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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs meets with Ambassador of Republic of Korea (ROK) to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs, H.E. Nararya Sanggramawijaya Soeprapto, had a meeting with Ambassador of ROK to ASEAN, H.E. Lee Jang-keun, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ ASEAN Secretariat today. DSG Nararya expressed appreciation to Ambassador Lee for the ROK’s continued support under the ASEAN-ROK Cooperation Fund (AKCF) for the fiscal year 2025. During their discussion, DSG Nararya provided updates on ongoing AKCF funded projects and together with Ambassador Lee focused discussion on reviewing and enhancing cooperation under the ASEAN-ROK Cooperation Fund (AKCF). In addition to discussing the ongoing collaboration, they explored potential areas for the forthcoming ASEAN-ROK Plan of Action 2026–2030.

    The post Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs meets with Ambassador of Republic of Korea (ROK) to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs meets with Ambassador of Republic of Korea (ROK) to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs, H.E. Nararya Sanggramawijaya Soeprapto, had a meeting with Ambassador of ROK to ASEAN, H.E. Lee Jang-keun, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ ASEAN Secretariat today. DSG Nararya expressed appreciation to Ambassador Lee for the ROK’s continued support under the ASEAN-ROK Cooperation Fund (AKCF) for the fiscal year 2025. During their discussion, DSG Nararya provided updates on ongoing AKCF funded projects and together with Ambassador Lee focused discussion on reviewing and enhancing cooperation under the ASEAN-ROK Cooperation Fund (AKCF). In addition to discussing the ongoing collaboration, they explored potential areas for the forthcoming ASEAN-ROK Plan of Action 2026–2030.

    The post Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs meets with Ambassador of Republic of Korea (ROK) to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How mine water could warm up the UK’s forgotten coal towns

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jingyi Li, Research Associate, Geothermal Energy and Climate Change, University of Manchester

    Historic coal mining in north-east England. Jingyi Li, CC BY-NC-ND

    The Ukraine war sent shockwaves through global energy markets, driving up prices and leaving households across the UK struggling with soaring energy bills. But beneath the ground, in disused coal mines, lies a hidden resource – warm water. This underused geothermal source could be transformed into affordable, low-carbon heating for homes and businesses, especially in regions hardest hit economically by the decline of coal.

    Across the UK, around 25% of the population lives above disused coal mines. This underground warmth could be harnessed by pumping naturally warm water to the surface and using heat pumps to raise its temperature for heating. This could lower energy bills and cut emissions by about the same as removing 44,000 cars from the roads annually, according to our calculations. Despite this promise, mine-water heating remains largely underutilised across the UK, as deployment has lagged far behind, leaving most of the resource untapped.

    Although flagship projects like the one in Gateshead, operational since 2023, demonstrate the feasibility of mine-water heating in the UK, they remain the exception. Deployment has been especially slow even in high-potential areas like south Wales. Meanwhile, the mine-water heating scheme at Seaham Garden Village, near Sunderland, has only recently kicked off construction after a prolonged delay since its initial planning in 2019.

    Our new research shows that despite growing interest, projects across the UK continue to be stalled by funding gaps, regulatory hurdles and a shortage of skilled workers. Without immediate action, these former coal-mining communities are at risk of falling further behind as the country moves towards cleaner energy for net zero, widening the gap between wealthier and disadvantaged regions.

    The solution is simple but not easy: sufficient and accessible funding schemes especially for those undeserved communities, streamlined regulations and support from fossil fuel companies, whose engineering expertise can be applied to mine water heating. Technology could transform a forgotten coal legacy into a sustainable future for communities in need.

    Coal production history v today’s mining village.
    Jingyi Li, CC BY-NC-ND

    The UK has a vast network of abandoned coal mines, especially in north-east England, which once produced 14% of the nation’s coal. However, around a quarter of the population in this region lives below the poverty line today.

    Many households in the north east experience fuel poverty at rates higher than the national average, with energy bills that are often higher than in most other parts of England. Mine-water heating could help address this burden, but to make a meaningful difference, both the number and scale of schemes must be increased nationwide.

    Gateshead mine water heat scheme.
    Jingyi Li, CC BY-NC-ND

    However, current government funding schemes, like the heat networks delivery unit, only cover about 33% of capital costs according to our interviewee, leaving local authorities and developers to find the rest. This competitive model disadvantages poorer areas that need the most support. Without solid financial backing, many projects will never get off the ground.

    The Coal Authority has played a key role in piloting early mine water schemes, but industry feedback points to a need for faster, more transparent deployment pathways. Developers face regulatory uncertainty in accessing mine-water heat from the Coal Authority, citing delays and procedural complexity as barriers to investment.

    Ambiguities in the regulatory framework for accessing this form of geothermal heat create delays and add to the financial burden for developers. The expertise required, such as drilling and pipework, is common in the UK’s longstanding oil and gas industry, but our research found that the current small-to-medium scale and uncertain future of mine water heating sector make it difficult to attract these skilled workers.

    Learning from the past

    Often the simplest and most reliable designs are the most effective. William Reid Clanny, a 19th-century inventor, made mine-safety lamps more sophisticated but ultimately delicate and impractical – his design required manual air pumping, used fragile glass that broke easily underground, and was too heavy for regular use. The same principle applies to mine-water heating. Straightforward, direct policies can cut through red tape to get projects up and running without unnecessary bureaucratic complications.

    Simple safety lamps like these were used by UK miners.
    Image Seeker/Shutterstock

    For mine-water heating to work on a larger scale, funding must be easier to access, especially for regions hardest hit by the decline of coal. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero could allocate funds specifically for these areas, giving them a fair chance to develop projects without having to compete with wealthier regions.

    New rules should clearly set a timeline for gaining the permission to access and exploit the underground heat. This would give developers confidence and attract investment. The US and New Zealand show how clear rules can boost interest in renewables.

    To overcome the skills shortage, the Indian government introduced a corporate social responsibility law whereby companies are required to invest a portion of their profits into local projects. Applying this approach in the UK could encourage fossil fuel companies to fund training and support local green initiatives. It could also provide opportunities for laid-off workers unable to find similar high-paying jobs abroad and training for local workers in former mining communities.

    Mine water isn’t just a low-carbon heating source, it’s a chance to deliver justice to communities long left behind. But achieving this will require decisive action from policymakers. Unlocking this hidden resource can help power the UK’s green transition.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Cathy Hollis receives funding from the Natural Environment Research Council. She is affiliated with and President of the International Association of Sedimentology, a not-for-profit, non-political scientific society.

    Alejandro Gallego Schmid and Jingyi Li do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How mine water could warm up the UK’s forgotten coal towns – https://theconversation.com/how-mine-water-could-warm-up-the-uks-forgotten-coal-towns-241834

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Birth of India: ‘biggest experiment’ with democracy was a huge gamble. Happily the people have made it work – here’s how

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Tripurdaman Singh, British Academy Postdoctoral Fellow, Institute of Commonwealth Studies, School of Advanced Study, University of London

    The birth of Indian democracy is the stuff of legend. It was a moment of such staggering idealism and exuberance, a leap of faith so audacious, that the famous jurist and scholar Kenneth Wheare termed it “the biggest liberal experiment in democratic government” that the world had seen.

    At its centre lay the country’s new constitution. That document, with its fabled chapter of fundamental rights, transformed in one stroke what had been the world’s largest colony into the world’s largest democracy.

    Think about the origins of this constitution. It promised freedom to a fifth of humanity. It embodied the enfranchisement of the world’s largest electorate and the conversion of colonial subjects into rights-bearing citizens.

    This very exuberance has often been used to direct attention to its functional shortcomings. But today, 75 years on with Narendra Modi at the helm and the country classified in 2024 as an “electoral autocracy” by the V-Vdem (Varieties of Democracy) institute, it has also become a powerful tool to highlight Indian democracy’s contemporary problems.

    India’s notoriously fractured opposition was able to assemble a coalition to take on Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 2024 general election. It did so by appealing to the liberal vision underpinning the constitution. But have things really changed so much since the constitution’s adoption in 1950?



    Read more:
    Moments of hope: how Indians keep pushing back against the hollowing out of democracy

    Democracy in decline? The risk and rise of authoritarianism

    Democracy is under pressure around the world in 2025. But is this part of a larger historical cycle or does it signal a deeper, more fundamental shift? Join us for a free event in central London on May 8 to discuss these important questions. Come for a panel discussion and stay for food, drinks and conversation.
    Get tickets here

    Unlike its American counterpart, India’s constitution is not animated by the impulse to limit political power and secure public freedom. It is dominated by the idea of enabling political power for the aim of social and economic reform.

    It aimed to create a state explicitly committed to achieving what India founders believed to be social, economic and political justice. As the country’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru put it, they were freeing India “through a new constitution to feed the starving people and clothe the naked masses”.

    This is partly explained by the circumstances of independent India’s birth. This was marked by violence, the upheaval of partition and a fear of balkanisation if the country became fragmented by religious, ethnic and linguistic minorities.

    Added to this were the pressures of establishing political sovereignty. And this upheaval crashed against an uneducated and destitute population with no experience of democracy and deep-seated social divisions.

    But the larger truth is that, for independent India’s leaders, civil liberties were always eclipsed by what they saw as the more important concerns of destitution and social discrimination. They felt the urgency to secure the new state through which these concerns were to be addressed.

    This required substantial restrictions of civic freedoms and the licensing of coercive state power. From the outset, the constitution enshrined centralisation and executive supremacy.

    It retained the “bureaucratic authoritarianism” of its British colonial predecessor, by placing authority in the hands of appointed bureaucrats rather than elected officials.

    It also gave the centre power over the states, enabling it to create and dismember provinces at will, and it gave the executive power over the legislature. The government can dictate when parliament is summoned or prorogued and can rule by executive decree in its absence.

    It also gave the state power over the citizen. Almost every fundamental right guaranteed in part III of the constitution is qualified on nebulous grounds such as public order, the security of the state or social harmony.

    Soaring rhetoric about freedom masked the reality that the constitution concentrated power to an unprecedented degree and enabled a vast armoury of coercive laws. As Somnath Lahiri, member of the constituent assembly for Bengal and the leader of the Communist Party of India remarked sarcastically in a debate in April 1947, the provisions for fundamental rights seemed to have “been framed from the point of view of a police constable”.

    The Preventive Detention Act, the first piece of legislation passed in the new democratic republic in February 1950, allowed the government to preemptively jail anyone without a trial and without recourse to judicial review.

    It’s ample testament to the fact that the constitution was never intended as a bulwark in the service of liberal individualism – whatever the framers might have said at the time.

    Diluting liberalism

    Since the constitution’s adoption there have been more than 106 amendments and additions. These have further diluted the constitution’s liberal intentions and eroded even the limited system of checks and balances.

    The tenth schedule – or “anti-defection law” – added in 1985 is one egregious example. It forces individual legislators to vote according to party diktats on pain of disqualification.

    This has cemented the grip of party bosses on legislative parties, disempowered individual legislators and degraded parliamentary oversight. Since the threat of backbench rebellions has become negligible, majoritarianism has become entrenched.

    Concentration of power and its use by the executive are, by design, baked into India’s constitutional order and institutional structure, which has always been inhospitable terrain for any rights and freedoms beyond voting and elections. Anti-democratic tendencies operate through constitutional means, hindering the establishment of the principles of legality and legislative primacy.

    Given this situation, it is hardly surprising that almost all governments in India have used the powers they have been granted for these very purposes.

