On the auspicious occasion of Navratri, Akashvani’s Aradhana YouTube Channel is set to present a series of special programmes from 30th March to 6th April 2025, offering listeners an immersive devotional experience throughout the festive period.
To commemorate each day’s significance, the channel will feature a specially curated series from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Additionally, Shakti Aradhana will be broadcast daily from 8:30 AM to 8:40 AM, bringing divine renditions to the audience.
A special highlight of the celebrations will be Navratri Bhajans, performed by renowned artistes such as Anup Jalota, Narinder Chanchal, Jagjit Singh, Hari Om Sharan, Mahendra Kapoor, and Anuradha Paudwal. These renditions will be aired from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM every day.
Further enhancing the devotional experience, Devi Maa Ke Anek Swaroop, a unique series narrating inspiring stories on Navratri, will be broadcast daily from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM. The channel will also present special features on various Shakti Peeths across the country, providing listeners with deeper insights into the sacred sites dedicated to Goddess Durga.
The Navratri celebrations will culminate in a grand Live Programme on Ram Janmotsav, directly from Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, Ayodhya. This special broadcast will take place on 6th April 2025 from 11:45 AM to 12:15 PM, bringing the divine festivities to audiences across the nation.
Listeners can tune in to Akashvani’s Aradhana YouTube Channel to experience the spiritual essence of Navratri and celebrate the festival in an atmosphere of devotion and reverence.
Central Council of Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) and National Institute of Unani Medicine to Promote Research in Unani System of Medicine 21 Clinical Institutes/Units working under the CCRUM across the country
Ministry of Ayush is taking multiple initiatives for integration of Ayush systems, including Unani with modern medicine
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:33PM by PIB Delhi
To promote research in Unani system of medicine, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India has set up the Central Council of Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM), New Delhi and National Institute of Unani Medicine (NIUM), Bengaluru, for education and research in Unani system of medicine which includes development of new drugs as well as conducting clinical trials on scientific lines. A satellite institute of National Institute of Unani Medicine with a 200-bedded hospital is also established at Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. A total number of 21 Clinical Institutes/Units are also working under the CCRUM across the country. Both CCRUM and NIUM have taken up a number of clinical research studies for various diseases which include Arthritis, Bronchial Asthma, Anemia, Anxiety, Depressive Disorders, Neuro- degenerative diseases, life-style disorders like Hypertension, Obesity dyslipidemia, diabetes and various skin diseases like vitiligo etc.
For integration of Ayush systems, including Unani with modern medicine, Ministry of Ayush is taking multiple initiatives, such as:
The Ayush Vertical under Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), established by the Ministry of Ayush and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW), serves as a dedicated institutional mechanism for planning, monitoring, and supervising Ayush-specific public health programs. This vertical provides technical support to both Ministries in developing strategies for public health, healthcare, Ayush education, and training.
The Ayush vertical under DGHS has published Standard Treatment Guidelines (STG) on common musculoskeletal disorders, its prevention and management through Ayush systems including Unani system. To enhance the capacity of Ayush physicians, Ayush vertical has conducted National Level Master Training in collaboration of Central Health Education Bureau (CHEB) across all States on these developed STGs, ensuring their effective dissemination to end users.
The Ministry of Ayush and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoH&FW) have jointly established Integrated Ayush Departments in Central Government Hospitals to promote integrative healthcare. As part of this initiative, the Department of Integrative Medicine has been set up and is operational at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung Hospital and Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi.
Government of India has adopted a strategy of Co-location of AYUSH facilities at Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs) and District Hospitals (DHs), thus enabling the choice to the patients for different systems of medicines under a single window. The engagement of Ayush doctors/ paramedics and their training is supported by the MoH&FW under National Health Mission (NHM), while the support for Ayush infrastructure, equipment/ furniture and medicines are provided by the Ministry of Ayush under National AYUSH Mission (NAM) as shared responsibilities.
With a view to include Unani Medicine into mainstream of healthcare system in the country, the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) is providing healthcare facilities through relocation/extension center at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital-New Delhi, Deen Dayal Upadhyay (DDU) Hospital- New Delhi, All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA)- New Delhi, Safdarjung Hospital-New Delhi, AYUSH Wellness Centre, President House, New Delhi, Jamshedjee Jeejeebhoy (JJ) Hospital- Mumbai and Extension Research Centre for Unani at Kannur, Kerala with a view to make Unani treatment facility accessible and affordable to the public.
The Ministry of Ayush, developed the Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH. Under this scheme the Ministry provides support to Indian AYUSH drug Manufacturers/ Ayush Service providers to give boost to the export of AYUSH products and services; facilitates the International promotion, development and recognition of AYUSH systems of medicine; foster interaction of stakeholders and market development of AYUSH at international level; promote academics and research through the establishment of AYUSH Academic Chairs in foreign countries and holding training workshop/symposiums for promoting and strengthening awareness and interest about AYUSH Systems of Medicine at international level.
The Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) is taking various initiatives for the promotion of Unani Medicine e.g. providing treatment through General OPD, Reproductive & Child Health OPD, Geriatric OPD, Non Communicable Diseases Clinic etc. conducted by 21 Clinical Institutes / Units of the Council. The Council is also promoting Unani medicine through Arogyas, Health Melas, Health Camps, and Exhibitions etc. CCRUM is also promoting healthcare services through clinical Mobile Research programme, school health programme, Scheduled Caste Sub Plan /Tribal Sub Plan Mobile Health Care Program, etc.
The CCRUM is taking various research programmes including pre-clinical and clinical research, drug standardization research, fundamental research etc. to ensure the accessibility and affordability to the public. Five mobile Apps have been developed and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on Ilaj-bit Tadbeer (IBT) are being developed. Standard Treatment Guidelines on Musculoskeletal disorders have also been developed.
To standardize and regulate the Unani system of Medicine, National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) notified regulations and framed Competency Based Dynamic Curriculum for Undergraduate and Postgraduate.
The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India has established the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homoeopathy (PCIM&H), as its subordinate office. PCIM&H on behalf of Ministry of Ayush lays down the Formulary specifications and Pharmacopoeial Standards for Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani & Homoeopathy (ASU&H) drugs, which serve as official compendia for ascertaining the Quality Control (identity, purity and strength) of the ASU&H drugs, included therein, as per Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Rules 1945, thereunder and compliance to these quality standards are mandatory for the production of ASU&H drug being manufactured, sell and stocked in India.
The quality parameters included in the Pharmacopoeias and Formularies of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani & Homoeopathic (ASU&H) drugs prescribing mandatory regulatory standards have been identified to align the parameters prescribed by WHO and other major pharmacopoeias prevalent worldwide. Implementation of these Pharmacopoeial standards ensures that the medicines conform to optimum quality standards in terms of consistency, identity, purity and strength.
The scheme for Certification of Pharmaceutical Product (COPP) as per World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines is extended to Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani (ASU) medicines. This scheme is administered by Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and the certificate is granted on the basis of joint inspection of the applicant manufacturing unit by the representatives of CDSCO, Ministry of Ayush and the concerned State Licensing Authority.
The Ministry of Ayush has implemented a Central Sector Scheme Ayush Oushadhi Gunavatta evam Uttpadan Samvardhan Yojana (AOGUSY). The objectives of the Scheme are as under;
To enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities and exports of traditional medicines and health promotion products under the initiative of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
To facilitate adequate infrastructural & technological upgradation and institutional activities in public and private sector for standardization, quality manufacturing and analytical testing of Ayush drugs & materials.
To strengthen regulatory frameworks at Central and State level for effective quality control, safety monitoring and surveillance of misleading advertisements of Ayush drugs.
To encourage building up synergies, collaborations and convergent approaches for promoting standards and quality of Ayush drugs & materials.
This information was given by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
The sixth meeting of the National Scheme Sanctioning Committee (NSSC) under Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen (SBM-G) Phase II for consideration of the Annual Implementation Plans of all the State/UTs for the financial year 2025-26 was held in New Delhi.
The virtual meeting was chaired by Shri Ashok Kumar Meena, Secretary, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), Ministry Jal Shakti. Speaking on the occasion, the Secretary, DDWS, applauded the National SBM-G team, all the supporting Ministries/Departments of MoPR, MoRD and MoHUA and teams of the State/UTs for having achieved 76% ODF Plus Model villages as of March 2025.
Commenting on the AIPs and the targets therein, the Secretary DDWS applauded the commendable achievements under SBM-G and emphasized the remarkable progress witnessed in 2024-25, attributing it to the collective effort of all States/UTs, Partners, and the National Team.
The Secretary DDWS also underscored the crucial role of local communities, partners, and existing networks of women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) as pivotal to the program’s success, portraying them not merely as partners but as leaders driving initiatives forward. He highlighted the importance of State Water & Sanitation Mission (SWSM) and District Water & Sanitation Mission (DWSM) who must play a proactive role in overseeing program implementation, convergence, and sustainability efforts at the regional level.
He outlined three fundamental principles that will guide this year’s sanitation initiatives. “First, all waste—solid and liquid—generated in rural areas should be treated as close to the source as possible. Second, an integrated approach to solid waste management, liquid waste management, faecal sludge management (FSM), and plastic waste, along with sustained ODF status, will be the key focus. Third, every village must become an ODF Plus Model village within this year, ensuring that no village is left behind. By March 2025, the mission aims to achieve 100% ODF Plus Model status across the country,” the Secretary DDWS said.
