Just days ahead of “Sanyuesan,” a traditional ethnic festival in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, a unique musical endeavor was unfolding in a kindergarten in the heart of Nanning, the regional capital.
Inside the brightly-lit auditorium, Huang Shaozheng, a retired English professor in his 60s and a Zhuang culture advocate, along with Jake Philip Tucker, a 28-year-old English teacher and trained musician from Britain, were on a musical quest to blend the timeless folk songs of Liu Sanjie, the legendary “Song Fairy” and a cultural icon of the local Zhuang culture, with a contemporary flair, bridging heritage and modernity.
The “Sanyuesan” festival is the perfect platform for this cultural fusion. Held annually on the third day of the third lunar month, this beloved event, which falls on March 31 this year, is set to transform the region into a kaleidoscope of music, dance, and tradition, drawing together China’s rich array of ethnic groups.
The pupils, in the distinctly colored costumes of the Zhuang, Han, Yao, and Hui ethnic groups, turned the campus into a lively parade of Guangxi’s rich cultural tapestry.
“Throwing red embroidered balls is a ‘Sanyuesan’ tradition,” explained Sherry Zeng, the principal of the kindergarten. “Historically thrown as tokens of affection, here they remind the children of the culture of the place they live.”
In the midst of this festive ambiance, Huang and Tucker collaborated to breathe new life into Liu Sanjie’s songs.
“Try this: ‘Follow me all the way. On both banks of the river, we are singing along,’” suggested Huang with a tone that was patient yet firm.
With a Ukulele slung casually over his shoulder, Tucker adjusted the rhythm and responded. “How about this? I put a little western spin onto it.”
Their partnership was a seamless blend of tradition and innovation as Huang’s profound knowledge of Zhuang culture and Liu Sanjie’s legacy guided Tucker’s contemporary musical flair.
The session crescendoed as the kindergarten students joined in. Clad in colorful attires, the children were joining Huang and Tucker in a joyful chorus: “By the mountains, under the stars, we sing as one,” accompanied by Tucker’s Ukulele and the melodies they have known since infancy.
Their voices resonated with a cultural essence at the heart of the “Sanyuesan” festival.
“It’s about giving them a sense of pride,” said Huang as he gazed with avuncular jocularity at the engaged faces of the children. “They’re the future of this culture.”
For these young voices, each a small part of Guangxi’s ethnic mosaic, the experience is both a celebration and a lesson in heritage, said Zeng.
Liu Sanjie is more than just a figure of the distant past. Her legend, tracing back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), tells of a young woman who taps into the wellspring of music to face down oppression, earning her a place as an immortal symbol of freedom among Zhuang ethnic group.
During “Sanyuesan,” her songs, steeped in romance and reverence for Guangxi’s breathtaking landscapes, echo across the festival, threading tradition through the pulsating festivities.
Huang’s ambitious project to translate these melodies into English is no small feat.
“It’s particularly demanding to preserve the thematic and poetic integrity of the originals while making them easily accessible to those who don’t even speak a word of Mandarin,” said Huang.
Yet, his efforts are paying off, as Liu Sanjie’s voice begins to echo far beyond her native mountains with the publication of “Liu Sanjie and her free mountain songs” in 2021, which renders the scripts of Liu Sanjie opera and other popular Liu Sanjie’s ballads into modern English with singable lyrics and musical notation.
Australian writer Mark Tredinnick wrote in the preface to a book of Liu’s folk tunes that Huang translated, he wrote of allowing one to “hear the heartbeat of the earth — how the earth loves us and how it would be loved in return.”
This kindergarten event was a microcosm of “Sanyuesan” and Huang’s broader vision: to bridge Guangxi’s ethnic heritage with international appreciation.
As the session ended, the children’s cheers mingled with the fading notes of Ukulele, a triumph taking root within the campus walls, according to Huang.
“It brings people together,” said Huang. “Through these songs, we’re not just preserving our past, we’re inviting others to join us. That’s what culture is all about.”
“This kind of cross-language exchange is super fun and important,” said Tucker. “It helps introduce the authentic Zhuang culture to new audiences like me and other expats, and hints at its potential to go global.”
Hawke’s Bay Police are appealing for information from the public in relation to a number of serious assaults in Hastings.
Detective Sergeant Ryan Kemsley says Police were called to a disorder involving a large number of people fighting on King Street at around 3.30am on Sunday 30 March.
“Police arrived and located five people with injuries, some are believed to have been from a weapon.
“They were all transported to hospital to receive treatment.”
Police are speaking with several people believed to be involved and are working to establish what has occurred.
“We would like to speak with anyone who may have witnessed the assaults as we believe they have information that could assist in our investigation,” says Detective Sergeant Ryan Kemsley.
Police would also like to hear from anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage in the King Street area between 3am and 4am on Sunday.
If you have any information that could assist Police, please contact us online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or call 105.
Please use the reference number 250330/6709.
You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers online or via 0800 555 111.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Teresa Wojcik has created an Australian-first website, Your Season.
An ICON grant from the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN) helped Teresa Wojcik create an Australian-first website.
The point of difference for her fashion site, Your Season, is its organisation by seasonal colour palettes.
After having her colours done professionally, Teresa quickly identified a huge gap in the market.
“Shopping by colour palette wasn’t accessible in real life,” she said.
“The majority of stores were off limits because clothes weren’t in my colours.
“I’d go online but would spend hours and have hundreds of tabs open trying to find clothes I liked, and were in my palette,” Teresa said.
Her partner told her about CBRIN’s Innovation Connect (ICON) grants, and that’s when Teresa’s idea for Your Season came to life.
ICON grants are currently open and close 16 April 2024.
CBRIN receives funding from the ACT Government to support entrepreneurs, innovators and start-ups – like Your Season – in Canberra.
It offers business support, programs, grants and access to networks of other entrepreneurs.
“I got matched funding from the ICON grant for $30,000. It helped me build the Your Season website and work on the complex algorithm that feeds it.”
Teresa has already secured birdsnest.com.au, petalandpup.com.au, stfrock.com.au and Amazon Australia to list their clothes on her site.
She has ASOS and The Iconic in her sights for 2024. She’s also working on improving website functionality and getting other well-known brands on board.
“And there will always be work to do on the algorithm, it’s extremely complex and I want it to be the best it can be, even if my eyes are bleeding colours,” she said.
When asked what advice she had for anyone wanting to start a business in Canberra, she gave three tips:
Lean into it – Go with your idea and seek out support, it’s there. The Canberra business community is very generous and you don’t have to do it by yourself.
Understand things take longer than you expect– There can be pressure on you to go fast, to be first to market, but use the resources and support there are in Canberra to get you going.
It’ll cost more than you expect– I’m not paying myself so I can build what I believe is a good product. But in the 10 years of working as a musician, I’ve received about $10,000 in funding, in one year in business I’ve received $75,000 in total. Look for funding to support your dreams.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Mel Couper is part of the team managing the Libraries ACT collection.
The Libraries ACT collection offers hundreds of thousands of items for Canberrans to borrow. But have you ever wondered how new items are added to it?
Libraries ACT collects a wide range of quality resources in both existing and emerging formats.
This ensures their collection has broad appeal while enhancing learning opportunities and informing, entertaining and connecting people, groups and communities.
There are over 350,000 physical items available. And that’s not even counting the ebooks and eaudiobooks that can be downloaded, or movies and music that can be streamed for free!
The Libraries ACT collections team has overall responsibility for selecting new library materials and resources. The team is always guided by community needs, analysis of collection use and customer and staff suggestions.
“Suggestions from library customers for materials not already in the collection are a valuable way for the libraries team to connect with the community and acquire materials users want and need,” collection librarian Mel Couper said.
The team also liaises with key ACT community groups and cultural organisations to develop collections of relevance and interest to these communities.
“Standing orders with suppliers are also used to ensure rapid acquisition of known popular authors or series that are usually in high demand, with standing order plans reviewed each year,” Mel said.
Libraries ACT aims to have a current, vibrant and attractive collection, with approximately half the collection less than five years old.
The team actively removes items from the collection by reviewing the use and physical condition of items and taking into account storage capacity at libraries across the ACT and the currency and accuracy of the information.
If an item you’d like to access isn’t in the collection (or on order) you can submit a suggestion to add it to the collection.
Libraries ACT just ask that you read the guidelines for suggestions and limit your suggestions to two items per week.
Libraries ACT aims to meet the needs and expectations of Canberra’s library users.
Careful selection and management of material by professional, experienced staff, along with the input from the community, ensures the wide-ranging educational, cultural, recreational and information needs of library users are met.
To search the collection, view the standing orders or suggest an item to add to the collection visit the Libraries ACT website.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul attended County Executive Ken Jenkins’ swearing-in ceremony and delivered remarks.
VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).
AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.
PHOTOS: The Governor’s Flickr page will post photos of the event here.
A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:
I know you’re expecting a video from me. In some of your eyes that might have been better — it was only a minute long, but I recorded it the other day knowing that I’d be tied up with the Budget. But then all of a sudden, as the day went on, I was in the Capitol this morning, I said, “I have to be here in person.”
I mean, this is the beginning of the “Ken Jenkins era” for Westchester, and I did not want to miss this momentous occasion. I heard the remarks of our great Comptroller — always unfortunate to follow Tom DiNapoli, but he’s a great, great, great leader and I thank him for all the work he does in every corner of the State. Let’s give him another round of applause.
And I heard there’s a new Congressman in the house. Who’s that guy? Let’s give a round of applause to George Latimer. God, I’m glad he’s there and I’m not anymore. But it is great to see you and, of course, to Shelley Mayer, our emcee, and all the electeds who are here.
Thank you, Shelley. I’ve just so enjoyed working with you over many, many, many years and many elections you had as well. It seemed like you were constantly on the ballot. And Suzanne Berger, thank you, thank you, thank you, for putting forth great, great leaders. Tim Idoni, we go way back a long time as County Clerks — I want to thank him for his leadership as well, and what a great public servant. Deborah’s here as well, the family’s in this house. There we go. Congratulations.
I will say this — a reflection back to election night of 2024 — one of the few bright lights were these couple of guys here, right? I mean it was a rough, rough night for us, and to know that we have leaders like George and now Ken in this important position gives me confidence to know that as we’re taking on the fights out of Washington, I’ll have the allies I need. And who would’ve thought? One of the first places they would pick on in our nation would be White Plains in Westchester County saying, “No, no, we don’t care about your seniors. They can go miles, and miles, and miles to get help from Social Security because we really don’t care about them and we don’t care about the 40 or 50 people who work there either.”