    Nehru’s rule saw a first amendment which drastically curtailed freedom of speech. It also introduced a special schedule in the constitution to protect unconstitutional legislation from judicial review, and draconian legislation such as the laws to enable preventive detention.

    Nehru’s daughter Indira Gandhi suspended the constitution for 21 months from 1975 to 1977 in a state of emergency, when her leadership came under threat. Her government forcibly sterilised thousands as part of a botched population control programme. Yet everything was duly legal and constitutional.

    Modi’s growing authoritarianism, his attacks on opposition media and those who oppose him in the judiciary, then, are less a departure from the norm than a confirmation of it. The real story lies elsewhere.

    It is not the constitution or the legislature that is the most important issue here. It has actually been the disinclination of India’s voters to deliver parliamentary majorities too often that has constituted the major check on executive power.

    For 25 years between 1989 and 2014, voters delivered split mandates and coalition governments, which diluted and dispersed political power. Unsurprisingly, this caused the country’s democracy indices to rise. These actually peaked in the 2000s when the ruling coalitions comprised upwards of a dozen parties. But the underlying problems remained the same.

    When the voters, contrary to all expectations, elected yet another coalition to office in 2024, they understood what the country’s liberal intelligentsia has consistently failed to grasp. It is not the celebrated constitution, but the Indian voters themselves that have, over the years, doggedly held authoritarianism at bay. Only time will tell how long they will continue to do this.

    Tripurdaman Singh receives funding from the British Academy and from Fonds National Suisse. He is currently affiliated to the Geneva Graduate Institute, where I am an Ambizione Fellow at the Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy.

    – ref. Birth of India: ‘biggest experiment’ with democracy was a huge gamble. Happily the people have made it work – here’s how – https://theconversation.com/birth-of-india-biggest-experiment-with-democracy-was-a-huge-gamble-happily-the-people-have-made-it-work-heres-how-252564

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Does Russia have military interest in Indonesia? Here’s what we know – and why Australia would be concerned

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Sussex, Associate Professor (Adj), Griffith Asia Institute; and Fellow, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University

    A news report that Russia has sought to base long-range aircraft in Indonesia caught Australia’s political leaders by surprise during an already hectic election campaign.

    The military publication Janes reported on Tuesday that Russia had requested permission for its aircraft to be based at the Manuhua Air Force Base in Indonesia’s easternmost province of Papua.

    The base is just 1,300 kilometres away from Darwin.

    Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles issued a statement denying the report, saying his Indonesian counterpart assured him there would be no Russian planes based in Indonesia. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he was seeking “further clarification” with Jakarta about the Janes report.

    Janes is a respected outlet when it comes to defence news, so it’s likely the Russians did float the idea, even if it might have been done at lower levels.

    Why would Russia be cosying up to Indonesia?

    Since Prabowo Subianto came to power as Indonesia’s new president last October, Moscow and Jakarta have sought to deepen their military ties. In fact, the two countries conducted their first-ever joint naval exercises a month after Prabowo took office.

    But this isn’t a totally new strategy by Moscow, which has tried on numerous occasions to pivot to Asia to give itself more economic heft and leverage in the region.

    The Kremlin is also cognisant that Europe won’t be a friend for the foreseeable future. As such, it’s even more pressing for Russia to establish itself as a player in the Indo-Pacific region – and with that comes a miltary and security presence.

    About ten years ago, for instance, the Russian regime secured an agreement with Vietnam to allow its air force to refuel their aircraft at a former US base in the country. Russia also had interest in reestablishing a submarine base in Vietnam and has sold submarines to the country.

    In addition, Moscow has sought to sell defence technology and fighter jets to Indonesia for some time, seeing it as a potentially lucrative market for Russian arms. Beyond defence, the bilateral relationship has also focused on energy and education.

    These attempts to deepen Moscow-Jakarta ties form part of a targeted Russian campaign to boost its relationships with a number of Southeast Asian nations.

    What about the timing?

    If the Janes report is accurate, the timing of the purported approach from Russia would be interesting. The report said it came after a meeting between Sergei Shoigu (recently demoted from Russia’s defence minister to an inferior role as secretary of the Russian Security Council) and Indonesia’s defence minister in February of this year.

    At the time, the United States was distracted by the first chaotic weeks of US President Donald Trump’s second term in office.

    So, if Russia did make such a request, it would be highly opportunistic, especially given Jakarta has been keen to deepen ties with Moscow.

    It is also noteworthy that Indonesia recently joined the BRICS, the group of rapidly emerging economies that also includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and Russia, among others.



    Read more:
    Indonesia’s BRICS agenda: 2 reasons Prabowo’s foreign policy contrasts with Jokowi’s

    How concerned should Australia be?

    Even though both Canberra and Jakarta dismissed the report, there was good reason for Australia to be concerned.

    Russia’s long-range aviation assets, notably the venerable Tu-95, which is used for reconnaissance as well as strategic bombing, can easily travel over 10,000 kilometres.

    From a base in Indonesia, this would give the Russian air force the ability to conduct ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaisance) missions during Australian military exercises, gather data on military installations in the Northern Territory (which also host US Marines), and even conduct surveillance on US military activities in Guam.

    Equally, given the closeness of ties between Beijing and Moscow, any Russian intelligence that was gathered could be shared with China.

    The reported Russian military interest in Indonesia will also have irritated Australian foreign policy makers, especially since Canberra has invested significant diplomatic capital in boosting Australia-Indonesia ties.

    Fortunately, the closeness of the relationship, which includes recently upgraded defence ties, will also have allowed for some plain speaking from Australian interlocutors.

    They will doubtless have pointed out that agreeing to any such Kremlin request would cast significant doubt on Indonesian claims about non-alignment. It would also be viewed unfavourably by other regional actors, who have no interest in seeing an enhanced Russian military presence in the region.

    The assurance from Jakarta that no Russian planes would be based in Indonesia is therefore a positive development.

    But ultimately the reported Russian request is another example of the messy and fragmented world we now live in.

    It highlights the reality that Australia will sometimes have to do business with partners who have friends we don’t like. Under those conditions, being firm on issues that threaten our national interests – like the prospective basing of military assets by a hostile power close to our shores – becomes all the more important.

    Matthew Sussex has received funding from the Australian Research Council, the Atlantic Council, the Fulbright Foundation, the Carnegie Foundation, the Lowy Institute and various Australian government departments and agencies.

    – ref. Does Russia have military interest in Indonesia? Here’s what we know – and why Australia would be concerned – https://theconversation.com/does-russia-have-military-interest-in-indonesia-heres-what-we-know-and-why-australia-would-be-concerned-254601

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 17 lease modifications recorded in Q1

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Lands Department announced today that it registered 17 lease modifications and four land exchanges in the Land Registry during the quarter ending March 2025, adding that four were technical changes involving no premium.

    Of the land transactions, nine are located on Hong Kong Island, five are in Kowloon and seven are in the New Territories.

    Another two lots were granted by private treaty during the period.

    One was granted for the development of an innovation and technology park and the talent accommodation in the Loop, while the other was granted for an electricity substation in Yuen Long.

    The land transactions realised a total land premium of about $2.069 billion.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Approval of HK warehouses hailed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui today welcomed the move by the London Metal Exchange (LME), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing, to approve the first three applications to establish recognised warehouses in Hong Kong.

    The LME included Hong Kong as an approved delivery point within its global warehousing network in January this year, and began accepting applications from warehouse operators to become approved storage entities of LME-registered brands of metals.

    The endorsed applications involve four warehouse facilities. 

    Mr Hui said: “The approval of the first batch of applications in merely a few months indicated the efforts of the Government and the industry in exploring new growth areas, and allowed LME-approved warehouse operators and local warehouse operators to begin the process of establishing operations early.”

    Noting the Chief Executive’s emphasis of the need to explore new growth areas in his 2024 Policy Address, Mr Hui highlighted that the establishment of a commodity trading ecosystem is a new growth point to consolidate and enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.

    “The establishment of LME-approved warehouses in Hong Kong will provide convenient, cost-effective and safe delivery channels for metals trading in the region.

    “This will not only attract relevant enterprises to establish a presence in Hong Kong, turning our city into an operation centre for international commodity trading, storage and delivery, shipping and logistics, risk management, but also promote the development of related financial transactions such as futures, thereby injecting new impetus into consolidating Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.”

    The Government understands that other operators are applying to become approved warehouses of the LME. Various bureaus and departments will continue to maintain communication with relevant industry players and provide assistance on technical matters as appropriate.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hollywood writer: Tariffs won’t disrupt US-China cultural exchange

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Peter Chiarelli, screenwriter behind such movies as “Crazy Rich Asians,” told China.org.cn on April 11 in Macao that recent tensions caused by President Donald Trump’s tariff war against multiple countries, particularly China, won’t deter his — or others’ — commitment to cultural exchange with China.

    Peter Chiarelli, American screenwriter and producer, participates in a forum during the second Macao International Comedy Festival, Macao, April 13, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Mahua Fun Age]

    “I know what I’m gonna do and it’s not gonna impact how I act. It’s not gonna impact how I feel,” Chiarelli said. “And I can say, I think a lot of people feel the way that I feel rather than the kind of rhetoric that you hear sometimes.”

    Chiarelli traveled to Macao to attend the second Macao International Comedy Festival, which was held from April 9 to 13 in the special administrative region and neighboring Hengqin district of Zhuhai, Guangdong province. The festival features various activities, including film screenings, stage performances, industry forums, pitch sessions and a gala night.

    In this chaotic world, the American screenwriter emphasized how comedy and cinema can highlight what unites people rather than what divides them. “If there is something important, it’s this idea that I think we’re all more alike than we are different. That’s what I think comedy and film specifically can do,” he said.

    Having written Macao into his script for the 2016 movie “Now You See Me 2,” this is actually his first time visiting the city in person, and he’s excited to finally see it for himself. Attending the comedy festival, he expressed his hope to use this platform to exchange ideas with fellow filmmakers. He even joked that he’d love to “steal” inspiration from local culture and other people, later integrating it into his future projects.

    “Everybody that comes here loves comedy. So you’ve got to share those ideas, share those thoughts, and then hopefully, we’ll all be stealing from one another, taking inspiration back home and doing better work,” Chiarelli said.

    For him, when working on something culturally specific, it’s essential to collaborate with people who understand that culture. “That’s really important to me. Whenever I’m writing something, I want it to be as authentic as possible. I just want to steal from real life,” Chiarelli said.

    Actress Fiona Xie, director Jon M. Chu, actress Michelle Yeoh and producer John Penotti pose for a photo at the Chinese premiere of “Crazy Rich Asians” in Beijing, Nov. 24, 2018. [Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures]

    Chiarelli explained that what he loves most about comedy is its ability to address difficult or meaningful topics without feeling heavy-handed.

    “It doesn’t feel like homework,” he said. “You’re not watching something because you’re supposed to watch something or it’s a way to talk about these things. Comedy is that you can kind of have a message, but you don’t have to be preachy about it. And you can also just have a good time and laugh and turn it off. Be a little bit better in your day, have a smile on your face when you’re done. That’s what I love about it. That’s what I try and do with everything that I write.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Obama praises Harvard for ‘setting example’ to universities resisting Trump

    Asia Pacific Report

    Former US President Barack Obama has taken to social media to praise Harvard’s decision to stand up for academic freedom by rebuffing the Trump administration’s demands.

    “Harvard has set an example for other higher-ed institutions — rejecting an unlawful and ham-handed attempt to stifle academic freedom, while taking concrete steps to make sure all students at Harvard can benefit from an environment of intellectual inquiry, rigorous debate and mutual respect,” Obama wrote in a post on X.

    He called on other universities to follow the lead.

    Harvard will not comply with the Trump administration’s demands to dismantle its diversity programming, limit student protests over Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza, and submit to far-reaching federal audits in exchange for its federal funding, university president Alan M. Garber ’76 announced yesterday afternoon.

    “No government — regardless of which party is in power — should dictate what private universities can teach, whom they can admit and hire, and which areas of study and inquiry they can pursue,” he wrote, reports the university’s Harvard Crimson news team.

    The announcement comes two weeks after three federal agencies announced a review into roughly $9 billion in Harvard’s federal funding and days after the Trump administration sent its initial demands, which included dismantling diversity programming, banning masks, and committing to “full cooperation” with the Department of Homeland Security.

    Within hours of the announcement to reject the White House demands, the Trump administration paused $2.2 billion in multi-year grants and $60 million in multi-year contracts to Harvard in a dramatic escalation in its crusade against the university.

    More focused demands
    On Friday, the Trump administration had delivered a longer and more focused set of demands than the ones they had shared two weeks earlier.

    It asked Harvard to “derecognise” pro-Palestine student groups, audit its academic programmes for viewpoint diversity, and expel students involved in an altercation at a 2023 pro-Palestine protest on the Harvard Business School campus.

    It also asked Harvard to reform its admissions process for international students to screen for students “supportive of terrorism and anti-Semitism” — and immediately report international students to federal authorities if they break university conduct policies.

    It called for “reducing the power held by faculty (whether tenured or untenured) and administrators more committed to activism than scholarship” and installing leaders committed to carrying out the administration’s demands.

    And it asked the university to submit quarterly updates, beginning in June 2025, certifying its compliance.

    Garber condemned the demands, calling them a “political ploy” disguised as an effort to address antisemitism on campus.

    “It makes clear that the intention is not to work with us to address antisemitism in a cooperative and constructive manner,” he wrote.

    “Although some of the demands outlined by the government are aimed at combating antisemitism, the majority represent direct governmental regulation of the ‘intellectual conditions’ at Harvard.”

    The Harvard Crimson daily news, founded in 1873 . . . how it reported the universoity’s defiance of the Trump administration today. Image: HC screenshot APR

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Digital Policy Office releases Hong Kong Generative Artificial Intelligence Technical and Application Guideline

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Digital Policy Office releases Hong Kong Generative Artificial Intelligence Technical and Application Guideline 
    Established in 2023 with funding from the AIR@InnoHK, which focuses on AI and robotics technology, the HKGAI focuses on the research and development (R&D) of generative AI technology, including constructing large language models and developing diverse applications. The large language models are tailored to Hong Kong’s local culture, language environment, and security. Based on practical application experience, the HKGAI systematically summarises practical insights from the R&D process and makes recommendations on the accuracy, accountability, and information security of generative AI technologies and practices. Mr Wong expressed his gratitude to the HKGAI team for their professional research and contributions to the formulation of the Guideline.Issued at HKT 14:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HAD opens temporary heat shelters

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HAD opens temporary heat shelters 
         The temporary heat shelters will remain open for people to take refuge from the heat when the Very Hot Weather Warning is in force. From 10.30pm to 8am the next day, the temporary heat shelters will also provide bedding and a sleeping place for people in need. The shelters are manned by duty attendants.
     
         For further information, please call the department’s hotline before midnight on 2572 8427.
     
         The heat 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 –
    Shek Kip Mei Community Hall
    G/F, Block 42, Shek Kip Mei Estate
     
    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 –
    Cheung Fat Estate Community Centre
    6 Tam Kon Shan Road, Tsing Yi

    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
     
    Yuen Long –
    Tin Yiu Community Centre
    Tin Yiu Estate, Tin Shui Wai
     
         In addition to the above heat shelters, a number of community halls/community centres can also be used for taking refuge from the heat during their operating hours. For their address details, please browse the following document: www.had.gov.hk/file_manager/en/documents/public_services/emergency_services/List_CH_CC_Day_E.pdfIssued at HKT 17:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHP reminds public on precautions against heat stroke during very hot weather

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CHP reminds public on precautions against heat stroke during very hot weather ​The public should also note the latest and the forecast Ultraviolet (UV) Index released by the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO). When the UV Index is high (6 or above):
     ​If symptoms develop, such as dizziness, headache, nausea, shortness of breath or confusion, rest and seek help immediately, and seek medical advice as soon as possible.

    ​The public may obtain more information from the DH’s Health Education Infoline (2833 0111), heat strokeIssued at HKT 13:48

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST welcomes London Metal Exchange’s approval of first batch of approved warehouses in Hong Kong

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SFST welcomes London Metal Exchange’s approval of first batch of approved warehouses in Hong Kong 
         Mr Hui said, “The LME included Hong Kong as an approved delivery point within its global warehousing network in January this year, and began accepting applications from warehouse operators to become approved storage entities of LME-registered brands of metals. The approval of the first batch of applications in merely a few months indicated the efforts of the Government and the industry in exploring new growth areas, and allowed LME-approved warehouse operators and local warehouse operators to begin the process of establishing operations early.”
    　　　　　
         He added, “In his 2024 Policy Address, the Chief Executive emphasised the need to explore new growth areas, and the establishment of a commodity trading ecosystem is a new growth point to consolidate and enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre. The establishment of LME-approved warehouses in Hong Kong will provide convenient, cost-effective and safe delivery channels for metals trading in the region. This will not only attract relevant enterprises to establish a presence in Hong Kong, turning our city into an operation centre for international commodity trading, storage and delivery, shipping and logistics, risk management, but also promote the development of related financial transactions such as futures, thereby injecting new impetus into consolidating Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre. I hope the approved warehouses will commence operations as soon as possible, and I look forward to seeing more successful cases of approval for operators to become approved warehouses to foster the growth of local commodity trading-related services.”
     
         The Government understands that other operators are applying to become approved warehouses of the LME. Relevant bureaux and departments will continue to maintain communication with relevant industry players and provide assistance on technical matters as appropriate.
     
    Issued at HKT 16:50

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan to attend 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers Meeting at Brasilia, Brazil

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan to attend 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers Meeting at Brasilia, Brazil

    Shir Chouhan to hold bilateral meetings with Brazil Minister of Agriculture & Livestock Mr Carlos Henrique Baqueta Fávaro, Minister of Agrarian Development and Family Farming Mr Luiz Paulo Teixeira,

    Theme of 15th BRICS Agricultural Ministerial Meeting is “Promoting Inclusive and Sustainable Agriculture through Cooperation, Innovation, and Equitable Trade among BRICS Countries”

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 10:54AM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, is leading the Indian delegation to the 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting (AMM), scheduled to be held on 17th April, 2025 in Brasilia, Brazil. The theme of 15th BRICS AMM is “Promoting Inclusive and Sustainable Agriculture through Cooperation, Innovation, and Equitable Trade among BRICS Countries”. Agriculture Ministers and senior officials from BRICS member countries, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran are expected to attend the Meeting.

    During the visit, Shri Chouhan will hold bilateral meetings with key Brazilian counterparts, including Mr. Carlos Henrique Baqueta Fávaro, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, and Mr. Luiz Paulo Teixeira, Minister of Agrarian Development and Family Farming (MDA). These meetings will focus on enhancing collaboration between India and Brazil in various areas of agriculture, agri-technology, rural development, and food security.

    The Minister will interact with leaders of major Brazilian agribusiness companies and representatives of the Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries in São Paulo, exploring avenues for partnership and investment in the agriculture value chain. As part of his visit, the Minister will also participate in a tree plantation drive at the Embassy of India in Brasilia, under the noble initiative “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, aimed at raising environmental consciousness and honouring motherhood. In addition, the Minister will interact with the vibrant Indian diaspora in São Paulo, acknowledging their role as cultural ambassadors and contributors to bilateral ties. This visit reaffirms India’s commitment to deepen cooperation with BRICS nations and to advance South-South cooperation in agricultural innovation, resilience, and sustainability.

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    PSF/KSR/AR

    (Release ID: 2121725) Visitor Counter : 83

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda presides over 5th Convocation Ceremony of AIIMS Rishikesh

    Source: Government of India

    Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda presides over 5th Convocation Ceremony of AIIMS Rishikesh

    Convocation ceremony is a special occasion which marks recognition for the achievements made by students: Shri JP Nadda

    “The government is focused on providing healthcare which is not only curative but also preventive, palliative and rehabilitative”

    “1.75 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are operational across the country. In the last 10 years, medical colleges have seen an increase of 101%. There has been a 130% increase in MBBS seats while PG seats have seen an increase of 138% in the last 10 years”

    Inaugurates several healthcare facilities including Integrated Medicine in the Ayush Department, a PET scan machine in the Nuclear Medicine Department, PACS facility in the Radiology Department and a Centre for Advanced Pediatrics in Pediatric Care

    AIIMS Rishikesh is providing advanced medical treatment like robotic surgery, neuro surgery and radiation therapy to patients: Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami

    434 Students Awarded Degrees during the convocation

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 2:29PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda presided over the fifth convocation ceremony of AIIMS Rishikesh, today. He was joined by Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister, Uttarakhand; Shri Dhan Singh Rawat, Health and Education Minister, Uttarakhand; Members of Lok Sabha, Shri Ajay Bhatt, Shri Ajay Tamta and Shri Trivendra Singh Rawat; and Smt. Ritu Khanduri Bhushan, Speaker of Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly.

    Addressing the gathering, Shri JP Nadda stated that “convocation ceremony is a special occasion which marks recognition for the achievements made by students.” He said providing affordable and quality healthcare to every poor person in the country is a priority of the central government.

    Shri JP Nadda highlighted the achievements of AIIMS institutes across the country in medical education and services. He stated that “till the advent of this century, India only had on AIIMS in the country. Today, there are 22 AIIMS operating in the country.” He stated that AIIMS Rishikesh has carved a unique identity among healthcare institutes due to its superior services.

    He reiterated the central government’s commitment to providing world-class healthcare for the citizenry. “The government is focused on providing healthcare which is not only curative but also preventive, palliative and rehabilitative”, he stated.

    Highlighting the achievements of the Union Government in the health sector, Shri Nadda stated, “today, 1.75 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are operational across the country providing a range of services pertaining to healthcare and wellness. In the last 10 years, there has been a 101% increase in medical colleges, totaling 780 across the country. There has been a 130% increase in MBBS seats while PG seats have seen an increase of 138% in the last 10 years”. “Similarly, to cater to the paramedics, 157 nursing colleges are also being established, to be co-located with the medical colleges”, he further stated.

    The Union Health Minister appreciated AIIM Rishikesh for effectively utilizing the helicopter and drone services by rescuing 309 critical patients using the services. He also congratulated AIIMS Rishikesh for being one of the best institutes in the country for using digital services like telemedicine (eSanjeevani) to serve the remote and underserved areas of the state.

    Shri Nadda concluded his address by encouraging students to approach their work with compassion, integrity, and dedication. Emphasizing that the government spends between Rs. 30-35 lakh for every MBBS student, he urged the new doctors to shoulder more responsibilities as they embark on their professional careers.

    During the event, Shri Nadda inaugurated several healthcare facilities to enhance the institute’s medical services, including Integrated Medicine in the Ayush Department, a PET scan machine in the Nuclear Medicine Department, PACS facility in the Radiology Department, and a Centre for Advanced Pediatrics in Pediatric Care.

