.5

    180.8

    3.61

    176.3

    183.8

    4.25

     

    5

    Delhi

    169.6

    174.2

    2.71

    169.4

    171.8

    1.42

    169.4

    171.9

    1.48

     

    6

    Gujarat

    183.9

    188.7

    2.61

    174.3

    179.0

    2.70

    178.5

    183.2

    2.63

     

    7

    Haryana

    188.9

    196.1

    3.81

    177.8

    184.6

    3.82

    183.7

    190.7

    3.81

     

    8

    Himachal Pradesh

    173.9

    179.4

    3.16

    178.7

    184.7

    3.36

    174.8

    180.4

    3.20

     

    9

    Jharkhand

    182.5

    185.1

    1.42

    184.0

    189.8

    3.15

    183.1

    186.9

    2.08

     

    10

    Karnataka

    190.5

    198.3

    4.09

    191.9

    201.0

    4.74

    191.3

    199.8

    4.44

     

    11

    Kerala

    193.4

    207.5

    7.29

    191.1

    201.4

    5.39

    192.6

    205.3

    6.59

     

    12

    Madhya Pradesh

    184.7

    191.1

    3.47

    187.4

    192.4

    2.67

    185.8

    191.6

    3.12

     

    13

    Maharashtra

    186.3

    192.0

    3.06

    179.0

    186.6

    4.25

    181.4

    188.4

    3.86

     

    14

    Odisha

    188.8

    195.3

    3.44

    181.3

    186.1

    2.65

    186.7

    192.7

    3.21

     

    15

    Punjab

    181.4

    188.8

    4.08

    173.8

    179.3

    3.16

    178.0

    184.5

    3.65

     

    16

    Rajasthan

    184.9

    189.9

    2.70

    183.6

    188.1

    2.45

    184.4

    189.3

    2.66

     

    17

    Tamil Nadu

    193.3

    200.3

    3.62

    190.9

    198.3

    3.88

    191.9

    199.1

    3.75

     

    18

    Telangana

    201.8

    202.2

    0.20

    195.0

    198.5

    1.79

    198.1

    200.2

    1.06

     

    19

    Uttar Pradesh

    187.2

    192.8

    2.99

    184.8

    190.2

    2.92

    186.3

    191.9

    3.01

     

    20

    Uttarakhand

    181.9

    187.4

    3.02

    183.6

    192.7

    4.96

    182.5

    189.4

    3.78

     

    21

    West Bengal

    190.5

    196.5

    3.15

    187.3

    193.4

    3.26

    189.0

    195.0

    3.17

     

    22

    Jammu & Kashmir*

    196.8

    205.4

    4.37

    191.4

    197.7

    3.29

    194.9

    202.7

    4.00

     

    All India

    187.8

    193.9

    3.25

    183.6

    189.9

    3.43

    185.8

    192.0

    3.34

     

    Notes:

    1. Prov.     :  Provisional.
    2. *               : Figures of this row pertain to the prices and weights of the combined Union Territories of Jammu &                            Kashmir and Ladakh (erstwhile State of Jammu & Kashmir).
    3. @               : States having population more than 50 lakhs as per Population Census 2011.

     

    Annexure-V

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

     

    Year

    Jan

    Feb

    Mar

    Apr

    May

    Jun

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

    Oct

    Nov

    Dec

    2013

    104.6

    105.3

    105.5

    106.1

    106.9

    109.3

    111.0

    112.4

    113.7

    114.8

    116.3

    114.5

    2014

    113.6

    113.6

    114.2

    115.1

    115.8

    116.7

    119.2

    120.3

    120.1

    120.1

    120.1

    119.4

    2015

    119.5

    119.7

    120.2

    120.7

    121.6

    123.0

    123.6

    124.8

    125.4

    126.1

    126.6

    126.1

    2016

    126.3

    126.0

    126.0

    127.3

    128.6

    130.1

    131.1

    131.1

    130.9

    131.4

    131.2

    130.4

    2017

    130.3

    130.6

    130.9

    131.1

    131.4

    132.0

    134.2

    135.4

    135.2

    136.1

    137.6

    137.2

    2018

    136.9

    136.4

    136.5

    137.1

    137.8

    138.5

    139.8

    140.4

    140.2

    140.7

    140.8

    140.1

    2019

    139.6

    139.9

    140.4

    141.2

    142.0

    142.9

    144.2

    145.0

    145.8

    147.2

    148.6

    150.4

    2020

    150.2

    149.1

    148.6

    151.4

    150.9

    151.8

    153.9

    154.7

    156.4

    158.4

    158.9

    157.3

    2021

    156.3

    156.6

    156.8

    157.8

    160.4

    161.3

    162.5

    162.9

    163.2

    165.5

    166.7

    166.2

    2022

    165.7

    166.1

    167.7

    170.1

    171.7

    172.6

    173.4

    174.3

    175.3

    176.7

    176.5

    175.7

    2023

    176.5

    176.8

    177.2

    178.1

    179.1

    181.0

    186.3

    186.2

    184.1

    185.3

    186.3

    185.7

    2024

    185.5

    185.8

    185.8

    186.7

    187.7

    190.2

    193.0

    193.0

    194.2

    196.8

    196.5

    195.4

    2025

    193.4

    192.5

    192.0*

    		                  