So, literally, my friends, we are two months away from a shutdown that is so unnecessary. Ken offered him space. George offered them space. It wasn’t space, it was that they wanted to inflict pain on our people and that’s the only thing I can conclude. So, as the Governor who needs partners like Ken Jenkins to continue doing what we’re doing, building more housing so our kids don’t have to leave when they finally get of age and they want to have their own families — and I know they want to stay because they’re going to want you to babysit their kids, okay? I know this now, I’m a grandma.
They want to stay. They want to continue investing in first-rate education — that’s what Westchester County is known for: exceptional teachers in schools and education; and Shelly Mayer knows a lot about this, she’s been a tireless fighter. We want to make sure that I continue to fight for childcare — $7 billion, we’re spending a lot of it here in Westchester County; our downtown revitalization issues, we want to make sure that money keeps coming back to Westchester County; our investments in Metro-North, $6.2 billion, my friends, we found a way. With the support of the Legislature, I think we’re going to get this through the Budget — $25 million to shave time off the trip into the city.
So, that’s what we’re doing, but I can’t do it without a great partner here in county government who’s going to take on the fights shoulder-to-shoulder with Washington, but also to make sure that we deliver for the people right here. So, I appreciate you — all of you who supported Ken Jenkins.
He’s been an exceptional leader. You know his history, you know his Bible. I don’t have to tell you, it’s all in my video if you want to watch it again. But, listen up. This era calls for strong leaders that people can believe in again, and that’s what we have to deliver with leaders like Ken Jenkins, and George Latimer and everyone else because we have the backs of our people. We know who we’re fighting for, and we’ll never, ever surrender to anyone — not here, not now, not ever.
So, thank you everyone for supporting my great friend, Ken Jenkins. God bless every one of you. Thank you.
A woman has been arrested following a violent altercation at Morphett Vale that resulted in two people sustaining stab wounds.
Police and paramedics were called to Columba Street, Morphett Vale about 12.45am on Saturday 29 March by reports of a serious assault.
When officers arrived, they located the occupant of the house, a 27-year-old Morphett Vale man, with multiple stab wounds.
He was taken to hospital with serious injuries, but they are no longer believed to be life-threatening at this time.
It will be alleged that four people attended and forced their way into the property and a violent altercation occurred inside the house.
While police were at the scene at Morphett Vale, another man, aged 22 from Port Noarlunga, also presented at Flinders Medical Centre with serious stab wounds, believed to have occurred in the same incident.
Southern District CIB detectives, with the assistance of Major Crime detectives, and forensic response officers, attended and examined the scene overnight.
This incident is not believed to be random.
A 21-year-old woman from Christie Downs was arrested and charged with aggravated serious criminal trespass and attempted murder. She was refused police bail and will appear in Christies Beach Magistrates Court on Monday 31 March.
The investigation is continuing and anyone with information that may assist or has any CCTV or dashcam footage from the street is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 0000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)
LOS ANGELES – Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove, in collaboration with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, convened members of the Los Angeles County Congressional Delegation today to discuss ways that local and federal government can work together and ensure that the coming major world events benefit the region for decades to come. B-roll available here.
“All eyes will be on the United States for the next decade of international sporting events. As the host of seven major competitions, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Los Angeles will take center stage,” saidCongresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “The success of these games depends on a coordinated effort, and I am proud to have co-hosted this briefing to further strengthen our federal-local partnership. I look forward to continued collaboration with Mayor Bass, my congressional colleagues, and the administration to ensure the City of Stars shines bright for all to see.”
“It’s my goal that the coming world events benefit every part of our city and region,” said Mayor Karen Bass. “By working together, we will make sure that we get as much support as possible to deliver events that are safe, successful, and fiscally responsible while leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.”
The Delegation heard directly from Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission President & CEO Kathryn Schloessman, LA28 Chief Executive Officer Reynold Hoover, and Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins to discuss shared priorities and ways to prepare the region for coming world events. The Delegation also heard from Executive Director of the Office of Major Events Paul Krekorian. Executive Director Krekorian was appointed by Mayor Bass to coordinate City departments and external stakeholders, ensuring that upcoming major events generate positive economic impacts that benefit all Angelenos.
Members of the LA County Congressional Delegation at the convening included:
IRVINE, Calif., March 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As TSplus moves into another exciting year, they’re proud to share that they have been honored with multiple recognitions from Gartner Digital Markets brands — Capterra,Software Advice, andGetApp. Their Remote Support product has been featured across several flagship reports released in 2025, reaffirming their commitment to delivering exceptional value to their users.
TSplus’ Latest Achievements in Remote Support Category
What Users Are Saying About TSplus
“Use it every day for ourselves and our customers” “Overall: It is all we ever use. Have never considered using anything else for our SME customers. Pros: Ease of setup, reliability and security.”
““Highly recommended” “Overall: Very good experience. I use it daily. During the pandemic it made a difference for remote work (and it still does…) Pros: Operation, installation, support, price.”
Looking Ahead for Remote Support and TSplus software
Adrien Carbonne, TSplus’ CTO, commented: “2025 marks another step forward in our journey, and we’re more committed than ever to evolving TSplus to better meet our customers’ needs. We’re excited for the future and look forward to continuing this journey with our users.”
About TSplus
TSplus is a leading provider of remote access and IT support solutions, offering powerful, easy-to-use tools for businesses worldwide. Their suite of products enables secure remote work, troubleshooting, and management from any device, anywhere. For more information, visitwww.tsplus.net, and follow them onLinkedIn,XandFacebook.
About Gartner Digital Markets:
Gartner Digital Markets is the world’s largest platform for finding software and services. More than 100 million people visit Capterra, GetApp, Software Advice, and UpCity across over 70 localized sites every year to read objective research and verified customer reviews that help them confidently choose the right software and services. Thousands of B2B companies work with Gartner Digital Markets to build their brand, capture buyer demand, and grow their business. For more information, visithttps://www.gartner.com/en/digital-markets
Disclaimer:
TheGartner Digital Marketsbadges fromCapterra,GetApp, andSoftware Adviceare trademarks and service marks of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner Digital Markets badges constitute the subjective opinions of individual end-user reviews, ratings, and data applied against a documented methodology; they neither represent the views of, nor constitute an endorsement by, Gartner, Inc. or its affiliates.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
BARRIE, Ontario, March 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alectra Utilities’ powerline crews will continue restoration efforts overnight on Sunday to return service to approximately 18,000 customers still without power in Barrie, Penetanguishene and Richmond Hill. This is down from the more than 44,000 customers who were without power at the height of the storm early Sunday morning.
Alectra crews are working 24/7 in very challenging and hazardous conditions, prioritizing public safety and critical infrastructure while restoring service as efficiently as possible. The utility has also brought in additional forestry crews to clear downed tree limbs from around the damaged powerlines in advance of the emergency crews that are repairing the grid. Unfortunately, due to the severity of the damage from ice accretion across Alectra’s service territory, and significant tree damage in downtown Barrie that is complicating restoration, some customers will be without power overnight and into Monday morning.
Customers can continue to get outage updates by following the Alectra X account, @AlectraNews, or by viewing the outage map at alectrautilities.com.
As power is restored, if residents notice that their neighbours have power again, but they are still out, it may be because their home’s service mast was damaged during the storm. Here is what they’ll need to know before we can re-energize: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQ8AWvfN_oo.
Refrigerated food should be checked if power has been out for a lengthy period. We recommend avoiding opening your refrigerator or freezer doors unless necessary. Keep them closed as much as possible to prevent cold air from escaping. Learn more about ‘food safety in an emergency’ here: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-drinking-water-safe-emergency.html#a3. Additional safety information can be found at alectrautilities.com/what-do-during-outage.
We know this is an extremely difficult time for those still without power, especially given the weather. We want to express our sincere appreciation to our customers for their patience, resilience and understanding as we work to restore service safely.
About Alectra Utilities
Serving more than one million homes and businesses and approximately three million people in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions. Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow’s energy future.
When Auckland mayor Wayne Brown said in 2022 that the Auckland Art Gallery had the foot traffic of a corner dairy and cast the institution as an “uneconomic” entity, he conceded he was at risk of “being seen as something of a philistine”.
But the mayor’s comments also highlighted a very real challenge. How can New Zealand cultural organisations secure their future when the value of art and culture is seen through the economic lens of profit?
And does an overemphasis on profit make cultural groups wary of market and strategy, hampering innovation in the art and culture sector?
Our research proposes a concept we call “generative coexistence”. We suggest that when market approaches are integrated thoughtfully, market forces and cultural missions can work together and enable each other.
Why the market vs. culture debate is changing
For years, cultural organisations were shielded from the market by state funding. But while government support remained relatively consistent, there was no consistent funding strategy. With each budget round being akin to a lottery, calls for change are becoming louder.
The 2024 budget included significant reductions in arts funding. Cultural organisations were expected to find new ways to stay viable. However, as art institutions turn to practices like sponsorship, ticketed events and merchandising to boost revenue, there’s understandable concern about a potential loss of artistic integrity.
Yet, market principles and cultural values can be aligned.
In 2023, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra launched a digital platform, NZSO+, to stream performances, open rehearsals and artistic talks. Later that year, the NZSO performed to a flock of farm chickens, to support ethical farming and, simultaneously, modernise its brand image.
The moves raised questions about whether the orchestra’s essence could be nurtured outside of concert halls. At the same time, they showed a possibility for cultural organisations to blend their authentic mission with commercial acumen, without compromising their intrinsic values.
The NZSO’s streaming strategy didn’t just address a budget shortfall. It allowed the orchestra to reach wider, younger and more diverse audiences who might not otherwise engage with classical music. Through this market-driven approach, the symphony orchestra sustained its core mission of bringing music to all New Zealanders.
Our research includes examples of cultural groups from around the world. It captures how, rather than seeing commercialisation as a “necessary evil” undermining the arts, cultural groups can use the tensions that come from the competing demands to produce creative solutions.
Here, generative coexistence allows cultural organisations to adapt in ways that not only keep the lights on but also broaden their impact.
Wellington’s Te Papa Museum uses blockbuster ticketed exhibitions to attract a wider audience while maintaining its cultural status. travellight/Shutterstock
Generative coexistence in the arts
We identified three main strategies for organisations in the arts and culture sector designed to help them thrive in a world where financial and cultural goals can seem at odds with each other.
First, organisations need to embrace the commercial potential of cultural products.
When approached thoughtfully, the strong commercial appeal of cultural products can support an organisation’s core mission and create a democratic counterbalance against sponsorship dependency.
Wellington’s Te Papa Museum, for example, creates value through blockbuster ticketed exhibitions that attract a wider audience – such as last year’s Dinosaurs of Patagonia. By using selective commodification processes, Te Papa maintains its educational and cultural status and generates the revenue needed to innovate and expand its reach.
Cultural organisations also need to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset.
Organisations worldwide experiment with innovating existing business models to allow for creative and operational freedom. For example, performing art organisations are increasingly moving away from legacy models – such as venue-based events with tickets as the key revenue stream – into hybrid and digitally-led ones.
Similarly, galleries and art spaces are opting for nomadic models, eschewing permanent locations but maintaining a strong online presence. This enables cultural actors to adapt and lower reliance on funding while creating cultural value.
Finally, cultural organisations need to look into cross-disciplinary collaborations that align on shared goals. Finding a balance between financial stability and cultural integrity requires recognising opportunities to work together.
How market and cultural values can coexist
The New Zealand arts sector is still cautious about non-intuitive collaborations with adjacent fields, such as gaming, fashion or advertising. But partnering with the tech industry holds the promise of new levels of visitor engagement, while staying rooted in the commitment to community enrichment.
Cultural organisations have to navigate a complex landscape where financial pressures and cultural missions intersect and create tensions.
Our concept of generative coexistence encourages a more flexible view. Examples from around the globe show it isn’t about choosing between culture and commerce. It’s about turning tensions into a foundation for innovation, accessibility and resilience.
Arts and culture are neither luxuries nor commodities, but integral parts of a thriving society. We are certain that New Zealand’s creative sector, which is unique, resilient and economically viable, can secure its place in a future that honours both the power of art and the realities of financial sustainability.
Ksenia Kosheleva receives funding from The Foundation for Economic Education, Finland.
Julia Fehrer and Kaj Storbacka 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.
BARRIE, Ontario, March 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alectra Utilities’ powerline crews worked throughout the night to restore service to homes and businesses who experienced power disruptions due to the freezing rain and icy conditions, which began on Friday night and have extended into Sunday. Most damage to Alectra’s grid occurred in Barrie and Penetanguishene overnight, with additional outages in Richmond Hill and, unfortunately, approximately 44,000 customers are still without service this morning.
Alectra anticipates that service will be restored to many customers throughout Sunday but given the infrastructure damage, we are not able to provide an estimated time for full restoration (ETR) at this point. Service restoration times will be provided as crews assess the damage in hard hit neighbourhoods. Customers can get updates on the company’s power restoration efforts by following the Alectra X account, @AlectraNews, or by viewing the outage map at alectrautilities.com.
Those who are still without power are encouraged to check on relatives and neighbours who may require assistance. In the event of downed powerlines, stay at least 10 metres away (the length of a school bus), and call 911 immediately.
As power is restored, if residents notice that their neighbours have power again, but they are still out, it may be an because their home’s service mast was damaged during the storm. Here is what they’ll need to know before we can re-energize: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQ8AWvfN_oo.
Refrigerated food should be checked if power has been out for a lengthy period. We recommend avoiding opening your refrigerator or freezer doors unless necessary. Keep them closed as much as possible to prevent cold air from escaping. Learn more about ‘food safety in an emergency’ here: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-drinking-water-safe-emergency.html#a3. Additional safety information can be found at alectrautilities.com/what-do-during-outage.
The safety of our employees, contractors and the community is our top priority. We appreciate the patience and support of residents and response teams as we navigate this storm response together.
About Alectra Utilities
Serving more than one million homes and businesses and approximately three million people in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions. Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow’s energy future.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed five proclamations – two new and three amendments – authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of the National Skills Fund and the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.
In addition, the President has amended existing proclamations to expand the scope of investigations into the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Eskom, PetroSA, Transnet, South African Airways (SAA), the Department of Human Settlements, Alexkor, and the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
In a statement on Friday, the SIU said these investigations aim to recover financial losses suffered by the State.
National Skills Fund
“Proclamation 253 of 2025 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration, improper or unlawful conduct by officials or employees of the Department of Higher Education and Training, and the possible mismanagement of funds allocated to the National Skills Fund (NSF),” the SIU said.
The investigation will focus on procurement and contracting for the implementation of skills development programmes, training projects, and the appointment of implementing agents for the following projects:
Yikhonolakho Woman and Youth Primary Co-operative Limited (NSF 16/1/3/21)
Dithipe Development Institute (Pty) Limited
Dzunde Farming Co-operative Limited – Rural Development
Dual System Apprenticeship Pilot Project – Port Elizabeth TVET College (NSF10/3/8/2/9)
Rubicon Communication CC
Centre for Education Policy Development (Fruitless & Wasteful Expenditure) — NSF 16/2/1/2 & NSF 10/4/4/3
ADA Holdings (NSF16/1/4/5, Ingewe TVET College — NSF/16/3/2/2 & Lusikisiki/ Bizana — NSF/16/1/2/3)
Ekurhuleni West TVET College (NSF16/1/2/39)
Passionate about People (Pty) Limited (NSF/16/1/3/12&16).
Additionally, the SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure by the NSF or the department.
The scope of the investigation includes any unlawful or improper conduct by suppliers, service providers, and other involved parties, occurring between 1 January 2013 and 28 March 2025, or related matters before or after this period.
National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure
Proclamation 256 of 2025 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of maladministration in the affairs of the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) relating to the appointment of travel agents in 2017 for the rendering of travel agency services, including flights, accommodation, and vehicle hire.
“The investigation will determine whether these appointments and related payments were conducted in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable, or cost-effective; contrary to applicable legislation; or inconsistent with Treasury instructions, departmental manuals, policies, procedures, or other applicable prescripts.
“The SIU will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by the Department and any unlawful or improper conduct by officials, employees, service providers, or any other parties involved in the procurement of these services,” the SIU said.
The SIU added that the scope of the investigation includes any unlawful or improper conduct by suppliers, service providers, and other involved parties, occurring between 1 March 2017 and 28 March 2025, or related matters before or after this period.
Amendment of Proclamation No. R.206 of 2024
Proclamation 252 of 2025 amends Proclamation R.206 of 2024 to reflect the full scope of the SIU’s investigation into several state institutions.
The amendment corrects and clarifies the entities under investigation, which include the South African Broadcasting Corporation SOC Limited (SABC), Eskom Holdings SOC Limited, the Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa SOC Limited (PetroSA), Transnet SOC Limited, South African Airways SOC Limited (SAA), and the National Department of Human Settlements (formerly known as the National Department of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation).
The amendment substitutes the heading and paragraph 1 of the original Proclamation to formally add South African Airways as a state institution which will be subjected to an investigation of allegations of serious maladministration, corruption, and unlawful conduct in the affairs of these state institutions.
Amendment of Alexkor investigation to include additional institutions and broader scope
Proclamation 254 of 2025 amends Proclamation R.45 of 2021 to broaden the scope of the Special Investigating Unit’s (SIU) investigation beyond Alexkor SOC Limited.
The amendment now includes the Alexkor Richtersveld Mining Company Pooling and Sharing Joint Venture and the State Diamond Trader—collectively referred to as “the Institutions.” The amendment updates several references throughout the original Proclamation to reflect this expanded scope.
“The amended Proclamation authorises the SIU to investigate the procurement of and contracting for goods or services by or on behalf of the Institutions in relation to the marketing, valuation, sale (including decisions not to buy), and beneficiation of diamonds, and any income generated or lost, or payments made in respect thereof.
“The investigation will consider whether such conduct was contrary to applicable legislation, Treasury instructions, or the Institutions’ own policies and procedures,” the SIU said.
The SIU will also probe serious maladministration in the affairs of Alexkor SOC Limited in respect of contracts concluded with, and fees paid to, Regiments Capital (Pty) Limited.
The SIU will also investigate any related unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the Institutions, as well as fraudulent, irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by Board members, officials, employees, agents, service providers, traders, auctioneers, bidders, or buyers—particularly where such conduct resulted in undue benefit or concealed interests.
In addition, the Proclamation authorises the SIU to probe serious maladministration in the affairs of the institutions in respect of agreements or contracts with service providers and other diamond trade actors and specifically empowers the SIU to investigate contracts concluded with and fees paid to Regiments Capital (Pty) Limited by Alexkor SOC Limited.
The amended scope covers conduct occurring between 1 January 2014 (previously 1 October 2016) and the date of publication of this Proclamation and includes related matters outside this period if they are relevant to the investigation.
“Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.”
In accordance with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during these investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
The SIU is also empowered to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to recover financial losses to the State resulting from acts of corruption, fraud or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
What started as a love of gardening turned into a 50-year career for Raymond.
The ACT public service offers a wide range of career opportunities, but it’s not often you celebrate someone who has contributed 50 years of service.
Fifty years ago, Olivia Newton John dominated the music charts and Burger Rings hit the supermarket shelves.
Also at this time, a young man named Raymond Russell began working with what is now the ACT Government’s Transport Canberra and City Services directorate.
While he’s worn a variety of hats during his half-century, Raymond has been a mower operator for the past two decades.
He loves his job mowing across Canberra – even with the city’s often-changeable weather that can cause rapid grass growth or ground that can’t be mown after heavy rain.
“I love when we go out and people like to talk to you,” he said.
“I love talking to the public. I get a lot of compliments from them which is great. If they’ve got a dog, I talk about their dogs. And what’s going to go on in the future in their area. And they get quite excited sometimes. Some people, they just like to talk.”
A keen gardener, Raymond’s early years were grounded in horticulture.
“I loved gardening and I used to go out with my mother – she used to enter flower shows – and I used to go and help her a lot, so I decided to do gardening myself,” Raymond said.
Working in City Services turned out to be something of a family affair.
Raymond’s father used to work at the old Dickson depot and his eldest brother worked with the directorate too.
The mowing veteran has certainly seen some change over 50 years.
“When I first started off at one of the depots I was given a very small sit-on mower. It’s a lot better nowadays obviously.”
Raymond says he loves living and working in Canberra. And he takes great pride in his 50 years of service.
“I just absolutely love that I got this far. I never expected that when I started. Not many people can do it. I just want to stay here while I can. I’ll probably retire … soon!” he said.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Design work for Stage 1 of EPIC’s redevelopment will include a new large multipurpose exhibition hall to accommodate larger exhibitions, galas and large-scale events.
Funding will be provided through the ACT Government Budget Review to progress planning on three of Canberra’s major precincts – Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), a new Convention Centre Precinct and the Bruce Sports, Health and Education Precinct.
This investment will support further investigation of a new rectangular stadium in Bruce.
The stadium will form part of an expanded sports, health and education precinct.
It will link investments in the AIS precinct, CIT Bruce, University of Canberra and the Northside Hospital.
Design work will also begin for a new Convention Centre Precinct in Canberra’s city centre.
This will include new convention facilities and an indoor Entertainment Pavilion suitable for live music and major indoor sporting events.
Design work for Stage 1 of EPIC’s redevelopment will include a new large multipurpose exhibition hall to accommodate larger exhibitions and gala sit-down dinners for thousands.
It will also cater for multiple large-scale community-based events. The first stage will also include new intersections and a new public entrance.