    During the ceremony, Shri Nadda awarded gold medals and degrees to 10 medical students from MBBS, DM, MSc Nursing, BSc Nursing, and BSc Allied Health Sciences programs. A total of 434 students received degrees during the convocation including 98 MBBS students, 95 BSc (Hons) Nursing students, 54 BSc Allied Health Sciences students, 109 MD/MS/MDS students, 17 MSc Nursing students, 1 MSc Medical Allied student, 12 Master of Public Health students, 40 DM/MCh students, and 8 PhD students.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami said that India’s healthcare sector has seen a significant uplift in the last decade with the launch of initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and establishment of new AIIMS and medical colleges.

    He stated that AIIMS Rishikesh is providing quality and affordable healthcare services and facilities to people from across the state. He stated that the institute is providing advanced medical treatment like robotic surgery, neuro surgery and radiation therapy to patients. He also highlighted the inauguration of Heli-ambulance services in AIIMS Rishikesh.

    Shri Dhami also highlighted that today more than 5,000 Gram Panchayats in Uttarakhand are TB free. He stated the government is working to set up a medical college in every district of the state and expand the network of Jan Aushadi Kendras in the state.

    The event was also attended by AIIMS Rishikesh President, Prof. Samiran Nandy; Executive Director, Prof. Meenu Singh; Dean Academics, Prof. Jaya Chaturvedi; Medical Superintendent, Prof. B. Satya Shri; Deputy Director (Administration), Col. Rajiv Sen Roy; Dean Examinations, Prof. Prashant Patil; Financial Advisor, Lt. Col. S. Siddharth; Organizing Committee Chairperson, Prof. Latika Mohan; heads of various departments, faculty members, officers, and medical and nursing students.

    *****

    MV

    HFW/ HFM AIIMS Rishikesh Convocation/15 April 2025/1

    (Release ID: 2121816) Visitor Counter : 22

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Volume and Price Statistics of External Merchandise Trade in February 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Volume and Price Statistics of External Merchandise Trade in February 2025 
         Due to the difference in timing of the Chinese New Year holidays, it is more appropriate to analyse the trade figures for January and February taken together in making year-on-year comparison.
     
         Comparing the first two months of 2025 with the same period in 2024, the volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 4.6% and 3.6% respectively.
     
         In February 2025, the volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 13.8% and 9.9% respectively over February 2024.
     
         Comparing the three-month period ending February 2025 with the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis, the volume of total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 6.5% and 1.8% respectively.
     
         Changes in volume of external merchandise trade are derived from changes in external merchandise trade value with the effect of price changes discounted.
     
         As regards price changes in the first two months of 2025 over the same period in 2024, the prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods both increased by 1.8%.
     
         Comparing February 2025 with February 2024, the prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 1.5% and 1.6% respectively.
     
         Price changes in external merchandise trade are reflected by changes in unit value indices of external merchandise trade, which are compiled based on average unit values or, for certain commodities, specific price data.
     
         The terms of trade index is derived from the ratio of price index of total exports of goods to that of imports of goods.  Compared with the same periods in 2024, the index decreased by 0.2% in February 2025 and 0.1% in the first two months of 2025.
     
         Changes in the unit value and volume of total exports of goods by main destination are shown in Table 1.
     
         Comparing February 2025 with February 2024, increases were recorded for the total export volume to Vietnam (112.0%), Taiwan (63.4%) and the mainland of China (the Mainland) (28.7%). On the other hand, the total export volume to the USA (-19.6%) and India (-27.2%) decreased.
     
         Over the same period of comparison, the total export prices to Taiwan (5.7%), the USA (1.5%), Vietnam (1.0%) and the Mainland (0.8%) increased. On the other hand, the total export prices to India decreased by 2.5%.
     
         Changes in the unit value and volume of imports of goods by main supplier are shown in Table 2.
     
         Comparing February 2025 with February 2024, increases were recorded for the import volume from Taiwan (38.1%), the Mainland (19.3%) and Singapore (1.3%). On the other hand, the import volume from Japan (-3.5%) and Korea (-37.3%) decreased.
     
         Over the same period of comparison, the import prices from Korea (9.6%), Singapore (2.6%), Taiwan (2.2%) and Japan (0.2%) increased. On the other hand, the import prices from the Mainland decreased by 0.3%.
     
    Further information
     
         Details of the above statistics are published in the February 2025 issue of “Hong Kong Merchandise Trade Index Numbers”. Users can browse and download the report at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1020006&scode=230 
         Enquiries on merchandise trade indices may be directed to the Trade Analysis Section of the C&SD (Tel: 2582 4918).
    Issued at HKT 16:30

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

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the 2025 World Tourism Cities Federation Hong Kong Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit today (April 15):
     
    Honourable Governor Maurizio Rasero of Asti Province and Mayor of Asti City, Italy, Honourable Executive Vice Chair Sima Hong of the World Tourism Cities Federation Council and Vice Mayor of Beijing, Honourable Deputy Director Qi Bin of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Honourable Deputy Commissioner Pan Yundong of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, honourable city mayors, vice mayors and institutional leaders from around the world, distinguished guests and friends from the global tourism community, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good afternoon. Welcome to Hong Kong, and to the 2025 World Tourism Cities Federation Hong Kong Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit. 
     
         Fragrant Hills, as you would all know, is a scenic area in Beijing, where the World Tourism Cities Federation is headquartered. “Fragrant hills” also makes me think of Hong Kong as a “fragrant harbour” – the Chinese name of Hong Kong can literally be translated as “fragrant harbour”.
     
         “Fragrant”, let me add, because of Hong Kong’s redolent history as a major trader for incense, particularly agarwood incense and the wood’s varied byproducts.
     
         Over the centuries, the sweet aroma of agarwood, of incense, drifted from harbour to city – and all around the world. From incense and fragrance, to merchandise and capital, Hong Kong has always been a bridge between cultures, cities and continents, bringing out the best of our products on the global arena.
     
         Today, Hong Kong remains a major global trading centre, a centre of free trade. That’s thanks, too, to the Hong Kong Port in our harbour, to the Hong Kong International Airport, and to our varied and seamless transport links to China, our country.
     
         These seamless links, and our singular status as the city where East has long met West, are not going to change. In a world beset by trade woes and geopolitical crises, Hong Kong is determined to continue its dedication to free and open trade.
     
         That has also led us to become one of the world’s greatest centres for tourism. So it is an honour that the World Tourism Cities Federation has chosen Hong Kong for this year’s Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit. The Federation, after all, is the world’s first international tourism organisation to focus its mission and mandate on cities.
     
         Not surprising, then, that this Summit welcomes city mayors, vice mayors and other city officials and delegations from over 40 cities from the Mainland and around the world. Together, we embody the spirit of collaboration beyond geographical boundaries. Together, we unite for the future of tourism.
     
         The theme of this year’s Summit, “Innovate City Branding to Elevate Tourism Excellence”, gives us a good start to discuss how our cities could, through collaboration, achieve high-quality development in tourism and more.
     
         For Hong Kong, long an international metropolis, one key development opportunity certainly comes from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
     
         This cluster city development brings together Hong Kong, Macao and nine southern cities in the Guangdong province, and boasts a population of over 86 million. It also has a combined GDP (Gross Domestic Product) that rivals that of the world’s 10th largest economy.
     
         What it means is a consumer market, and source of tourists, that is over 10 times as large as our own city. What it also means, with our country’s facilitation measures for travellers, is that visitors who choose to visit this part of the world have much more cities to add to their itinerary. We are fast developing in multi-destination tourism for an interconnected world. From a six-day visa for visitors in tour groups led by a Hong Kong travel agent, to the visa-free policy for cruise ship travellers along the country’s coastline.
     
         That said, you can well begin in Hong Kong, where there’s something happening everywhere you look – and at our Victoria Harbour. You need only to see for yourself how open, welcoming and endlessly amazing our city is, to a world of tourism – to you.
     
         Start with Victoria Harbour, and enjoy the refreshing views with our skyline and green hills rising from both sides of the harbour. And do take the Star Ferry. For more than a century, it’s been one of the world’s most unforgettable harbour passages. Leisure travel, timeless memories – in Hong Kong – and for well under US$1 a trip. It’s really good value for money.
     
         Hong Kong, after all, is the world’s mega event city. Last week, UK (United Kingdom) band Coldplay performed four sold-out concerts at our brand-new, state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park. And through next Monday, it’s the 49th Hong Kong International Film Festival.
     
         Art lovers will want to catch the exhibition “Picasso for Asia: a Conversation”, at M+ museum, in the West Kowloon Cultural District – one of the world’s largest cultural developments. More than 60 masterpieces by Picasso are shown alongside artworks by Asian artists. Also there, is the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which is now showcasing an exhibition that brings together treasures from Beijing’s Forbidden City and the Palace of Versailles in Paris.
     
         Yes, ladies and gentlemen, Hong Kong is where cultures meet and thrive, where creativity is well and alive. And you can also count on hills and sea coasts alive with fabulous hiking, and biking trails. After all, country parks make up some 40 per cent of Hong Kong’s total land area.
     
         And when you’re all hiked and biked out, settle into one of our nearly 80 Michelin-starred restaurants, do yum cha (tea and food) with half of Hong Kong, then toast your good fortune at a local brew pub, or get cozy with milk tea at a classic dai pai dong, our traditional cooked food stalls. And don’t leave Hong Kong without a sky-high cocktail, or two, at hotel and city lounges rising from either side of Victoria Harbour. From dim sum dreams to boozy nights, our food paradise glows with true delights.
     
         Ladies and gentlemen, I’m sure this year’s Fragrant Hills will bring about global thrills. My thanks to the World Tourism Cities Federation, and this Hong Kong Summit. I’m confident we’ll find a wellspring of innovative and inspiring ways to work together, to reimagine travel for this 21st century packed with promise for global tourism – and for each and every one of our proud and magnificent cities.
     
         Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Maharashtra Governor meets Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 1:55PM by PIB Delhi

    The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan met the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi in New Delhi today.

    The Prime Minister’s Office handle posted on X:

    “Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan met PM @narendramodi.

    @CPRGuv”

     

     

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    (Release ID: 2121798) Visitor Counter : 55

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IAS OFFICERS OF THE 2023 BATCH CALL ON THE PRESIDENT

    Source: Government of India

    IAS OFFICERS OF THE 2023 BATCH CALL ON THE PRESIDENT

    THE DEVELOPMENT AND PUBLIC WELFARE WORK DONE BY YOU AT THE LOCAL AND STATE LEVEL WOULD HELP IN ACHIEVING THE NATIONAL GOALS: PRESIDENT MURMU TO IAS OFFICERS

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 1:49PM by PIB Delhi

    A group of IAS officers from the 2023 batch, currently serving as Assistant Secretaries in various Union Ministries and Departments, called on the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre today (April 15, 2025). 

    Addressing the IAS officers, the President said that they had become IAS officers through extraordinary determination and hard work. This has brought about a transformative change in their personal lives. Now with even more determination and dedication, they have the opportunity to bring about transformative changes in the lives of countless people. Their area of service and authority are so vast that they can make the lives of many fellow citizens better in their first posting itself. She advised them to make special efforts for the upliftment of the underprivileged. She also advised them to visit the places of posting during their career journey after some time and see the far-reaching results of their work.

     The President said that officers should keep in mind the rights and duties of civil servants. The duties of a public servant are their responsibilities and their rights are the means to fulfill those duties. 