He emphasized that SBM-G must collaborate closely with JJM to strengthen the WASH agenda, ensuring that all relevant authorities, including the health sector, work together for a holistic approach. With over 50% of villages still awaiting verification, he underscored the importance of completing this crucial process, making the most of this final implementation year of SBM-G Phase-II.
Making a presentation, Shri Jitendra Srivastava, Joint Secretary and Mission Director SBM-G, gave an overview of achievements of SBM-G Phase II and the physical and financial targets for the financial year 2025-26.
Meeting concluded with the approval of the Annual Implementation Plan 2025-26 for all the State/UTs and commended the State/UTs for their efforts to achieve an ODF Plus Model rural India by 2025-26 and emphasized on collective efforts to achieve the ambitious target.
The meeting was attended by members of the NSSC – Joint Secretary and Financial Advisor, DDWS; Joint Secretary, representatives from the Ministry of Panchayat Raj and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs; JS & MD, SBM-G, DDWS; and ACS/Pr. Secretary/Secretary in-charge of rural sanitation of the States/UTs. Non-official members of the NSSC were also present.
WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC) in Jamnagar to emerge as a Centre of global wellness; bolster evidence-based research, training and awareness for Traditional Medicine Central Sector Scheme (CSS) for the Promotion of International Cooperation (IC) in AYUSH to facilitate the International promotion, development and recognition of Ayush system of medicine
Department of Integrative Medicine operationlised at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) & Safdarjung Hospital and Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi to promote integrative healthcare
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:30PM by PIB Delhi
The Ministry of Ayush has taken initiative for World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) Collaborative Centre for Traditional Medicines at Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), Jamnagar and Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), New Delhi, and National Institute of Indian Medical Heritage (NIIMH), Hyderabad, a unit under Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), New Delhi. ITRA is running an International Centre of Ayurveda Studies (ICAS) centre to promote Ayurveda as a key component of global healthcare systems.
The WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC) in Jamnagar would emerge as a Centre of global wellness; bolster evidence-based research, training and awareness for Traditional Medicine. It will serve as a key knowledge hub for evidence-based Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) on a global scale. This is the first and only global out posted Centre (Office) for traditional medicine across the world.
With regard to enhance international collaboration in Ayurveda through various forums, the Ministry of Ayush has developed a Central Sector Scheme (CSS) for the Promotion of International Cooperation (IC) in Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Homoeopathy (AYUSH) under which the Ministry of Ayush provides support to Indian Ayush drug Manufacturers/ Ayush Service providers to give boost to the export of AYUSH products & services; facilitates the International promotion, development and recognition of Ayush system of medicine; foster interaction of stakeholders and market development of Ayush at international level; promote academics and research through the establishment of Ayush Academic Chairs in foreign countries and holding training workshop/symposiums for promoting and strengthening awareness and interest about Ayush Systems of Medicine at international level. Under various components of the CSS IC Scheme, the Ministry of Ayush supports AYUSH entrepreneurs, Ayush drug manufacturing industry, Ayush Health Care providers etc. Participation/ organization of International exhibitions/ conferences/ workshops/ seminars/ road shows/ trade fairs, etc. in India and abroad by the Ministry of Ayush through Indian Mission/ Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)/ Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI)/ India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO)/ Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)/ Pharmaceutical Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil), etc.
The Ministry of Ayush has supported various international events/ conferences/ seminars/ workshops etc. organized by various organizations including World Ayurveda Congress to enhance international collaboration in Ayurveda.
The Ministry of Ayush has taken various steps to integrate Ayurveda with modern medical practices to address contemporary health challenges through the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) Ayush Vertical. The Ayush Vertical under DGHS, established by the Ministry of Ayush and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), serves as a dedicated institutional mechanism for planning, monitoring, and supervising Ayush-specific public health programs. This vertical provides technical support to both Ministries in developing strategies for public health, healthcare, Ayush education, and training. The Ministry of Ayush and MoHFW have jointly established Integrated Ayush Departments in Central Government Hospitals to promote integrative healthcare. As part of this initiative, the Department of Integrative Medicine has been set up and is operational at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) & Safdarjung Hospital and Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi.
Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences(CCRAS), as the apex body of research in Ayurveda, has undertaken research projects on the treatment of various diseases in collaboration with modern institutions to promote the integration of Ayurveda with the modern system of medicine.
CCRAS has undertaken various research studies to examine the benefits and feasibility of integration of Ayurveda through the following research projects for integration of Ayurveda with modern system of medicine:
Operational study to explore the feasibility of integrating Ayurveda with modern system of medicine in a tertiary care hospital (Safdarjung Hospital New Delhi) for the management of Osteoarthritis (Knee). The study has been completed.
Feasibility of introducing Indian System of Medicine (Ayurveda) in the National Reproductive and Child Health services at Primary Health Care (PHC) level” in Himachal Pradesh. The study has been completed.
Integration of AYUSH systems in the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases & Stroke (NPCDCS). The study has been completed.
Feasibility of introducing Ayurveda Intervention in Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) in PHCs of Selected district (Gadchiroli) of Maharashtra (Effectiveness of Ayurvedic intervention for Ante-Natal care (Garbhini Paricharya) at Primary Health Care level: A Multi Centre Operational Study.
Further, under the Extramural Research Programme, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) under Ministry of Ayush has taken an initiative to set up Ayush-ICMR Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research (AI-ACIHR), at AIIMS to conduct research on identified areas focusing on integrative healthcare. Under this program, four research areas in four AIIMS have been identified, which are as follows:
AIIMS Delhi:
Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Gastro-intestinal Disorders
Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Women and Child Health
AIIMS- Jodhpur: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Geriatric Health
AIIMS Nagpur: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Cancer Care
AIIMS Rishikesh: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Geriatric Health.
Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Ayush encourages Post Graduate (PG) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) scholars and faculty researchers to collaborate with modern medical faculty to ensure Ayurveda’s efficacy and relevance in modern healthcare. Since 2019, 25 integrative researches have been undertaken.
The Ministry of Ayush, developed the Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH (IC Scheme). The details are provided at Point (a)&(b)
The Ministry also implements the CSS Scheme for Promotion of Information Education and Communication (IEC) in Ayush to create awareness regarding Ayush Systems of Medicine including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy system of medicine. This aims to reach out to all sections of the population across the country. This scheme provides assistance for organizing National/State Arogya Fairs, Yoga fests/ Utsavs, Ayurveda Parvs, etc. The Ministry also undertakes Multi-Media, Print Media Campaigns for creating awareness about Ayush Systems.
The Ministry of Ayush, through Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), an Institute of National Importance, organizes various public participatory programs on regular basis to increase public awareness and acceptance of Ayurvedic practices domestically.
North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda and Homoeopathy (NEIAH) has taken various steps for health awareness among citizen in rural areas. NEIAH has opened a Peripheral Outpatient Department (OPD) in Ayurveda and Homoeopathy OPD at Smit areas, East Khasi Hills district of the State of Meghalaya to promote Ayurveda and Homoeopathy. The Institute also conducted a Health camps under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) programmes. The Institute regularly gives free consultation in the Institute Hospitals both OPD and In-Patient Department (IPD) and conducting free Medical & Awareness Camps at Villages, schools, Govt. Dept., Military personnel and at community levels. Organized National Seminars/worships, Panel discussions, Doctor se Mileye in All India Radio, Shillong in English, Hindi and Regional Language (Khasi), TV Talks shows on Ayurveda in Doordarshan Kendra, Shillong etc.
For increasing awareness domestically, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) provides clinical care and engages in awareness activities to promote Ayurveda through its Information Education and Communication (IEC) Activities through its networks of 30 peripheral Institutes.
CCRAS has been engaged in popularizing the Ayurveda system among the masses through electronic and print media for common people in English, Hindi, and regional languages, which are widely distributed through National/State level Arogya melas, Health camps, exhibitions, expos, etc., and also through CCRAS outreach programs viz. Schedule Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) Research Program, Tribal Health Care Research Program (THCRP), etc., in different states of the country through its robust 30 peripheral institutes. The Council website is also generally embodied with IEC materials and hyperlinked with other important websites that provide information for wider utility.
The Council has three journals named Journal of Drug Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (JDRAS), Journal of Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (JRAS), and Journal of Indian Medical Heritage (JIMH) which is also available electronically in the public domain free of cost to enable dissemination of the outcomes of research among the public. The CCRAS is also publishing CCRAS Bulletin quarterly for dissemination of Research outcomes in common languages for the public. So far, the Council has published books, monographs, and technical reports, and they are being sold or distributed to disseminate research outcomes and merits of Ayurveda at large.
To increase awareness internationally, the CCRAS under the Ministry of Ayush has signed MoU/LoI/Agreements with different countries / foreign Universities/ Institutions/ organizations to promote International cooperation for the establishment of Academic Chair.
This information was given by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Lok Sabha Clears Crucial Maritime Bill to Enhance India’s Ease of Doing Business in the Sector Passing of the ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill’ in the Lok Sabha marks a crucial step toward realising PM Narendra Modiji’s vision of updating & modernising India’s legal framework—making it more relevant, efficient, and accessible, while shedding colonial-era legacies that have impeded progress:” Sarbananda Sonowal
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 7:10PM by PIB Delhi
The Lok Sabha passed an important bill — ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024’ — in an attempt to modernise, update legal framework as well as enhance Ease of Doing Business (EODB) in India’s maritime sector. The bill was introduced by Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways today.