     

    Notes:

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

     

    Annexure-VI

    Year

    Jan

    Feb

    Mar

    Apr

    May

    Jun

    Jul

    Aug

    Sep

    Oct

    Nov

    Dec

    2014

    8.60

    7.88

    8.25

    8.48

    8.33

    6.77

    7.39

    7.03

    5.63

    4.62

    3.27

    4.28

    2015

    5.19

    5.37

    5.25

    4.87

    5.01

    5.40

    3.69

    3.74

    4.41

    5.00

    5.41

    5.61

    2016

    5.69

    5.26

    4.83

    5.47

    5.76

    5.77

    6.07

    5.05

    4.39

    4.20

    3.63

    3.41

    2017

    3.17

    3.65

    3.89

    2.99

    2.18

    1.46

    2.36

    3.28

    3.28

    3.58

    4.88

    5.21

    2018

    5.07

    4.44

    4.28

    4.58

    4.87

    4.92

    4.17

    3.69

    3.70

    3.38

    2.33

    2.11

    2019

    1.97

    2.57

    2.86

    2.99

    3.05

    3.18

    3.15

    3.28

    3.99

    4.62

    5.54

    7.35

    2020

    7.59

    6.58

    5.84

    –

    –

    6.23

    6.73

    6.69

    7.27

    7.61

    6.93

    4.59

    2021

    4.06

    5.03

    5.52

    4.23

    6.30

    6.26

    5.59

    5.30

    4.35

    4.48

    4.91

    5.66

    2022

    6.01

    6.07

    6.95

    7.79

    7.04

    7.01

    6.71

    7.00

    7.41

    6.77

    5.88

    5.72

    2023

    6.52

    6.44

    5.66

    4.70

    4.31

    4.87

    7.44

    6.83

    5.02

    4.87

    5.55

    5.69

    2024

    5.10

    5.09

    4.85

    4.83

    4.80

    5.08

    3.60

    3.65

    5.49

    6.21

    5.48

    5.22

    2025

    4.26

    3.61

    3.34*

    		                  

     

    Notes:

    1. * : Inflation Value for March  2025  is Provisional.
    2. – : Inflation was not compiled and released due to Covid-19 pandemic outbreak. 

    Click here to see PDF.

    ****

    Samrat

    (Release ID: 2121843)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Startup selected under NQM launches one of India’s most powerful quantum computers

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 3:49PM by PIB Delhi

    Bangaluru based QpiAI, one of the 8 startups selected under the National Quantum Mission, coordinated by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) announced the launch of one of India’s most powerful quantum computers featuring 25 superconducting qubits, on the occasion of World Quantum Day yesterday.

    QpiAI-Indus, the quantum computer launched, is the first full-stack quantum computing system in the country and combines advanced quantum hardware, scalable control, and optimized software for transformative hybrid computing. It integrates advanced quantum processors, next-generation Quantum-HPC software platforms, and AI-enhanced quantum solutions.

    With this milestone, QpiAI is driving deep-science and deep-tech innovation across life sciences, drug discovery, materials sciences, mobility, logistics, sustainability, and climate action.

    As a part of India’s National Quantum Mission, QpiAI is at the forefront of building the country’s quantum computing technology ecosystem, national quantum adoption programs, and creating one of the world’s largest quantum talent ecosystems. QpiAI is committed to accelerating India’s quantum journey, making quantum computing technologies practical, accessible, and globally impactful. The technologies from the company, bootstrapped in 2019, have led to 11 patent applications and generated a revenue of around Rs 1 million per annum. They have also generated substantial capital from the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).

    With this announcement on World Quantum Day which marks a shared vision for a quantum-enabled future that transforms industries, accelerates scientific discovery, and empowers the next generation of innovators, QpiAI joins the global community of scientists, engineers, policy makers, and enthusiasts in celebrating the remarkable progress and possibilities unlocked by quantum science and technology.

    ***

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2121845) Visitor Counter : 102

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at 2025 World Tourism Cities Federation Hong Kong Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit Welcome Dinner (English only) (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at 2025 World Tourism Cities Federation Hong Kong Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit Welcome Dinner tonight (April 15):

    Vice Mayor of Beijing Municipality and the Executive Vice-Chair of the World Tourism Cities Federation Council, Ms Sima Hong), distinguished guests and friends from the global tourism community,

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –