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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Korean restaurant brand Samsic establishes foothold in Hong Kong (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Korean restaurant brand Samsic establishes foothold in Hong Kong  
    Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion Mr Arnold Lau said, “Korean food and pop culture are popular in Hong Kong and there is a strong Korean community in the city. Together with its worldwide reputation as a culinary capital in Asia, Hong Kong is an ideal place for Samsic to expand in the region. I wish it every success and beyond.”
     
    He added, “Further to the visit by our Director-General of Investment Promotion, Ms Alpha Lau, to Seoul and a delegation of Korean food and beverage companies visiting Hong Kong to explore business opportunities last month, we are delighted to see the positive outcome from our investment promotion efforts.”
     
    The Executive Director of BMJ Samsik HK Limited, Mr Chan Hyung Hwang, said, “Hong Kong has a sophisticated customer base with high purchasing power. Its status as a global trading hub and friendly business environment also appeals to us to set up our presence in the city.”
     
    Mr Chan added, “We target to establish a strong presence in Hong Kong and plan to open more than 10 Samsic Korean Soup Restaurants in key areas throughout Hong Kong, including Tsim Sha Tsui and Wan Chai. Hong Kong is an international city with a dynamic culture. We aim to take the lead in promoting traditional Korean cuisine globally via the city.”
     
    Located on Shelley Street in Central, the new restaurant offers a variety of authentic Korean dishes, including pork bone soup, blood sausage soup rice, stone pot rice, braised pork bone and hangover soup. Its dishes originate from a region in Korea called Byeongcheon-myeon, which is famous for the traditional Korean dish called black pudding soup, a favourite among many Koreans.
     
    For a copy of the photos, please visit www.flickr.com/photos/investhk/albums/72177720324814422Issued at HKT 10:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri flags-off expeditions to Mt Everest & Mt Kangchenjunga

    Source: Government of India

    Raksha Mantri flags-off expeditions to Mt Everest & Mt Kangchenjunga

    25 Indian Army climbers aim to summit Mt Everest; Joint team of Indian Army & Nepali Army set to scale Mt Kangchenjunga

    10 NCC cadets aim to scale Mt Everest

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 1:25PM by PIB Delhi

                Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh flagged-off expeditions to Mount Everest (8,848m) and Mount Kangchenjunga (8,586m) from South Block, New Delhi on April 03, 2025. The Indian Army’s Mount Everest expedition, comprising 34 climbers, will follow the traditional South Col Route, and will be led by Lieutenant Colonel Manoj Joshi. The joint Indo-Nepal expedition, which aims to scale Mount Kangchenjunga, will feature 12 mountaineers from the Indian Army and six from the Nepali Army. It will be led by Colonel Sarfaraz Singh of the Indian Army.

                Additionally, a joint NCC expedition to Mount Everest will be led by Colonel Amit Bisht. The team consists of five girl cadets, five boy cadets, four officers and 11 permanent instructors staff. Scheduled to commence this month, the teams aim to reach their respective summits by May 2025.

                Raksha Mantri interacted with the mountaineers, and commended their courage, dedication & determination. He exuded confidence that these expeditions will inspire the youth, and underscore India’s leadership in high-altitude mountaineering.

                The expeditions are designed to showcase the exceptional skills, resilience, and indomitable spirit of the Armed Forces, while setting new benchmarks in the field of high-altitude mountaineering. These are expected to inspire future generations to pursue their dreams with courage, determination, and the spirit of excellence.

                The event, organised by the Indian Army, was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Nepal’s Ambassador to India Dr Shankar P Sharma, a delegation from Nepal, and other senior civil & military officials.

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    VK/SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2118162) Visitor Counter : 60

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM witnesses a captivating performance of the Thai Ramayana, Ramakien

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 1:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Expressing admiration for the deep cultural and civilisational ties between India and Thailand, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi witnessed an enriching performance of the Thai Ramayana, Ramakien today in Bangkok, Thailand.

    In separate posts on X, he wrote:

    “A cultural connect like no other!

    Witnessed a captivating performance of the Thai Ramayana, Ramakien. It was a truly enriching experience that beautifully showcased the shared cultural and civilisational ties between India and Thailand.

    The Ramayana truly continues to connect hearts and traditions across so many parts of Asia.”

     

     

    “ความสัมพันธ์ทางวัฒนธรรมที่ไม่เหมือนใคร! ได้ชมการแสดง รามเกียรติ์ ที่น่าหลงใหลซึ่งเป็นประสบการณ์ที่เต็มไปด้วยคุณค่า แสดงให้เห็นถึงความสัมพันธ์ทางวัฒนธรรมและอารยธรรมที่มีร่วมกันระหว่างอินเดียและไทยได้อย่างงดงาม รรามเกียรติ์ยังคงสานสัมพันธ์แห่งจิตวิญญาณและประเพณีในหลายพื้นที่ของเอเชียอย่างต่อเนื่อง”

     

     

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    MJPS/SR

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Red tides sighted

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Red tides sighted 
         On March 28, staff of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) spotted the first red tide at Silverstrand Beach, Sai Kung. Another red tide was spotted at Clear Water Bay Second Beach, Sai Kung, on April 2 by staff of the LCSD. The red tide at Silverstrand Beach has dissipated, while the red tide at Clear Water Bay Second Beach persists. No associated fish deaths have been reported as of today.
     
         A spokesman for the working group said, “The red tide at Silverstrand Beach was formed by Noctiluca scintillans, while the red tide at Clear Water Bay Second Beach was formed by Scrippsiella acuminata. Both algal species are common in Hong Kong waters and non-toxic.”
     
         The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) urged mariculturists at the fish culture zones of Ma Nam Wat, Kau Sai, Kai Lung Wan, Tai Tau Chau, Leung Shuen Wan, Tiu Cham Wan, Tung Lung Chau and Po Toi O to monitor the situation closely and increase aeration where necessary.
     
         Red tide is a natural phenomenon. The AFCD’s proactive phytoplankton monitoring programme will continue to monitor red tide occurrences to minimise the impact on the mariculture industry and the public.
    Issued at HKT 15:00

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Music Office bands, choirs and orchestras invite applications for membership

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Music Office of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department is recruiting new members for its 18 bands and orchestras as well as two choirs. Training for 2025-26 will be held from this September to May 2026. The deadline for applications is May 6.
     
         The 20 ensembles are respectively the Hong Kong Youth Chinese Orchestra, the Island Youth Chinese Orchestra, the Kowloon Youth Chinese Orchestra, the New Territories Youth Chinese Orchestra, the Music Office Junior Chinese Orchestra, the Music Office Children’s Chinese Orchestra, the Hong Kong Youth Symphony Orchestra, the Music Office Junior Symphony Orchestra, the Hong Kong Youth Strings, the Island Youth Strings, the Kowloon Youth Strings, the New Territories Youth Strings, the Hong Kong Youth Symphonic Band, the Music Office Youth Brass Band, the Kowloon Youth Symphonic Band, the New Territories Youth Symphonic Band, the Music Office Junior Symphonic Band, the Hong Kong Children’s Symphonic Band, the Music Office Youth Choir and the Music Office Children’s Choir.
     
         Young musicians aged 25 or below who have attained the required music qualifications can now apply to enrol in different levels of ensemble and choir training. Apart from weekly rehearsals, members can also broaden their horizons by participating in various cultural activities and concerts, or attending exchange sessions with young musicians from the Mainland and overseas.
     
         Training is free, but members are required to bring their own instruments (except for bulky instruments) and pay for their uniforms and music scores.
     
         Interested persons can visit the Music Office website (www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/mo/training/bandchoirandorchestratraining.html) for more details and application submission. Course pamphlets and application forms are also available at all Music Office’s music centres. Qualified applicants will receive an audition notification by May 31. Applicants will be notified of their application results by August 15.
     
         For enquiries, please call the Music Office’s music centres at 2802 0657 (Wan Chai), 2796 2893 (Kwun Tong), 2399 2200 (Mong Kok), 2158 6462 (Sha Tin) and 2417 6429 (Tsuen Wan).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKSAR Government donates relief supplies to Myanmar and approves grants to provide relief (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​In view of the recent strong earthquake that occurred in Sagaing Region of Myanmar, which resulted in serious casualties and infrastructure damage, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has been working in close communication with the Consulate General of Myanmar in Hong Kong, and has co-ordinated and collected a batch of emergency relief supplies in response to the urgent needs of the disaster-stricken areas. The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, attended a donation ceremony at Hong Kong International Airport today (April 3) to hand over the relief supplies to the Consul-General of Myanmar in Hong Kong, and immediately arranged for their delivery to the disaster-stricken areas to meet the immediate needs of the people affected.

         Over 20 tonnes of relief supplies, including key items such as food, drinking water, medical kits and temporary accommodation materials were collected swiftly and in accordance with the specific needs of the disaster-stricken areas through the co-operation and co-ordination of different government departments. A portion of the relief supplies were donated by the local community.

    Mr Chan remarked that the HKSAR Government fully supports disaster relief for the earthquake in Myanmar, and the supplies carry the HKSAR’s support and blessings to the disaster-stricken areas. He expressed his sincere hope that the relief efforts will tide local people over this period of difficulties so that they can resume a normal life as soon as possible. Mr Chan added that the HKSAR Government will continue to monitor the latest situation in Myanmar closely and provide further support as needed.

    Also attending the ceremony were the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui; the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho; the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak; the Acting Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau; and the Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Ho Kai-ming.

    The HKSAR Government has activated the Disaster Relief Fund mechanism previously and has liaised closely with various relief organisations. It has given in-principle approval for grants totalling about $30 million to seven organisations. All seven organisations have extensive experience in implementing disaster relief projects. A list of the organisations with the grants approved is in the Annex.   

    The HKSAR Government will continue its close contact with the organisations concerned to ensure early confirmation of the detailed relief programmes to provide necessary and appropriate assistance to people affected, help the disaster-stricken areas overcome difficulties and resume a normal life as soon as possible.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of the Chairman’s Remarks on the Occasion of Rajya Sabha Day, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 11:37AM by PIB Delhi

    Hon’ble Members, I extend my most profound salutations on this auspicious occasion of Rajya Sabha Day.

    The Council of States, our esteemed Rajya Sabha, stands dignified as the House of Elders—the distinguished upper chamber of our parliamentary democracy.

    As the quintessential edifice of India’s federal architecture, this venerable institution ensures comprehensive representation, equilibrium in governance, and the cultivation of contemplative sagacity.

    Rajya Sabha endures as a distinguished forum where provincial perspectives and specialized expertise converge to enrich our national trajectory.

    As the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi astutely remarked during the 250th Session, while the Rajya Sabha may be designated as the Second House, it remains unequivocally paramount in its significance.

    The Parliament stands as our polaris—our unwavering North Star—illuminating the path forward during the nation’s most formidable challenges, serving as a beacon of guidance through turbulent times.

    This commemorative occasion beckons us to consecrate ourselves anew to preserving the illustrious traditions that ought to characterize this magnificent institution which, unlike the Lok Sabha, maintains its perennial continuity.

    The gravitas of this institution and the erudition of its distinguished members remain of transcendent importance.

    I implore the Hon’ble members to exemplify consummate conduct through excellence, unwavering devotion, steadfast commitment, profound scholarship, and discourse that stimulates intellectual contemplation and enlightenment.

    This exemplary standard must manifest with immediacy for the citizenry at large, as the Rajya Sabha must serve as the paradigmatic archetype for legislative bodies throughout our republic on the planet.

    On this momentous occasion, I exhort all Members to reaffirm their solemn covenant to constructive deliberation, erudite discourse, and collaborative statecraft.

    Let us remain resolute in safeguarding the sanctity of this august assembly and fortifying the democratic foundations of our great nation Bharat.

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    JK/RC/SM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare in association with Department of Legal Affairsorganizesa Training session on LIMBS portal

    Source: Government of India

    Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare in association with Department of Legal Affairsorganizesa Training session on LIMBS portal

    The training session represents a step towards capacity building of officials and to sensitize them for effective monitoring and timely action for safeguarding interest of Government in legal matters

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 11:16AM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare in association with Department of Legal Affairs organized a hands-on training session on Legal Information Management & Briefing System (LIMBS) on 02nd April 2025 under the chairmanship of Secretary (Pension). The training was attended by senior officials in the Department.

    Secretary (Pension) underlined the importance of LIMBS as a knowledge management tool for identifying high priority court cases and effective monitoring of all the court cases of the Department. He urged officers handling legal matters for regular updation of the details of the cases on the portal.

    The training was imparted by the trainers of the LIMBS Team of Department of Legal Affairs explaining all the aspects of the software including updation of cases and users in the Department. A presentation was given on LIMBS and the various functions and utilities were explained by the LIMBS team.It was an interactive session where the queries of the officers were patiently dealt by the Team and hand holding was provided.Suggestions were also given to the team by the Department for further improvement of the software.  

    The Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare is handling a large number of pension related court cases at in Central Administrative Tribunals, High Courts and Hon’ble Supreme Court. In order to have file timely replies, appoint nodal officers, appoint advocates, prepare/ file affidavits, an effective monitoring tool is essential.  DoPPW has vide O.M dated 15.07.2024 already apprised all the Ministries/Departments to refer cases to DoPPW at 1st appellate stage in cases of judgments against extant Government policy to improve presenting of Policies/Rules before Appellate courts. The training session held on 2nd April 2025 represents a step towards capacity building of the officers of the DoPPW and to sensitize them for effective monitoring and timely action for safeguarding interest of Government in legal matters.

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    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2118131) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special traffic and transport arrangements for triathlon event in Central and Wan Chai districts from this Friday to Sunday

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Special traffic and transport arrangements for triathlon event in Central and Wan Chai districts from this Friday to Sunday 
    1. Road closures
     2. Public transport arrangements

         To tie in with the road closure arrangements in the vicinity of Central Harbourfront, the departures of cross-harbour bus route nos. H1S and H2 heading to Central will be temporarily diverted to operate via Connaught Road Central in the following time periods until the closed road is reopened to traffic:
          During the road closure in Central Harbourfront, the bus stop on Man Yiu Street near Two International Finance Centre will be temporarily suspended.
     
         Members of the public are advised to make use of public transport services as far as possible to avoid traffic congestion and unnecessary delays. During the event, the TD and the Police will closely monitor the traffic situation. The Police may adjust the traffic arrangements subject to the prevailing crowd and traffic conditions in the areas. Members of the public should pay attention to the latest traffic news through radio, television or the “HKeMobility” mobile application.
     
         For details of the special traffic and public transport arrangements, members of the public may visit the TD website (www.td.gov.hkIssued at HKT 12:45

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: eHealth App introduces new function for viewing radiology reports

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    eHealth App introduces new function for viewing radiology reports 
         Users can generally view the radiology reports through the “Investigations” function of the App 14 days after the reports are released, and the App’s information centre will also issue relevant notifications. The HHB advises citizens to first enquire whether the HCPs can deposit examination records into their personal eHealth accounts when selecting private HCPs for radiological examinations, to enable the building of a comprehensive electronic health record (eHR).
     
         Currently, all public HCPs and over 115 private HCPs with more than 550 service locations in total, including private hospitals, medical group practices and radiological examination centres, are technically ready. If citizens have given “sharing consent” to relevant private HCPs, their radiology reports can then be deposited in their eHealth accounts for access by the citizens and other authorised healthcare professionals. As at the end of February this year, a total of 40 private HCPs (involving nearly 100 service locations) have deposited radiology reports into the eHealth accounts of over 3.1 million citizens upon obtaining their authorisations.
     
         A spokesman for the HHB said, “Under the eHealth+ five-year development plan, we are committed to building a personal lifelong eHR profile and a comprehensive personal medical record for every citizen, while creating a one-stop comprehensive health portal through the eHealth App to help citizens manage their health records, access health information, monitor personal health and establish a healthier lifestyle. With the further enhancement of the App’s function, radiology reports of citizens from both public and private HCPs, as well as those from various government-subsidised healthcare programmes (such as the Project on Enhancing Radiological Investigation Services through Collaboration with the Private Sector), are consolidated for citizens’ access at any time, eliminating the inconvenience of storing paper reports and saving costs on redundant tests. This also facilitates authorised HCPs in conducting analysis and comparison, thereby providing a seamless and personalised care journey for citizens.”
     
         Since the launch of the eHealth App in 2021, the Government has progressively expanded the health records available for citizens’ viewing. Currently, eHealth users can access nine types of eHRs, namely, personal identification and demographic data, allergies and adverse drug reactions, encounters and appointments, immunisation records, medication records, laboratory and radiology reports, healthcare referrals, observation and lifestyle records, as well as medical certificates. In the future, the Government will gradually make more health records available for citizen’s viewing, including radiology images, Chinese medicine prescription records as well as dental check-ups records and dental conditions.
     
         The Government will continue to take a multipronged approach to encourage and facilitate the deposit of citizens’ eHRs into eHealth by private HCPs, thereby assisting citizens in accessing, managing and using their own eHRs during the healthcare process. Through the eHealth website (www.ehealth.gov.hk/en/index.html 
         The Government announced the rollout of the eHealth+ five-year plan in the 2023 Policy Address, with a view to transforming eHealth into a comprehensive healthcare information infrastructure that integrates multiple functions of healthcare data sharing, service delivery and care journey management. eHealth+ aims to bring about a more seamless and personalised care journey for every citizen and facilitate care co-ordination and cross-sector collaboration, as well as health management and health surveillance, thus enabling citizens to enjoy higher-quality healthcare services while effectively supporting various healthcare policies.
     
         For more information, citizens may visit the eHealth thematic website (    app.ehealth.gov.hk/index.html?lang=enIssued at HKT 11:30

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister’s departure statement ahead of his visit to Thailand and Sri Lanka

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 6:47AM by PIB Delhi

    At the invitation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, I am departing today for Thailand on an Official visit and to attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit.

    Over the past decade, BIMSTEC has emerged as a significant forum for promoting regional development, connectivity and economic progress in the Bay of Bengal region. With its geographical location, India’s North Eastern region lies at the heart of BIMSTEC. I look forward to meeting the leaders of the BIMSTEC countries and engaging productively to further strengthen our collaboration with interest of our people in mind.

    During my official visit, I will have the opportunity to engage with Prime Minister Shinawatra and the Thai leadership, with a common desire to elevate our age-old historical ties, which are based on the strong foundations of shared culture, philosophy, and spiritual thought.

    From Thailand, I will pay a two day visit to Sri Lanka from 04-06 April. This follows the highly successful visit of President Disanayaka to India last December. We will have the opportunity to review progress made on the joint vision of “Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future” and provide further guidance to realise our shared objectives.

    I am confident that these visits will build on the foundations of the past and contribute to strengthening our close relationships for the benefit of our people and the wider region.

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    MJPS/SR

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 3RD REGIONAL AVIATION MINISTERS MEETING

    Source:

    MINISTERIAL ADDRESS by the Minister of Works Transport & infrastructure Hon. Olo Afoa Fiti Vaai [22nd March 2025]

    Mr. Chairman, Honorable Viliame Gavoka, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism of Fiji;

    Honorable Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Tonga;

    Fellow Ministers and Heads of delegations from our neighboring Pacific Communities and your respective delegations;

    Distinguished Partners and friends,

    Ladies and Gentlemen.

    It is a real privilege to meet you all in person in our 3rd Regional Aviation Ministers meeting as Samoa’s Minister for Civil Aviation.

    Samoa remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening our aviation sector. We are dedicated to enhancing the safety, resilience, and efficiency of both our domestic and regional aviation systems. At the same time, we are focused on creating meaningful opportunities to foster the growth and development of our aviation workforce.

    We believe in Investing in our people and ensuring that our regulatory frameworks are robust, modern, and fit for purpose, fundamental to achieving Samoa’s long-term aviation aspirations.

    Samoa believes that strong national systems work best when supported by strong regional cooperation. We reconfirm our commitment to working collaboratively, in line with the vision of the Blue Pacific 2050 Strategy and the Pacific Regional Aviation Strategy.

    Together, we can meet the challenges and opportunities facing Pacific aviation and I am proud Samoa is on that journey with our Pacific brothers and sisters.

    Samoa is a strong supporter of PASO. We want to see PASO succeed because we recognise the critical role it plays in facilitating safe, secure, and sustainable aviation across the region. Regional mechanisms like PASO are essential, and Samoa will continue to support and engage constructively.

    Samoa is encouraged by recent efforts to explore opportunities to create pathways for our people—alongside other States—to be developed and nurtured as the regional regulators of tomorrow. Investing in the Pacific’s own capability will ensure our future is safe and secure.

    In terms of the PICASST Amendments, Samoa supports, in principle, the proposed amendments to the Pacific Islands Civil Aviation Safety and Security Treaty, in line with our prior endorsement at RAMM2 in 2022, Samoa, is currently engaged in our domestic review process and look forward to formally confirming our position in due course.

    We remain committed to playing an active role in regional aviation collaboration, while also advancing our national priorities. We look forward to working alongside all of you as partners and friends.

    Honourable Chairman, fellow ministers, distinguished delegates, partners, and friends of the Pacific region.

    Let me conclude by placing on record Samoa’s deep appreciation to the Forum member states, our respective Partners, and, most importantly, our neighbouring Island States, who assisted Samoa in hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in October 2024.

    Your unwavering support through the secondment of personnel for logistics and overall aviation security at the airport, venues, accommodations and general operations allowed Samoa to successfully host the meeting as a true Pacific CHOGM.

    That, Mr. Chairman, is what the Pacific Way and True Regionalism are all about.

    Fa’afetai tele lava and soifua.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: SEVOTTAM AND EFFECTIVE REDRESSAL OF PUBLIC GRIEVANCES

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 4:31PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Workshop on Sevottam and Grievance Redressal plays a key role in improving public service delivery across the country. Sevottam is a comprehensive framework focused on Citizen’s Charter, Grievance Redressal Mechanism, and Capability Building for Service Delivery. Under this initiative, Government provides financial support to State ATIs/CTIs for setting up Sevottam Training Cells. Over the past three financial years (2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25), as part of Sevottam, 756 training courses have been conducted, training 24,942 officers from various State Governments. In the current financial year 2 National Workshops on “Effective Redressal of Public Grievances” on November 18, 2024, in New Delhi and February 20, 2025, in Bhopal, with participation from Central Ministries, State Governments, and State Administrative Training Institutes (ATIs) were conducted. Government has been actively leveraging technology to modernize CPGRAMS for a better citizen interface.

    In December 2021, DARPG signed an MoU with IIT Kanpur to develop the Intelligent Grievance Management System (IGMS), an AI/ML-driven platform that introduces semantic search, exploratory data analysis, and predictive analytics for enhanced grievance management. Government publishes the Grievance Redressal Index (GRAI) as part of CPGRAMS’ 10-Step Reforms, ranking Ministries and Departments based on efficiency, feedback, domain expertise, and organizational commitment. The objective of the GRAI Index is to provide Ministries and Departments with a comparative performance assessment, enabling them to identify areas for improvement and implement policy reforms to minimize grievances. The Right to Service (RTS) Act has been enacted by 22 States and Union Territories as of date, with RTS Commissions established in 8 of them (Assam, Chandigarh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Haryana, Meghalaya, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal). DARPG conducts regular meetings/ webinars with State and UT governments, collaborates with RTS Commissions to exchange best practices and improve service delivery by promoting e-services, bringing citizens and the government closer through technology, and engages with commissioners, and appellate officials to boost egovernance and enhance e-service delivery in the nation.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.   

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    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2118276) Visitor Counter : 23

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: PERFORMANCE OF CPENGRAMS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 4:30PM by PIB Delhi

    Centralized Pension Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPENGRAMS) has reduced the backlog and 1,94,611 grievances have been resolved during the last two years (from 01.03.2023 to 28.02.2025). For the redressal of grievances of family pensioners and super-senior pensioners, specific categorization of such grievances, including the delay in starting of family pension and additional pension, has been done for better monitoring. Further, regular reminders are issued and monthly Inter-Ministerial Review Meetings (IMRMs) are conducted for such cases. Also, under 100 days Action plan, a month long Special Campaign, for redressal of family pension grievances, was launched in July, 2024, which achieved 94% redressal. The Department has issued instructions including detailed instructions dated 16.10.2024 from time to time with emphasis on ultimate and conclusive redressal of the grievances within 21 days from earlier 30 days. Quality of redressal is monitored through feedback centre and Appeals are filed in the cases graded as ‘Poor’.