    The President told officers that their real career story would be created by their work, not by increasing the number of followers on social media. Their real social net worth would be determined by their good work. 

    The President said that every public servant should work with honesty of purpose. We all face the challenges of environmental pollution and climate change. Pollution of immorality and erosion in values are also very serious challenges. There should be no need to say anything else about being devoted and honest. The people who move ahead following life values of honesty, truth, and simplicity are happier. Honesty is the most desirable policy in public service. It is expected from the public servant that they would present examples of integrity and sensitivity in every sphere of life. 

    The President said that in the digital era, people’s aspirations are rising. They are becoming aware of the accountability of administrators. She advised officers to develop closeness with their fellow citizens and increase their participation in local efforts. She also advised them to resolve public interest issues raised by people’s representatives. She said that the development and public welfare work done by them at the local and state level would help in achieving national goals.

    Please click here to see the President’s Speech – 

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2121796) Visitor Counter : 92

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong’s Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement with Armenia in force

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong’s Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement with Armenia in force 
    “Under the CDTA, companies and residents of Hong Kong and Armenia will not have to pay tax twice on a single source of income. The CDTA will allow them to have certainty on tax liabilities and save tax when they engage in cross-border business activities, thus helping to promote bilateral trade and investment. To date, Hong Kong has signed CDTAs with 51 tax jurisdictions,” a Government spokesman said.
     
    The CDTA is available on the Hong Kong e-Legislation websiteIssued at HKT 15:00

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 3:13PM by PIB Delhi

     

    Key Takeaways

     

    • India contributes 7.1% to global GDP through its automotive sector and ranks 4th in global vehicle production.
    • Despite a strong manufacturing base, India holds only 3% share in global traded auto components, highlighting a vast scope for expansion.
    • The Vision 2030 roadmap aims to scale production to $145bn, exports to $60bn, and generate 2–2.5 million jobs.
    • Government schemes like FAME, PM E-Drive, and PLI have mobilized ₹66,000+ crore to support EVs and localization.
    • With targeted reforms and GVC integration, India can raise its global component trade share from 3% to 8% by 2030.

     

     

    On 11th April 2024, NITI Aayog released a report titled ‘Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains’, launched by Vice Chairman Shri Suman Bery, senior members, and the CEO of NITI Aayog. The report outlines India’s Global Value Chain (GVC) potential in the automotive sector and highlights strategic pathways for global leadership.

    India’s automotive industry is a cornerstone of the nation’s manufacturing and economic growth, contributing 7.1% to India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 49% to manufacturing GDP. As the fourth-largest automobile producer globally, India possesses the scale and strategic depth to emerge as a global leader in the automotive value chain. The sector spans a vast ecosystem, from vehicle assembly and auto component manufacturing to deep interlinkages with critical industries such as steel, electronics, rubber, IT, and logistics. In recent years, India has seen exponential growth in vehicle production, with over 28 million units manufactured in 2023–24 alone. The industry’s contribution goes beyond industrial output, and it supports millions of direct and indirect jobs, spurs innovation, and is central to India’s green mobility transition, industrial ambitions, and trade strategy.

    The global automotive component market was valued at $2 trillion in 2022, with $700 billion traded across borders. Despite India’s strong manufacturing base, its share in the globally traded auto component market remains at just 3% (~$20 billion), highlighting a vast scope for expansion. India’s trade ratio in auto components is near-neutral (~0.99), with exports and imports nearly balancing each other. This also underlines the domestic sector’s limited penetration in high-value, high-precision segments such as engine and engine components, along with drive transmission and steering systems, where India holds just 2–4% of the global trade share. Bridging this gap requires structural reforms, strategic investments, and a coordinated industrial policy approach. With the right enabling conditions, India can triple exports to $60 billion, generate a $25 billion trade surplus, and create over 2-2.5 million direct jobs by 2030, propelling it toward becoming a globally competitive, innovation-driven manufacturing hub.

    Strategic Importance of the Automotive Sector

     

    • Contributes 7.1% to India’s GDP and 49% to manufacturing GDP.
    • Employs millions and supports critical linkages across steel, electronics, and IT sectors.
    • India’s current share in globally traded auto components is approximately 3% or 20 billion.

                                            India’s Vision for Automotive Industry

     

    This vision aligns with India’s aspirations to become a global manufacturing hub under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

    Global Trends Shaping the Sector

     

    1. Rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs):

    • EVs are reshaping manufacturing priorities, with China producing over 8 million EVs in 2023.
    • The EU and the US are accelerating EV adoption through regulatory mandates and subsidies.
    • EVs are increasing the demand for batteries, semiconductors, and advanced materials.

     

    2. Digital and Advanced Manufacturing:

    • Integration of AI, robotics, digital twins, Internet of Things (IoT), and 3D printing is driving efficiency.
    • Many global automakers are investing heavily in creating smart factories, where AI, IoT, and robotics are integrated into every aspect of the production process. Countries like Germany and South Korea are leading in smart factory adoption.

     

    3. Sustainability and Circular Economy:

    • Automakers are moving toward carbon neutrality, material recycling, and energy efficiency.
    • Examples: BMW’s EV battery recycling and Volkswagen’s renewable energy sourcing.

     

    4. Sectoral Interdependence:

    • Auto industry is a major consumer of steel, electronics, rubber, glass, textiles, and IT services.
    • Increasing reliance on semiconductors and AI-driven software for innovative mobility solutions.

    Major Government Interventions

     

    1. Make in India: Launched in 2014, the Make in India initiative has provided a significant boost to the country’s manufacturing sector, particularly in automobiles. This policy promotes domestic manufacturing, reduces reliance on imports, and encourages foreign direct investment.

    2.Atmanirbhar Bharat: The Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative aims to foster self-sufficiency in manufacturing and reduce the country’s dependence on foreign components. In the automotive sector, this has resulted in increased domestic production of critical components such as engines, transmissions, and EV batteries. The government has also extended support to start-ups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the automotive space, helping them integrate into global supply chains.

    3.FAME India Scheme (Phases I & II): The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme has been pivotal in promoting clean mobility in India. Phase II, with an outlay of ₹11,500 crore, focuses on demand incentives for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, buses, and the development of public charging infrastructure. It also aims to promote technology platforms for EVs and create a robust domestic EV ecosystem.

    4. PM E-Drive Scheme (2024–26): Launched to accelerate EV adoption and reduce urban pollution, this scheme has a budget of ₹10,900 crore and targets large-scale procurement of electric vehicles:

    • 24.79 lakh electric two-wheelers
    • 3.2 lakh electric three-wheelers
    • Procurement of 14,028 electric buses by State Transport Undertakings (STUs)/public transport agencies
    • ₹2,000 crore earmarked for national-level charging infrastructure expansion.

     

    5. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Auto and ACC Batteries: With a total allocation of ₹44,038 crore (PLI scheme- INR 25,938 crore, PLI scheme for ACC Battery Storage- INR 18,100 crores), this flagship initiative aims to boost the domestic manufacturing of advanced automotive technologies, including EVs, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and advanced battery storage solutions. It provides financial incentives to OEMs and component manufacturers for investing in cutting-edge technologies, achieving economies of scale, and integrating into global supply chains. The scheme also prioritises domestic value addition, export readiness, and job creation through technology-driven innovation.

     

     

    Key Challenges Hindering the Global Value Chain’s Integration

     

    • 10% cost disadvantage for India versus China due to:
      • Higher raw material and machinery costs
      • 100% depreciation rate vs 50% in China (~3.4% cost burden)
      • High logistics, financing, and energy costs

     

    • Underperformance in high-precision segments:
      • India’s global share: Only 2–4% in engine and engine components, along with drive transmission and steering systems
    • Inadequate R&D ecosystem and limited IP ownership

    Proposed Interventions for GVC Integration

     

    Fiscal Measures:

    1. Operational Expenditure (Opex) Support: To scale up manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on capital expenditure (Capex) for tooling, dies, and infrastructure.
    2. Skill Development: Initiatives to build a talent pipeline critical for sustaining growth.
    3. R&D, Government facilitated IP transfer and Branding: Providing incentives for research, development, international branding to improve product differentiation and empowering MSMEs through IP transfers.
    4. Cluster Development: Fostering collaboration between firms through common facilities such as R&D and testing centers to strengthen the supply chain.

     

    Non-Fiscal Reforms:

    1. Industry 4.0 Adoption: Encouraging the integration of digital technologies and enhanced manufacturing standards to improve efficiency.
    2. International Collaboration: Promoting joint ventures (JVs), foreign collaborations, and free trade agreements (FTAs) to expand global market access.
    3. Ease of Doing Business: Simplifying regulatory processes, worker hour flexibility, supplier discovery & development and improving business conditions for automotive firms.

     

    Conclusion

     

    India’s automotive sector stands at a decisive inflection point, where focused reforms, policy clarity, and industry alignment can elevate it into the league of global leaders in automotive manufacturing. With the world shifting rapidly towards clean, smart, and connected mobility, India must accelerate its integration into global value chains by building competitiveness in high-precision components, fostering innovation, and deepening its export footprint. Over the next five years, the effective execution of planned interventions—ranging from skilling and infrastructure to R&D and global partnerships- will determine whether India becomes a hub for high-value auto components or remains a low-cost player in traditional segments. With the right mix of ambition and action, India can become a globally recognised supplier of next-generation mobility solutions.

     

    References

    · REPORT – Automotive Industry: Powering India’s participation in Global Value Chains –https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2025-04/Automotive-Industry-Powering-India-participation-in-GVC_Non-Confidential.pdf

    · https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2120977

    Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs)

    ****

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena / Vatsla Srivastava

    (Release ID: 2121826) Visitor Counter : 122

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Index Numbers of Wholesale Price in India for the Month of March, 2025 (Base Year: 2011-12)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 12:00PM by PIB Delhi

    The annual rate of inflation based on all India Wholesale Price Index (WPI) number is 2.05% (provisional) for the month of March, 2025 (over March, 2024). Positive rate of inflation in March, 2025 is primarily due to increase in prices of manufacture of food products, other manufacturing, food articles, electricity and manufacture of textiles etc. The index numbers and inflation rate for the last three months of all commodities and WPI components are given below:

    Index Numbers and Annual Rate of Inflation (Y-o-Y in %) *

    All Commodities/Major Groups

    Weight (%)

    January-25 (F)

    February-25 (P)

    March-25 (P)

    Index

    Inflation

    Index

    Inflation

    Index

    Inflation

    All Commodities

    100.00

    155.0

    2.51

    154.8

    2.38

    154.5

    2.05

    I. Primary Articles

    22.62

    189.7

    4.58

    186.6

    2.81

    184.6

    0.76

    II. Fuel & Power

    13.15

    152.0

    -1.87

    153.8

    -0.71

    152.4

    0.20

    III. Manufactured Products

    64.23

    143.4

    2.65

    143.8

    2.86

    144.4

    3.07

    Food Index

    24.38

    191.5

    7.52

    189.0

    5.94

    188.8

    4.66

    Note: F: Final, P: Provisional, *Annual rate of WPI inflation calculated over the corresponding month of previous year

    The month over month change in WPI for the month of March, 2025 stood at (-) 0.19% as compared to February, 2025. The monthly change in WPI for last six-month is summarized below:

    Month Over Month (M-o-M in %) change in WPI Index#

    All Commodities/Major Groups

    Weight

    Oct-24

    Nov-24

    Dec-24

    Jan-25 (F)

    Feb-25 (P)

    Mar-25 (P)

    All Commodities

    100.00

    1.29

    -0.19

    -0.45

    -0.45

    -0.13

    -0.19

    I. Primary Articles

    22.62

    2.61

    -1.35

    -2.07

    -2.12

    -1.63

    -1.07

    II. Fuel & Power

    13.15

    1.09

    0.74

    1.27

    0.13

    1.18

    -0.91

    III. Manufactured Products

    64.23

    0.70

    0.14

    -0.07

    0.28

    0.28

    0.42

    Food Index

    24.38

    3.22

    -0.99

    -2.10

    -2.30

    -1.31

    -0.11

    Note: F: Final, P: Provisional, #Monthly rate of change, based on month over month (M-o-M) WPI calculated over the preceding month

     

    Month-over-Month Change in Major Groups of WPI:

    1. Primary Articles (Weight 22.62%): – The index for this major group decreased by 1.07% to 184.6 (provisional) in March, 2025 from 186.6 (provisional) for the month of February, 2025. Price of crude petroleum & natural gas (-2.42%), non-food articles (-2.40%) and food articles (-0.72%) decreased in March, 2025 as compared to February, 2025. The price of minerals (0.31%) increased in March, 2025 as compared to February, 2025.
    2. Fuel & Power (Weight 13.15%): – The index for this major group decreased by 0.91% to 152.4 (provisional) in March, 2025 from 153.8 (provisional) for the month of February, 2025. Price of electricity (-2.31%) and mineral oils (-0.70%) decreased in March, 2025 as compared to February, 2025. The price of coal remained same as in the previous month.
    3. Manufactured Products (Weight 64.23%): – The index for this major group increased by 0.42% to 144.4 (Provisional) in March, 2025 from 143.8 (Provisional) for the month of February, 2025. Out of the 22 NIC two-digit groups for manufactured products, 16 groups witnessed an increase in prices, 5 groups witnessed a decrease in prices and 1 group witnessed no change in prices. Some of the important groups that showed month-over-month increase in prices were manufacture of basic metals; food products; other transport equipment; other manufacturing and machinery and equipment etc. Some of the groups that witnessed a decrease in prices were manufacture of textiles; chemicals and chemical products; computer, electronic and optical products; printing and reproduction of recorded media and furniture etc in March, 2025 as compared to February, 2025.

    WPI Food Index (Weight 24.38%): The Food Index consisting of ‘food articles’ from primary articles group and ‘food product’ from manufactured products group decreased from 189.0 in February, 2025 to 188.8 in March, 2025. The annual rate of inflation based on WPI Food Index decreased from 5.94% in February, 2025 to 4.66% in March, 2025.

    Final Index for the month of January, 2025 (Base Year: 2011-12=100): For the month of January, 2025, the final Wholesale Price Index and inflation rate for ‘All Commodities’ (Base: 2011-12=100) stood at 155.0 and 2.51% respectively. The details of all India Wholesale Price Indices and Rates of Inflation for different commodity groups based on updated figures are at Annex I. The Annual rate of Inflation (Y-o-Y) based on WPI for different commodity groups in the last six months is at Annex II. WPI for different commodity groups in the last six months is at Annex III.

    Response Rate: The WPI for March, 2025 has been compiled at a weighted response rate of 82.7 per cent, while the final figure for January, 2025 is based on the weighted response rate of 95.4 per cent. The provisional figures of WPI will undergo revision as per the revision policy of WPI. This press release, item indices, and inflation numbers are available at our home page http://eaindustry.nic.in.

    Next date of Press Release: WPI for the month of April, 2025 would be released on 14/05/2025.

    Note: DPIIT releases index number of wholesale price in India on monthly basis on 14th of every month (or next working day, if 14th falls on holiday) with a time lag of two weeks of the reference month, and the index number is compiled with data received from institutional sources and selected manufacturing units across the country. This press release contains WPI (Base Year 2011-12=100) for the month of March, 2025 (Provisional), January, 2025 (Final) and other months/years. Provisional figures of WPI are finalised after 10 weeks (from the month of reference), and frozen thereafter.

    Annex-I

    All India Wholesale Price Indices and Rates of Inflation (Base Year: 2011-12=100) for March, 2025

    Commodities/Major Groups/Groups/Sub-Groups/Items

    Weight

    Index

    March-25*

    Latest month over Month (MoM)

    Inflation (YoY)

    Rate of Inflation (YoY)

    Feb-Mar 2024

    Feb-Mar

    2025*

    2023-24 (Apr-Mar)

    2024-25* (Apr-Mar)