In an effort to support the country’s growing shipping sector, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal introduced the ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024,’ marking a significant legislative reform by replacing the colonial-era ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925’. The colonial era act was rooted in the century-old Hague Rules, which limited scope with complex language, and misaligned with modern commercial realities. The new bill addresses these gaps with clarity, foresight, and renewed relevance for a rapidly evolving maritime sector.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The passing of the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill in the Lok Sabha marks a crucial step toward realising PM Shri Narendra Modiji’s vision of updating and modernising India’s legal framework—making it more relevant, efficient, and accessible, while shedding colonial-era legacies that have impeded progress. The passage of this bill is a significant step toward strengthening India’s legal foundation for maritime commerce. It not only promotes investor confidence but also positions India as Viksit Bharat.”
The Union Minister also introduced the ‘Indian Ports Bill, 2025’, aimed at consolidating laws related to port management, promoting integrated port development, and enhancing the ease of doing business in the maritime sector. The bill seeks to optimise the utilisation of India’s vast coastline by establishing and empowering State Maritime Boards to ensure effective management of ports other than major ports. It also proposes the formation of the Maritime State Development Council to foster structured growth and development of the port sector.
Adding further, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Today marks a historic milestone in India’s journey towards a modern, efficient, and globally competitive shipping sector. The passing of the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha is a significant step in fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji’s vision of modernising India’s Maritime sector to become future ready and globally competitive.”
A key strength of the bill lies in its simplified language and structure, making the law more accessible to stakeholders, particularly Indian exporters, importers, and shipping professionals. While retaining the substantive legal framework, the bill aligns it with contemporary drafting practices, reducing ambiguities and minimising the risk of potential litigation.
The bill empowers the government allowing India to swiftly adapt to evolving international maritime conventions. It also ensures transparency and accountability by providing for parliamentary oversight of executive notifications (Clause 10). The legislation formally repeals the outdated 1925 Act, marking a confident step away from colonial legal remnants and embracing a modern Indian maritime legal identity. This aligns with the government’s broader vision of simplifying laws, promoting ease of doing business, and building a globally competitive shipping ecosystem.
On the introduction of the Indian Ports Bill, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The introduction of the Indian Ports Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha is a transformative step toward modernising India’s port governance and maritime infrastructure. By consolidating laws, empowering State Maritime Boards, and establishing the Maritime State Development Council, the bill attempts a way for integrated port development and improved ease of doing business. With a strong focus on safety, security, and environmental sustainability, this reform is set to enhance India’s global competitiveness in the maritime sector.”
The Indian Ports bill addresses critical aspects such as pollution control, disaster management, emergency response, security, safety, navigation, and data management at ports. It also seeks to ensure India’s compliance with international obligations and maritime conventions. To safeguard India’s port infrastructure, the bill includes provisions for port conservation and introduces adjudicatory mechanisms for resolving port-related disputes efficiently. The Indian Ports Bill, 2025, aims to modernise India’s port governance framework, enhance efficiency, and position India as a global leader in maritime trade.
Khadi and Village Industries Commission KVIC organized ‘Mega Distribution’ program at Headquarters Mumbai, distribution of 16377 equipment, machines and toolkits across the country through virtual medium
More than 5 lakh Khadi artisans and beneficiaries benefited under Gramodyog Vikas Yojana and Khadi Vikas Yojana
Disbursement of margin money subsidy of Rs 469 crore to 14456 new units under PMEGP scheme by KVIC Chairman Shri Manoj Kumar which will create 159016 new jobs
Inauguration of 5000 new PMEGP units and 44 renovated Khadi Bhawans as well as 750 Khadi workshops across the country through online medium. In total 1440 artisans will benefit from this workshop
In this financial year, under Khadi Vikas Yojana, till now, MMDA amount of Rs. 215 crore and ISEC grant amount of Rs. 40 crore has been distributed
Chairman KVIC said, “Mega distribution program inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat Abhiyan’. Welfare of artisans is the key mantra of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.”
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:17PM by PIB Delhi
Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India organized the largest and most comprehensive ‘Mega Distribution’ program through virtual medium at its Central Office, Mumbai. More than 5 lakh Khadi artisans, entrepreneurs and beneficiaries were benefited under Gramodyog Vikas Yojana, Khadi Vikas Yojana and Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP). Chairman KVIC Shri Manoj Kumar on this occasion, addressed lakhs of artisans across the country through virtual medium and appealed to join Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign. North Zone Member KVIC Shri Nagendra Raghuvanshi, Eastern Zone Member Shri Manoj Kumar Singh, Joint Secretary (ARI) from MSME Ministry Shri Vipul Goyal, Economic Advisor (MSME) Ms. Simi Chaudhary and senior officials of Central Office, KVIC along with officers and employees from the field offices across the country were present in the program through virtual mode .
In line with the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, a historic initiative was taken towards promoting self-reliance and entrepreneurship in the Khadi and Village Industries sector, a ‘Mega Distribution’ program was organized at the headquarters located in Vile Parle. In this program, 16377 equipment, machines and toolkits were distributed to the beneficiaries associated with the state and divisional offices of all the 6 zones (East Zone, West Zone, North Zone, South Zone, Central Zone and Northeast Zone) across the country under the Gramodyog Vikas Yojana scheme. Along with this, 44 renovated Khadi Bhavans and 750 Khadi workshops were also inaugurated under the Khadi Vikas Yojana Scheme. On this occasion, under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme, margin money subsidy of Rs. 469 crore was disbursed on sanctioned loan of Rs. 1399.13 crore to 14456 PMEGP units across the country through video conferencing, which will create 159016 employment opportunities. Along with this, Chairman KVIC also inaugurated 5000 new PMEGP units through online medium. In the financial year 2024-25, a margin of Rs. 2175 crore was disbursed to a total of 58850 beneficiaries, generating 64,73,50 jobs.
Chairman, KVIC Shri Manoj Kumar informed that in order to recognise the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and to provide employment to the youth, Khadi and Village Industries Commission has organized the most comprehensive and massive toolkit distribution program in its history under the Gramodyog Vikas Yojana Scheme. Under this, a total of 16,377 toolkits and equipment were distributed through virtual medium, which includes 3,950 Bee boxes, 7,067 electric pottery wheels, 1,350 leather product repair toolkits, 390 footwear manufacturing equipment, 420 electrician toolkits, 80 AC repair toolkits, 300 plumber toolkits, 60 mobile repairing toolkits, 971 sewing machines, 278 handmade paper making machines, 349 automatic agarbatti making machines, 60 pedal operated agarbatti making machines, 320 turnwood machines, 180 wooden toy making machines, 460 waste wood craft machines and 292 agriculture based food processing machines.
During this program, Shri Manoj Kumar informed that KVIC has so far released a grant amount of Rs. 215 crore under Modified Market Development Assistance (MMDA) to 1,110 Khadi institutions in the financial year 2024-2025, benefiting about 1,46,246 artisans. Apart from this, a grant amount of Rs. 40 crore has also been disbursed to 1153 Khadi institutions through ISEC program. In continuation to this, today, additional MMDA grant amount of Rs. 32.73 crore was released to Khadi institutions benefiting 3817 artisans.
Mentioning about the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, KVIC Chairman said, “We all have to adopt the mantra of ‘Vocal for Local’ as well as ‘Make for World’, only then Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘Local to Global’ will be recognised.” While making an important announcement for Khadi artisans, he said that the wages of Khadi artisans will be increased by 20 percent from April 1, 2025. In the last 11 years,the Modi government has made a historic increase of 275 percent in the wages of Khadi artisans. Now the spinners will get Rs. 15 for spinning per hank on the charkha.
While talking to the journalists, Shri Manoj Kumar said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi gave the mantra of ‘Khadi for Fashion‘ for ‘Khadi Renaissance‘ in Bharat Tex-2025, to reach out to the masses and to popularize Khadi as a modern garment, KVIC organized grand Khadi fashion shows in many cities including Nagpur, Pune, Vadodara, Surat, Chennai, Jaipur, Prayagraj. With the inspiration of the Prime Minister, ‘New Khadi of New India‘ has reached especially the young generation and is establishing its identity as a modern garment. Chairman, KVIC informed that the sale of Khadi in Prayagraj Mahakumbh was Rs. 12.02 crore, while in the last financial year, the total production of Khadi and Village Industries reached Rs. 1.08 lakh crore and sales reached Rs. 1.55 lakh crore. In the last 10 years, 1.87 crore jobs were created, including 10.17 lakh new jobs. More than 10 lakh new projects were established under PMEGP, which provided employment to more than 88 lakh people.
Lakhs of Khadi artisans associated with the offices of Khadi and Village Industries Commission, representatives of Khadi Institutions, beneficiaries of Gramodyog Vikas Yojana and PMEGP scheme was connected through online medium across the country in the program. Along with this, KVIC officials and employees were also present at the Central office in Mumbai.
Policy Samvad organized a one-day workshop titled “Funding the Future: Public Policy and Finance for Tribal Welfare and Inclusive Growth in collaboration with the Institute for Public Research and Development Trust (IPPRDT) and the Mahamana Madan Mohan Malviya Memorial Trust at Malviya Smriti Bhawan, New Delhi.
The inaugural session was led by Policy Samvad Editor and Public Policy analyst Gaurav Kumar, who welcomed the guests and briefed on the theme of workshop. The Chief Guest, Shri Antar Singh Arya, Chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, he emphasized the role and importance of Policy Samvad for constructive dialogue in public policy space and collaboration in raising awareness on tribal welfare. He elaborated on the role of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes and highlighted various initiatives for tribal welfare in the current Union Budget, noting the Central Government’s efforts toward the inclusive development of tribal communities.
The Guest of Honour, Shri Nirupam Chakma, Member of the NCST, stressed the need for comprehensive and inclusive development in public finance and its efficient management. Smt. Vijaya Bharati Sayani, former Acting Chairperson and Member of the NHRC, also shared her insights on the subject. Shri Harishankar Singh, National President of Mahamana Malviya Mission, discussed the role of public policy and finance in tribal welfare and policy making.
Additionally, Shri Amit Nirmal, Joint Secretary of the NCST, provided his perspective on the significance of public policy and finance in ensuring tribal welfare and inclusive development.
The workshop featured discussions among domain experts, policymakers, and stakeholders, who explored new avenues for public welfare. Scholars and researchers contributed valuable insights into the past, present, and future of tribal development. Key speakers included Dr Prakash Chand Kandpal (Professor JNU), Prof Pavanesh Kumar (IGNOU), Shri Chakshu Roy (PRS Legislative Research), Shri Vinay Kumar Singh (Senior Fellow, Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Foundation), Shri A K Choubey (General Secretary, Bharatiya Adivasi Sevak Sangh), Shri Prakash Uikey (Former Judge), and Dr Abhishek Srivastava (Assistant Professor, JNU).
During the event, the tenth issue of Policy Samvad was released by the Chief Guest and Special Invitees. The journal, curated by an advisory board of distinguished professors and analysts, focuses on governance, socio-economic development, and NITI Aayog’s initiatives, serving as a crucial platform for intellectual discourse on India’s policy landscape.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Dr Praveen Kumar Jha. The workshop saw participation from scholars, researchers, university students, and public policy professionals, including representatives from PRS Legislative Research.
Centre & Uttar Pradesh Strengthen Skill Development Ties ₹60,000 Cr ITI Upgradation Scheme in Focus Uttar Pradesh has trained over 24.73 lakh candidates under PMKVY
Under the latest PMKVY 4.0 initiative, more than 93,000 individuals have enrolled in futuristic job roles
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:04PM by PIB Delhi
In a major push to accelerate skill development initiatives, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Union Minister of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (I/C) and Minister of State, Ministry of Education, met today with Shri Kapil Dev Agrawal, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Vocational Education and Skill Development, Government of Uttar Pradesh, at Kaushal Bhawan, New Delhi. The high-level meeting, attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the Uttar Pradesh government, focused on enhancing Centre-State collaboration for seamless execution of key skilling programs, including Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), PM Vishwakarma, and the Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme.
The Principal Secretary, Skill Development, Government of Uttar Pradesh, presented an overview of the state’s achievements in skilling and highlighted areas where additional support from the Centre could drive greater impact. Uttar Pradesh has trained over 24.73 lakh candidates under PMKVY till date. Under the latest PMKVY 4.0 initiative, more than 93,000 individuals have enrolled in futuristic job roles, including Drone Service Technician, AI – Machine Learning Engineer, Electric Vehicle Service Technician, and Solar PV Installer (Electrical), among others.
Furthering the government’s commitment to empowering traditional artisans, 405 training centres under PM Vishwakarma have successfully trained nearly 1.08 lakh craftspeople across Uttar Pradesh. To boost entrepreneurship, the state has also conducted 450+ Entrepreneurship Awareness Programs and 145 Entrepreneurship Development Programs, equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with essential business skills and financial literacy.
A key highlight of the meeting was the discussion on the National ITI Upgradation Scheme, a transformative initiative that aims to modernize 1,000 ITIs across India under a hub-and-spoke model. The scheme, with a total outlay of ₹60,000 crore over five years, will be financed through ₹30,000 crore from the Central Government, ₹20,000 crore from State Governments, and ₹10,000 crore from industry partnerships. This initiative will elevate ITIs into world-class skill development centers, ensuring high employability for youth and a steady pipeline of skilled talent for industries. With 3,258 ITIs spread across 75 districts, Uttar Pradesh is set to play a pivotal role in this ambitious transformation.
Emphasizing the importance of industry collaboration, Shri Jayant Chaudhary stressed on the need for industry-driven curriculum development, hands-on training methodologies, and real-time skilling aligned with market demands. He further highlighted the integration of vocational education with mainstream education as envisioned in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and called for greater AI-driven course offerings to prepare youth for the evolving digital economy.
Both Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Centre-State synergy in skill development, with a shared vision of making Uttar Pradesh a leading hub for skilled workforce development. The discussions concluded on a positive note, with a roadmap for enhanced coordination between the Central and State Governments to drive India’s skilling agenda forward in alignment with national priorities and global industry demands.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses TV9 Summit 2025 Today, the world’s eyes are on India: PM
India’s youth is rapidly becoming skilled and driving innovation forward: PM
“India First” has become the mantra of India’s foreign policy: PM
Today, India is not just participating in the world order but also contributing to shaping and securing the future: PM
India has given Priority to humanity over monopoly: PM
Today, India is not just a Nation of Dreams but also a Nation That Delivers: PM
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:53PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the TV9 Summit 2025 in the Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi today. Addressing the gathering, he extended his best wishes to the entire team of TV9 and its viewers. He said that TV9 had a wide regional audience and added that now there is a global audience also getting ready. He also welcomed and greeted the Indian diaspora who had connected over teleconference to the event.
“Today, the World’s eyes are on India”, remarked the Prime Minister, highlighting that people around the globe are curious about India. He noted that India, which was the 11th largest economy in the world after 70 years of independence, rose to become the 5th largest economy in a span of 7-8 years. Citing a report of the IMF, Shri Modi said that India was the only major economy in the world which had doubled its GDP in the last 10 years. Emphasizing that India had added USD two lakh crore to its economy in the last decade, adding that doubling of the GDP was not just about numbers but had major impacts like moving 25 crore people out of poverty forming a ‘Neo-Middle Class’. He further added that the Neo-middle class was beginning a new life with dreams and aspirations along with contributing to the economy and making it vibrant. “India has the world’s largest youth population”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, noting that the youth were rapidly becoming skilled, thereby accelerating innovation. “India First has become the mantra of India’s foreign policy”, highlighted the Prime Minister. He remarked that while India once followed a policy of maintaining equal distance from all nations, the current approach emphasizes being equally close to all—an “Equi-Closeness” policy. The Prime Minister underscored that the global community now values India’s opinions, innovations, and efforts like never before. He emphasized that the world is keenly observing India today and is eager to understand “What India Thinks Today.”
Prime Minister highlighted that India is not merely participating in the world order but is actively contributing to shaping and securing the future. He remarked about India’s vital role in global security, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Defying doubts, India developed its own vaccines, ensured rapid inoculation, and supplied medicines to over 150 countries, he added. He emphasized that in times of global crisis, India’s values of service and compassion resonated worldwide, showcasing the essence of its culture and traditions.
Reflecting on the global context post-World War II, noting how most international organizations were dominated by a few nations, Shri Modi remarked that India’s approach has always prioritized humanity over monopoly, striving for an inclusive and participatory global order. He added that in line with this vision, India has led the way in establishing global institutions for the 21st century, ensuring collective contribution and cooperation. Shri Modi remarked that addressing the challenge of natural disasters, which cause immense damage to infrastructure worldwide, India took the initiative to establish the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). CDRI represents a global commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience, he added. The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s efforts to promote the construction of disaster-resilient infrastructure, including bridges, roads, buildings, and power grids, ensuring they can withstand natural calamities and safeguard communities across the world.
Emphasising the importance of global collaboration to tackle future challenges, particularly in energy resources, Shri Modi highlighted India’s initiative of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as a solution to ensure sustainable energy access for even the smallest nations. He remarked that this effort not only positively impacts the climate but also secures the energy needs of Global South countries. He proudly noted that over 100 countries have joined this initiative. Talking about the global challenges of trade imbalances and logistics issues, Shri Modi highlighted India’s collaborative efforts with the world to launch new initiatives, including the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). He remarked that this project will connect Asia, Europe, and the Middle East through commerce and connectivity, boosting economic opportunities and providing alternative trade routes. He underscored that this initiative will strengthen the global supply chain.
Underlining India’s efforts to make global systems more participative and democratic, the Prime Minister remarked on the historic step taken during the G-20 Summit at Bharat Mandapam, where the African Union was made a permanent member of the G-20. He emphasized that this long-standing demand was fulfilled under India’s presidency. Shri Modi underscored India’s role as the voice of Global South countries in global decision-making institutions, highlighting India’s significant contributions in various fields, including International Yoga Day, the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine, and the development of a global framework for Artificial Intelligence. He remarked that these efforts have established India’s strong presence in the new world order. “This is just the beginning, as India’s capabilities on global platforms continue to reach new heights”, he added.
Noting that 25 years of the 21st century have passed, out of which 11 years have been dedicated to serving the nation under his government, Shri Modi emphasized the importance of reflecting on past questions and answers to understand “What India Thinks Today.” He highlighted the transformation from dependency to self-reliance, aspirations to achievements, and desperation to development. He recalled that a decade ago, the issue of toilets in villages left women with limited options, but today, the Swachh Bharat Mission has provided a solution. He noted that in 2013, discussions about healthcare revolved around expensive treatments, but today, Ayushman Bharat offers a solution. Similarly, he highlighted that kitchens of the poor, once associated with smoke, now benefit from the Ujjwala Yojana. The Prime Minister pointed out that in 2013, women often remained silent when asked about bank accounts, but today, over 30 crore women have their own accounts due to the Jan Dhan Yojana. He also mentioned that the struggle for drinking water, which once required reliance on wells and ponds, has been addressed through the Har Ghar Nal Se Jal Yojana. He emphasized that it is not just the decade that has changed but also the lives of people. He remarked that the world is recognizing and accepting India’s development model. “India is no longer just a ‘Nation of Dreams’ but a ‘Nation That Delivers’”, he added.