    These initiatives have helped in improving the redressal time and quality of redressal.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.   

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    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2118274) Visitor Counter : 21

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RIGHT TO INFORMATION ACT, 2005

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

    In terms of Section 2(h)(d) of the RTI Act, 2005, any authority or body or institution of selfgovernment established or constituted by notification issued or order made by the appropriate Government including any (i) body owned, controlled or substantially financed; (ii) non – Government organisation substantially financed, directly or indirectly by funds provided by the appropriate Government is considered as public authority.

    It is the obligation and responsibility of each and every Public Authority established under Section 2(h) of the RTI Act, 2005 to implement the provisions of the RTI Act. They are also under obligation to undertake the suo motu/proactive disclosure as mandated under Section 4(1)(b) of the RTI Act and comply with the guidelines issued by the Government from time to

    time.

    In this regard, the Government issued exhaustive guidelines on implementation of suo motu disclosure under section 4 of RTI Act, 2005 vide OM No.1/6/2011-IR dated 15.04.2013 which were reiterated on 07.11.2019.

    Para 4.5 of the aforesaid guidelines provide that the Central Information Commission should examine the third-party audit reports for each Ministry/Public Authority and offer advice/recommendations to the concerned Ministries/ Public Authorities.

    Further, as per Section 25(5) of the RTI Act, if it appears to the Central Information Commission (CIC) that the practice of a public authority in relation to the exercise of its functions under this Act does not conform with the provisions or spirit of this Act, it may give to the authority a recommendation specifying the steps which ought in its opinion to be taken for promoting such conformity. The CIC being the apex adjudicatory body set up under Section 12(1) of the RTI Act, functions autonomously without being subjected to directions by any other Authority under the RTI Act.

    Furthermore, the CIC in terms of Sections 18-20 of the RTI Act, have sufficient powers to enquire into complaints and to adjudicate appeals, including complaints regarding any public authority claiming itself to not be a public authority.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    ***

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: GRANT OF NOTIONAL INCREMENT TO THE EMPLOYEES

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

    Instructions in this regard were issued vide D/o Personnel & Training’s O.M. No. 19/116/2024-Pers.Pol. (Pay)(pt) dated 14.10.2024 in pursuance of the Interim Order dated06.09.2024 passed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court in M.A. Dy. No. 2400/2024, and after dueconsultation with D/o Legal Affairs and D/o Expenditure.

     It has been provided in para 6 of D/o Personnel & Training’s O.M. No.19/116/2024-Pers. Pol. (Pay)(pt) dated 14.10.2024 that the judgment dated 11.04.2023 will be given effect to incase of third parties from the date of the judgment, that is, the pension by taking into account one increment will be payable on and after 01.05.2023. Enhanced pension for the period prior to 30.04.2023 will not be paid. In case any retired employee has filed any application or writ petition and a beneficial order has been passed, the enhanced pension by including one increment will be payable from the month in which the application for intervention/ impleadment was filed.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.  

    ***

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, moves the statutory resolution in the Lok Sabha seeking approval of imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, moves the statutory resolution in the Lok Sabha seeking approval of imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur

    The House expresses its respect, sympathy, and deep sorrow for those who lost their lives in the violence in Manipur

    Ethnic violence in Manipur started due to a reservation-related dispute between two communities, triggered by a decision of the Manipur High Court

    No violence since past four months in Manipur

    The government is providing all necessary facilities, including food, medicines, and medical services, in the relief camps

    Online arrangements for technical education and medical education have been made

    Classes have been set up inside the camps for primary education, where arrangements for their learning have been made

    Home Minister says there should not be any violence and ethnic violence should not be linked to any political party

    Manipur has long experienced unrest, but the opposition is portraying it as if this is the first instance of violence in Manipur

    During the previous government’s tenure, three major ethnic violences in Manipur after 1993 lasted for 10 years, 3 years and six months, but no one, including the Home Minister, from the government visited the region

    Between 2012 and 2017, despite no ethnic violence, Manipur was shut down for an average of 212 days per year

    Before the High Court order, there was not a single day of shutdown and blockade in Manipur during our rule and there was no violence

    On the very day the High Court’s order was issued, security forces’ companies  were dispatched to the region via Air Force planes

    Home Minister appeals to all members, urging them not to politicize the issue, as the government is making every possible effort to restore peace in Manipur

    After the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur, discussions were held with both communities, and separate meetings with all organizations from both communities took place

    Ministry of Home Affairs will soon convene a joint meeting

    Government is working to restore peace in Manipur as soon as possible, rehabilitate those affected, and heal the wounds

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 4:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Minister, Shri Amit Shah, moved a statutory resolution in the Lok Sabha for the approval of the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur. The resolution was thereafter adopted by the lower house. The House also expressed its respect, sympathy, and deep sorrow for those who lost their lives in the violence in Manipur.

    Introducing the resolution, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, said that ethnic violence between two communities in Manipur had started due to a decision by the Manipur High Court regarding a reservation-related dispute. He mentioned that these are neither riots nor terrorism, but ethnic violence between two communities as a result of the interpretation of the High Court’s decision. Shri Shah further said that there has been no violence in Manipur for nearly four months, from December to March, and provisions for food, medicines, and medical facilities have been ensured in the camps. He said that online arrangements for technical and medical education have been made and for primary education, classes have been set up inside the camps, where arrangements for their studies have been made.

    Shri Amit Shah said that there should not be any violence and ethnic violence should not be linked to any political party. He mentioned that the opposition tried to portray a picture that ethnic violence occurred during our governance. He informed the House that between 1993 and 1998, there was a Naga-Kuki conflict in Manipur for five years, which resulted in 750 deaths, and sporadic incidents continued for a decade. Shri Shah emphasized that while we believe such incidents should never happen under our rule, an unfortunate decision led to the violence, which was immediately brought under control. He said that of the 260 deaths in the violence, 80 per cent occurred in the first month, while the remaining deaths occurred in the following months. He also mentioned that in the 1997-98 Kuki-Paite conflict, more than 50 villages were destroyed, 40,000 people were displaced, 352 people were killed, hundreds were injured, and 5,000 homes were burned. He further added that during the six-month-long Meitei-Pangal conflict took place in 1993 in which over 100 deaths occurred.

    Union Home Minister said that the opposition is trying to portray a picture as if this is the first violence in Manipur and our governance has failed. He mentioned that three major instances of violence—spanning 10 years, 3 years, and 6 months—had occurred during the rule of the previous government. He added that after these incidents of violence, no one from the then government, including the Home Minister, visited the region.

    Shri Amit Shah noted that BJP came to power in 2017, and in the previous five years, Manipur was shut down for an average of 212 days per year, despite the fact that no ethnic violence occurred during that time. He mentioned that there were over 1,000 encounters, which had to be taken cognizance of by the Supreme Court. Shri Shah said that before the High Court order, there was not a single day of shutdown and blockade in Manipur and there was no violence, in the six years of BJP rule since 2017. He said that in a specific situation, when both communities interpreted a High Court decision as being against them, violence erupted within just two days.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation stated that the opposition has also accused the government of ignoring the violence in Manipur. He informed the House that on the very day the High Court’s order was issued, security forces’ companies were dispatched to the region via Air Force planes. He emphasized that everyone shares the same concern on this matter. The Home Minister appealed to all members, urging them not to politicize the issue, as the government is making every possible effort to restore peace in Manipur. He added that for every life lost in this violence, the House should hold respect, empathy, and sorrow in its heart.

    Shri Amit Shah stated that after the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur, discussions were held with both communities, and separate meetings with all organizations from both communities have taken place. He mentioned that the Ministry of Home Affairs will soon convene a joint meeting. He emphasized that while the government is working to find a path to end the violence, the top priority is to establish peace. Shri Shah also noted that there have been no deaths in Manipur for the past four months, with only two people injured, and the situation is largely under control. However, he said that the situation would not be considered satisfactory until the displaced people are no longer living in camps. He further mentioned that discussions are ongoing regarding a rehabilitation package for the displaced people.

    Union Home Minister stated that our Chief Minister resigned, and then the Governor held discussions with 37 BJP members, 6 from NPP, 5 from NPF, 1 from JD(U), and 5 from Congress. He mentioned that when most of the members stated that they were not in a position to form the government, the Cabinet recommended the imposition of President’s Rule, which was accepted by the President. Shri Shah further stated that the government wants peace to be restored in Manipur as soon as possible, along with rehabilitation efforts and healing the wounds of the affected people.

    *****

    RK/VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2118264) Visitor Counter : 94

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKMA 2025 Pay Review

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HKMA 2025 Pay Review 
    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced today (April 3) the results of the 2025 annual pay review. The review was undertaken by the Governance Sub-Committee (GSC) of the Exchange Fund Advisory Committee (EFAC). The GSC’s recommendations have been approved by the Financial Secretary through EFAC.

    The Fixed Pay of the HKMA staff will be frozen for the coming year from April 2025. Variable Pay equivalent to 19.93 per cent of Total Pay will be paid to staff on the basis of their performance in 2024. Variable Pay is a one-off payment to staff who have attained or exceeded the required level of performance.Issued at HKT 19:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs reminds public before long weekend of Ching Ming Festival holiday not to bring “space oil drug” into or out of Hong Kong

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    With the long weekend of Ching Ming Festival holiday approaching, Hong Kong Customs today (April 3) reminded members of the public and travellers not to bring “space oil drug” into or out of Hong Kong in order to avoid breaching the law and incurring criminal liabilities.

    To step up the control of the “space oil drug”, the Government has listed etomidate, the main ingredient of the “space oil drug” and its three analogues (metomidate, propoxate and isopropoxate) as dangerous drugs.

    A spokesman for Hong Kong Customs said, “With the long weekend of the Ching Ming Festival holiday approaching, we will take more stringent enforcement actions against cross-boundary trafficking of the ‘space oil drug’ and other narcotics activities. Hong Kong Customs will not tolerate drug trafficking criminals and will bring them to justice.”

    Drug trafficking is a serious offence. Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, the maximum penalty upon conviction is life imprisonment and a fine of $5 million. The maximum penalty upon conviction for possession of dangerous drugs is imprisonment for seven years and a fine of $1 million.

    With a view to enhancing enforcement efficiency, Customs has incorporated etomidate and its analogues into the databases of raman spectrometers and ion scanners to increase frontline personnel’s capability in detecting the “space oil drug”. Customs will continue to work closely with Mainland and overseas law enforcement agencies to stringently combat cross-boundary drug trafficking activities.

    Members of the public are urged to report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) and online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM highlights the new energy and resolve in the lives of devotees with worship of Maa Durga in Navratri

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 6:57AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today highlighted the new energy and resolve in the lives of devotees with worship of Maa Durga in Navratri. He also shared a bhajan by Smt. Anuradha Paudwal.

    ***

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: AML/CFT Country lists update – April 2025

    Source: Isle of Man

    The Authority wishes to draw your attention to amendments to the country lists following the February 2025 FATF plenary. The country lists have been amended by the Cabinet Office and can be viewed on the Department of Home Affairs website.

    In particular, the Authority would like to highlight that:

    • Lao PDR (Laos) and Nepal have been added to the List B (i) and are now subject to increased monitoring.
    • Philippines has completed its Action Plans to resolve the identified strategic deficiencies within agreed timeframes and will no longer be subject to the FATF’s increased monitoring process. As a result, it has been removed from List B (i).
    • China have been added to List B (ii).
    • Algeria, Angola and Madagascar have been removed from List B (ii).
    • Anguilla, Argentina, Belize, Brunei-Darussalam, Ecuador, Guyana, Lesotho, Madagascar, Marshall Islands, Montserrat, Nauru, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Poland, Rwanda and Samoa have been added to List C.
    • China have been removed from List C.
    • Anguilla, Argentina, Armenia, Belize, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Guyana, Hungary, Madagascar, Marshall Islands, Montserrat, Nauru, Oman, Paraguay, Philippines, Senegal, Timor Leste and Tunisia have been added to List D.
    • Côte d’Ivoire, Moldova, Monaco and Nepal have been removed from List D.

    Most regulated or supervised entities should already have carried out their own evaluation for any impact on their own risk assessments and customer procedures arising from this. Further details regarding List B and steps to be taken can be found in this previous news item issued by the Authority in December 2022.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Dr. Poonam Gupta appointed as Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Government of India in exercise of the powers conferred by clause (a) of sub-section (1) read with sub-section (4) of section 8 of The Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, has appointed Dr. Poonam Gupta, Director General, National Council of Applied Economic Research, New Delhi as Deputy Governor of Reserve Bank of India for a period of three years from the date of joining the post or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/26

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: MSF hands over decade long programme in Kamrangirchar

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    The air in Kamrangirchar hangs thick with dust and rings with the clang of machinery. Located in Bangladesh, southeast Asia, just across the river from Dhaka’s towering skyline, this four-square-kilometre enclave is a world unto itself. Here, in the labyrinth of makeshift factories, hundreds of thousands of people labour in the shadows.

    “It’s like people are born, live, and die here without ever seeing Dhaka,” says Masud Kaiser, an Médecins Sans Fropntières (MSF) health educator who grew up in Kamrangirchar. “This [place] is a gateway to a new life for many, a chance to escape rural poverty. But the cost is often unbearably high.” 
     

    Occupational healthcare

    Behind the blue gates and down narrow, alleys, a hidden world of sweatshops thrives. Over 10,000 unregulated factories — crammed into basements, perched on rooftops, squeezed into single rooms — churn out goods for the domestic market. Men, women, and even children endure gruelling hours in hazardous conditions, their families their only safety net when illness or injury strikes.

    Hanif has spent a decade in a metal cabinet factory, his hands calloused and scarred. “If I get sick, I don’t get paid, but I keep my job,” he says. Like many, he’s paid by piece rate, his income fluctuating with his output. A bad injury can devastate his family, plunging them into deeper poverty.

    “Every time I have gone to MSF’s clinic and received care there, it has been very good because you get help quickly, and it doesn’t cost anything,” says Hanif.

    Our clinic opened in 2009, initially addressing the rampant malnutrition among children and evolving to tackle the most pressing needs: occupational health, sexual and reproductive health, and support for survivors of gender-based violence.  

    “The difference between the formal and informal sectors in Bangladesh is like heaven and hell,” explains Gayathrie Sadacharamani, MSF’s medical activity manager. “Here, there’s no oversight. Workers are worn out and discarded, their labour fuelling a system that often disregards their basic human dignity.” 

    The impact is far-reaching, rippling through families and communities. Housna Ara sews tunics for ten hours a day, her body aching, her eyes burning. “I have to work, or we won’t eat,” she says. Her fading eyesight, a direct consequence of her work, threatens her livelihood.

    MSF staff member prepares a vaccination for a factory worker in Kamrangirchar. Bangladesh, January 2025.
    MSF

    Children, too, are trapped in this relentless cycle. Robin, 15, and his 13-year-old brother are the sole breadwinners for their family, their childhoods stolen by necessity. Suma, also 15, works twelve-hour days in a textile factory, her dreams of school and a better life overshadowed by the immediate need to survive.

    Our clinic was nestled in the heart of Kamrangirchar. From first aid training to vaccinations and mental health support, it addressed the multifaceted needs of the community, understanding that health is inextricably linked to economic stability and social well-being.

    “In the last ten years, we provided occupational health services to about 77,000 workers in Kamrangirchar, of which 53 per cent were men and 47 per cent were women, and we provided occupational health services to more than 10,000 children,” says Dewan Muhammad Miskatul Mishnad, an MSF occupational health doctor.
     

    Care for sexual and gender-based violence

    The clinic provided care to women in Kamrangirchar facing the hardship of sexual and gender-based violence. Initially, reaching these women meant overcoming stigmas and actively seeking them out in their homes and workplaces.  

    “We’ve witnessed a profound shift in the community’s awareness and willingness to seek help,” Gazi Farzana Srabony, mental health activity manager in Kamrangirchar. “At the end, women came to us on their own, often secretly, driven by desperation and the hope they see in their neighbours who have received our care. They would say, ‘I came here because I can’t tell my family’.”

    “We’ve seen firsthand the impact of accessible services; and we are hopeful that other organisations will continue to build on what we’ve started,” says Srabony.  

    MSF’s outreach team in Kamrangirchar visiting door-to-door to share health messages to the community. Bangladesh, September 2024.
    Farah Tanjee/MSF

    More support is needed

    The challenges in Kamrangirchar are immense. The sheer number of factories, the continuous influx of new labourers, and systemic issues mean that the impact of MSF’s interventions, while valuable, was limited in scale. We provided essential support, like first aid and safety training, which offered crucial relief in a community where survival is a daily struggle. As we hand over this programme, local organisations and authorities plan to do their best to ensure that workers continue to receive necessary medical care.  

    Due to a global review and financial reprioritisation, after more than a decade working in partnership with the community in Kamrangirchar, by the end of March 2025, MSF handed over our Kamrangirchar projects.  

    In Kamrangirchar, MSF provided medical services through clinics in Ali Nagar and Madbor Bazar, supported the 31-bed government hospital with staff and resources, and conducted outreach to improve healthcare access and occupational health awareness in local factories.  

    Elsewhere in Bangladesh, MSF remains present in the Cox’s Bazar district which hosts Rohingya refugees who have fled targeted violence in neighbouring Myanmar’s Rakhine state since 1978. More than 1 million Rohingya are estimated to live in the confined camps of Cox’s Bazar district, where they arrived after fleeing violence in Myanmar. This includes the more than 60,000 people estimated to have arrived since January 2024, after renewed clashes between armed groups in Myanmar.

    Our current intervention in Cox’s Bazar started in 2009, when Kutupalong field hospital was established to serve both refugees and the local community. In August 2017, we scaled up activities and now run nine health facilities across Cox’s Bazar district, including three hospitals, three health centres and two specialised clinics.  

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Myanmar: UN Chief’s Media Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Comments to the media by António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General, on the situation in Myanmar.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAX_tbeG6jU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Gaza, Myanmar, Central African Republic & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Briefings Today and Tomorrow
    Secretary-General/Gaza
    Deputy Secretary-General
    UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East
    Myanmar
    Security Council
    Central African Republic
    Sudan
    South Sudan
    South Sudan/Humanitarian
    Somalia
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Haiti
    Missing Persons
    World Autism Day
    Screening

    BRIEFINGS TODAY AND TOMORROW
    Tomorrow, at 12:45 p.m., the Secretary-General of the United Nations will do a stakeout on the situation in Myanmar. There will be no noon briefing, but there will be a briefing from the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS), ahead of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, which is on Friday, April 4th. Richard Boulter, UNMAS’ Chief of Design, Operational Support and Oversight will be here to brief. He will be joined virtually by Edwin Faigmane, Chief of the Mine Action Programme in Nigeria, and Fatma Zourrig, Chief of the Mine Action Programme in Libya. That will be around 11:30 a.m. tomorrow.

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/GAZA
    The Secretary-General is deeply alarmed by the human toll of the intensified hostilities taking place in Gaza. He condemns the reported killing of over a thousand people, including women and children, since the collapse of the ceasefire.
    Large-scale Israeli bombardments and ground operations have resulted in the widespread destruction and the displacement of over 100,000 Palestinians from Rafah in the last two days alone, most of them having already been displaced multiple times and having been displaced with very few belongings.
    The Secretary-General is shocked by the attacks by the Israeli army on a medical and emergency convoy on 23 March resulting in the killing of 15 medical personnel and humanitarian workers in Gaza. Medical personnel and humanitarian and emergency workers must be protected by all parties to the conflict at all times, as required by international humanitarian law. Since October 2023, at least 408 aid workers have been killed in Gaza, and at least 280 of them have been United Nations humanitarian workers.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=02%20April%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88MB1cyfcCs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: #wintersportsclinic 88-year-old Veteran learns to ski again

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Vietnam era Army Veteran Robert Daehler actively skied until the age of 85. After facing an injury that left him paralyzed, Daehler dedicated years to regain his mobility and with the help from VA Palo Alto Occupational Therapists, is now walking. Now, at 88, he has returned to the Winter Sports Clinic for a second year, rekindling his beloved passion alongside fellow Veterans and family members.

    #sports4vets #DAV

    To learn how you can volunteer, or to learn more, visit www.wintersportsclinic.org

    This video was created by the NDVWSC Media Team.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHhVuAyRgBE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rating of Hotels Under the Ministry of Tourism

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 4:12PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Tourism under its voluntary scheme of Classification classifies hotels under the star rating system as per the extant Guidelines issued by the Ministry of Tourism. Under this system, hotels are given a rating, from One Star to Three Star, Four and Five Star with or without alcohol and Five Star Deluxe through NIDHI+ portal (https://nidhi.tourism.gov.in). The Classification exercise is undertaken by a committee, namely the HRACC (Hotel & Restaurant Approval & Classification Committee), having members from the Ministry, industry associations, hotel management institutes and State Government/UT Administration.

    The number of Five Star hotels state-wise classified by the Ministry of Tourism 2019 onwards is placed at ANNEXURE-I

    The number of Three Star hotels state-wise classified by the Ministry of Tourism 2019 onwards and the number of Four-Star hotels state-wise classified by the Ministry of Tourism 2019 onwards are placed at ANNEXURE-II and ANNEXURE-III respectively.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

    ***

    ANNEXURE-I

    State-Wise Details of 5 Star Hotels Classified 2019 Onwards

     

    S. No.

    STATE/UT

    COUNT

    1.

    Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    2

    2.

    Andhra Pradesh

    22

    3.

    Arunachal Pradesh

    0

    4.

    Assam

    5

    5.

    Bihar

    5

    6.

    Chandigarh

    2

    7.

    Chhattisgarh

    6

    8.

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    2

    9.

    Delhi

    54

    10.

    Goa

    70

    11.

    Gujarat

    76

    12.

    Haryana

    28

    13.

    Himachal Pradesh

    6

    14.

    Jammu and Kashmir

    1

    15.

    Jharkhand

    2

    16.

    Karnataka

    66

    17.

    Kerala

    94

    18.

    Ladakh

    3

    19.

    Lakshadweep

    0

    20.

    Madhya Pradesh

    24

    21.

    Maharashtra

    86

    22.

    Manipur

    0

    23.

    Meghalaya

    1

    24.

    Mizoram

    0

    25.

    Nagaland

    0

    26.

    Odisha

    8

    27.

    Puducherry (Pondicherry)

    2

    28.

    Punjab

    15

    29.

    Rajasthan

    37

    30.

    Sikkim

    2

    31.

    Tamil Nadu

    43

    32.

    Telangana

    23

    33.

    Tripura

    2

    34.

    Uttar Pradesh

    32

    35.

    Uttarakhand

    10

    36.

    West Bengal

    32

    Note: Data is provisional as some hotels are under the process of reclassification.

     

    ANNEXURE-II

    State-Wise Details of 3 Star Hotels Classified 2019 Onwards

     

    S. No.

    STATE/UT

    COUNT

    1.

    Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    0

    2.

    Andhra Pradesh

    36

    3.

    Arunachal Pradesh

    2

    4.

    Assam

    18

    5.

    Bihar

    4

    6.

    Chandigarh

    0

    7.

    Chhattisgarh

    31

    8.

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    0

    9.

    Delhi

    5

    10.

    Goa

    4

    11.

    Gujarat

    120

    12.

    Haryana

    11

    13.

    Himachal Pradesh

    1

    14.

    Jammu and Kashmir

    0

    15.

    Jharkhand

    0

    16.

    Karnataka

    11

    17.

    Kerala

    607

    18.

    Ladakh

    0

    19.

    Lakshadweep

    0

    20.

    Madhya Pradesh

    6

    21.

    Maharashtra

    69

    22.

    Manipur

    0

    23.

    Meghalaya

    0

    24.

    Mizoram

    1

    25.

    Nagaland

    0

    26.

    Odisha

    11

    27.

    Puducherry (Pondicherry)

    0

    28.

    Punjab

    4

    29.

    Rajasthan

    9

    30.

    Sikkim

    0

    31.

    Tamil Nadu

    7

    32.

    Telangana

    9

    33.

    Tripura

    0

    34.

    Uttar Pradesh

    2

    35.

    Uttarakhand

    2

    36.

    West Bengal

    36

    Note: Data is provisional as some hotels are under the process of reclassification.

     

    ANNEXURE-III

    State-Wise Details of 4 Star Hotels Classified 2019 Onwards

     

    S. No.

    STATE/UT

    COUNT

    1.

    Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    0

    2.

    Andhra Pradesh

    14

    3.

    Arunachal Pradesh

    0

    4.

    Assam

    2

    5.

    Bihar

    1

    6.

    Chandigarh

    0

    7.

    Chhattisgarh

    22

    8.

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    1

    9.

    Delhi

    23

    10.

    Goa

    10

    11.

    Gujarat

    61

    12.

    Haryana

    9

    13.

    Himachal Pradesh

    0

    14.

    Jammu and Kashmir

    0

    15.

    Jharkhand

    2

    16.

    Karnataka

    23

    17.

    Kerala

    420

    18.

    Ladakh

    0

    19.

    Lakshadweep

    0

    20.

    Madhya Pradesh

    2

    21.

    Maharashtra

    36

    22.

    Manipur

    1

    23.

    Meghalaya

    2

    24.

    Mizoram

    0

    25.

    Nagaland

    0

    26.

    Odisha

    5

    27.

    Puducherry (Pondicherry)

    0

    28.

    Punjab

    5

    29.

    Rajasthan

    2

    30.

    Sikkim

    0

    31.

    Tamil Nadu

    19

    32.

    Telangana

    11

    33.

    Tripura

    0

    34.

    Uttar Pradesh

    7

    35.

    Uttarakhand

    2

    36.

    West Bengal

    25

    Note: Data is provisional as some hotels are under the process of reclassification.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

     

    (Release ID: 2118260) Visitor Counter : 19

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tribal Entrepreneurs in Tourism Sector

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 4:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India has approved the initiative to develop tribal homestays under Swadesh Darshan Scheme of the Ministry of Tourism as part of ‘Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan”. The said intervention includes development of 1000 homestays with support of upto Rs.5.00 Lakh per unit for new construction, up to Rs.3.00 Lakh for renovation and Rs.5.00 Lakh for village community requirements.

    Ministry of Tourism has no specific scheme for Tribal Entrepreneurs. However, Ministry extends financial support to State Governments and Union Territories for development of tourism under its schemes of ‘Swadesh Darshan’ and ‘National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)’ for Tourism Infrastructure Development. Tribal-circuit was identified as one of the themes for development under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme and the details of the projects sanctioned under Tribal Circuit of Swadesh Darshan is at Annexure-I.

    Ministry has revamped Swadesh Darshan Scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) with the objective to develop sustainable and responsible destinations following a destination centric approach and has sanctioned 34 projects for Rs.791.25 Crore, including tribal experience. The details of projects sanctioned under SD2.0 scheme is at Annexure-II.

    The responsibility of obtaining land for undertaking projects in Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD schemes is that of the concerned State Governments/UT Administrations.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

    ***

    ANNEXURE-I

    List of Projects Sanctioned Under the Tribal Circuit Theme of Swadesh Darshan Scheme

    S.

    No.

    State/ UT

    Circuit / Sanction Year

    Name of the Project

    Amount Sanctioned

    (in ₹ Crore)

    1.

    Chhattisgarh

    Tribal Circuit

    2015-16

    Development  of Jashpur-       Kunkuri- Mainpat-         Kamleshpur                 -Maheshpur                  -Kurdar                       – Sarodhadadar- Gangrel- Kondagaon– Nathiyanawagaon- Jagdalpur- Chitrakoot- Tirthgarh

    96.10

    2.

    Nagaland

    Tribal Circuit

    2015-16

    Development of Tribal Circuit Peren- Kohima- Wokha

    97.36

    3.

    Nagaland

    Tribal Circuit 2016-17

    Development  of Mokokchung-Tuensang- Mon

    98.14

    4.

    Telangana

    Tribal Circuit

     

    2016-17

    Development of Mulugu- Laknavaram- Medavaram-   Tadvai- Damaravi- Mallur- Bogatha Waterfalls

    79.87

     

    ANNEXURE-II

     

    List of Projects Sanctioned Under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 Scheme

     

    S. No.

    State

    Destination

    Name of the Experience

    Sanctioned Cost (₹ Crore)

    Year of Sanction

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    Araku-Lambasingi

    Borra Cave Experience at Araku

    29.87

    2023-24

    2

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Nacho

    Unlock Nacho Expedition

    14.02

    2023-24

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Mechuka

    Mechuka Cultural Haat

    18.48

    2023-24

    4

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Mechuka

    Mechuka Adventure Park

    12.75

    2023-24

    5

    Assam

    Kokrajhar

    Kokrajhar Wetland Experience

    26.67

    2023-24

    6

    Assam

    Jorhat

    Reimagining Cinnamara Tea Estate

    23.91

    2023-24

    7

    Goa

    Porvorim

    Porvorim Creek Experience

    23.56

    2024-25

    8

    Goa

    Colva

    Colva Beach Experience

    15.65

    2024-25

    9

    Karnataka

    Hampi

    Setting up of ‘Traveller nooks’

    25.64

    2023-24

    10

    Karnataka

    Mysuru

    Tonga ride Heritage experience zone

    2.72

    2023-24

    11

    Karnataka

    Mysuru

    Ecological Experience Zone

    18.47

    2023-24

    12

    Kerala

    Kumarakom

    Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Experience

    13.92

    2023-24

    13

    Ladakh

    Leh

    JulleyLeh Biodiversity Park

    24.89

    2023-24

    14

    Ladakh

    Kargil

    Exploring LOC and Hundarman village Experience

    12.01

    2023-24

    15

    Madhya Pradesh

    Gwalior

    Phoolbagh Experience Zone

    16.73

    2023-24

    16

    Madhya Pradesh

    Chitrakoot

    Spiritual experience at Chitrakoot

    27.21

    2023-24

    17

    Maharashtra

    Pune

    Shivsrushti Historical Theme Park- Phase 3

    76.22

    2024-25

    18

    Meghalaya

    Sohra

    Waterfall Trails Experience

    27.84

    2023-24

    19

    Meghalaya

    Sohra

    Meghalayan Age Cave Experience

    32.45

    2023-24

    20

    Nagaland

    Chumoukedima

    Eco-Tourism Exp at Chumoukedima viewpoint

    7.87

    2024-25

    21

    Nagaland

    Chumuoukedima

    Tribal Cultural Experience at Midway Retreat

    21.56

    2023-24

    22

    Puducherry

    Karaikal

    Karaikal beach and waterfront experience

    20.29

    2023-24

    23

    Punjab

    Kapurthala

    Eco Tourism experience at Kanjli wetland

    20.06

    2023-24

    24

    Punjab

    Amritsar

    Border Tourism Experience at Attari

    25.90

    2024-25

    25

    Rajasthan

    Bundi

    Spiritual Experience, Keshavraipatan

    17.37

    2023-24

    26

    Sikkim

    Gyalshing

    Eco-Wellness Experience at Yuksom Cluster

    15.40

    2023-24

    27

    Sikkim

    Gangtok

    Gangtok Cultural Village

    22.59

    2023-24

    28

    Tamil Nadu

    Mamallapuram

    Immersive experience at Shore Temple

    30.02

    2023-24

    29

    Telangana

    Bhongir

    Bhongir Fort Experiential Zone

    56.81

    2023-24

    30

    Telangana

    Ananathagiri

    Eco tourism zone at Ananathgiri forest

    38.00

    2023-24

    31

    Uttar Pradesh

    Prayagraj

    Azad Park and DekhoPrayagraj Trail Exp

    13.02

    2023-24

    32

    Uttar Pradesh

    Naimisaranya

    Vedic- wellness Experience

    15.94

    2023-24

    33

    Uttarakhand

    Pithoragarh

    Rural Tourism Cluster Experience at Gunji

    32.20

    2023-24

    34

    Uttarakhand

    Champawat

    Tea Garden Experience

    11.21

    2023-24

    TOTAL AMOUNT

         791.25

     