The redevelopment will allow existing events to grow and for multiple events to be held concurrently.
The Budget Review will also support the refurbishment of Fitzroy Pavilion at EPIC, with $4.6 million to be invested this year to refurbish the pavilion and turn it into a versatile event space.
This will meet the immediate demand for large-scale community and multicultural events in Canberra.
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Protecting human rights and safeguarding civil society in Central Asian countries must be at the heart of the first ever EU-Central Asia Summit, scheduled to take place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on 3-4 April, Amnesty International said today.
“Central Asia stands at a pivotal moment as the European Union seeks to deepen its political and economic engagement with the region. Long-term progress depends not only on diplomacy, investment and trade – it also requires respect for human rights and space for civil society to develop and operate freely and without fear,” Marie Struthers, Amnesty International’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia Director, said.
“The overall situation in the region remains concerning. Authorities maintain tight control over the media and civil society, suppress dissent, peaceful assembly, and freedom of association, and consistently fail to carry out human rights due diligence – that is, they do not take adequate steps to identify, prevent, and respond to potential human rights violations linked to their actions, laws or policies.”
Earlier this month, Kazakhstansigneda memorandum of understanding with the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in which it agreed to use the ECtHR’s rulings as guidance in Kazakhstan’s domestic legal system. Meanwhile, Kyrgyzstan is seeking tostrengthenthe role of the Ombudsperson’s office, critical for ensuring that state bodies do not use their powers to curtail human rights, and Uzbekistan has achieved visibleprogressin addressing the issue of forced labour in the cotton industry.
However, even in countries demonstrating positive steps, recent trends are disturbing. In Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, authorities routinely suppress the right to freedom ofpeaceful assemblyandcrack downon independent media.
Several Central Asian governments have adoptedlegislation and policiesunder the guise of protecting “traditional values” that restrict human rights and target marginalized groups. In Kyrgyzstan, alawmodelled on Russia’s “foreign agent” legislation has since 2024 imposed onerous requirements on foreign-funded NGOs, leading to closures and self-censorship. Authorities across the region have also used similar rhetoric to justify violations of the rights of LGBTI people, who face discrimination, lack of protection from violence and restrictions on their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
“Across Central Asia, Eastern Europe and in the European Union (EU), government responses to concerns about national security or public morality have led to increased repression. Wherever “foreign agent” legislation has been enacted, it has led to the stigmatization of NGOs, the intimidation of activists and the slow suffocation of a vibrant civil society,” Marie Struthers said.
“If Central Asian governments and the EU, its institutions and national governments are truly committed to human rights, the path forward lies not in stifling civil society but in empowering it – by committing to human rights due diligence, fostering open dialogue, building trust between the state and the public and ensuring a safe environment for civil society to thrive. The European Union and Central Asian governments must ensure that human rights remain a core pillar of their enhanced cooperation.”
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
This year there will be changes to term dates, policies and programs that may involve your family.
Canberra families are about to start another exciting school year.
This year there will be changes to term dates, policies and programs that may involve your family.
Here is everything you need to know for the year ahead.
Student-free days and start of term
From 2024, there will be four student-free days for ACT public schools. These are the first day of each school term.
Student-free days are for staff development, enabling teachers and schools to plan in a student-free environment.
Monday 29 January will be a student-free day.
On Tuesday 30 January, new students will start school. Continuing students will return to school on Wednesday 31 January.
Other term dates for the 2024 school year:
Friday 12 April– Term 1 ends
Tuesday 30 April – Term 2 begins (students start school)
Friday 5 July – Term 2 ends
Tuesday 23 July – Term 3 begins (students start school)
Friday 27 September – Term 3 ends
Tuesday 15 October – Term 4 begins (students start school)
Tuesday 17 December – Term 4 ends.
Financial assistance
The Future of Education Equity Fund (Equity Fund) offers eligible families financial support to help with school essentials. It supports the more vulnerable families in our community.
Low-income families of students – from preschool through to year 12 – can receive a one-off, annual payment. This is to help cover the costs of schooling, such as:
uniforms
sport equipment and activities
tuition
music lessons.
The Equity Fund payments are $400 (preschool), $500 (primary school), and $750 (high school and college level, including CIT Year 11 and 12).
Equity Fund applications for the 2024 school year are now open.
Families can apply for all eligible students in their family in the one application, regardless of whether they attend different schools.
School staff are also able to help families to apply.
Applications close in November 2024.
Find out more about eligibility criteria and how to apply online.
Mobile phone policy
A new mobile phone policy for all ACT public schools starts in term 1 2024.
Students in preschool to year 10 at ACT public schools may not use or access personal communication devices at school. This includes recess and lunch, and during school authorised events.
For year 11 and 12 students, mobile phones and other personal communication devices must be silenced and put away during class time.
Students can request an exemption if they need their device for medical or other specific reasons.
Schools will communicate their expectations about how and where to store devices at the beginning of the school year.
Healthy lunches
It includes a Grab and Go shopping list and tips for a waste-free lunchbox. You’ll also find tips on which food groups to include and how to swap for healthier options.
Wellbeing for students
A new school year can be tough for some students, whether they are:
starting a new school
moving into high school or college
just dealing with any of the life changes thrown their way.
The ACT Government has online resources that could be helpful in starting conversations on finding ways to support them.
Asthma management
If your child has asthma, the start of the school year is a good time to make sure you’re managing it.
You may wish to:
book an asthma review with your child’s GP
update your child’s asthma action plan with their GP
make sure the school has your child’s reliever medication and spacer
talk to school staff
book an appointment with one of the asthma nurse educators at Canberra Health Services.
Child development
Are you concerned about your child’s development? The start of a new year is a good time to contact the Child Development Service, to access free drop-in clinics and assessments.
Free three-year-old preschool
ACT three-year-olds can now benefit from 300 hours of free preschool at over 140 locations.
This will save the average family around $1,329 a year.
In 2023 the ACT Government passed new legislation to make free period products available at a range of community locations across the ACT for anyone who needs them.
This includes at every ACT public school, which is something we already do as a system, and will continue to do.
Pads and tampons are available in ACT public high schools, colleges, and combined schools. Pads are available in ACT public primary schools.
They can be accessed at any time during the school day from the school front office for staff, students, and visitors.
The ACT Government will deliver the broader project in stages and a procurement process for dispensers to be installed in public places, including ACT public schools, will occur in 2024.
The Education Directorate will continue to work with ACT Health to ensure age-appropriate information on menstrual hygiene is available for students through our schools.
From Monday 29 January dedicated school services will resume. This includes ‘S’ trips which divert into schools.
Please check your timetable so you are prepared and ready.
If your child is in primary school, you can refer to your school’s pack to plan your child’s travel. Find it on the Transport Canberra website.
If your child is new to school or changing schools, please check available school bus and light rail information on the Transport Canberra website.
Familiarise yourself and your child with their school routine. They should know which stop the bus will pick up from in the morning and where to get off at the end of the day.
Make sure your child has a MyWay card that is registered and topped up with sufficient funds. A MyWay card is easy to get and will save you time and money. Find out more about ticketing and MyWay.
School bus services are available to school students only. Under special circumstances, parents with young children may apply to travel on these services for a few weeks to help their child get used to bus travel. Find out more about parents travelling on school bus services.
If you’re a student in college or tertiary education, check the Journey Planner for timings. Just enter your destination for the fastest, most convenient options.
To stay up-to-date with Transport Canberra updates, including changes to services and latest news, you can:
40 km/h school zones
Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. As students return to school, remember to slow down and stick to the 40 km/h limit around schools between 8am and 4pm.
Mobile speed vans and police regularly patrol school zones. Let’s all slow down and support kids’ safety.
Parking around schools
The start of the school year is a particularly busy time in Canberra’s school carparks and surrounding streets.
Unsafe and illegal parking reduces visibility for students and motorists. This creates a hazard when students cross the road.
Parking inspectors and license plate recognition vehicles will be out and about enforcing safe parking around schools.
For drop-offs and pick-ups, arrange a meeting spot, arrive after the rush, or park a little further away from the school and walk with your kids the rest of the way.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Blair Merton is excited to get back into teaching and has several goals for the year ahead.
After a 15-year break from teaching, Blair Merton is keen to return to the classroom.
The avid reader and history buff will teach history and geography at Kaleen High.
He will also run a Strategy Games Club, where students play miniature wargames.
He’s the ideal person to coordinate this, having served in the Australian Army during his teaching pause.
“I’d taught at a few different high schools around Canberra throughout the 2000s – Canberra High, Lanyon and Belconnen – before taking an extended hiatus from teaching in 2009,” Blair said.
He moved to the Education section of the Australian War Memorial before enlisting in the Army and being posted to Darwin.
“Life in the military meant that I was part of a wider family of a diverse range of people and experiences, and as an older soldier, I often found myself helping others through their personal trials and tribulations. I often found myself helping some younger soldiers with their written aspects of their courses and administrative work. I was probably the worst shot in the Army, but I did have a knack for communicating,” he said.
The thought of returning to teaching was never completely out of his mind.
“My wife began working as a midwife, and we both decided that due to the stresses and strains of our professions we would return to Canberra where we could be closer to our extended families,” he said.
Although Blair isn’t new to teaching in the Territory, he joins the almost 170 new educators working in ACT public schools this year.
He is excited to get back into it and has several goals in mind for the year ahead.
“I’m aiming to improve my student outcomes, their skills. I want to inspire curiosity and build people of good character. I always try to remind my students that a good life means building a balanced life, and I try to remind them of the principles of justice, courage and wisdom. The Ancients started this kind of education back in the day, and there’s still a lot of merit in those principles.
“The best thing about my subject area is that you make links between all the various disciplines of science, literature and maths in order for students to see the world around them and develop an appreciation of that world, because one day they’ll take custodianship of it,” Blair said.
Blair understands how a good schooling experience can shape a person.
“My favourite subjects in school were History and English. My favourite school was Higgins Primary – I have so many good memories from those days. Playing rugby and cricket, watching BTN on the TV trolley, the fetes, discos and Saturday afternoon matinees in the school hall,” he said.
He is pleased to be back in Canberra and views the lifestyle here as conducive to an active family life.
“Canberra has lots of opportunities for my children to play sport, attend events and take up hobbies. My family loves living near the bushland, and we regularly run and walk our greyhound on the back tracks. I love playing music in my band, The Lonely Fates, and the Canberra music scene is so much bigger and more professional nowadays,” he said.
Who knows? For someone so comfortable with change, perhaps a move into Kaleen High’s music department could also be on the cards in future.
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New Location Marks a Milestone in Commitment to Continued Growth
LINDON, Utah, March 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ambia Solar, a leading residential solar company known for its commitment to personalized energy solutions and customer-first service, is proud to announce the relocation of its corporate headquarters to Lindon, Utah. The official move took place on Friday, March 28, 2025.
The new headquarters will serve as a central hub for Ambia’s operations, providing expanded space for its growing teams in sales, operations, finance, and customer service. This move reflects Ambia’s continued growth and commitment to creating a collaborative, forward-thinking workplace to support its mission of making clean, dependable energy accessible for homeowners across the country.
Conner Ruggio, CEO of Ambia, shared that from the first time he walked through the building—formerly home to the successful HR company BambooHR—he had a gut feeling it was the right fit for Ambia. “I genuinely believe this is going to be a place where we do some incredible things,” Ruggio said. “I hope this is a place you love to work every day. I know that I will.”
Located in the heart of Utah County, the new facility offers greater accessibility, enhanced amenities, and plenty of space for future growth as Ambia continues scaling its efficient energy solutions throughout the U.S. This move underscores the company’s ongoing investment in its employees and communities, creating opportunities for job growth, collaboration, and impact across the solar industry.
About Ambia Solar Ambia is a residential solar company dedicated to helping homeowners achieve greater energy independence through smart, reliable solar solutions. With a focus on transparency, education, and world-class service, Ambia manages each project in-house—from consultation and system design to professional installation and support. Ambia currently operates in nine states with plans for continued expansion.
Contact: Anne Heath Marketing & Communications anne.heath@ambiasolar.com www.ambiasolar.com
Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau toured a renowned pop cultural entertainment company and its thematic park on the second day of his visit to Beijing today.
The company specialises in popular intellectual property (IP) artistic toys and has successfully commercialised IP in cultural and creative industries with a number of products that have gained popularity both domestically and globally.
Mr Yau also met representatives of the company to learn about its operation and the development of IP products on the Mainland.
Noting that the effective protection and efficient transaction of IP is crucial to the development of cultural and creative industries as well as technological innovation, Mr Yau said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is taking forward initiatives to protect the fruits of innovation and creativity to promote trading and strengthen training of talent in IP, pressing ahead with the city’s development into a regional IP trading centre.
He then met representatives of the China Alcoholic Drinks Association to promote Hong Kong’s immense opportunities for wine merchants following the deduction in liquor duty.
The commerce chief said the two-tier system announced in the 2024 Policy Address has effectively promoted high-end liquor trade, with increases recorded in both the quantity and value of liquor imported.
Mr Yau also pointed out that Mainland wine and liquor products, especially Chinese baijiu, are highly regarded in the global market, showing great market potential and room for growth.
He added that Hong Kong could serve as a key hub for trading and distribution of high-end liquor including Chinese baijiu, and Mainland wine merchants are encouraged to use the city as a platform for Chinese baijiu to go global.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Third Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival to open in April Opening Week Programmes ______________________
Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet (1991) ___________________________________
Kicking off the festival is the opening programme “Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet (1991)” to be staged on April 4 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Grand Theatre. Renowned musician Ng Cheuk-yin will reimagine beloved songs from classic comedy films with fresh arrangements, while pop singer Alfred Hui, the a cappella choral theatre company Yat Po Singers, and beatboxer Heartgrey (Eric So) will perform together with a live band. Following the performance, there will be a screening of “The Banquet” (1991) (4K digitally restored version), a comedy produced to raise disaster relief funds for flood relief, directed by Tsui Hark, Clifton Ko, Cheung Tung Joe and Alfred Cheung, featuring a cast of legendary stars. The opening programme, blending entertainment with cultural artistry, offers audiences a fresh and inspiring perspective on the vibrancy of Hong Kong’s pop culture.
ImagineLand 2025 _______________
Another highlight of the PCF is an outdoor music carnival “ImagineLand 2025” to be held on April 5 and 6 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, the Central Lawn & Event Trellis of Salisbury Garden, the Avenue of Stars free of charge. Supported and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the two-day carnival features both daytime and evening programmes. “Go Beyond Concert”, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” and “Funarts Corner” will be available during the day, whereas film programme “Movie Under the Stars” will be held at night. “Go Beyond Concert” will showcase three stages featuring over 35 musicians and artists from Hong Kong and eight countries and regions including Mainland China, Japan, Korea, the United States, Australia, France, the United Kingdom and Ukraine. The event showcases boundless possibilities of music across the performances. Major line-ups of local artists include Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, Yatfung, Cloud, Ashley Lin, Pandora, Chu Wan-pin and more, performing mesmerising popular songs and original works.
In addition to the music concert, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” will display Hong Kong comics and animation from different eras to highlight the creativity of local artists. Visitors can learn about the history of Hong Kong’s comics and animation while taking photos with comic characters. In addition, “Funarts Corner” will offer workshops on art, music, and crafts for public participation. In the evenings, “Movie Under the Stars” will screen local comedies: “Table For Six” (2022) and “Forbidden City Cop” (1996) on April 5 and 6 respectively, allowing audiences to enjoy outdoor films while relaxing on the lawn.
Other festival highlights include:
Film Screening ____________
Apart from “The Banquet” (1991), the Hong Kong Film Archive will hold a “Laughter Double Bill: Hong Kong Comedy Film Spectacular” film screening, showcasing eight pairs of thematically related classic films from the 1940s to the 2000s, including “Black Rose” (1965) (2K Digital Version) and “92 The Legendary la Rose Noire” (1992), “The Judge Goes to Pieces” (1948), and “Justice, My Foot!”(1992), showcasing the comedic sparks of master comedians from different eras while illustrating the evolution of Hong Kong comedy films.
Exhibitions _________
“Comic Fun for All: The Magic of Hong Kong Comedy Comics”, running from May this year to March 2026 at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, will showcase exhibits related to Hong Kong comedy comics from different periods. The exhibition will also feature the creative concepts and artistic features behind them, showing the unique charm of Hong Kong comedy comics.
Another exhibition, “Legends of HK Film Comedies, 1980s and 1990s”, to be held from May to October at the Hong Kong Film Archive, will feature a wide selection of highlights from different films, offering an amusing window into the past. In-depth analysis of the films by renowned actors and behind-the-scenes filmmakers will also be offered to reveal the essence of Hong Kong humour.
Library Activities _____________
To support the PCF’s theme of “More Than Joy”, the Hong Kong Public Libraries will organise a series of activities under the theme of “Happy Reading” from April to August. This will feature book displays with themes “Delightful Comics”, “Into the World of Movies” and “Music Delights: from Classical Music to Popular Songs”. It will also include subject talks on “Hong Kong Comics” and “Hong Kong Style Humor Films”, as well as workshops on “Digital Art – Creative Comic Drawing” and “National Games Comics Path”, all aimed at sharing fun and happiness through comics, music and films. The “Meet-the-Authors 2025” will focus on “Joyful Writing” to explore writing and positivity. In April, Dr Chan Kai-tai, a psychiatrist and lyricist, will speak on “When Words meet Music and Mind: Cantopop and Well-being” to explore how the lyrics of Cantopop promote our mental well-being.
Performing Arts _____________
The 2025 Fiesta of Music Office Bands, Choirs and Orchestras-Bands “The Animated Melodies – Our Nostalgic Memories” will be held at Yuen Long Theatre in April, showcasing all-time favourite theme songs from animations such as “Nintama Rantar??” and “The Lion King”, and a medley of works by Akira Toriyama to transport audiences back to nostalgic moments. Another two “Let’s Have Fun with Music” concerts by Pan Asia Symphony Orchestra in May will blend the best of classical and pop music. To heighten the excitement, original animations crafted by local talents will be woven into the concert, making it a truly engaging and enjoyable concert. Meanwhile, “Vivek Mahbubani Stand-up Comedy – Funny made in Hong Kong” by Hong Kong born stand-up comedian Vivek Mahbubani will feature jokes about the funny things of Hong Kong’s golden standard of “fast, beautiful and awesome” in June.
In pop music, “Ko Shan Fest” will be staged at Ko Shan Theatre in June, featuring two concerts curated by renowned producer and music director Carl Wong. Wong will collaborate with bands with diverse backgrounds and styles to reintroduce audiences to the history and culture of Hong Kong band music. Another two “Music & Laughs” concerts will be held in July at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. Curated by veteran producer Edward Chan in collaboration with pop music artists and the Symphonic Pops Orchestra and band, the performance invites the audience to explore together: What is comedy? Several popular artists will join this feast and details will be announced later.
Alongside the above programmes, several industry partners will be offering a range of events as part of the festival, which are not to be missed. These include “My Stage@HKCC 2025/26 – Saturday Music Live” by Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups; “2025 Hong Kong Reading +” by the Hong Kong Publishing Federation; “JITN – SHAG” by the Jazz World (Hong Kong) Ltd & Count-in Music Ltd; “Cinema Day 2025” by Hong Kong Theatres Association Ltd; “Cherish Tonight” concerts by the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra; and the “4th HK Comics Support Programme” by the Hong Kong Comics & Animation Federation.
Hong Kong’s pop culture has drawn inspiration particularly from humour, a constant trendsetter that has left a deep footprint on many aspects of the city’s rich and colourful pop cultural landscape. The PCF 2025, with more than 20 programmes, will not only delight audiences with exciting performances and works but will also offer an insight into the development paths of Hong Kong’s pop culture along the line of “happiness”. By participating in these activities, audiences will be able to discover their own happiness.
WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC) in Jamnagar to emerge as a Centre of global wellness; bolster evidence-based research, training and awareness for Traditional Medicine Central Sector Scheme (CSS) for the Promotion of International Cooperation (IC) in AYUSH to facilitate the International promotion, development and recognition of Ayush system of medicine
Department of Integrative Medicine operationlised at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) & Safdarjung Hospital and Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi to promote integrative healthcare
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:30PM by PIB Delhi
The Ministry of Ayush has taken initiative for World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) Collaborative Centre for Traditional Medicines at Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), Jamnagar and Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), New Delhi, and National Institute of Indian Medical Heritage (NIIMH), Hyderabad, a unit under Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), New Delhi. ITRA is running an International Centre of Ayurveda Studies (ICAS) centre to promote Ayurveda as a key component of global healthcare systems.
The WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC) in Jamnagar would emerge as a Centre of global wellness; bolster evidence-based research, training and awareness for Traditional Medicine. It will serve as a key knowledge hub for evidence-based Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) on a global scale. This is the first and only global out posted Centre (Office) for traditional medicine across the world.
With regard to enhance international collaboration in Ayurveda through various forums, the Ministry of Ayush has developed a Central Sector Scheme (CSS) for the Promotion of International Cooperation (IC) in Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Homoeopathy (AYUSH) under which the Ministry of Ayush provides support to Indian Ayush drug Manufacturers/ Ayush Service providers to give boost to the export of AYUSH products & services; facilitates the International promotion, development and recognition of Ayush system of medicine; foster interaction of stakeholders and market development of Ayush at international level; promote academics and research through the establishment of Ayush Academic Chairs in foreign countries and holding training workshop/symposiums for promoting and strengthening awareness and interest about Ayush Systems of Medicine at international level. Under various components of the CSS IC Scheme, the Ministry of Ayush supports AYUSH entrepreneurs, Ayush drug manufacturing industry, Ayush Health Care providers etc. Participation/ organization of International exhibitions/ conferences/ workshops/ seminars/ road shows/ trade fairs, etc. in India and abroad by the Ministry of Ayush through Indian Mission/ Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)/ Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI)/ India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO)/ Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)/ Pharmaceutical Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil), etc.
The Ministry of Ayush has supported various international events/ conferences/ seminars/ workshops etc. organized by various organizations including World Ayurveda Congress to enhance international collaboration in Ayurveda.
The Ministry of Ayush has taken various steps to integrate Ayurveda with modern medical practices to address contemporary health challenges through the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) Ayush Vertical. The Ayush Vertical under DGHS, established by the Ministry of Ayush and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), serves as a dedicated institutional mechanism for planning, monitoring, and supervising Ayush-specific public health programs. This vertical provides technical support to both Ministries in developing strategies for public health, healthcare, Ayush education, and training. The Ministry of Ayush and MoHFW have jointly established Integrated Ayush Departments in Central Government Hospitals to promote integrative healthcare. As part of this initiative, the Department of Integrative Medicine has been set up and is operational at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) & Safdarjung Hospital and Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi.
Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences(CCRAS), as the apex body of research in Ayurveda, has undertaken research projects on the treatment of various diseases in collaboration with modern institutions to promote the integration of Ayurveda with the modern system of medicine.
CCRAS has undertaken various research studies to examine the benefits and feasibility of integration of Ayurveda through the following research projects for integration of Ayurveda with modern system of medicine:
Operational study to explore the feasibility of integrating Ayurveda with modern system of medicine in a tertiary care hospital (Safdarjung Hospital New Delhi) for the management of Osteoarthritis (Knee). The study has been completed.
Feasibility of introducing Indian System of Medicine (Ayurveda) in the National Reproductive and Child Health services at Primary Health Care (PHC) level” in Himachal Pradesh. The study has been completed.
Integration of AYUSH systems in the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases & Stroke (NPCDCS). The study has been completed.
Feasibility of introducing Ayurveda Intervention in Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) in PHCs of Selected district (Gadchiroli) of Maharashtra (Effectiveness of Ayurvedic intervention for Ante-Natal care (Garbhini Paricharya) at Primary Health Care level: A Multi Centre Operational Study.
Further, under the Extramural Research Programme, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) under Ministry of Ayush has taken an initiative to set up Ayush-ICMR Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research (AI-ACIHR), at AIIMS to conduct research on identified areas focusing on integrative healthcare. Under this program, four research areas in four AIIMS have been identified, which are as follows:
AIIMS Delhi:
Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Gastro-intestinal Disorders
Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Women and Child Health
AIIMS- Jodhpur: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Geriatric Health
AIIMS Nagpur: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Cancer Care
AIIMS Rishikesh: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Geriatric Health.
Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Ayush encourages Post Graduate (PG) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) scholars and faculty researchers to collaborate with modern medical faculty to ensure Ayurveda’s efficacy and relevance in modern healthcare. Since 2019, 25 integrative researches have been undertaken.
The Ministry of Ayush, developed the Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH (IC Scheme). The details are provided at Point (a)&(b)
The Ministry also implements the CSS Scheme for Promotion of Information Education and Communication (IEC) in Ayush to create awareness regarding Ayush Systems of Medicine including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy system of medicine. This aims to reach out to all sections of the population across the country. This scheme provides assistance for organizing National/State Arogya Fairs, Yoga fests/ Utsavs, Ayurveda Parvs, etc. The Ministry also undertakes Multi-Media, Print Media Campaigns for creating awareness about Ayush Systems.
The Ministry of Ayush, through Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), an Institute of National Importance, organizes various public participatory programs on regular basis to increase public awareness and acceptance of Ayurvedic practices domestically.
North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda and Homoeopathy (NEIAH) has taken various steps for health awareness among citizen in rural areas. NEIAH has opened a Peripheral Outpatient Department (OPD) in Ayurveda and Homoeopathy OPD at Smit areas, East Khasi Hills district of the State of Meghalaya to promote Ayurveda and Homoeopathy. The Institute also conducted a Health camps under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) programmes. The Institute regularly gives free consultation in the Institute Hospitals both OPD and In-Patient Department (IPD) and conducting free Medical & Awareness Camps at Villages, schools, Govt. Dept., Military personnel and at community levels. Organized National Seminars/worships, Panel discussions, Doctor se Mileye in All India Radio, Shillong in English, Hindi and Regional Language (Khasi), TV Talks shows on Ayurveda in Doordarshan Kendra, Shillong etc.
For increasing awareness domestically, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) provides clinical care and engages in awareness activities to promote Ayurveda through its Information Education and Communication (IEC) Activities through its networks of 30 peripheral Institutes.
CCRAS has been engaged in popularizing the Ayurveda system among the masses through electronic and print media for common people in English, Hindi, and regional languages, which are widely distributed through National/State level Arogya melas, Health camps, exhibitions, expos, etc., and also through CCRAS outreach programs viz. Schedule Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) Research Program, Tribal Health Care Research Program (THCRP), etc., in different states of the country through its robust 30 peripheral institutes. The Council website is also generally embodied with IEC materials and hyperlinked with other important websites that provide information for wider utility.
The Council has three journals named Journal of Drug Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (JDRAS), Journal of Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (JRAS), and Journal of Indian Medical Heritage (JIMH) which is also available electronically in the public domain free of cost to enable dissemination of the outcomes of research among the public. The CCRAS is also publishing CCRAS Bulletin quarterly for dissemination of Research outcomes in common languages for the public. So far, the Council has published books, monographs, and technical reports, and they are being sold or distributed to disseminate research outcomes and merits of Ayurveda at large.
To increase awareness internationally, the CCRAS under the Ministry of Ayush has signed MoU/LoI/Agreements with different countries / foreign Universities/ Institutions/ organizations to promote International cooperation for the establishment of Academic Chair.
This information was given by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses TV9 Summit 2025 Today, the world’s eyes are on India: PM
India’s youth is rapidly becoming skilled and driving innovation forward: PM
“India First” has become the mantra of India’s foreign policy: PM
Today, India is not just participating in the world order but also contributing to shaping and securing the future: PM
India has given Priority to humanity over monopoly: PM
Today, India is not just a Nation of Dreams but also a Nation That Delivers: PM
Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:53PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the TV9 Summit 2025 in the Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi today. Addressing the gathering, he extended his best wishes to the entire team of TV9 and its viewers. He said that TV9 had a wide regional audience and added that now there is a global audience also getting ready. He also welcomed and greeted the Indian diaspora who had connected over teleconference to the event.
“Today, the World’s eyes are on India”, remarked the Prime Minister, highlighting that people around the globe are curious about India. He noted that India, which was the 11th largest economy in the world after 70 years of independence, rose to become the 5th largest economy in a span of 7-8 years. Citing a report of the IMF, Shri Modi said that India was the only major economy in the world which had doubled its GDP in the last 10 years. Emphasizing that India had added USD two lakh crore to its economy in the last decade, adding that doubling of the GDP was not just about numbers but had major impacts like moving 25 crore people out of poverty forming a ‘Neo-Middle Class’. He further added that the Neo-middle class was beginning a new life with dreams and aspirations along with contributing to the economy and making it vibrant. “India has the world’s largest youth population”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, noting that the youth were rapidly becoming skilled, thereby accelerating innovation. “India First has become the mantra of India’s foreign policy”, highlighted the Prime Minister. He remarked that while India once followed a policy of maintaining equal distance from all nations, the current approach emphasizes being equally close to all—an “Equi-Closeness” policy. The Prime Minister underscored that the global community now values India’s opinions, innovations, and efforts like never before. He emphasized that the world is keenly observing India today and is eager to understand “What India Thinks Today.”
Prime Minister highlighted that India is not merely participating in the world order but is actively contributing to shaping and securing the future. He remarked about India’s vital role in global security, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Defying doubts, India developed its own vaccines, ensured rapid inoculation, and supplied medicines to over 150 countries, he added. He emphasized that in times of global crisis, India’s values of service and compassion resonated worldwide, showcasing the essence of its culture and traditions.
Reflecting on the global context post-World War II, noting how most international organizations were dominated by a few nations, Shri Modi remarked that India’s approach has always prioritized humanity over monopoly, striving for an inclusive and participatory global order. He added that in line with this vision, India has led the way in establishing global institutions for the 21st century, ensuring collective contribution and cooperation. Shri Modi remarked that addressing the challenge of natural disasters, which cause immense damage to infrastructure worldwide, India took the initiative to establish the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). CDRI represents a global commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience, he added. The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s efforts to promote the construction of disaster-resilient infrastructure, including bridges, roads, buildings, and power grids, ensuring they can withstand natural calamities and safeguard communities across the world.
Emphasising the importance of global collaboration to tackle future challenges, particularly in energy resources, Shri Modi highlighted India’s initiative of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as a solution to ensure sustainable energy access for even the smallest nations. He remarked that this effort not only positively impacts the climate but also secures the energy needs of Global South countries. He proudly noted that over 100 countries have joined this initiative. Talking about the global challenges of trade imbalances and logistics issues, Shri Modi highlighted India’s collaborative efforts with the world to launch new initiatives, including the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). He remarked that this project will connect Asia, Europe, and the Middle East through commerce and connectivity, boosting economic opportunities and providing alternative trade routes. He underscored that this initiative will strengthen the global supply chain.
Underlining India’s efforts to make global systems more participative and democratic, the Prime Minister remarked on the historic step taken during the G-20 Summit at Bharat Mandapam, where the African Union was made a permanent member of the G-20. He emphasized that this long-standing demand was fulfilled under India’s presidency. Shri Modi underscored India’s role as the voice of Global South countries in global decision-making institutions, highlighting India’s significant contributions in various fields, including International Yoga Day, the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine, and the development of a global framework for Artificial Intelligence. He remarked that these efforts have established India’s strong presence in the new world order. “This is just the beginning, as India’s capabilities on global platforms continue to reach new heights”, he added.