Shri Modi said that when a nation values the convenience and time of its citizens, it transforms the nation’s trajectory. He highlighted that this is precisely what India is experiencing today. He provided an example of the significant changes in the passport application process. He noted that earlier, obtaining a passport was a cumbersome task, involving long waiting times, complex documentation, and limited passport centers, mostly located in state capitals. He emphasized that people from smaller towns often had to arrange for overnight stays to complete the process. The Prime Minister highlighted that these challenges have now been completely transformed. He shared that the number of passport service centers in the country has increased from just 77 to over 550. Additionally, he remarked that the waiting time for obtaining a passport, which used to be as long as 50 days, has now been reduced to just 5-6 days.
Remarking on the transformation witnessed in India’s banking infrastructure, Shri Modi highlighted that while banks were nationalized 50-60 years ago with the promise of accessible banking services, lakhs of villages still lacked such facilities. He emphasized that this situation has now been changed. The Prime Minister noted that online banking has reached every household, and today, there is a banking touchpoint within every 5-kilometer radius in the country. He stated that the government has not only expanded banking infrastructure but also strengthened the banking system. He highlighted that banks’ Non-Performing Assets (NPA) have significantly reduced, and their profits have reached a record high of ₹1.4 lakh crore. He added that those who looted public money are now being held accountable, sharing that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has recovered over ₹22,000 crore, which is being legally returned to the victims from whom it was taken.
Stressing that efficiency leads to effective governance, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of achieving more in less time, utilizing fewer resources, and avoiding unnecessary expenditures. He remarked that prioritizing “red carpet over red tape” reflects respect for a nation’s resources. He noted that for the past 11 years, this has been a major priority of his government.
Mentioning the past practice of accommodating more individuals in ministries, which often led to inefficiencies, Shri Modi highlighted that his government, during its first term, merged several ministries to prioritize the nation’s resources and needs over political compulsions. He provided examples, noting that the Urban Development Ministry and the Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Ministry were merged to form the Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry. Similarly, the Ministry of Overseas Affairs was integrated with the Ministry of External Affairs. He also mentioned the merger of the Water Resources and River Development Ministry with the Drinking Water Ministry to create the Jal Shakti Ministry. He emphasized that these decisions were driven by the country’s priorities and the efficient use of resources.
Underlining the government’s efforts to simplify and reduce rules and regulations, the Prime Minister mentioned that approximately 1,500 outdated laws, which had lost their relevance over time, were abolished by his government. Additionally, around 40,000 compliances were removed. He emphasized that these measures achieved two significant outcomes: relief from harassment for the public and conservation of energy within the government machinery. The Prime Minister provided another example of reform through the introduction of GST. He noted that over 30 taxes were consolidated into a single tax, resulting in substantial savings in terms of processes and documentation.
Underscoring the inefficiencies and corruption that plagued government procurement in the past, often reported by the media, the Prime Minister said that his government introduced the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) platform to address these issues. He explained that government departments now list their requirements on this platform, vendors place bids, and orders are finalized transparently. This initiative has significantly reduced corruption and saved the government over ₹1 lakh crore. The Prime Minister also emphasized the global recognition of India’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. He noted that DBT has prevented over ₹3 lakh crore of taxpayers’ money from falling into the wrong hands. He further highlighted that more than 10 crore fake beneficiaries, including non-existent individuals, who were exploiting government schemes, have been removed from official records.
Emphasising the government’s commitment to the honest utilization of every taxpayer’s contribution and its respect for taxpayers, Shri Modi highlighted that the tax system has been made more taxpayer-friendly. He remarked that the process of filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) is now much simpler and faster compared to earlier times. He noted that previously, filing ITR without the help of a Chartered Accountant was challenging. Today, individuals can file their ITR online within a short time, and refunds are credited to their accounts within days of filing. The Prime Minister also highlighted the introduction of the Faceless Assessment Scheme, which has significantly reduced the hassles faced by taxpayers. He remarked that such efficiency-driven governance reforms have provided the world with a new governance model.
Highlighting the transformation India has undergone in the past 10-11 years across every sector and field, the Prime Minister emphasized the significant shift in mindset that has taken place. He remarked that for decades after independence, a mindset was promoted in India that considered foreign goods superior. He noted that shopkeepers would often begin by saying, “This is imported!” when selling products. He emphasized that this situation has now changed and today, people proactively ask, “Is this Made in India?”
Underscoring India’s remarkable progress in manufacturing excellence, emphasizing the recent achievement of developing the country’s first indigenous MRI machine, Shri Modi said that this milestone will significantly reduce the cost of medical diagnostics in India. He underscored the transformative impact of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives, which have infused new energy into the manufacturing sector. He noted that while the world once viewed India as a global market, it now recognizes the nation as a major manufacturing hub. The Prime Minister pointed out the success of India’s mobile phone industry, stating that exports have surged from less than one billion dollars in 2014-15 to over twenty billion dollars within a decade. He highlighted India’s emergence as a power center in the global telecom and networking industry. Discussing the automotive sector, the Prime Minister remarked on India’s growing reputation in exporting components. He noted that while India previously imported motorcycle parts in large quantities, today, parts manufactured in India are reaching countries like the UAE and Germany. Shri Modi also highlighted the achievements in the solar energy sector, stating that imports of solar cells and modules have decreased while exports have increased by 23 times. He further emphasized the growth in defense exports, which have risen 21 times over the past decade. He stated that these accomplishments showcase the strength of India’s manufacturing economy and its ability to create new jobs across various sectors.
The Prime Minister remarked on the significance of the TV9 Summit, emphasizing the detailed discussions and deliberations on various topics that will take place. He highlighted that the ideas and visions shared during the summit will define the nation’s future. He recalled the pivotal moment of the past century when India embarked on a new journey towards independence with renewed energy. He noted India’s achievement in gaining independence in 1947 and stated that, in this decade, the nation is striving towards the goal of a developed India. He emphasized the importance of realizing the dream of a developed India by 2047 and reiterated his statement from the Red Fort that collective efforts are essential to achieve this vision. The Prime Minister commended TV9 for organizing this summit, acknowledging their positive initiative and extended his best wishes for the success of the summit. He lauded the TV9 network for involving over 50 thousand youth in various interactions in mission mode and training the selected youth. He concluded by expressing confidence that the youth will be the biggest beneficiaries of Viksit Bharat in 2047.
Secretary for Justice Paul Lam visited the Supreme People’s Procuratorate (SPP) today, following a tour of the Supreme People’s Court (SPC) yesterday.
Mr Lam attended a seminar of the National Prosecutors College under the SPP this morning and shared with the participants the work of the Department of Justice in prosecution and safeguarding public interests under the principle of “one country, two systems”.
He then had a working lunch with First Deputy Prosecutor General of the SPP Tong Jianming to learn more about the college’s initiatives in nurturing high-level and high-quality prosecutorial talent in the country.
In the afternoon, Mr Lam met SPP Prosecutor-General Ying Yong to exchange views on the strengthening of legal co-operation between Hong Kong and the Mainland, and issues of mutual concern.
Yesterday, the Secretary for Justice attended an SPC foreign, Hong Kong and Macau-related seminar series, sharing with the participants the characteristics of Hong Kong’s common law system under the “one country, two systems” principle and ways to leverage the advantages of its common law system in contributing to the country’s high-quality development.
At a meeting with SPC Vice-president Mao Zhonghua, issues including promoting the nurturing of the country’s foreign-related legal talent were discussed.
Mr Lam will return to Hong Kong after a meeting with SPC President Zhang Jun tomorrow.
The opening programme of the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2025, Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet (1991), will be held at the Cultural Centre Grand Theatre on April 4.
Blending entertainment with cultural artistry, renowned musician Ng Cheuk-yin will reimagine beloved songs from classic comedy films with fresh arrangements, while pop singer Alfred Hui, the a cappella choral theatre company Yat Po Singers, and beatboxer Heartgrey Eric So will perform together with a live band.
Following the performance, there will be a screening of The Banquet, a comedy produced to raise disaster relief funds for flood relief, directed by Tsui Hark, Clifton Ko, Cheung Tung Joe and Alfred Cheung.
Another highlight of the festival is an outdoor music carnival ImagineLand 2025 to be held on April 5 and 6 at the Cultural Centre Piazza, the Central Lawn & Event Trellis of Salisbury Garden, the Avenue of Stars with free admission.
The two-day carnival features both daytime and evening programmes. “Go Beyond Concert”, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” and “Funarts Corner” will be available during the day, whereas film programme “Movie Under the Stars” will be held at night.
The “Go Beyond Concert” will showcase three stages featuring over 35 musicians and artists from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Japan, Korea, the US, Australia, France, the UK and Ukraine.
Major line-ups of local artists include Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, Yatfung, Cloud, Ashley Lin, Pandora, Chu Wan-pin and more, performing mesmerising popular songs and original works.
“Comics Fun Experience Gallery” will display Hong Kong comics and animation from different eras to highlight the creativity of local artists.
“Funarts Corner” will offer workshops on art, music and crafts for public participation.
In the evenings, “Movie Under the Stars” will screen local comedies Table For Six and Forbidden City Cop on April 5 and 6 respectively, allowing audiences to enjoy outdoor films while relaxing on the lawn.
The Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival is being held for the third year with “More Than Joy” as its theme and over 20 programmes will offer audiences an insight into the development paths of Hong Kong’s pop culture along the line of “happiness”.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (March 28) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in West Godavari District, East Godavari District and Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh State in India, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry eggs from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.
A CFS spokesman said that Hong Kong has currently established a protocol with India for the import of poultry eggs but not for poultry meat. According to the Census and Statistics Department, no eggs were imported into Hong Kong from India last year.
“The CFS has contacted the Indian authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, continued his visit to Beijing today (March 28).
Mr Yau visited a renowned pop cultural entertainment company on the Mainland and toured its thematic park this morning. Specialising in popular intellectual property (IP) artistic toys, the company has successfully commercialised IP in cultural and creative industries, with a number of products gaining popularity both domestically and globally. Mr Yau also met with representatives of the company to learn about its operation and the development of IP products on the Mainland.
Noting that the effective protection and efficient transaction of IP is crucial to promoting the development of cultural and creative industries as well as technological innovation, Mr Yau said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is taking forward a series of initiatives to protect the fruits of innovation and creativity to promote IP trading and strengthen training of IP talent, thereby pressing ahead with the development of Hong Kong into a regional IP trading centre.
In the afternoon, Mr Yau met with representatives of the China Alcoholic Drinks Association to promote Hong Kong’s immense opportunities for wine merchants following the deduction in liquor duty. He said that the two-tier system announced in last October’s Policy Address has effectively promoted high-end liquor trade, with increases recorded in both the quantity and value of liquor imported.
He pointed out that Mainland wine and liquor products, especially Chinese baijiu, are highly regarded in the global market in recent years, showing great market potential and room for growth. He added that Hong Kong could serve as a key hub for trading and distribution of high-end liquor, including Chinese baijiu, and Mainland wine merchants are encouraged to use Hong Kong as a platform for Chinese baijiu to go global.
Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong tomorrow afternoon (March 29).
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Smart Traffic Fund approves two projects Application details are available on the Fund’s website. For enquiries, please contact the Hong Kong Productivity Council, the Secretariat of the Fund, on 2788 5536 or stf_sec@hkpc.orgIssued at HKT 17:12
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Government announced today (March 28) that the Financial Secretary, under the authority delegated by the Chief Executive, has reappointed Mr Michael Wong Yick-kam and appointed Mr Tony Tang Xiaodong as Non-Executive Directors of the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) for a term of two years from April 1, 2025 and April 24, 2025 respectively.
A spokesman for the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau said, “Mr Tang has extensive experience in the financial services sector and in-depth knowledge in the operation and regulation of capital markets on the Mainland and in Hong Kong. We are confident that his expertise will be valuable to facilitating the development of the SFC.
“Mr Wong has made significant contributions to the promotion of good corporate governance of the SFC during his tenure. We look forward to his continued support for the work of the SFC.
“We would also like to thank the outgoing Non-Executive Director, Mr Nicky Lo Kar-chun, for his active contribution to the SFC over the past six years. His stewardship has been conducive to fostering the development and regulation of Hong Kong’s securities and futures markets.”
The SFC is chaired by Dr Kelvin Wong Tin-yau. Other serving Non-Executive Directors are Mr Vincent Chan Chun-hung, Mr Chew Fook-aun, Mr Victor Dawes, SC, Mr Johnson Kong Chi-how, Mr Keith Pogson and Mr Dieter Yih Lai-tak.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Dah Sing Bank, Limited relating to a fraudulent website and social media accounts, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.
The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).
Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the website or social media accounts concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (March 28) that all facilities (including the service counter and SmartPLAY Self-service Stations) of the Hong Kong Velodrome will be temporarily closed from April 12 to 23 to tie in with the 2025 Hong Kong International Track Cup and the 15th National Games Track Cycling Test Event staged from April 19 to 21.
During the closure period, members of the public may use similar facilities at Hang Hau Sports Centre, Tseung Kwan O Sports Centre, Tiu Keng Leng Sports Centre, Tsui Lam Sports Centre and Po Lam Sports Centre in the same district.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 28) reported the latest number of dengue fever (DF) cases, and urged the public to maintain strict environmental hygiene, mosquito control and personal protective measures both locally and during travel.
From March 21 to yesterday (March 27), the CHP recorded one imported DF case. The patient had travelled to Indonesia during the incubation period.
As of yesterday, eight imported DF cases were recorded this year. A total of 161 cases of DF were recorded in 2024, including 156 imported and five local cases. In 2023, 62 imported cases of DF were recorded.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global incidence of DF has markedly increased over the past two decades, posing a substantial public health challenge. In 2023, ongoing transmissions, combined with an unexpected spike in DF cases, resulted in over 6.5 million cases and more than 7 300 dengue-related deaths reported in over 80 countries/territories. In 2024, the WHO recorded over 14 million cases, which was a record number of cases.
Detailed information on the latest DF situation in Hong Kong, as well as neighbouring and overseas countries and areas, has been uploaded to the CHP website.
Members of the public returning from areas affected by DF should apply insect repellent for 14 days upon arrival in Hong Kong. If feeling unwell, seek medical advice promptly and provide travel details to a doctor.
The public should take heed of the following advice on mosquito control:
Thoroughly check all gully traps, roof gutters, surface channels and drains to prevent blockage;
Scrub and clean drains and surface channels with an alkaline detergent compound at least once a week to remove any deposited mosquito eggs;
Properly dispose of refuse, such as soft drink cans, empty bottles and boxes, in covered litter containers;
Completely change the water of flowers and plants at least once a week. The use of saucers should be avoided if possible;
Level irregular ground surfaces before the rainy season;
Avoid staying in shrubby areas; and
Take personal protective measures such as wearing light-coloured long-sleeved clothes and trousers, and apply insect repellent containing DEET to clothing or uncovered areas of the body when doing outdoor activities.
​ ​DEET-containing insect repellents are effective and the public should take heed of the tips below:
Read the label instructions carefully first;
Apply right before entering an area with risk of mosquito bites;
Apply on exposed skin and clothing;
Use DEET of up to 30 per cent for pregnant women and up to 10 per cent for children*;
Apply sunscreen first, then insect repellent; and
Reapply only when needed and follow the instructions.
* For children who travel to countries or areas where mosquito-borne diseases are endemic or epidemic and where exposure is likely, those aged 2 months or above can use DEET-containing insect repellents with a DEET concentration of up to 30 per cent.
Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau and Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs Alice Mak will depart for Zhengzhou, Henan Province, tomorrow to attend the Ancestor Worship Ceremony of the Yellow Emperor in the Year of Yisi.
Additionally, Under Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Raistlin Lau will join them to attend the event on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government.
The officials will return to Hong Kong on March 31.
During the absence of Mr Yau and Miss Mak, Under Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Bernard Chan and Under Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs Clarence Leung will be Acting Secretary respectively.
The Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament made its debut at the new Kai Tak Stadium yesterday, with the three-day event kicking off in style.
The opening ceremony featured an innovative laser show, incorporating iconic Hong Kong elements and classic scenes from past tournaments, with lights and music amplifying the excitement.
In addition to the fast-paced sporting action on the field, fans dressed in colourful costumes around the stadium added to the spectacle.
The Hong Kong Sevens is part of the Hong Kong Super March campaign, with the city hosting a series of mega events all throughout this month. Over the course of the tournament, spectators from far and wide are being offered an unforgettable experience that combines world-class rugby with live performances by bands, cheerleaders and other artists, a vibrant Fan Village, and more.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today sent a 51-strong team to Myanmar to assist in the search and rescue work in the earthquake-stricken areas.
Chief Executive John Lee saw the search and rescue team off at Hong Kong International Airport.
Led by Fire Services Department (FSD) Deputy Chief Fire Officer Cheu Yu-kok, the team comprises 40 FSD staff members, and officers from the Security Bureau, the Immigration Department and the Hospital Authority (HA).
Apart from two search and rescue dogs, the team is also taking around nine tonnes of equipment, including life detectors and masonry cutting machines, an automatic satellite tracking antenna system for network connection, and team members’ daily necessities.
Upon their arrival in Myanmar, the team will join local rescue teams to start search and rescue work.
Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung, Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau, Director of Immigration Benson Kwok, Director of Fire Services Andy Yeung, and HA Chief Executive Dr Tony Ko were also present at the airport to show their support for the team.
The global video game industry is highly competitive, requiring effective marketing for success. The Hong Kong Game Enhancement & Promotion Scheme supports local startups, some achieving over $10 million in revenue, leading to impressive outcomes.
Gaming dreams From a young age, Chris Choi has had a passion for programming and dedicated himself to developing a mobile music game while studying.
His first game is a mobile rhythm experience where players tap along to the beat. However, unlike most traditional mobile rhythm games, this one is motion-based, requiring players to spin their phones in the air to play. This innovative approach adds a physical element to the gameplay, making it more engaging and dynamic.
By chance, the game’s promotional video was uploaded to a Mainland video platform. Within a week, it had garnered 500,000 views and received positive feedback.
Inspired by this success, he decided to pursue a career in the electronic gaming industry.
With little work and business experience under his belt, Mr Choi ultimately leveraged his strengths in game design to secure a grant of $550,000 from the Hong Kong Game Enhancement & Promotion Scheme for marketing purposes. He used the funding to collaborate with various music labels, resulting in great success.
Global sensation
The game has attracted a significant number of players from the Mainland, Hong Kong, as well as Japan, Europe and the US, with downloads exceeding one million and revenue surpassing $10 million.
Mr Choi pointed out that the scheme helped him to grow his business. At the company’s inception, he had limited startup capital and experience. Through the programme, not only did he secure funding, but also gained valuable knowledge in marketing and promotion, which increased the likelihood of his game’s success.
Lucrative market As the Chinese gaming industry continues to mature, some local game developers are also seizing the opportunity to tap into this booming market.
One of them, video game producer Jacky Chou, whose game is also subsidised by the scheme, is creating a comedy-adventure computer game that showcases the unique elements of Hong Kong’s culture.
“It is actually an adventure game that is heavily inspired by pop culture. It is a very funny, nonsense adventure game with a lot of different game plays and mechanics,” he explained.
Mr Chou added that the scheme not only helped with arranging game testers to provide feedback on how they could improve the game but also offered a diverse range of training, including guidance on marketing strategies and attracting investors.
He also utilised the funding to collaborate with key opinion leaders for extensive advertising campaigns, as well as to promote the game offline at various exhibitions.
Supporting startups The 4th Hong Kong Game Enhancement & Promotion Scheme, sponsored by the Cultural & Creative Industries Development Agency, recently held its awards ceremony.
The organiser, Hong Kong Digital Entertainment Association, announced that 12 local startup game companies had been awarded reimbursement grants ranging from $450,000 to $550,000.
The association’s Chairman Gabriel Pang noted that each year the scheme has seen good results, with about one-third of the companies being profitable and one out of 12 companies usually getting over $10 million in revenue, most of the time with 500,000 to one million downloads.
“The game industry is actually a huge industry. That is why we are doing the Hong Kong Game Enhancement & Promotion Scheme. We need to help them to market their games.
“Usually in Hong Kong, we have a more diverse style. We can cope with different countries and cultures. That is one of our strengths.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:
Please broadcast the following special announcement immediately, and repeat it at frequent intervals when the Cold Weather Warning is in force:
The Labour Department reminds employers that as the Cold Weather Warning is in force, they should take appropriate precautions such as reminding employees who have to work outdoors or in remote areas to wear appropriately warm clothing, and make arrangements for employees to rotate from outdoor to indoor or sheltered work sites as far as possible. Employees should take note of the weather report, wear appropriately warm clothing and be mindful of their health conditions. They should notify their supervisors and seek medical help immediately if feeling unwell, such as having cold limbs and body shivering.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
On March 28, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake occurred in Sagaing Region, Myanmar, resulting in serious casualties and infrastructure damage. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government expresses its deep sympathy to the people affected by the disaster and families of the deceased. The HKSAR Government sent a 51-strong search and rescue team to the quake-stricken areas in Myanmar this afternoon (March 29) to assist in the search and rescue work. In addition, the HKSAR Government has immediately reserved $30 million from the Disaster Relief Fund for emergency relief support.
The HKSAR Government is maintaining close contact with various rescue organisations regarding the detailed relief programmes with a view to providing appropriate relief assistance to the people affected and help them overcome difficulties and resume a normal life as soon as possible. The Disaster Relief Fund Advisory Committee will promptly process related funding applications from organisations.
In addition, the HKSAR Government has liaised with the Consul-General of Myanmar in Hong Kong, and will actively coordinate with various government bureaux/departments to collect the necessary relief supplies according to local needs, striving to deliver them to those in need as soon as possible to meet the current urgency.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​In view of the cold weather, the Home Affairs Department has opened 18 temporary cold shelters in various districts today (March 29) for people in need of the service. The temporary shelters will remain open when the Cold Weather Warning is in force.
Clean mattresses and blankets/quilts, hot meals and hot water will be provided to shelter users free of charge during the opening of the temporary shelters.
To ensure that cold shelter users can rest in a quiet and undisturbed environment, members of the public or agencies wishing to make donations to shelter users are requested to register with the staff of the shelter first. Donors will then be directed to place the donated items at a specified indoor location. The staff will help notify the shelter users to collect the items on their own.
Anyone seeking temporary refuge, or those with any questions about the donation arrangements at the cold shelters, may call the department’s hotline 2572 8427 for more information.
The 18 temporary cold shelters are located at:
Hong Kong Island: ——————–
Central and Western: Sai Ying Pun Community Complex Community Hall 3/F, Sai Ying Pun Community Complex, 2 High Street, Sai Ying Pun
Eastern: Causeway Bay Community Centre 3/F, 7 Fook Yum Road, Causeway Bay
Southern: Lei Tung Community Hall Lei Tung Estate, Ap Lei Chau
Wan Chai: Wan Chai Activities Centre LG/F, Wan Chai Market, 258 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai
Kowloon: ——————
Kowloon City: Hung Hom Community Hall 1/F, Kowloon City Government Offices, 42 Bailey Street, Hung Hom
Kwun Tong: Lam Tin (West) Estate Community Centre 71 Kai Tin Road, Lam Tin
Sham Shui Po: Nam Cheong District Community Centre 1 Cheong San Lane, Sham Shui Po
Wong Tai Sin: Tsz Wan Shan (South) Estate Community Centre 45 Wan Wah Street, Tsz Wan Shan
Yau Tsim Mong: Henry G Leong Yaumatei Community Centre 60 Public Square Street, Yau Ma Tei
New Territories: —————-
Islands: Tung Chung Community Hall G/F, Tung Chung Municipal Services Building, 39 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung
Kwai Tsing: Tai Wo Hau Estate Community Centre 15 Tai Wo Hau Road, Kwai Chung
North: Cheung Wah Community Hall Cheung Wah Estate, Fanling
Sai Kung: Hang Hau Community Hall G/F, Sai Kung Tseung Kwan O Government Complex, 38 Pui Shing Road, Hang Hau, Tseung Kwan O
Sha Tin: Lung Hang Estate Community Centre Lung Hang Estate, Sha Tin
Tai Po: Tai Po Community Centre 2 Heung Sze Wui Street, Tai Po
Tsuen Wan: Lei Muk Shue Community Hall G/F, Hong Shue House, Lei Muk Shue Estate, Tsuen Wan
Tuen Mun: Butterfly Bay Community Centre Butterfly Estate (near Tip Sum House), Tuen Mun
Yuen Long: Long Ping Community Hall Long Ping Estate, Yuen Long
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson for Queen Mary Hospital (QMH) made the following appeal today (March 29) regarding a patient leaving the ward without notifying hospital staff:
A 47-year-old male patient in a Cardiothoracic Surgery ward of QMH was found leaving the ward without prior notification at around 3.50pm. Security guards were immediately deployed to search for the patient within the hospital compound and the vicinity but in vain. The hospital is very concerned about the incident and has immediately informed the patient’s family and reported to the Police for assistance.
The patient is about 1.82 metres tall, with a tall and medium body build and short black hair. He was wearing patient clothes, a grey jacket and a pair of rimless glasses when leaving the ward.
The hospital appeals to the public to contact Western Police Station at 3661 1618 if they know the whereabouts of the patient.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Overall Wage and Payroll Statistics
According to the figures released today (March 28) by the Census and Statistics Department (C&SD), the average wage rate for all the selected industry sections surveyed, as measured by the wage index, increased by 3.5% in nominal terms in December 2024 over a year earlier.
About 63% of the companies reported increase in average wage rates in December 2024 compared with a year ago. A total of 33% of the companies recorded decrease in average wage rates over the same period. The remaining 4% reported virtually no change in average wage rates.
After discounting the changes in consumer prices as measured by the Consumer Price Index (A), the overall average wage rate for all the selected industry sections surveyed increased by 1.8% in real terms in December 2024 over a year earlier.
As for payroll, the index of payroll per person engaged for all the industry sections surveyed increased by 3.4% in nominal terms in the fourth quarter of 2024 over a year earlier.
After discounting the changes in consumer prices as measured by the Composite Consumer Price Index, the average payroll per person engaged increased by 2.0% in real terms in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared with a year earlier.
The wage rate includes basic wages and other regular and guaranteed allowances and bonuses. Payroll includes elements covered by wage rate as well as other irregular payments to workers such as discretionary bonuses and overtime allowances. The payroll statistics therefore tend to show relatively larger quarter-to-quarter changes, affected by the number of hours actually worked and the timing of payment of bonuses and back-pay.
Sectoral Changes
For the nominal wage indices, year-on-year increases were recorded in all selected industry sections in December 2024, ranging from 3.0% to 4.1%.
For the real wage indices, year-on-year increases were also recorded in all selected industry sections in December 2024, ranging from 1.3% to 2.3%.
The year-on-year changes in the nominal and real wage indices for the selected industry sections from December 2023 to December 2024 are shown in Table 1.
As for the nominal indices of payroll per person engaged, year-on-year increases were recorded in all selected industry sections in the fourth quarter of 2024, ranging from 1.7% to 4.3%.
For the real payroll indices, year-on-year increases were also recorded in all selected industry sections in the fourth quarter of 2024, ranging from 0.3% to 2.8%.
The year-on-year changes in the nominal and real indices of payroll per person engaged for selected industry sections from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the fourth quarter of 2024 are shown in Table 2. The quarterly changes in the seasonally adjusted nominal and real indices of payroll per person engaged in the same period are shown in Table 3.
Commentary
A Government spokesman said that wages and labour earnings saw increases in all surveyed industries in the fourth quarter of 2024 over a year earlier, alongside the tight labour market.