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2118259) Visitor Counter : 21

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Use of e-governance and e-courts in Income Tax Appellate Tribunal

    Source: Government of India

    Use of e-governance and e-courts in Income Tax Appellate Tribunal

    Over 26,000 appeals and applications were filed electronically through e-filing portal up to 28.02.2025

    Court rooms at new office premises of ITAT, Delhi and Lucknow benches have also been equipped with the state-of-the-art video conferencing infrastructure

    State-of-the-art video conferencing infrastructure facilitating uninterrupted virtual/hybrid hearings

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 4:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The e-filing portal has been launched in the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) for facilitating electronic filing of appeals, applications, petitions and documents, by the stakeholders. The e-filing portal continues to gain the acceptance of the stakeholders. Over 26,000 appeals and applications were filed electronically through e-filing portal before various benches of ITAT during the year, up to 28.02.2025. The provision of free and high-speed internet at various benches has been provided through Optical Fiber Cable (OFC), for access by all stakeholders. The Court rooms at new office premises of ITAT, Delhi and Lucknow benches have also been equipped with the state-of-the-art video conferencing infrastructure to provide better hybrid/virtual hearing experience to the stakeholders. The upgradation of infrastructure including installation of latest equipment is also being enabled continuously for facilitating uninterrupted virtual/hybrid hearings.

    In compliance with the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, ITAT has implemented hybrid / virtual hearings at all Benches, in letter and spirit, which facilitates litigants to attend hearing of their cases virtually. The benches of ITAT are not declining the requests of the parties for virtual hearings. For the period from July 2023 to December 2024, a total 1,22,302 hearings of appeals have been conducted through video conferencing before various Benches of ITAT.

    This information was given by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Law and Justice and Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs Shri Arjun  Ram Meghwal in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

    Samrat/Allen

    (Release ID: 2118248) Visitor Counter : 54

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government Steps to ensure affordable LPG

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 3:12PM by PIB Delhi

    Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) was launched in May, 2016 with an objective to provide deposit free LPG connection to adult women from poor households across the country. The target to release 8 crore connections under PMUY was achieved in September 2019. To cover the remaining poor households, Ujjwala 2.0 was launched in August 2021 with a target to release 1 crore additional PMUY connections, which was achieved in January 2022. Subsequently, the Government decided to release 60 lakh more LPG connections under Ujjwala 2.0 and the target of 1.60 crore Ujjwala 2.0 connections was also achieved during December 2022. Further, Government approved release of additional 75 lakh connections under PMUY Scheme for the period FY 2023-24 to 2025-26 which has already been achieved during July 2024.

    As on 01.03.2025, the total number of active domestic LPG consumers in India stands at 32.94 crore, including 10.33 crore beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY).

     Details of increase in domestic LPG consumers during the last three financial years are as below:

    Particulars (As on 1st of April)

    UNIT

    2022

    2023

    2024

       01.01.25

    LPG Active Domestic Customers

    (Lakh)

    3053

    3140

    3242

    3289

    Growth

    5.5%

    2.9%

    3.2%

    2.8%

    PMUY Beneficiaries 

    (Lakh)

    899.0

    958.6

    1032.7

    1033.4

    Growth

    12.3%

    6.6%

    7.7%

    3.2%

     Note: Growth rates as on 1st April of any year are w.r.t. figures as on 1st April of previous year.

     Source: PPAC

    In order to improve access to LPG across the country, various steps have been taken inter alia, including organizing campaigns for improving awareness about PMUY, organizing melas/camps to enroll and distribute connections, promotion through Out of Home (OOH) hoardings, radio jingles, Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Vans etc., spreading awareness about advantages of using LPG over other conventional fuels and safe usage of LPG through LPG Panchayats, enrolment/awareness camps under Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, facilitation of consumers and their families for Aadhar enrolment and opening of bank accounts for getting PMUY connections, simplification of process of getting LPG connection, online application for PMUY connection at www.pmuy.gov.in, nearest LPG distributors, Common Service Centres (CSC) etc., option of 5 Kg Double Bottle Connection (DBC), swap option from 14.2 Kg to 5 Kg, provision for Migrant Families to avail new connection on Self-Declaration instead of Proof of Address and Ration Card.

    Further, OMCs are continuously commissioning new LPG Distributorships, especially in rural areas. Since the launch of PMUY scheme, OMCs have commissioned 7959 Distributorships (commissioned during 01.04.2016 to 31.12.2024) across the country, out of which 93% i.e. 7373 [Rurban- 1024, Gramin- 4974, Durgam Kshetriya Vitraks and Rajiv Gandhi Gramin LPG Vitrak (DKV+RGGLV) – 1375] are catering to rural areas. As a result of these efforts, LPG coverage in the country has improved from 62% in April 2016 to near saturation now.

    India imports about 60% of the domestic LPG consumed. Price of LPG in the country is linked to its price in the international market. While the average Saudi CP (international benchmark for LPG pricing) rose by 63% (from US$ 385/MT in July 2023 to US$ 629/MT in February 2025), the effective price for Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) consumers for domestic LPG was reduced by 44% (from Rs. 903 in August 2023 to Rs. 503 in February 2025).

    The retail selling price of a 14.2 Kg domestic LPG cylinder is currently Rs. 803 in Delhi. After a targeted subsidy of Rs. 300/cylinder to PMUY consumers, Government of India is providing 14.2 Kg LPG cylinders at an effective price of Rs.503 per cylinder (in Delhi). This is available to more than 10.33 crore Ujjwala beneficiaries, across the country including Rajasthan.   Details of effective cost of domestic LPG cylinder to non-PMUY consumers and PMUY beneficiaries in Delhi, as on 01st March for last three years is as below :

     (Rs./14.2 kg. domestic LPG refill.)

     

    01.03.2023

    01.03.2024

    01.03.2025

    Non-PMUY consumers

    1103

    903

    803

    PMUY beneficiaries

    903

    603

    503

                    Source: Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC)

     

    Globally, PMUY is the biggest program of its kind that provides Domestic LPG to more than 10.33 crore poor households at an effective price of just about Rs. 35/Kg. Further, the effective price of domestic LPG cylinder in neighbouring countries as on 01.01.2025 is as below:

    Country

    Domestic LPG (Rs./14.2 kg.cyl.)#

    India

    503.00*

    Pakistan

    1094.83

    Sri Lanka

    1231.53

    Nepal

    1206.65

          Source: Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC)

          *Effective cost to PMUY beneficiaries in Delhi, effective price is Rs. 803 for non-PMUY consumers

    As a result of various steps taken by Government to improve access and affordability of domestic LPG for PMUY consumers, per capita consumption of PMUY beneficiaries (in terms of no. of 14.2 kg LPG cylinders taken per year) has increased from 3.01 (FY 2019-20) to 3.68 (FY 2021-22), 3.95 in FY 2023-24, and 4.43 in FY 2024-25.

    Various independent studies and reports have shown that PMUY scheme has had a significant positive impact on the lives of rural households, especially women and families in rural and remote areas. Some key benefits are briefly explained below:

    (i) PMUY had resulted in a shift from traditional cooking methods that involve burning solid fuels like wood, dung and crop residues. The use of cleaner fuel lowers indoor air pollution, leading to improved respiratory health, particularly among women and children who are traditionally more exposed to household smoke.

    (ii) Households in rural areas, especially those in remote locations, often spend a significant portion of their time and energy in collecting traditional cooking fuels. LPG has reduced drudgery and the time spent on cooking by women of poor households. The free time, thus, available with them can be utilized in multiple spheres for enhanced economic productivity.

    (iii) Transition from biomass and traditional fuels to LPG reduces the dependency on wood and other biomass for cooking purposes, leading to a decrease in deforestation and environmental degradation. This benefits not only the households but also contributes to broader environmental conservation efforts.

    (iv) With improved cooking facilities, there is a potential positive impact on nutrition. Families may find it easier to cook a variety of nutritious meals, contributing to better overall health.

    This information was given by THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS SHRI SURESH GOPI, in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ****

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