Noting that 25 years of the 21st century have passed, out of which 11 years have been dedicated to serving the nation under his government, Shri Modi emphasized the importance of reflecting on past questions and answers to understand “What India Thinks Today.” He highlighted the transformation from dependency to self-reliance, aspirations to achievements, and desperation to development. He recalled that a decade ago, the issue of toilets in villages left women with limited options, but today, the Swachh Bharat Mission has provided a solution. He noted that in 2013, discussions about healthcare revolved around expensive treatments, but today, Ayushman Bharat offers a solution. Similarly, he highlighted that kitchens of the poor, once associated with smoke, now benefit from the Ujjwala Yojana. The Prime Minister pointed out that in 2013, women often remained silent when asked about bank accounts, but today, over 30 crore women have their own accounts due to the Jan Dhan Yojana. He also mentioned that the struggle for drinking water, which once required reliance on wells and ponds, has been addressed through the Har Ghar Nal Se Jal Yojana. He emphasized that it is not just the decade that has changed but also the lives of people. He remarked that the world is recognizing and accepting India’s development model. “India is no longer just a ‘Nation of Dreams’ but a ‘Nation That Delivers’”, he added.
Shri Modi said that when a nation values the convenience and time of its citizens, it transforms the nation’s trajectory. He highlighted that this is precisely what India is experiencing today. He provided an example of the significant changes in the passport application process. He noted that earlier, obtaining a passport was a cumbersome task, involving long waiting times, complex documentation, and limited passport centers, mostly located in state capitals. He emphasized that people from smaller towns often had to arrange for overnight stays to complete the process. The Prime Minister highlighted that these challenges have now been completely transformed. He shared that the number of passport service centers in the country has increased from just 77 to over 550. Additionally, he remarked that the waiting time for obtaining a passport, which used to be as long as 50 days, has now been reduced to just 5-6 days.
Remarking on the transformation witnessed in India’s banking infrastructure, Shri Modi highlighted that while banks were nationalized 50-60 years ago with the promise of accessible banking services, lakhs of villages still lacked such facilities. He emphasized that this situation has now been changed. The Prime Minister noted that online banking has reached every household, and today, there is a banking touchpoint within every 5-kilometer radius in the country. He stated that the government has not only expanded banking infrastructure but also strengthened the banking system. He highlighted that banks’ Non-Performing Assets (NPA) have significantly reduced, and their profits have reached a record high of ₹1.4 lakh crore. He added that those who looted public money are now being held accountable, sharing that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has recovered over ₹22,000 crore, which is being legally returned to the victims from whom it was taken.
Stressing that efficiency leads to effective governance, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of achieving more in less time, utilizing fewer resources, and avoiding unnecessary expenditures. He remarked that prioritizing “red carpet over red tape” reflects respect for a nation’s resources. He noted that for the past 11 years, this has been a major priority of his government.
Mentioning the past practice of accommodating more individuals in ministries, which often led to inefficiencies, Shri Modi highlighted that his government, during its first term, merged several ministries to prioritize the nation’s resources and needs over political compulsions. He provided examples, noting that the Urban Development Ministry and the Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Ministry were merged to form the Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry. Similarly, the Ministry of Overseas Affairs was integrated with the Ministry of External Affairs. He also mentioned the merger of the Water Resources and River Development Ministry with the Drinking Water Ministry to create the Jal Shakti Ministry. He emphasized that these decisions were driven by the country’s priorities and the efficient use of resources.
Underlining the government’s efforts to simplify and reduce rules and regulations, the Prime Minister mentioned that approximately 1,500 outdated laws, which had lost their relevance over time, were abolished by his government. Additionally, around 40,000 compliances were removed. He emphasized that these measures achieved two significant outcomes: relief from harassment for the public and conservation of energy within the government machinery. The Prime Minister provided another example of reform through the introduction of GST. He noted that over 30 taxes were consolidated into a single tax, resulting in substantial savings in terms of processes and documentation.
Underscoring the inefficiencies and corruption that plagued government procurement in the past, often reported by the media, the Prime Minister said that his government introduced the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) platform to address these issues. He explained that government departments now list their requirements on this platform, vendors place bids, and orders are finalized transparently. This initiative has significantly reduced corruption and saved the government over ₹1 lakh crore. The Prime Minister also emphasized the global recognition of India’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. He noted that DBT has prevented over ₹3 lakh crore of taxpayers’ money from falling into the wrong hands. He further highlighted that more than 10 crore fake beneficiaries, including non-existent individuals, who were exploiting government schemes, have been removed from official records.
Emphasising the government’s commitment to the honest utilization of every taxpayer’s contribution and its respect for taxpayers, Shri Modi highlighted that the tax system has been made more taxpayer-friendly. He remarked that the process of filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) is now much simpler and faster compared to earlier times. He noted that previously, filing ITR without the help of a Chartered Accountant was challenging. Today, individuals can file their ITR online within a short time, and refunds are credited to their accounts within days of filing. The Prime Minister also highlighted the introduction of the Faceless Assessment Scheme, which has significantly reduced the hassles faced by taxpayers. He remarked that such efficiency-driven governance reforms have provided the world with a new governance model.
Highlighting the transformation India has undergone in the past 10-11 years across every sector and field, the Prime Minister emphasized the significant shift in mindset that has taken place. He remarked that for decades after independence, a mindset was promoted in India that considered foreign goods superior. He noted that shopkeepers would often begin by saying, “This is imported!” when selling products. He emphasized that this situation has now changed and today, people proactively ask, “Is this Made in India?”
Underscoring India’s remarkable progress in manufacturing excellence, emphasizing the recent achievement of developing the country’s first indigenous MRI machine, Shri Modi said that this milestone will significantly reduce the cost of medical diagnostics in India. He underscored the transformative impact of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives, which have infused new energy into the manufacturing sector. He noted that while the world once viewed India as a global market, it now recognizes the nation as a major manufacturing hub. The Prime Minister pointed out the success of India’s mobile phone industry, stating that exports have surged from less than one billion dollars in 2014-15 to over twenty billion dollars within a decade. He highlighted India’s emergence as a power center in the global telecom and networking industry. Discussing the automotive sector, the Prime Minister remarked on India’s growing reputation in exporting components. He noted that while India previously imported motorcycle parts in large quantities, today, parts manufactured in India are reaching countries like the UAE and Germany. Shri Modi also highlighted the achievements in the solar energy sector, stating that imports of solar cells and modules have decreased while exports have increased by 23 times. He further emphasized the growth in defense exports, which have risen 21 times over the past decade. He stated that these accomplishments showcase the strength of India’s manufacturing economy and its ability to create new jobs across various sectors.
The Prime Minister remarked on the significance of the TV9 Summit, emphasizing the detailed discussions and deliberations on various topics that will take place. He highlighted that the ideas and visions shared during the summit will define the nation’s future. He recalled the pivotal moment of the past century when India embarked on a new journey towards independence with renewed energy. He noted India’s achievement in gaining independence in 1947 and stated that, in this decade, the nation is striving towards the goal of a developed India. He emphasized the importance of realizing the dream of a developed India by 2047 and reiterated his statement from the Red Fort that collective efforts are essential to achieve this vision. The Prime Minister commended TV9 for organizing this summit, acknowledging their positive initiative and extended his best wishes for the success of the summit. He lauded the TV9 network for involving over 50 thousand youth in various interactions in mission mode and training the selected youth. He concluded by expressing confidence that the youth will be the biggest beneficiaries of Viksit Bharat in 2047.
The opening programme of the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2025, Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet (1991), will be held at the Cultural Centre Grand Theatre on April 4.
Blending entertainment with cultural artistry, renowned musician Ng Cheuk-yin will reimagine beloved songs from classic comedy films with fresh arrangements, while pop singer Alfred Hui, the a cappella choral theatre company Yat Po Singers, and beatboxer Heartgrey Eric So will perform together with a live band.
Following the performance, there will be a screening of The Banquet, a comedy produced to raise disaster relief funds for flood relief, directed by Tsui Hark, Clifton Ko, Cheung Tung Joe and Alfred Cheung.
Another highlight of the festival is an outdoor music carnival ImagineLand 2025 to be held on April 5 and 6 at the Cultural Centre Piazza, the Central Lawn & Event Trellis of Salisbury Garden, the Avenue of Stars with free admission.
The two-day carnival features both daytime and evening programmes. “Go Beyond Concert”, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” and “Funarts Corner” will be available during the day, whereas film programme “Movie Under the Stars” will be held at night.
The “Go Beyond Concert” will showcase three stages featuring over 35 musicians and artists from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Japan, Korea, the US, Australia, France, the UK and Ukraine.
Major line-ups of local artists include Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, Yatfung, Cloud, Ashley Lin, Pandora, Chu Wan-pin and more, performing mesmerising popular songs and original works.
“Comics Fun Experience Gallery” will display Hong Kong comics and animation from different eras to highlight the creativity of local artists.
“Funarts Corner” will offer workshops on art, music and crafts for public participation.
In the evenings, “Movie Under the Stars” will screen local comedies Table For Six and Forbidden City Cop on April 5 and 6 respectively, allowing audiences to enjoy outdoor films while relaxing on the lawn.
The Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival is being held for the third year with “More Than Joy” as its theme and over 20 programmes will offer audiences an insight into the development paths of Hong Kong’s pop culture along the line of “happiness”.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, continued his visit to Beijing today (March 28).
Mr Yau visited a renowned pop cultural entertainment company on the Mainland and toured its thematic park this morning. Specialising in popular intellectual property (IP) artistic toys, the company has successfully commercialised IP in cultural and creative industries, with a number of products gaining popularity both domestically and globally. Mr Yau also met with representatives of the company to learn about its operation and the development of IP products on the Mainland.
Noting that the effective protection and efficient transaction of IP is crucial to promoting the development of cultural and creative industries as well as technological innovation, Mr Yau said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is taking forward a series of initiatives to protect the fruits of innovation and creativity to promote IP trading and strengthen training of IP talent, thereby pressing ahead with the development of Hong Kong into a regional IP trading centre.
In the afternoon, Mr Yau met with representatives of the China Alcoholic Drinks Association to promote Hong Kong’s immense opportunities for wine merchants following the deduction in liquor duty. He said that the two-tier system announced in last October’s Policy Address has effectively promoted high-end liquor trade, with increases recorded in both the quantity and value of liquor imported.
He pointed out that Mainland wine and liquor products, especially Chinese baijiu, are highly regarded in the global market in recent years, showing great market potential and room for growth. He added that Hong Kong could serve as a key hub for trading and distribution of high-end liquor, including Chinese baijiu, and Mainland wine merchants are encouraged to use Hong Kong as a platform for Chinese baijiu to go global.
Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong tomorrow afternoon (March 29).
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested four youths in relation to property and vehicle offences in Alice Springs early this morning.
Around 1:25am, police received reports of an unlawful entry at a residence on De Havilland Drive, Araluen. Two sets of keys were stolen from the location and used to steal a Toyota Prado and a Toyota C-HR.
A short time later, police sighted the stolen Prado driving dangerously through Amoonguna Community and initiated a pursuit.