The average wage rate for all selected industries rose by 3.5% in nominal terms in December 2024, at a similar pace of increase in September 2024. After discounting for inflation, the average wage rate increased by an accelerated 1.8% in real terms.
Payroll per person engaged, which includes basic wage, discretionary bonuses and other irregular payments, recorded a steady increase of 3.4% in nominal terms and faster growth of 2.0% in real terms in the fourth quarter of 2024. All selected industries saw increases in payroll per person engaged in both nominal and real terms.
Looking ahead, continued economic expansion should render support to the labour market, as well as wages and labour earnings in the near term, though some industries may be affected by the United States’ trade protection measures and other external uncertainties.
Other Information
Both wage indices and payroll indices are compiled quarterly based on the results of the Labour Earnings Survey (LES) conducted by C&SD. Wage index only covers employees up to the supervisory level (i.e. not including managerial and professional employees), whereas payroll index covers employees at all levels and proprietors actively engaged in the work of the establishment.
Apart from the differences in employee coverage, wage statistics are conceptually different from the payroll statistics. Firstly, wage rate for an employee refers to the sum earned for his normal hours of work. It covers basic wages and other regular and guaranteed allowances and bonuses, but excludes earnings from overtime work and discretionary bonuses, which are however included in payroll per person engaged. Secondly, the payroll index of an industry is an indicator of the simple average payroll received per person engaged in the industry. Its movement is therefore affected by changes in wage rates, number of hours of work and occupational composition in the industry. In contrast, the wage index of an industry is devised to reflect the pure changes in wage rate, with the occupational composition between two successive statistical periods being kept unchanged. In other words, the wage index reflects the change in the price of labour. Because of these conceptual and enumeration differences between payroll and wage statistics, the movements in payroll indices and in wage indices do not necessarily match closely with each other.
It should also be noted that different consumer price indices are used for compiling the real indices of wage and payroll to take into account the differences in their respective occupation coverage. Specifically, the Composite Consumer Price Index, being an indicator of overall consumer prices, is taken as the price deflator for payroll of workers at all levels of the occupational hierarchy. The Consumer Price Index (A), being an indicator of consumer prices for the relatively low expenditure group, is taken as the price deflator for wages in respect of employees engaged in occupations up to the supervisory level.
Detailed breakdowns of the payroll and wage statistics are published in the “Quarterly Report of Wage and Payroll Statistics, December 2024”. Users can browse and download the publication at the website of C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1050009&scode=210).
For enquiries on wage and payroll statistics, please contact the Wages and Labour Costs Statistics Section (1) of C&SD (Tel: 2887 5550 or email: wage@censtatd.gov.hk).
Approx. 31 lakh defence pensioners, of the total 32 lakh, onboarded on SPARSH portal Raksha Pension Samadhan Ayojans organised at various places for those living in remote areas
Over 200 DAD offices, 16 Bank branches and nearly five lakh CSCs operational to help pensioners
Posted On: 29 MAR 2025 7:48PM by PIB Delhi
Of the total 32 lakh defence pensioners, approx. 31 lakh have been onboarded on System for Pension Administration – Raksha (SPARSH) and their pensions are being directly credited into their bank accounts. Launched in October 2020, SPARSH is a ‘Digital India’ initiative that aims to provide a comprehensive, transparent, and efficient solution for managing defence pensions, including sanctioning and disbursing pensions to the Armed Forces personnel and Defence civilians living across the country.
In order to help veterans and their families, old women and people living in remote areas where there are no computers & internet facilities, Raksha Pension Samadhan Ayojans (RPSA) are organised at various places to resolve their problems. During January 2024 to December 2024, seven RPSAs were organised in different parts of the country.
In addition, more than 90 SPARSH outreach programmes have been organised by the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) during the same period to assist veterans and their families. Department representatives also participated in ESM Rallies, Navy Veteran Meets, Air Force Veteran Conclaves organized by the Indian Defence Forces across the nation.
Ex-servicemen and their families can also get help and required information regarding their pension by calling PCDA (P) toll free number 1800-180-5325, where fully trained staff are deployed to help. So far, more than 50 lakh calls have been answered providing them help and information since its inception in December, 2014.
SPARSH is administered by the DAD through the Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions) in Prayagraj and caters to all three Services (Army, Navy, Air Force) and allied organisations.
In the erstwhile Legacy System, Pensions to the Armed Forces were sanctioned by three different Pension Sanctioning Agencies (PSAs) namely, O/o PCDA (Pension), Prayagraj; O/o PCDA (Navy), Mumbai and O/o Jt. CDA (Air Force), New Delhi to personnel of Army, Navy and Air Force respectively. The disbursement of pension was made by over 45,000 branches of Public and Private sector Banks, State Treasury offices, Post Offices and Indian Embassy Nepal.
Multiple agencies, lack of technical expertise, siloed work approach and lack of coordination led to incorrect payouts to pensioners due to delayed or incorrect or non-revision of pension with widows bearing the brunt of this problem, getting fixed at minimum pension rates. Not only were there delays in payment of monthly pensions, there was no visibility or transparency to the pensioners, regarding their data and entitlements. Grievances were not attended to by the PDAs on account of lack of knowledge or laxity.
To mitigate such problems, SPARSH was conceptualized and implemented successfully where sanctioning of the pension and its disbursement directly to the account of the pension was brought onto a single platform.
SPARSH has enabled and systematised correct revision based on data available in data-base, and reduced the time between sanction of pension and payment, revised incorrect pensions, enabled pensioners to have access to their data and entitlements and provided them with the wherewithal to reach out to the authorities with requests for data updation or grievances.
SPARSH is a transparent system, which speaks the truth. It faithfully shows to Veterans and their families, the mis-match/deficiency in data of pensioner [ie Name, Aadhar Number, PAN Number, Date of Birth, Family Details, Mobile Number etc] and also enables them to view their pension eligibility and details in real-time on the portal, which was not possible in the Legacy System.
Such access to information has enabled the pensioners to apply for correction of their data or flag other issues relevant to them by means of online grievance system available on SPARSH. While this has led to an increase in the number of grievances, on the positive side it has provided the pensioners an opportunity to correct their data, which was not possible earlier.
Apart from correcting the data received through complaints, DAD is also taking suo-motu cognizance of data discrepancies and updating the data at its own level so that pensioners do not face any kind of problem related to pension and their pension or family pension continues smoothly.
In order to ensure last mile connectivity for each SPARSH pensioner, SPARSH Service Centers have been set up to help pensioners, especially those who are not tech-savvy, navigate the SPARSH landscape by making available services to them through these centres. These include addressing technical queries/issues, identification, registering Grievances, reporting Causalities (Death/Missing/Conviction etc.), giving IT Saving & Declarations
At present, 201 offices of the DAD, Branches of 16 Banks including IPPB and 4.63 lakh CSCs are operational across the length and breadth of the country to help pensioners.
Due to poor quality of data available with the erstwhile PDAs, the migration of some pensioners has resulted in such data being onboarded on SPARSH. Data updation exercise is being carried out on a war footing for completion at the earliest.
Freight Revenue Rises by ₹54,805 Cr in 4 Years from ₹1.13 Lakh Cr in 2019-20 to ₹1.68 Lakh Cr in 2023-24 Passenger Revenue Increases by ₹20,024 Cr in 4 Years from ₹50,669 Cr in 2019-20 to ₹70,693 Cr in 2023-24
Posted On: 29 MAR 2025 5:33PM by PIB Delhi
Revenue generated by Indian Railways from Freight and Passenger operations during the last five years is as under: –
Financial Year
Revenue (₹ in Cr)
Freight
Passenger
2019-20
1,13,488
50,669
2020-21*
1,17,232
15,248
2021-22*
1,41,096
39,214
2022-23
1,62,263
63,417
2023-24
1,68,293
70,693
* COVID years.
Revenue earned by Indian Railways on account of flexi fare, tatkal and premium tatkal during 2019-20 to 2023-24 is approximately 5.7% of the total revenue earned from passenger services. Amount credited on account of Cancellation of tickets is not maintained separately.
As on 01.04.24, there are about 79,000 coaches being utilized for running train services. The details are as under:
Class
No. of coaches
No. of seats
General and non-AC Sleeper
~56,000(70% of total)
~51 lakhs
AC Coaches
~ 23,000
~14 lakhs
Total
~ 79,000
~ 65 lakhs
Details of passenger seats and revenue during the period 2019-20 to 2023-24 is as below:
Class
Avg %share of total seats during 2019-20 to 2023-24
Avg % share of total passenger revenue during
2019-20 to 2023-24
Non-AC coaches (General / Sleeper etc.)
~ 82%
~ 53%
AC Coaches
~ 18%
~ 47%
This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in Rajya Sabha yesterday.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong Customs on March 25 detected a suspected air freight gold bullion smuggling case, and seized about 145 kilograms of suspected gold bullion with an estimated market value of about $110 million, at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). This is the largest gold bullion smuggling case detected by Customs on record in terms of the seizure volume and market value.
Based on risk assessment, Customs on that day examined an outbound air cargo consignment, declared as carrying plastic luggage departing for Japan, at the Customs Cargo Examination Compound at HKIA. Upon inspection, Customs officers found a batch of luggage in 14 carton boxes, and a total of about 145kg of suspected smuggled gold bullion concealed therein.
An investigation is ongoing. The likelihood of arrests is not ruled out.
Customs will continue to take stringent enforcement actions against all kinds of smuggling activities through risk assessment and intelligence analysis.
Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years. ​ Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/).