    Mar-24

    Mar-25*

    ALL COMMODITIES

    100.00

    154.5

    0.13

    -0.19

    -0.73

    2.25

    0.26

    2.05

    I. PRIMARY ARTICLES

    22.62

    184.6

    0.94

    -1.07

    3.54

    5.13

    4.57

    0.76

    A. Food Articles

    15.26

    194.4

    1.06

    -0.72

    6.61

    7.30

    7.05

    1.57

    Cereals

    2.82

    211.2

    0.35

    -0.85

    7.17

    7.88

    9.04

    5.49

    Paddy

    1.43

    203.6

    1.24

    0.00

    9.31

    8.42

    11.74

    3.88

    Wheat

    1.03

    217.1

    -0.20

    -1.68

    4.53

    7.64

    7.48

    7.96

    Pulses

    0.64

    205.1

    0.33

    -1.63

    14.38

    10.70

    17.18

    -2.98

    Vegetables

    1.87

    177.5

    5.55

    -5.74

    9.00

    16.64

    20.09

    -15.88

    Potato

    0.28

    199.7

    26.30

    -7.67

    -17.06

    65.71

    58.43

    -6.77

    Onion

    0.16

    273.7

    5.31

    -9.91

    40.36

    42.59

    56.48

    26.65

    Fruits

    1.60

    218.5

    4.33

    4.25

    -1.07

    12.03

    -3.05

    20.78

    Milk

    4.44

    186.8

    0.38

    0.21

    7.46

    3.02

    5.08

    1.41

    Eggs, Meat & Fish

    2.40

    170.1

    -0.06

    -0.82

    0.88

    0.71

    -1.75

    0.71

    B. Non-Food Articles

    4.12

    162.8

    0.57

    -2.40

    -5.64

    -0.42

    -4.25

    1.75

    Oil Seeds

    1.12

    179.3

    0.00

    0.22

    -9.81

    -1.94

    -7.17

    0.34

    C. Minerals

    0.83

    227.9

    -1.51

    0.31

    6.95

    4.49

    -0.36

    2.84

    D. Crude Petroleum & Natural gas

    2.41

    145.1

    1.35

    -2.42

    -3.04

    -1.54

    4.87

    -7.64

    Crude Petroleum

    1.95

    120.8

    0.96

    -2.89

    -7.79

    -2.55

    10.26

    -11.50

    II. FUEL & POWER

    13.15

    152.4

    -1.81

    -0.91

    -4.70

    -1.30

    -2.75

    0.20

    LPG

    0.64

    123.7

    1.23

    0.57

    -10.79

    2.77

    -10.19

    0.24

    Petrol

    1.60

    151.8

    -0.82

    -0.46

    -3.27

    -3.73

    -0.94

    -3.86

    HSD

    3.10

    165.4

    -1.05

    -0.72

    -10.21

    -3.40

    -3.51

    -2.88

    III. MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS

    64.23

    144.4

    0.21

    0.42

    -1.69

    1.71

    -0.85

    3.07

    Mf/o Food Products

    9.12

    179.4

    1.25

    0.90

    -2.92

    7.12

    0.81

    10.67

    Vegetable & Animal Oils and Fats

    2.64

    190.8

    3.26

    1.22

    -20.30

    16.14

    -7.73

    30.95

    Mf/o Beverages

    0.91

    134.6

    0.15

    0.07

    2.02

    1.91

    1.69

    1.58

    Mf/o Tobacco Products

    0.51

    180.2

    0.63

    0.11

    4.98

    2.39

    4.20

    2.21

    Mf/o Textiles

    4.88

    136.6

    -0.07

    -0.29

    -5.65

    1.25

    -1.83

    1.71

    Mf/o Wearing Apparel

    0.81

    154.5

    -0.13

    0.13

    1.45

    1.72

    1.00

    1.98

    Mf/o Leather and Related Products

    0.54

    126.2

    0.00

    0.32

    1.58

    0.93

    1.14

    2.02

    Mf/o Wood and of Products of Wood and Cork

    0.77

    150.0

    -0.27

    0.81

    2.38

    1.75

    4.27

    0.60

    Mf/o Paper and Paper Products

    1.11

    141.3

    0.07

    0.36

    -7.71

    -0.77

    -6.12

    2.39

    Mf/o Chemicals and Chemical Products

    6.47

    136.9

    0.15

    -0.15

    -5.88

    -0.29

    -4.64

    0.96

    Mf/o Pharmaceuticals, Medicinal Chemical and Botanical Products

    1.99

    145.2

    -0.35

    0.14

    1.43

    1.03

    1.20

    1.26

    Mf/o Rubber and Plastics Products

    2.30

    129.7

    0.39

    0.00

    -1.68

    1.19

    -0.08

    1.17

    Mf/o other Non-Metallic Mineral Products

    3.20

    132.7

    -0.52

    0.08

    0.71

    -2.42

    -1.11

    -0.30

    Cement, Lime and Plaster

    1.64

    131.6

    -1.40

    0.30

    0.07

    -5.10

    -2.61

    -2.01

    Mf/o Basic Metals

    9.65

    139.1

    0.14

    1.09

    -5.20

    -0.98

    -5.13

    0.29

    Mild Steel – Semi Finished Steel

    1.27

    118.2

    0.26

    0.77

    -5.59

    -1.68

    -7.14

    1.03

    Mf/o Fabricated Metal Products, Except Machinery and Equipment

    3.15

    136.4

    -1.02

    0.15

    -0.29

    -1.86

    -2.16

    0.15

    Note: * = Provisional. Mf/o = Manufacture of

    Annex-II

    WPI Inflation (Base Year: 2011-12=100) for last 6 months

    Commodities/Major Groups/Groups/Sub-Groups/Items

    Weight

    WPI based inflation (YoY) figures for last 6 months

    Oct-24

    Nov-24

    Dec-24

    Jan-25

    Feb-25*

    Mar-25*

    ALL COMMODITIES

    100.00

    2.75

    2.16

    2.57

    2.51

    2.38

    2.05

    I. PRIMARY ARTICLES

    22.62

    8.26

    5.49

    6.02

    4.58

    2.81

    0.76

    A. Food Articles

    15.26

    13.49

    8.48

    8.53

    5.83

    3.38

    1.57

    Cereals

    2.82

    7.80

    7.71

    6.77

    7.33

    6.77

    5.49

    Paddy

    1.43

    7.47

    7.58

    6.93

    6.22

    5.17

    3.88

    Wheat

    1.03

    8.04

    8.20

    7.48

    9.75

    9.58

    7.96

    Pulses

    0.64

    9.27

    5.97

    5.02

    5.13

    -1.04

    -2.98

    Vegetables

    1.87

    62.86

    29.34

    28.57

    8.11

    -5.80

    -15.88

    Potato

    0.28

    79.11

    82.64

    92.36

    72.57

    27.54

    -6.77

    Onion

    0.16

    39.25

    1.08

    16.98

    28.33

    48.05

    26.65

    Fruits

    1.60

    13.60

    5.59

    11.16

    15.30

    20.88

    20.78

    Milk

    4.44

    3.00

    2.04

    2.15

    2.58

    1.58

    1.41

    Eggs, Meat & Fish

    2.40

    -0.52

    3.16

    5.43

    3.56

    1.48

    0.71

    B. Non-Food Articles

    4.12

    -1.34

    -0.61

    2.40

    3.01

    4.84

    1.75

    Oil Seeds

    1.12

    1.98

    0.32

    -1.35

    0.16

    0.11

    0.34

    C. Minerals

    0.83

    4.51

    6.30

    5.70

    1.56

    0.98

    2.84

    D. Crude Petroleum & Natural gas

    2.41

    -11.80

    -7.74

    -6.77

    -0.53

    -4.06

    -7.64

    Crude Petroleum

    1.95

    -12.49

    -7.20

    -6.86

    -0.76

    -7.99

    -11.50

    II. FUEL & POWER

    13.15

    -4.31

    -4.03

    -2.57

    -1.87

    -0.71

    0.20

    LPG

    0.64

    2.57

    1.81

    2.47

    2.23

    0.90

    0.24

    Petrol

    1.60

    -7.35

    -6.83

    -5.09

    -3.64

    -4.21

    -3.86

    HSD

    3.10

    -6.23

    -5.68

    -4.30

    -3.61

    -3.20

    -2.88

    III. MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS

    64.23

    1.78

    2.07

    2.14

    2.65

    2.86

    3.07

    Mf/o Food Products

    9.12

    9.39

    9.57

    9.75

    10.73

    11.06

    10.67

    Vegetable & Animal Oils and Fats

    2.64

    26.03

    28.83

    31.82

    33.74

    33.59

    30.95

    Mf/o Beverages

    0.91

    2.13

    2.28

    1.89

    1.51

    1.66

    1.58

    Mf/o Tobacco Products

    0.51

    1.09

    1.14

    4.40

    4.02

    2.74

    2.21

    Mf/o Textiles

    4.88

    0.89

    1.42

    2.32

    2.24

    1.93

    1.71

    Mf/o Wearing Apparel

    0.81

    1.25

    1.52

    1.65

    2.19

    1.71

    1.98

    Mf/o Leather and Related Products

    0.54

    1.37

    1.45

    1.53

    3.24

    1.70

    2.02

    Mf/o Wood and of Products of Wood and Cork

    0.77

    1.09

    0.54

    0.47

    1.01

    -0.47

    0.60

    Mf/o Paper and Paper Products

    1.11

    0.94

    0.07

    -0.07

    0.58

    2.10

    2.39

    Mf/o Chemicals and Chemical Products

    6.47

    -0.22

    0.29

    0.59

    1.03

    1.26

    0.96

    Mf/o Pharmaceuticals, Medicinal Chemical and Botanical Products

    1.99

    0.42

    1.19

    0.49

    1.40

    0.76

    1.26

    Mf/o Rubber and Plastics Products

    2.30

    1.89

    1.42

    1.18

    1.65

    1.57

    1.17

    Mf/o other Non-Metallic Mineral Products

    3.20

    -3.83

    -2.38

    -2.73

    -1.64

    -0.90

    -0.30

    Cement, Lime and Plaster

    1.64

    -7.20

    -5.38

    -6.26

    -5.10

    -3.67

    -2.01

    Mf/o Basic Metals

    9.65

    -2.04

    -1.14

    -1.50

    -1.15

    -0.65

    0.29

    Mild Steel – Semi Finished Steel

    1.27

    -1.67

    -0.68

    -0.85

    0.09

    0.51

    1.03

    Mf/o Fabricated Metal Products, Except Machinery and Equipment

    3.15

    -2.81

    -2.87

    -1.45

    -1.81

    -1.02

    0.15

    Note: * = Provisional. Mf/o = Manufacture of

     

    Annex-III

    Wholesale Price Indices (Base Year: 2011-12=100) for last 6 months

    Commodities/Major Groups/Groups/Sub-Groups/Items

    Weight

    WPI Numbers for last 6 months

    Oct-24

    Nov-24

    Dec-24

    Jan-25

    Feb-25*

    Mar-25*

    ALL COMMODITIES

    100.00

    156.7

    156.4

    155.7

    155.0

    154.8

    154.5

    I. PRIMARY ARTICLES

    22.62

    200.6

    197.9

    193.8

    189.7

    186.6

    184.6

    A. Food Articles

    15.26

    217.9

    213.7

    207.5

    199.8

    195.8

    194.4

    Cereals

    2.82

    208.6

    211.0

    211.4

    212.3

    213.0

    211.2

    Paddy

    1.43

    204.4

    205.9

    205.3

    203.1

    203.6

    203.6

    Wheat

    1.03

    209.6

    213.8

    215.5

    219.6

    220.8

    217.1

    Pulses

    0.64

    234.5

    230.8

    224.0

    217.1

    208.5

    205.1

    Vegetables

    1.87

    360.9

    334.6

    288.5

    222.6

    188.3

    177.5

    Potato

    0.28

    375.6

    384.1

    365.1

    292.5

    216.3

    199.7

    Onion

    0.16

    478.2

    495.8

    414.7

    316.6

    303.8

    273.7

    Fruits

    1.60

    210.5

    198.4

    193.3

    196.7

    209.6

    218.5

    Milk

    4.44

    185.6

    185.2

    185.6

    187.0

    186.4

    186.8

    Eggs, Meat & Fish

    2.40

    171.0

    173.1

    174.7

    174.7

    171.5

    170.1

    B. Non-Food Articles

    4.12

    161.9

    162.8

    166.2

    167.5

    166.8

    162.8

    Oil Seeds

    1.12

    185.4

    185.6

    182.8

    183.4

    178.9

    179.3

    C. Minerals

    0.83

    229.6

    229.4

    230.1

    227.2

    227.2

    227.9

    D. Crude Petroleum & Natural gas

    2.41

    147.3

    146.7

    141.9

    150.9

    148.7

    145.1

    Crude Petroleum

    1.95

    126.1

    125.0

    119.5

    130.0

    124.4

    120.8

    II. FUEL & POWER

    13.15

    148.8

    149.9

    151.8

    152.0

    153.8

    152.4

    LPG

    0.64

    119.8

    123.6

    124.6

    123.7

    123.0

    123.7

    Petrol

    1.60

    149.9

    148.7

    149.2

    150.8

    152.5

    151.8

    HSD

    3.10

    164.2

    164.4

    164.6

    165.6

    166.6

    165.4

    III. MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS

    64.23

    142.9

    143.1

    143.0

    143.4

    143.8

    144.4

    Mf/o Food Products

    9.12

    175.9

    177.5

    176.8

    177.5

    177.8

    179.4

    Vegetable & Animal Oils and Fats

    2.64

    178.2

    183.2

    185.6

    187.5

    188.5

    190.8

    Mf/o Beverages

    0.91

    134.5

    134.7

    134.5

    134.4

    134.5

    134.6

    Mf/o Tobacco Products

    0.51

    176.0

    177.0

    180.3

    181.2

    180.0

    180.2

    Mf/o Textiles

    4.88

    135.9

    136.1

    136.8

    137.0

    137.0

    136.6

    Mf/o Wearing Apparel

    0.81

    153.9

    153.7

    154.4

    154.2

    154.3

    154.5

    Mf/o Leather and Related Products

    0.54

    125.7

    125.8

    126.0

    127.5

    125.8

    126.2

    Mf/o Wood and of Products of Wood and Cork

    0.77

    148.7

    148.5

    148.3

    149.6

    148.8

    150.0

    Mf/o Paper and Paper Products

    1.11

    139.8

    138.5

    138.3

    139.5

    140.8

    141.3

    Mf/o Chemicals and Chemical Products

    6.47

    136.3

    136.4

    136.5

    136.8

    137.1

    136.9

    Mf/o Pharmaceuticals, Medicinal Chemical and Botanical Products

    1.99

    143.5

    144.1

    144.0

    145.0

    145.0

    145.2

    Mf/o Rubber and Plastics Products

    2.30

    129.6

    128.6

    129.0

    129.3

    129.7

    129.7

    Mf/o other Non-Metallic Mineral Products

    3.20

    130.4

    131.4

    131.7

    132.2

    132.6

    132.7

    Cement, Lime and Plaster

    1.64

    128.8

    130.1

    130.2

    130.2

    131.2

    131.6

    Mf/o Basic Metals

    9.65

    139.3

    138.6

    137.5

    137.2

    137.6

    139.1

    Mild Steel – Semi Finished Steel

    1.27

    118.0

    117.5

    116.8

    117.3

    117.3

    118.2

    Mf/o Fabricated Metal Products, Except Machinery and Equipment

    3.15

    135.0

    135.3

    135.9

    135.3

    136.2

    136.4

    Note: * = Provisional. Mf/o = Manufacture of

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal

    (Release ID: 2121751) Visitor Counter : 188

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Lands Department releases figures on registered lease modifications, land exchanges, private treaty grants and lot extensions in first quarter of 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Lands Department (LandsD) announced today (April 15) that it registered 17 lease modifications and four land exchanges in the Land Registry during the quarter ending March 2025, of which four were modifications of a technical nature involving nil premium.

    Among these 21 land transactions, nine are located on Hong Kong Island, five are in Kowloon and seven are in the New Territories. The transactions exclude Small House cases.

    A further two lots were granted by private treaty during the period. One was granted for the development of innovation and technology park and the talent accommodation in the Loop; and the other one was granted for an electricity substation in Yuen Long.
     
    There were no lot extensions registered during the quarter.

    The above land transactions realised a total land premium of about $2,069.406 million.

    Transaction records of the lease modifications, land exchanges, private treaty grants and lot extensions, including those registered recently, are uploaded to the LandsD website (www.landsd.gov.hk/en/land-disposal-transaction/land-transaction.html) on a monthly basis. Details of the transactions may be obtained by searching the registered documents in the Land Registry.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government accords high priority for Muslims’ Haj pilgrimage

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 10:54AM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India accords high priority for Indian Muslims to undertake the annual Haj pilgrimage.

    As a result of its efforts, the country allocation for India which was 136,020 in 2014 has gradually increased to 175,025 in 2025. These quotas are finalized by the Saudi authorities closer to the time of the pilgrimage.

    The Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA) through the Haj Committee of India manages arrangements for the bulk of the quota allotted to India, which is 122,518 in the current year. All the necessary arrangements including flight schedules, transportation, Mina camps, accommodation, and additional services have been taken up and completed as per the Saudi requirements, within the given timelines. 

    The balance of the quota was allotted, as is customary, to Private Tour Operators. Due to changes in Saudi guidelines, more than 800 Private Tour Operators were consolidated into 26 legal entities termed Combined Haj Group Operators (CHGOs), by MoMA this year. Addressing legal challenges, the Haj quota was allocated by MoMA to these 26 CHGOs well in advance. However, despite reminders, they failed to comply with the necessary timelines set by the Saudi authorities and failed to finalise the mandatory contracts, including for Mina camps, accommodation and transport of pilgrims, as required under the Saudi regulations.

    Government of India has been continuously engaging on this matter with the concerned Saudi authorities, including at the Ministerial level.

    The Saudi Haj Ministry highlighted its concerns for the safety of the pilgrims, particularly in Mina, where Haj rituals have to be completed under extreme summer heat conditions in a limited space. It also underlined that due to delays, the available space in Mina became occupied. The Saudi authorities have further conveyed that they were not extending the timelines for any country this year.