During the pursuit, the Prado rammed the police unit on two occasions and the pursuit was terminated for safety reasons.
The officers inside the vehicle were not injured.
Later, a second police vehicle was stationary when the Prado drove at them head-on, ramming the front of the vehicle and then again at the rear. Members subsequently withdrew from the area.
Both officers inside the vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries. While the vehicle was significantly damaged, the officers did not require medical treatment.
Strike Force Viper attended and initiated a third pursuit with the Prado, with the offenders abandoning the vehicle and attempting to flee the scene on foot.
The driver of the vehicle, aged 13, and the three passengers, aged 13, 11 and 11, were arrested without further incident with the assistance of the Dog Operations Unit.
CCTV operators later observed a 14-year-old male exit the second stolen vehicle in the Alice Springs CBD. He was subsequently arrested and found to be in possession of an edged weapon.
The second stolen vehicle was located abandoned in East Side a short time later.
Investigations are ongoing.
Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference P25085673. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police Force has arrested two female youths in relation to an aggravated assault that occurred in Casuarina yesterday afternoon.
Around 2:40pm, police received reports of a disturbance in the outdoor food court of a shopping centre on Trower Road, involving a group of five female youths. Weapons were allegedly involved in the altercation.
It is alleged a 15-year-old female victim was struck multiple times to the head with a blunt weapon before a member of the public intervened and removed the weapon.
The alleged offender then continued to punch the victim before security officers removed the offenders from the area.
St John Ambulance attended and conveyed the victim to Royal Darwin Hospital.
Police later located and arrested two females, aged 13 and 15.
During the arrests, police received reports of a second incident occurring at the nearby bus exchange on Bradshaw Terrace.
CCTV footage showed a 14-year-old female victim was allegedly assaulted with an edged weapon, sustaining multiple wounds to the back of the neck and head by an unknown female offender.
The offender fled before police arrived.
St John Ambulance conveyed the second victim to Royal Darwin Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The third offender remains outstanding, and investigations into both incidents are ongoing.
Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444 and quote reference number P25084989. Anonymous reports can also be made via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament made its debut at the new Kai Tak Stadium yesterday, with the three-day event kicking off in style.
The opening ceremony featured an innovative laser show, incorporating iconic Hong Kong elements and classic scenes from past tournaments, with lights and music amplifying the excitement.
In addition to the fast-paced sporting action on the field, fans dressed in colourful costumes around the stadium added to the spectacle.
The Hong Kong Sevens is part of the Hong Kong Super March campaign, with the city hosting a series of mega events all throughout this month. Over the course of the tournament, spectators from far and wide are being offered an unforgettable experience that combines world-class rugby with live performances by bands, cheerleaders and other artists, a vibrant Fan Village, and more.
The global video game industry is highly competitive, requiring effective marketing for success. The Hong Kong Game Enhancement & Promotion Scheme supports local startups, some achieving over $10 million in revenue, leading to impressive outcomes.
Gaming dreams From a young age, Chris Choi has had a passion for programming and dedicated himself to developing a mobile music game while studying.
His first game is a mobile rhythm experience where players tap along to the beat. However, unlike most traditional mobile rhythm games, this one is motion-based, requiring players to spin their phones in the air to play. This innovative approach adds a physical element to the gameplay, making it more engaging and dynamic.
By chance, the game’s promotional video was uploaded to a Mainland video platform. Within a week, it had garnered 500,000 views and received positive feedback.
Inspired by this success, he decided to pursue a career in the electronic gaming industry.
With little work and business experience under his belt, Mr Choi ultimately leveraged his strengths in game design to secure a grant of $550,000 from the Hong Kong Game Enhancement & Promotion Scheme for marketing purposes. He used the funding to collaborate with various music labels, resulting in great success.
Global sensation
The game has attracted a significant number of players from the Mainland, Hong Kong, as well as Japan, Europe and the US, with downloads exceeding one million and revenue surpassing $10 million.
Mr Choi pointed out that the scheme helped him to grow his business. At the company’s inception, he had limited startup capital and experience. Through the programme, not only did he secure funding, but also gained valuable knowledge in marketing and promotion, which increased the likelihood of his game’s success.
Lucrative market As the Chinese gaming industry continues to mature, some local game developers are also seizing the opportunity to tap into this booming market.
One of them, video game producer Jacky Chou, whose game is also subsidised by the scheme, is creating a comedy-adventure computer game that showcases the unique elements of Hong Kong’s culture.
“It is actually an adventure game that is heavily inspired by pop culture. It is a very funny, nonsense adventure game with a lot of different game plays and mechanics,” he explained.
Mr Chou added that the scheme not only helped with arranging game testers to provide feedback on how they could improve the game but also offered a diverse range of training, including guidance on marketing strategies and attracting investors.
He also utilised the funding to collaborate with key opinion leaders for extensive advertising campaigns, as well as to promote the game offline at various exhibitions.
Supporting startups The 4th Hong Kong Game Enhancement & Promotion Scheme, sponsored by the Cultural & Creative Industries Development Agency, recently held its awards ceremony.
The organiser, Hong Kong Digital Entertainment Association, announced that 12 local startup game companies had been awarded reimbursement grants ranging from $450,000 to $550,000.
The association’s Chairman Gabriel Pang noted that each year the scheme has seen good results, with about one-third of the companies being profitable and one out of 12 companies usually getting over $10 million in revenue, most of the time with 500,000 to one million downloads.
“The game industry is actually a huge industry. That is why we are doing the Hong Kong Game Enhancement & Promotion Scheme. We need to help them to market their games.
“Usually in Hong Kong, we have a more diverse style. We can cope with different countries and cultures. That is one of our strengths.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:
Please broadcast the following special announcement immediately, and repeat it at frequent intervals when the Cold Weather Warning is in force:
The Labour Department reminds employers that as the Cold Weather Warning is in force, they should take appropriate precautions such as reminding employees who have to work outdoors or in remote areas to wear appropriately warm clothing, and make arrangements for employees to rotate from outdoor to indoor or sheltered work sites as far as possible. Employees should take note of the weather report, wear appropriately warm clothing and be mindful of their health conditions. They should notify their supervisors and seek medical help immediately if feeling unwell, such as having cold limbs and body shivering.
Six Day International Workshop on Land Governance Concludes in Gurugram, Haryana “India Aims to Ensure Global Access to Land Governance Technologies; SVAMITVA Can Aid Global Policymaking “: Shri Vivek Bharadwaj
Posted On: 29 MAR 2025 7:28PM by PIB Delhi
The six-day International Workshop on Land Governance, organized by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, concluded today at the Haryana Institute of Public Administration (HIPA) in Gurugram. The workshop saw enthusiastic participation of senior officials from 22 countries across Africa, Latin America and South-East Asia. During the workshop, participants engaged in detailed discussions and hands-on sessions focused on land governance, with delegates suggesting similar workshops in their own nations under the aegis of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. This International Workshop explored innovative solutions for modernizing land administration and served as a global platform for knowledge exchange, with India showcasing its technological advancements in drone-based land surveys, digital property records, and transparent governance mechanisms under the SVAMITVA Scheme.
Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, delivered the concluding remarks today at HIPA, emphasizing upon India’s commitment to international cooperation and knowledge-sharing in land administration. He highlighted how best practices in land governance, such as the SVAMITVA Scheme, could aid in better policymaking across the globe. He further reaffirmed India’s belief in South-South cooperation and expressed the nation’s readiness to share its technological advancements for the benefit of partner nations. Taking feedback and suggestions from participating countries, Shri Bharadwaj stated that the goal of the workshop was to foster global cooperation and facilitate cross-learning while showcasing the transformative impact of the SVAMITVA Scheme. He said that India aims to ensure that the benefits of technological advancements in land governance reach the widest possible global community. Shri Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, MoPR, and Shri Ramesh Chander Bidhan, Director General, HIPA, were also present at the valedictory session.
Six Day International Workshop on Land Governance: An Overview
The International Workshop on Land Governance focused on modernizing land governance systems, highlighting the critical role of technology in improving property rights and reducing land disputes. Experts shared insights into land laws, administrative frameworks, and best practices, with particular emphasis on India’s pioneering efforts, such as the use of drone-based surveys for mapping rural land parcels. A significant highlight was the on-ground demonstration of drone survey technology in Alipur Gram Panchayat, Sohna Block, Gurugram District, allowing international delegates to witness the precision and community-centric methodology of India’s land surveying approach [Under the SVAMITVA Scheme, recognized as a global model for efficient land administration, till date 2.43 crore Property Cards have been issued and drone surveys completed in 3.2 lakh villages across 67,000 square kilometers, representing an estimated asset base of $1162 billion (as per January 2025 dollar rate), demonstrating the scheme’s scalability and impact].
The workshop also explored technology-driven land administration, including the deployment of Continuous Operating Reference Stations (CORS) Network and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for updating land records. These advancements promise real-time monitoring of land data, offering significant potential for developing countries. Participants shared experiences on geospatial mapping and property rights frameworks, expressing interest in adopting India’s models to enhance their own land governance systems. Hands-on training, including live drone surveys and demonstrations of GIS applications and the SVAMITVA platform, provided practical exposure to the digital land administration process. The workshop concluded with discussions on the future of international cooperation in land governance, emphasizing India’s leadership in digital land administration and its commitment to assisting other nations through policy collaboration, technology transfer, and capacity building. In addition, the foreign delegates also got an opportunity to explore India’s rich cultural heritage during a visit to Taj Mahal in Agra and several institutional landmarks in New Delhi, including the Survey of India Lab, Pradhan Mantri Sangrahalaya and India Gate.
About SVAMITVA Scheme: The SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, provides ‘Record of Rights’ to rural property owners by issuing Property Cards, which clarify land ownership and reduce property disputes. The scheme has already surveyed 3.2 lakh villages across 31 States and Union Territories, resulting in 2.43 crore Property Cards issued across 1.61 lakh villages. With the support of 567 Continuous Operating Reference Stations (CORS) and high-resolution GIS mapping, it ensures precise land demarcation with accuracy up to 5 cm. The generation of high-resolution 1:500 scale maps has further enhanced the effectiveness of land surveys and property demarcation.
SVAMITVA is playing a significant role in unlocking rural economic potential by validating property ownership, enabling landowners to access bank loans and integrate into the formal financial system also benefitting gram panchayats from increased property tax revenue for local infrastructure development. The scheme strengthens Panchayati Raj Institutions by supporting improved Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs) and facilitating land ownership verification through DigiLocker integration. SVAMITVA also stimulates India’s drone technology ecosystem, creating employment opportunities in related sectors. Additionally, it supports flood risk assessment, infrastructure and emergency planning, and solar potential evaluation for rural households. On the international front, SVAMITVA sets a benchmark in land governance, offering a scalable model for other countries facing similar challenges.