    Due to the Government’s intervention, the Saudi Haj Ministry has agreed to re-open the Haj Portal (Nusuk Portal) to all CHGOs to complete their work in respect of 10,000 pilgrims based on the current space availability in Mina.

    Directions have been issued by MoMA to CHGOs to do so urgently. India would naturally appreciate any gesture by Saudi authorities to accommodate more pilgrims.

    ***

    SS/ISA

    (Release ID: 2121726) Visitor Counter : 64

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by PSCST at press conference of French May Arts Festival and French GourMay 2025 (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by PSCST at press conference of French May Arts Festival and French GourMay 2025 (English only) 
    Mrs Cheng (Co-chairman of the Board of French May Arts Festival, Mrs Mignonne Cheng), Mrs Drulhe (Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mrs Christile Drulhe), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good morning. It is my great honour to join you all at the press conference of this year’s French May Arts Festival and French GourMay.
     
    Since its inception in 1993, French May has spanned over 30 years and established itself as one of Hong Kong’s, and even Asia’s, most prestigious arts and cultural celebrations. Stepping into the 32nd edition, French May Arts Festival will as always bring together world-class artists and programmes with rich French characteristics to the community, further adding vibrancy to the cultural landscape of Hong Kong.
     
    I’m glad to know that this year’s French May will feature more than 60 events spotlighting over 200 French and Hong Kong artists. Highlights include the ongoing exhibition, “Picasso for Asia - A Conversation”, which is co‑presented by French May, Musée National Picasso-Paris and M+, and presents more than 60 masterpieces by Pablo Picasso, together with 130 works of contemporary Asian artists. This project, which is supported by the Mega Arts and Cultural Events Fund under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, is a good example of initiatives which promote East-West cultural exchanges.
     
    Just last month, we had our Super March welcoming globally renowned arts and cultural programmes and visitors from around the world. And I must thank French May for your commitment to creating a platform for arts and cultural exchanges and bringing about opportunities for the industry and community. Your invaluable contributions complement the Government’s wide-ranging efforts in developing Hong Kong into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges.
     
    I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong, and all the collaborating organisations and artists that work together to bring this year’s Festival to life. I’m also glad to note that French GourMay will return this year, with French spirits as well as Hong Kong’s nightlife and bars, being the spotlights of the Festival.
     
    I have no doubt that this year’s French May Arts Festival and French GourMay will be another resounding success for all. Thank you.
    Issued at HKT 12:25

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Olympic medalist and noted athlete, Karnam Malleswari meets Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 9:37AM by PIB Delhi

    Olympic medalist and noted athlete, Karnam Malleswari met the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in Yamunanagar yesterday. He commended her effort to mentor young athletes.

    Shri Modi wrote in a post on X:

    “Met Olympic medalist and noted athlete, Karnam Malleswari in Yamunanagar yesterday. India is proud of her success as a sportswoman. Equally commendable is her effort to mentor young athletes.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2121717) Visitor Counter : 144

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LegCo Secretariat releases Policy Pulse on “Laws on safeguarding national security”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:
     
         Today (April 15) is the National Security Education Day. The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance has been in effect for one year since its passage by the Legislative Council (LegCo) in a historic unanimous vote on the Third Reading in March last year, while the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKNSL) will celebrate its fifth anniversary at the end of June this year. The LegCo Secretariat today released a Policy Pulse on “Laws on safeguarding national security”. This issue provides a brief overview of the key points of the dual legislation on national security, namely the HKNSL and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, how the dual legislation properly protects human rights and ensures that the public will not be inadvertently caught by the law, its role in contributing to the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, as well as relevant discussions of LegCo along with suggestions by Members.
     
         National security is a matter of top priority for any state. The enactment of laws on safeguarding national security is an inherent right of every sovereign state, and also an international practice. The Policy Pulse outlines the latest situation of national security laws enacted by some foreign countries, including the Countering Foreign Interference Act introduced by Canada in 2024, and the New Zealand Parliament is also scrutinising the Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill aimed at addressing foreign interference. Meanwhile, the United States and the United Kingdom each has at least 21 pieces and 14 pieces of national security-related legislation respectively.
     
         The dual legislation on national security, together with the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of HKSAR, have jointly established a comprehensive and effective legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security, reflecting the implementation of national security within the purview of the Central Authorities and as the constitutional duty of HKSAR.
     
         The Policy Pulse also highlights that since the implementation of the dual legislation on national security, Hong Kong ranks highly in a number of international ratings, including global financial centre status, economic freedom, inward foreign direct investment recipient, and world competitiveness. Hong Kong ranked as the world’s freest economy in the Economic Freedom of the World 2024 Annual Report, with the number of overseas companies based in Hong Kong stood at 9 960 in 2024, a nearrly 10 percent rise from the previous year. These achievements reflect the international community’s continued strong confidence in Hong Kong. They also attest to how improved laws and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security help maintain Hong Kong’s political and social stability and cultivate a more secure, liberal, open and expectable business environment, which plays a solid and fundamental role in safeguarding the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong, and further enabling the city’s advancement from stability to prosperity.
     
         The Safeguarding National Security Bill was passed by LegCo in a historic unanimous vote on the Third Reading on March 19, 2024. The Policy Pulse outlines LegCo’s scrutiny of the Bill and highlights Member’s views on the follow-up work after the Bill’s passage. Members suggested that various bureaux, departments, statutory bodies, etc., establish codes, procedures or guidelines to ensure that national security is regarded as an important consideration when discharging their day-to-day functions and implementing any programmes or projects. Members also considered that the Administration should ensure that public officers fully understand the contents of national security laws and abide by the requirements of these laws in discharging their duties.
     
         Members suggested the Administration step up public education on all fronts to enable the public, the business sector and investors to understand the implementation of the dual legislation on national security in a clear and easily comprehensible manner. The Administration should also effectively carry out its explanatory work to the international community, including making good use of the networks of overseas Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices and Invest Hong Kong to explain to various overseas sectors how the dual legislation on national security effectively safeguards national security in Hong Kong in accordance with the rule of law principle, while at the same time fully respects and protects human rights. Members expected that the Administration proactively enhance its efforts in attracting enterprises and investment so that Hong Kong could serve as a “super-connector” and a “super value-adder” for the world, as well as continuing to take the initiative to clarify and rebut inaccurate remarks and unwarranted smears against the HKSAR’s work on safeguarding national security.
     
         The detailed content of “Laws on safeguarding national security” is available on the LegCo Website. The Policy Pulse, published by the LegCo Secretariat, covers specific topics, offers a comprehensive overview of related policy developments and summarises key discussions in LegCo.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth calls on Tanzanian Vice-President Mr Philip Isdor Mpango and Minister of Defence & National Service Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax in Dar es Salaam

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 14 APR 2025 11:00PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth called on Vice-President of Tanzania Mr Philip Isdor Mpango and Minister of Defence & National Service Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax in Dar es Salaam on April 14, 2025. During his meeting with the Tanzanian Vice-President, Raksha Rajya Mantri updated him on the Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement cooperation from Indian defence industries to exercise (AIKEYME) and Defence Expo inaugurated on April 13, 2025. He offered to fulfil the defence requirements of Tanzania People’s Defence Force. India-Tanzania development partnership, cultural connections and cooperation in health and education were also discussed. 

    During the meeting between Tanzanian Minister of Defence & National Service and Raksha Rajya Mantri, the ongoing defence cooperation was reviewed and new ways were explored to further bolster the ties. Training of Tanzania officers in military training institutes of India, defence industry collaboration, cooperation in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations, and cyber security were some of the key areas of cooperation deliberated upon during the meeting. 

    Raksha Rajya Mantri ended his day with an Indian Community event where he highlighted the progress India has made in various spheres in recent years. He dwelt upon the contribution of the Indian diaspora in growth and prosperity of not only India but Tanzania too. He visited Sanatan Dharma and Swaminarayan Mandir prior to the interaction with the Indian community. He also participated in the Ambedakar Jayanti celebrations organised in the High Commission of India in Tanzania.

     ****

    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2121709) Visitor Counter : 87

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM extends warm wishes on occasion of Poila Boishakh

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:38AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today extended warm wishes on occasion of Poila Boishakh.

    In a post on X, he wrote:

    “Greetings on Poila Boishakh!”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2121707) Visitor Counter : 123

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Three property owners fined over $400,000 in total for not complying with statutory orders

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Three property owners were convicted and fined over $400,000 in total by the court late last month and early this month respectively for failing to comply with statutory orders issued under the Buildings Ordinance (BO) (Cap. 123).

         The first case involved the alteration of 14 units on two floors into mini-storage areas in an industrial building at Hi Yip Street, Yuen Long. The alteration and addition works were carried out without prior approval and consent from the Buildings Department (BD) and obstructed the means of escape and access for firefighting and rescue units, while affecting the fire resistant construction of the building, which contravened the Building (Planning) Regulations and the Building (Construction) Regulation. The alterations also rendered the building as dangerous, therefore removal orders and repair orders were served on the owner under section 24(1) and section 26 of the BO.

         Failing to comply with the removal orders and the repair orders, the owner was prosecuted by the BD and was fined $220,690 in total, of which $38,690 was the fine for the number of days that the offences continued, upon conviction at the Tuen Mun Magistrates’ Courts on March 28.

         The second case involved unauthorised building works (UBWs) at a three-storey house at Yu Chui Street, Tai Lam, Tuen Mun, which included the removal of the approved railing at a garden adjoining the slope and the construction of unauthorised structures with an area of about 400 square metres on the slope. The illegal works also included the removal of an external wall and the erection of an unauthorised structure with an area of about 10 sq m on the lower ground floor, the erection of an unauthorised structure with an area of about 20 sq m on the flat roof, and the erection of supporting frames for solar panels with an area of about 28 sq m on the roof. As the UBWs were carried out without prior approval and consent from the BD, removal orders were served on the owner under section 24(1) of the BO.

         Failing to comply with the orders, the owner was prosecuted by the BD and was fined $100,860 in total by the court, of which $42,860 was the fine for the number of days that the offence continued, upon conviction at the Tuen Mun Magistrates’ Courts on March 28.

         The third case involved an unauthorised structure with an area of about 130 sq m on the flat roof of a residential building at Tung Ming Street, Kwun Tong. As the UBWs were carried out without prior approval and consent from the BD, a removal order was served on the owner under section 24(1) of the BO.

         Failing to comply with the removal order, the owner was prosecuted by the BD in 2017 and was fined $25,650 upon conviction by the court. As the owner persisted in not complying with the removal order, the BD instigated prosecution again last year. The owner was subsequently fined $84,460, of which $54,460 was the fine for the number of days that the offence continued, upon conviction at the Kwun Tong Magistrates’ Courts on April 1.

         A spokesman for the BD said today (April 15), “UBWs, including the unauthorised alterations causing obstruction to the means of escape and means of access for firefighting and rescue, or affecting the fire resisting construction of a building, may lead to serious consequences. The owners concerned must comply with the statutory orders issued by the BD without delay. The BD will continue to take enforcement action against owners who fail to comply with statutory orders, including instigation of prosecution, to ensure building safety.”

         Failure to comply with a removal order without reasonable excuse is a serious offence under the BO. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $200,000 and one year’s imprisonment, and a further fine of $20,000 for each day that the offence continues. Moreover, failure to comply with a repair order without reasonable excuse is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of level 5 ($50,000 at present) and one year’s imprisonment, and a further fine of $5,000 for each day that the offence continues.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –