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Category: India

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Donald Trump’s tariffs threaten Canadians’ access to prescription drugs

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Joel Lexchin, Professor Emeritus of Health Policy and Management, York University, Canada

    If the United States imposes 25 per cent tariffs on exports from Canada, nearly all economists agree a recession is inevitable. Estimates are that between 600,000 to 2.4 million jobs are at risk.

    Based on previous recessions, the unemployment rate could rise to 10 per cent and stay stuck at that level for some time.

    Adding insult to injury, about 55 per cent of Canadians are covered by employer-sponsored drug plans, which means that when these workers get laid off, they also lose their health benefits, including prescription drug insurance tied to their jobs.

    Affordability of prescription drugs

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Statistics Canada, about one-fifth of the population reported not having insurance to cover prescription medications. This coincided with a soaring unemployment rate that peaked at 13.7 per cent in May 2020. The problem of not having insurance for prescription medications was especially acute among immigrants and racialized people. These are the same groups of people that will be at the highest risk of any recession-linked job losses.

    Unsurprisingly, 23 per cent of those without insurance spent more than $500 out-of-pocket in 2022 on prescription drugs compared to 10 per cent for those with insurance. Canadians in the lowest income quintile spent more money on prescription drugs in absolute terms than those in the highest income quintile ($296 versus $268) in 2009, and it’s unlikely this disparity has significantly changed.

    Already there are estimates that the lack of access to prescription drugs leads to 370 to 640 premature deaths due to ischemic heart disease, 550 to 670 premature deaths from all causes among people 55-64 years of age and avoidable deterioration in health status in 70,000 people age 55 and over.

    When Canadians must choose between buying prescription drugs and paying for food and rent, it’s often no contest; patients skip their medications and suffer the consequences. The result is additional physician visits, more visits to already overcrowded emergency departments and more admissions to hospitals.

    Tariffs and drug prices

    Added to the threat of losing prescription drug coverage with job loss is the very real possibility that drug prices will increase. Thirty-two per cent of the active pharmaceutical ingredients that go into the medicines that North Americans take originate in China. U.S President Donald Trump has now threatened to slap U.S. tariffs on Chinese drugs and drug ingredients that were previously exempt.

    Canada already imports $8.76 billion annually in prescription drugs from the U.S. To the extent that tariffed drugs go from China to the U.S. to Canada, the cost of both publicly and privately funded drug plans will increase.

    Those people at the bottom of the income scale who pay out-of-pocket — and can least afford to pay more — will be saddled with those higher prices. If Canada follows the U.S. in imposing tariffs on drugs made in China, as we have done with electric vehicles, then the price of generic drugs made in Canada from Chinese ingredients will also rise.

    We can hope that any tariffs — on Canada or China — will be only temporary and we can avoid the ongoing effects on both access to prescription drugs and their price. But given Trump’s volatility and unpredictability, we can’t rely on that outcome.

    With the passage in October 2024 of Canada’s new Pharmacare Act, the government of Canada committed to “making sure that you can get the medications you need, no matter where you live or your ability to pay.” We need to expand Canada’s federal pharmacare plan to cover all Canadians for all medically necessary drugs. Indeed, the need has never been as acute.

    So far, only three provinces (British Columbia, Manitoba and Price Edward Island) and one territory (Yukon) have signed agreements with the federal government to cover contraceptives and diabetes drugs and devices — the only products currently covered under Bill C-64. The remaining provinces and territories urgently need to sign on. Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberals must decisively commit to expanding the range of drugs that is covered by pharmacare.

    All the provincial, territorial and federal leaders have pledged to protect Canadians from U.S. tariffs. Expanding pharmacare is part of that protection.

    Between 2022-2025, Joel Lexchin received payments for writing a brief for a legal firm on the role of promotion in generating prescriptions, for being on a panel about pharmacare and for co-writing an article for a peer-reviewed medical journal. He is a member of the Boards of Canadian Doctors for Medicare and the Canadian Health Coalition. He receives royalties from University of Toronto Press and James Lorimer & Co. Ltd. for books he has written. He has received funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research in the past.

    – ref. How Donald Trump’s tariffs threaten Canadians’ access to prescription drugs – https://theconversation.com/how-donald-trumps-tariffs-threaten-canadians-access-to-prescription-drugs-255581

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Yale scholars’ move to Canada can prompt us to reflect on the rule of law

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jeffrey B. Meyers, Instructor, Legal Studies and Criminology, Kwantlen Polytechnic University

    In the most non-controversial and basic sense, the rule of law means formal legality. The law binds citizens and governments. When it comes to nation states, law is enacted by democratically elected legislatures; legal statutes are openly available and sufficiently clear to follow. State actions can be judicially reviewed for compliance with a constitution.

    In its more ambitious conceptualization, the rule of law can also be understood to include substantive human rights and equity. In Canada, The Constitution Act of 1982 references the rule of law in its preamble.

    The modern Canadian iteration of the rule of law — which includes substantive ideas about human rights as well as Indigenous treaty rights — is based on liberal ideas shared by many countries, including, historically, the United States. What distinguishes a rule-of-law state from an authoritarian one to a large extent is whether state actions can be judicially reviewed for compliance with a constitution.

    Although rule of law scholars debate the parameters of the concept of the rule of law, few would debate that what is happening during U.S. President Donald Trump’s second term presents anything other than a wholesale attack on the rule of law both domestically in the U.S and internationally.

    I am a rule of law researcher, educator and lawyer. Since Trump was elected to his first term in 2016, I’ve relied on American scholars, from a variety of disciplines, to understand what is happening.

    These include two prominent Yale professors, philosopher Jason Stanley and historian Timothy Snynder, both of whom have recently announced they’re moving to the Munk School of Global Affairs at the University of Toronto.

    Authoritarian impulse

    In their scholarship, Stanley and Snyder have sought to explain the authoritarian impulses of the first Trump administration and how to resist it.

    Stanley’s father, a German Jew who fled Germany for America in 1939, carries the remembrance of fascism.

    Both Stanley and Snyder explore the similarities between what is occurring in Trump’s America, Viktor Orban’s Hungary, Vladimir Putin’s Russia, Xi Jinping’s China and, equally chillingly, between Trump’s America and Adolf Hitler’s Germany. Even prior to the first Trump presidency, Stanley already asked in his 2015 book, How Propoganda Works, whether the U.S., “the world’s oldest liberal democracy,” might already have become a liberal democracy “in name only?”



    Read more:
    Why the radical right has turned to the teachings of an Italian Marxist thinker

    Examination of propaganda, rhetoric

    In his 2018 book, The Road to Unfreedom: Russia, Europe, America, Snyder described Trump as a “sado-populist, whose policies were designed to hurt the most vulnerable people of his own electorate.”

    Stanley’s focus on propaganda and rhetoric were especially useful for framing the politics of Trump.

    Similarly, Snyder’s focus on the similarities between Trump and other authoritarian leaders, through their attachment to extreme illiberal ideologies, helped frame public discourse in the U.S. during the first Trump presidency. “Illiberal” does not imply conservative in opposition to “being liberal” (with the resonance of “leftist”); rather, it denotes a repudiation of liberal democracy, in the words of political scientist Thomas J. Main.

    Both Stanley and Snyder are on the public record explaining their decision to immigrate to Canada, on the basis that they can no longer continue their scholarly activities in an American university, even a premier one like Yale.

    Jason Stanley speaks with Amanpour and Company.

    Improper interference

    This is an admission by important thinkers that civil society, intellectuals and critical scholars, in particular, are under assault.

    It comes as no surprise given other developments. Trump’s executive orders, threats to some university funding and crackdowns on activists and academics — as well as the attempted deportations of those without U.S. citizenship — have used the idea of combatting campus antisemitism as cover for an attack on free expression, academic independence and student activism.

    From my perspective as a Jewish person, a post-secondary teacher and as someone with a legal education, all of these developments have hit hard, especially alongside accounts of some of America’s most prestigious law firms caving to improper interference by the Trump administration.

    What ‘fascism’ means

    In the introduction to his bestselling 2020 book, How Fascism Works, Stanley wrote: “In recent years, multiple countries across the world have been overtaken by a certain kind of far-right nationalism; the list includes Russia, Hungary, Poland, India, Turkey and the United States.”

    He explains the choice of the word “fascism” to speak about each of these countries, despite their differences of degree and context:

    “I have chosen the label ‘fascism’ for ultra nationalism of some variety (ethnic, religious, cultural), with the nation represented in the person of an authoritarian leader who speaks on its behalf. As Donald Trump declared in his Republican National Convention speech in July 2016, ‘I am your voice.’”

    In his similarly bestselling book, On Tyranny, published in 2017, Snyder wrote: “To abandon facts is to abandon freedom. If nothing is true, then no one can criticize power, because there is not basis upon which to do so. If nothing is true, then all is spectacle. The biggest wallet pays for the most blinding lights.”

    Now that Trump is back in office, Stanley and Snyder, as well as Snyder’s Yale colleague and spouse, Marie Shore, the celebrated author of The Ukrainian Night, are leaving Yale for Canada with good reason.

    Author Timothy Snyder speaks about Democracy and the Risk of Tyranny with Public Policy Forum.

    Shared mutual concern

    While the departure of a handful of prominent academics is hardly a trend, it raises questions about whether there will be an accelerated academic “brain drain”, or more American students in Canada.

    As a Canadian, I would like to say America’s loss is our gain, and I wish these scholars well. I am also aware that narratives of flight to Canada as refuge have historically bolstered national myths while obscuring Canadian inequities. My hope is that Canadians will not observe the arrival of U.S. scholars with smugness, but instead with shared concern.

    We should not be blind to this unique moment in which Canada is called to revisit why we care about Canada and keep watch on the rule of law. Yet, we must also recognize our own profound historical blind spots.

    For example, while an overt threat to sovereignty is new for some Canadians, it is nothing new for Canada’s Indigenous Peoples. Today it’s important to understand the distinctively Canadian importance of Indigenous law to any reaffirmation of the rule of law tradition in Canada in the 21st century.



    Read more:
    Wet’suwet’en hereditary chief is ‘prisoner of conscience’ after failure of Delgamuukw ruling 25 years ago

    Too much cynicism might prevent us from acknowledging the importance of these three scholars’ decisions to leave their country and come to ours at this particular time in history. However, my hope is also that we are also inspired by their considerable truth-telling skills to demand Canada also do better.

    Jeffrey B. Meyers does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Yale scholars’ move to Canada can prompt us to reflect on the rule of law – https://theconversation.com/yale-scholars-move-to-canada-can-prompt-us-to-reflect-on-the-rule-of-law-254434

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA HOSTS PRESIDENT OF ANGOLA

    Source: Government of India

    PRESIDENT OF INDIA HOSTS PRESIDENT OF ANGOLA

    INDIA IS COMMITTED TO MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL AND SUSTAINABLE PARTNERSHIP WITH ALL AFRICAN COUNTRIES: PRESIDENT DROUPADI MURMU

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu received H.E. Mr Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco, President of the Republic of Angola at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (May 3, 2025). She also hosted a banquet in his honour.

    Welcoming President Joao Lourenco on his first State visit to India, the President said that his visit is historic and timely, since this year India and Angola are celebrating the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

    The President congratulated President Joao Lourenco for assuming the Chair of African Union. She noted that during the India’s G20 Presidency, African Union was included as its full member, and also expressed satisfaction that the African voice is now being heard on this important multilateral platform.

    The President said that India shares a special friendship with African countries, including Angola. She added that are committed to mutually beneficial and sustainable partnership with all African countries through our initiatives like the India-Africa Forum Summit.

    The President appreciated the important role played by Angola in promoting peace, security and stability in Africa.

    The President said that terrorism continues to be a scourge facing humanity and it should be unequivocally condemned in all its forms and manifestations. She appreciated President Lourenco’s strong expression of sympathy and support in the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir.

    The President also commended the Indian Diaspora in Angola, which acts as a connecting bridge between our two countries, both culturally and economically.

    The President noted that India has been a leading voice for the interests and aspirations of developing countries in the world. Both leaders agreed that India and Angola should continue to work together, not only for the progress and well-being of the people of our two countries, but for the wider Global South. 

    Please click here to see the President’s Speech-

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister meets Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 8:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Omar Abdullah met the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi in New Delhi today.

    The Prime Minister’s Office handle posted on X:

    “CM of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri @OmarAbdullah, met PM @narendramodi.”

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ray & Mascari Inc. Recalls 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes Because of Possible Health Risk

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    May 02, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    May 03, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesProduceFoodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Potential Foodborne Illness – Salmonella

    Company Name:
    Ray & Mascari Inc
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Ray & Mascari Inc.

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Tomatoes

    Company Announcement
    Ray & Mascari Inc. of Indianapolis, Indiana, is recalling 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes packaged in clam shell containers [20 oz. (1 lb. 4 oz) 567g] with UPC# 7 96553 20062 1, and a master case label with Lot# RM250424 15250B or Lot# RM250427 15250B because of the potential for them to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.
    The recalled tomatoes were sold by Gordon Food Service Stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
    Ray & Mascari Inc. was notified by Hanshaw & Capling Farms of Immokalee, Florida that they were recalling the lot of tomatoes Ray & Mascari Inc. received and repacked into 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes. Hanshaw & Capling Farms initiated the recall due to the possible presence of Salmonella in their facility. Customers who received the recalled lots have been notified and provided information to further contact their customers and distribution centers with recall instructions.
    This product is sold in plastic clamshells containing 4 tomatoes. The 4- count plastic clam shells have a VINE RIPE TOMATOES label containing a Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc., Indianapolis, IN 46204. The master case would be a cardboard produce box with a lid, containing 12 4 count containers. The master case label would have Lot# RM250424 15250B or Lot# RM250427 15250B.
    No illnesses have been reported to date.
    Consumers who have purchased these 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes should discard the product and do not consume. Consumers with questions or reports of any illness may contact Ray & Mascari Inc. at 1-317-637-0234, Monday- Saturday, 6am-5pm EST.

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Ray & Mascari Inc.
    1-317-637-0234

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    05/03/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Govt committed to creating a creator-first ecosystem in India, says MoS Dr L Murugan

    Source: Government of India

    Govt committed to creating a creator-first ecosystem in India, says MoS Dr L Murugan

    Motion Picture Association Launches Landmark Report on India’s Entertainment Economy at WAVES 2025

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 8:55PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 3 May 2025

     

    On the third day of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai, the Motion Picture Association (MPA) unveiled a comprehensive report highlighting the transformative impact of India’s film, television and streaming sectors on the national economy. Hon’ble Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan and Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the MPA, were present at the launch.

    Speaking at the event, Dr. Murugan commended the MPA’s global leadership and acknowledged the growing influence of Indian cinema on international audiences. “Films like RRR and Baahubali have proven that Indian stories resonate across languages and geographies,” Dr. Murugan said.

    He emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a creator-first ecosystem backed by policies, production incentives and strong intellectual property protections. Citing recent anti-piracy reforms, he stressed the importance of safeguarding creators’ rights in the digital age.

    “Cinema is not just an economic engine. It is a vital diplomatic and cultural bridge. India looks forward to deepening its partnership with the Motion Picture Association to co-create a globally respected and secure creative industry,” he added.

    Charles Rivkin expressed his enthusiasm about MPA’s ongoing partnership with India during what he called a “pivotal moment” for the country’s entertainment industry. “India’s creative economy is poised for extraordinary growth, and the MPA is proud to support this journey,” Rivkin said.

    Sharing the key findings after unveiling the report, Rivkin said that the Indian film, TV, and streaming industries supported 2.6 million jobs and generated more than $60 billion as per the annual economic output. He said that the MPA’s member studios are deeply committed to fostering the growth of India’s entertainment sector through investments, partnerships, and advocacy for forward-looking policies.

    Rivkin underscored the alignment between the MPA’s objectives and Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for creative economy, highlighting India’s strengths in storytelling, visual effects and global content export.

    The session concluded with a video presentation of the MPA report’s key highlights, signaling a shared vision between policymakers and global media leaders for a future driven by collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth.

     

    For official updates on realtime, please follow us: 

    On X : 

    https://x.com/WAVESummitIndia

    https://x.com/MIB_India

    https://x.com/PIB_India

    https://x.com/PIBmumbai

    On Instagram: 

    https://www.instagram.com/wavesummitindia

    https://www.instagram.com/mib_india

    https://www.instagram.com/pibindia

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES Bazaar: A Groundbreaking Debut in Global Creative Collaboration

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES Bazaar: A Groundbreaking Debut in Global Creative Collaboration

    From India to the World: WAVES Bazaar Sparks Major Global Entertainment Alliances, records business transactions exceeding ₹800 crore

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 8:48PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 3 May 2025

     

    The inaugural edition of WAVES Bazaar, held from May 1st to 3rd, 2025, in Mumbai, concluded with resounding success, establishing itself as a premier platform for international business collaboration in the creative industries. Organised under the umbrella of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), the marketplace recorded business transactions exceeding ₹800 crore across the Film, Music, Radio, VFX, and Animation sectors. With deal-making still underway, the total valuation is projected to surpass ₹1000 crore in a few days.

     

    Key Highlights

    A key highlight of the Bazaar was the Buyer-Seller Market which witnessed over 3,000 B2B meetings, generating revenue upwards of ₹500 crore, with additional deals expected to close in the coming days. Curated screenings of films at the 80-seat venue drew enthusiastic responses and appreciation for the selected films. The Bazaar also helped emerging creators pitch their IPs to a global network of buyers and collaborators, generating significant interest and fostering new partnerships.

    In a major achievement in international collaborations between India and New Zealand, Film India Screen Collective and Screen Canterbury NZ, led by Petrina D’Rozario, announced a collaborative proposal, inspired by WAVES, to launch the first-ever Indian Film Festival in New Zealand, aimed at deepening tourism, cultural exchange and co-production ties between the two countries.

    Paving the wave for an India-Russia collaboration, Only Much Louder (OML) CEO Tushar Kumar and Gazprom Media CEO Alexander Zharov have begun early talks on a potential Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on cross-cultural festivals and co-produce comedy and music shows in Russia and India.

     

    Major Deal Announcements

    The announcement of the Prime Video & CJ ENM Multi-Year Collaboration was a key highlight of the Bazaar as the strategic partnership was unveiled to distribute premium Korean content globally. With its launch expected in June 2025 with Head Over Heels, the deal includes streaming in over 240 countries, featuring 28 subtitle languages and 11 dubbed versions. The initiative highlights Asia’s growing creative presence on global streaming platforms.

    Another initiative that added value to the Bazaar was the announcement of the film Devi Chowdhurani, which became the India’s first official Indo-UK co-production. Backed by the Ministry of I&B, NFDC, FFO, and Invest India, the a pre-teaser of the film was unveiled at the Bazaar. The historical epic, set during the Sanyasi-Fakir rebellion, stars Prosenjit Chatterjee and Srabanti Chatterjee, with music by Pandit Bickram Ghosh.

    The announcement of the launch of the feature film Violated was another initiative that vindicated the purpose of WAVES Bazaar. A bold psychological thriller, Violated marks the directorial debut of Dimple Dugar. Celebrated for its strong female-led narrative, the film is co-produced by Fusion Flicks from the UK and JVD Films, signalling Dugar’s transition from commercial to feature filmmaking.

    With its impactful debut, WAVES Bazaar has not only positioned itself as a global hub for creative collaboration but also set the stage for a new era of cross-border storytelling and industry transformation.

     

    For official updates on realtime, please follow us: 

    On X : 

    https://x.com/WAVESummitIndia

    https://x.com/MIB_India

    https://x.com/PIB_India

    https://x.com/PIBmumbai

    On Instagram: 

    https://www.instagram.com/wavesummitindia

    https://www.instagram.com/mib_india

    https://www.instagram.com/pibindia

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal and Chief Minister Ms Rekha Gupta attends 31st Foundation Day of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) today in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal and Chief Minister Ms Rekha Gupta attends 31st Foundation Day of   Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC)  today in New Delhi

    Adding cargo compartments to metro trains will enhance business efficiency for the urban working class : Shri Manohar Lal

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 8:01PM by PIB Delhi

    The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) observed its 31st Foundation Day today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

    The occasion was attended by Shri Manohar Lal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs & Power, as the Chief Guest. Smt. Rekha Gupta, Hon’ble Chief Minister, GNCTD, was present as the Guest of Honour.

    Hon’ble Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs and Power, Shri Manohar Lal ji, joins Hon’ble Chief Minister Smt Rekha Gupta ji on the occasion of the 31st Foundation Day of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi

    In his address, the Hon’ble Minister highlighted the significant role that Delhi Metro plays in the daily life of the common citizen in Delhi. He emphasized that easy, reliable, and safe mobility is the fundamental right of every citizen, and that urban transport systems like the Delhi Metro have become an indispensable part of urban living.

    Looking ahead, the Hon’ble Minister underlined that by 2047, nearly 50% of India’s population will reside in urban areas, making it imperative to plan and strengthen urban mobility infrastructure today. He shared a visionary idea of adding cargo compartments to metro trains, enabling small businessmen, vendors, and hawkers to seamlessly transport their goods across the city — a step that would save time, reduce energy consumption, and enhance business efficiency for the urban working class.

    Furthermore, Shri Manohar Lal ji emphasized the need to integrate green and renewable energy solutions in metro operations, aligning with the nation’s sustainable development goals. He reiterated that metro systems will be the lifeline of every city in India, and their continued expansion and modernization is key to building smart, inclusive, and future-ready urban centers.

    Other dignitaries in attendance included Shri Katikithala Srinivas, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and Chairman, DMRC; Shri Dharmendra, Chief Secretary, GNCTD; and Dr. Vikas Kumar, Managing Director, DMRC.

    During the programme, DMRC’s Annual Awards were presented to individuals and teams for their exemplary contributions to the organization.

    The recognitions included:

    •           *Metro Woman of the Year*: Ms. Preeti, Senior Station Controller/Train Operator

    *Metro Man of the Year*: Shri Suresh Pawar, Senior Station Manager/Line Supervisor

    •           *Best Metro Station*: Karol Bagh Metro Station

    •           *Best Metro Depot*: Kalindi Kunj Depot

    •           *Rajbhasha Puruskar*:Ms. Anjali, Senior Customer Relations Assistant

     

    A special award was also presented to the Metro Adventure Club (MAC) team for its year long activities promoting team spirit and bonding  among DMRC employees.

    The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi Smt. Rekha Gupta also congratulated Delhi Metro on the occasion. “The place that Delhi Metro has made in the hearts of the people, it is indeed nothing less than the lifeline.

    There is a ‘feel good factor’ when a passenger enters the Delhi Metro. They keep it clean, and they follow the rules as well. There has been a behavioural change,” she said during her address.

    The event was a time to reflect at how far Delhi Metro has come and to appreciate the hard work of everyone who has been part of this journey. It was also a reminder of DMRC’s continued focus on providing safe, dependable, and eco-friendly travel to the people of Delhi and the surrounding areas.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA GRACES THE LAUNCH OF THE MEDIATION ASSOCIATION OF INDIA AND ADDRESSES THE FIRST NATIONAL MEDIATION CONFERENCE

    Source: Government of India

    PRESIDENT OF INDIA GRACES THE LAUNCH OF THE MEDIATION ASSOCIATION OF INDIA AND ADDRESSES THE FIRST NATIONAL MEDIATION CONFERENCE

    THE DISPUTE RESOLUTION MECHANISM UNDER THE MEDIATION ACT SHOULD BE EFFECTIVELY EXTENDED TO RURAL AREAS SO THAT THE PANCHAYATS ARE LEGALLY EMPOWERED TO MEDIATE AND RESOLVE THE CONFLICTS IN VILLAGES: PRESIDENT DROUPADI MURMU

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 6:31PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced the launch of the Mediation Association of India and addressed the First National Mediation Conference 2025 in New Delhi today (May 3, 2025). 

    Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the Mediation Act, 2023 was the first step in consolidating the civilisational legacy. Now we need to add momentum to it and strengthen its practice. She emphasised that the dispute resolution mechanism under the Mediation Act should be effectively extended to rural areas so that the Panchayats are legally empowered to mediate and resolve the conflicts in villages. Social harmony in villages is an essential prerequisite of making the nation strong, she said. 

    The President said that mediation is an essential part of the delivery of justice, which is at the heart of the Constitution of India – our founding text. Mediation can speed up the delivery of justice not only in the specific case under consideration, but also in other cases, by reducing the burden on courts of a large number of litigations. It can make the overall judicial system much more efficient. It can thus open up the developmental pathways that might have been blocked up. It can enhance both the ease of doing business and the ease of living. Mediation, when we see it this way, becomes a key instrument to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. 

    The President said that India has a long and rich tradition of judicial mechanisms in which out-of-court settlements were more of a norm than exception. The institution of Panchayat is legendary for fostering amicable resolutions. The Panchayat’s endeavour was not only to resolve the dispute but also to remove any bitterness among the parties about it. It was a pillar of social harmony for us. Unfortunately, the colonial rulers ignored this exemplary legacy when they imposed an alien legal system on us. While the new system did have a provision for mediation and out-of-court resolution, and the old tradition of alternative mechanisms did continue, there was no institutional framework for it. The Mediation Act, 2023 plugs that loophole and has a number of provisions that will form the foundation of a vibrant and effective mediation ecosystem in India. 

    The President said that the First National Mediation Conference is not a mere ceremonial event; it is a call to action. It calls upon us to collectively shape the future of mediation in India — by nurturing trust, building professional capabilities, and making mediation accessible to every citizen, across all sections of society. The establishment of the Mediation Association of India is a significant step forward in carrying this legacy into the future. It institutionalizes and promotes mediation as a preferred, structured, and widely accessible mode of dispute resolution — an approach that is timely and much needed in today’s dynamic and complex world. 

    The President said that we should see effective dispute and conflict resolution as not merely a legal necessity but a societal imperative. Mediation fosters dialogue, understanding and collaboration. These values are essential for building a harmonious and progressive nation. It will lead to the emergence of a conflict-resilient, inclusive and harmonious society. 

    Click here to see the President’s address.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM congratulates Mr. Anthony Albanese on being elected as Prime Minister of Australia

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 6:26PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today extended his congratulations to Mr. Anthony Albanese on his election as the Prime Minister of Australia.

    In a post on X, he wrote:

    “Congratulations @AlboMP on your resounding victory and re-election as Prime Minister of Australia! This emphatic mandate indicates the enduring faith of the Australian people in your leadership. I look forward to working together to further deepen the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and advance our shared vision for peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.”

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    MJPS/SR/SKS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Beyond Nostalgia: The Business of Restored Classics” – Insightful Discussions at WAVES 2025

    Source: Government of India

    “Beyond Nostalgia: The Business of Restored Classics” – Insightful Discussions at WAVES 2025

    Classic films are more than entertainment—they are a reflection of our collective cultural identity and heritage: Prakash Magdum

    Restoration demands significant investment of money, time, and skilled resources: Shehzad Sippy

    Despite the deluge of new content, the industry must work to preserve its foundational works: Kamal Gianchandani

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 6:18PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 3 May 2025

     

    Indian cinema took center stage at WAVES 2025 with an insightful panel discussion titled “Beyond Nostalgia: The Business of Restored Classics.” Curated under the expert moderation of renowned film trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the session brought together industry stalwarts to deliberate on the significance, challenges, and future of restoring cinematic gems for contemporary audiences.

    The conversation opened with Kamal Gianchandani, a key voice in the film exhibition and distribution space, who emphasized the urgent need to make classics accessible on digital platforms. “So many of our films disappear from public memory because they aren’t readily available. Audiences constantly tell us they want to revisit the classics,” he noted, adding that despite the deluge of new content, the industry must work to preserve its foundational works.

    Shehzad Sippy, representing the legacy of iconic cinema, reflected on the evolution of filmmaking and the unique storytelling methods of earlier decades. “Filmmaking was a different art then, and audiences today are curious to experience that era. But restoration demands significant investment of money, time, and skilled resources,” he said.

    Film producer and actor Jackky Bhagnani highlighted the unpredictable nature of audience preferences. “People’s time is precious—they want quality content. What resonates is often subjective, seasonal, or driven by mood. But regardless of the era, we always strive to give our best,” he stated.

    Bringing a policy and heritage perspective, Prakash Magdum, Additional Director General, PIB & CBC, Ahmedabad, shed light on government’s efforts to preserve India’s cinematic legacy. “Indians are deeply nostalgic. While the older generation seeks to relive the magic of their youth, the younger generation is eager to experience the classics they’ve heard so much about. Film restoration is a meticulous process involving multiple stakeholders, but with cutting-edge technology, we’re able to stay true to the original vision,” he explained.

    He further elaborated on the ambitious National Film Heritage Mission, an initiative led by the Government of India aimed at preserving, digitizing, and restoring cinematic treasures. “Classic films are more than entertainment—they are a reflection of our collective cultural identity and heritage. The challenge is enormous, especially with factors like temperature and humidity affecting film reels, and the growing complexities of digital data preservation. Yet, this responsibility must be met with urgency and dedication”, flagged Shri Magdum.

    The panel served as a powerful reminder that restored classics are not merely relics of the past, but vibrant carriers of culture, emotion, and legacy. As the business of restoration gains momentum, it is clear that the fusion of technology, passion, and policy will be key to ensuring that India’s cinematic heritage continues to inspire generations to come.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DRDO conducts maiden flight-trials of Stratospheric Airship Platform

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 10:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out maiden flight-trials of Stratospheric Airship Platform from Sheopur Trial site in Madhya Pradesh on May 03, 2025. Developed by Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment, Agra, the airship was launched carrying an instrumental payload to an altitude of around 17 kms.

    Data from onboard sensors was received and would be utilised for development of high-quality fidelity simulation models for future high-altitude airship flights. Envelop pressure control and emergency deflation systems were deployed in flight for their performance evaluation. Trial team recovered the system for further investigation. The total duration of the flight was about 62 minutes.

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has congratulated DRDO for the successful maiden flight-trial of the system. He stated that this system will uniquely enhance India’s earth observation and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance capabilities, making the country one of the few countries in the world having such indigenous capabilities.

    Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat congratulated the DRDO team involved in design, development and trial of the system. He said the prototype flight is a milestone towards realisation of lighter-than-air high-altitude platform systems that can remain airborne for very long endurance at stratospheric heights.

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    SR/Savvy

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah reviews the progress of National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL), National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) and Indian Seed Cooperative Society Limited (BBSSL)

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah reviews the progress of National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL), National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) and Indian Seed Cooperative Society Limited (BBSSL)

    Formed in 2023 under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, these institutions are working as umbrella organizations with a “Whole of Government” approach

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation directs NCEL to explore new opportunities for export of sugar, aromatic rice of Tripura, organic cotton, and coarse grains from cooperative sugar mills

    Shri Amit Shah suggests partnership with big companies for export of fresh vegetables to Gulf countries and special potato varieties

    NCEL should work on the ambitious target of exporting three specific products worth ₹ 2 lakh crore which have never been exported before

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah says NCOL should work with the target of turnover of more than ₹ 300 crore in the financial year 2025-26

    BBSSL plays a vital role in strengthening India’s seed ecosystem – Shri Amit Shah

    Home Minister also stressed upon the need to work on sugarcane varieties with high sugar content and low water requirement

    BBSSL Centre set up at Kalol, Gujarat will develop high yielding, short maturity and low water requirement varieties of crops like pigeon pea, black gram, maize

    Setting up of tissue culture facility is imperative to ensure availability of plants of high genetic potential for top 10 banana producing states

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:53PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chaired a high-level review meeting in New Delhi to review the progress of National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL), National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) and Bharatiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Ltd (BBSSL). The meeting was attended by Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation, senior officials of the Ministry, and Shri Anupam Kaushik, Shri Vipul Mittal and Shri Chetan Joshi (Managing Directors of NCEL, NCOL and BBSSL respectively).

    Addressing the meeting, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, these three national cooperative institutions were created by the Ministry of Cooperation with the approval of the Union Cabinet in 2023, with the aim to act as umbrella organizations for cooperative exports, organic production and promotion of quality seeds. He said that these are being operated under the ‘Whole of the Government’ approach in collaboration with the concerned Ministries/Departments/Agencies.

    To realize the vision of “Prosperity through Cooperation” of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, many initiatives and historic schemes have been started under the guidance of the Ministry of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, which is promoting the cooperative sector at a fast pace.

    NCEL (National Cooperative Exports Limited):

    Shri Amit Shah directed NCEL to explore new opportunities for export of sugar from cooperative sugar mills, aromatic rice of Tripura, organic cotton, and coarse grains. Shri Amit Shah also suggested possibilities of partnership with big companies for export of fresh vegetables to Gulf countries and special potato varieties.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation set an ambitious target of ₹2 lakh crore exports by NCEL of three new and specific products which are not currently being exported from India. Along with this, Shri Shah directed to route all exports of cooperative institutions through NCEL so that about ₹20,000-30,000 crore turnover and net profit after taxes and operating costs can go back to the cooperatives.

    Shri Amit Shah also suggested setting up of NCEL offices in Africa and Myanmar for pulses import and developing a dedicated website to enable cooperative members to understand the global demand and share their supply capacity.

    NCEL was set up under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act and has made remarkable progress in its first year. In FY 2024-25, it gave membership to more than 10,000 cooperative institutions and achieved a turnover of ₹4,283 crore, with a net profit of ₹122 crore.

    NCEL has expanded its exports to 28 countries, with key products being: basmati and non-basmati rice, marine products (especially shrimp), coarse cereals, wheat, fruits and vegetables, animal products, spices and plantation products. It has also signed strategic agreements (MoUs) with 61 importers from Senegal, Indonesia and Nepal.

    NCOL (National Cooperative Organics Limited):

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that the organic products procured by NCOL are also being supplied to big brands like Amul, Bigbasket, thereby providing more volume and cost advantage to the ‘Bharat Organics’ brand. Shri Amit Shah said that soon its products will be available in Reliance stores across India.

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah, 22 products under the ‘Bharat Organics’ brand are currently available in Delhi-NCR and there are plans to launch it in major metros. The products include cereals, pulses, spices and sweets products.

    Shri Amit Shah appreciated the efforts of NCOL and set a target of turnover of more than ₹300 crore in the financial year 2025-26. He has also directed to form groups of certified organic farmers at the state level and integrate them at a higher level.

    In the zero year of commercial operation in the financial year 2025-26 itself, NCOL has given membership to more than 7000 cooperatives in various categories and transacted a quantity of more than 1200 metric tonnes, which was procured from more than 2000 farmers. Its turnover so far has been ₹ 10.26 crores.

    The uniqueness of the brand lies in its ‘Authenticity & Sustainability’ approach, every product batch is being tested for pesticide residues as per ‘Organic India’ standards and the report is being shared with the consumers in the form of a QR code and this customer oriented initiative is being implemented for the first time in the industry.

    BBSSL (Indian Seeds Co-operative Society Limited):

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah underlined the important role of BBSSL in strengthening the seed ecosystem of India and said that it is imperative to establish tissue culture facility to ensure availability of plants of high genetic potential for top 10 banana producing states. He said that the recently established state-of-the-art BBSSL Centre at Kalol in Gujarat will work towards development of high yielding, low maturity and low water requirement varieties of crops like tur, urad, maize. He also emphasized the need to work on sugarcane variety with high sugar content and low water requirement. Shri Amit Shah has urged BBSSL to develop seeds of Lachka fodder crops for sale through NDDB and Amul network. Shri Amit Shah also emphasized on promoting seed production for processing varieties like potato especially for French fries under the Seed Production Programme for Processing Varieties. To ensure timely availability of breeder seeds, the Union Minister of Cooperation directed the Ministry of Cooperation to coordinate with the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure timely supply of required breeder seeds.

    The Minister appreciated the efforts of BBSSL and reiterated the Government’s commitment to empower agricultural cooperatives through innovation, quality inputs and institutional support.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Over One Lakh Devotees Pay Homage to Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha at Thanh Tam Pagoda in Vietnam

    Source: Government of India

    Over One Lakh Devotees Pay Homage to Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha at Thanh Tam Pagoda in Vietnam

    Three-Kilometer Devotee Queue Highlights Spiritual Fervor for India’s Sacred Relics in Vietnam

    UN Vesak 2025 Celebrations Witness Unprecedented Turnout as India’s Buddhist Heritage Touches Hearts in Vietnam

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:24PM by PIB Delhi

    More than one lakh devotees have paid their reverent homage to the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha, currently enshrined at Thanh Tam Pagoda, located within the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Binh Chanh District, Ho Chi Minh City. The Holy Relics were brought from India by an official delegation led by Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju and Andhra Pradesh Minister Shri Kandula Durgesh, joined by senior monks and officials.

    Since early morning, the stupa housing the relics—recognized as a National Treasure of India—has seen continuous inflow of devotees. A line stretching nearly three kilometers formed on Saturday, underscoring the profound spiritual resonance and devotion among the Vietnamese people.

    The Sacred Relics, including a portion of the skull bone of Lord Buddha (Shakyamuni), were excavated in 1898 by British archaeologist William Claxton Peppe in Kapilavastu, near the India-Nepal border. These relics are enshrined in a gold-plated stupa crafted by Thai artisans in 1997, featuring 109 grams of gold at its pinnacle—a testimony of the global reverence for Buddha.

    Transported aboard an Indian Airforce aircraft, the relics arrived at Tan Son Nhat International Airport on May 2, 2025, and were ceremonially escorted to Thanh Tam Pagoda. The public exposition of these relics is being conducted under stringent security arrangements, reflecting their sacred and diplomatic importance—equivalent to a state leader’s visit.

    The Holy Relics will remain in Vietnam until May 21, 2025, as part of the UN Day of Vesak celebrations. They will travel to key Buddhist sites including Ba Den Mountain National Tourist Area (Tay Ninh), Quan Su Pagoda (Hanoi), and Tam Chuc Pagoda (Ha Nam), fostering stronger spiritual and cultural ties between India and Vietnam.

    The United Nations Day of Vesak 2025, themed “Unity and Inclusivity for Human Dignity: Buddhist Insights for World Peace and Sustainable Development,” will be observed from May 6–8. The global event is expected to host over 1,200 delegates from 85 countries and territories, including heads of state, religious leaders, and scholars.

    India’s participation and the hosting of these sacred relics represent the profound civilizational bond and shared Buddhist heritage between the two nations.

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    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

     

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 10th National Community Radio Awards presented

    Source: Government of India

    10th National Community Radio Awards presented

    Union Minister of State Dr. L Murugan honours 12 Community Radio Stations for their outstanding contributions

    Community Radio is a tool to reach out to citizens in all corners of the country; they take important development initiatives to all: Dr. L. Murugan

    8th National Community Radio Conference held at WAVES 2025 in Mumbai

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 4:26PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, May 3, 2025

    The 8th National Community Radio Conference was organized by the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, on the sidelines of the World Audio-Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), in Mumbai today. Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. L. Murugan honoured 12 outstanding community radio stations with the 10th National Community Radio Awards at the event.

    Speaking on the occasion, Dr L. Murugan congratulated the winners and said that the national conference is aimed to strengthen the community media landscape in India through innovation, inclusiveness, and impact. The Union Minister of State said that Community Radio is a tool to reach out to citizens in all corners of the country. The Community Radios around the country are serving some or the other welfare purpose and supporting good causes, including promotion of Indian tradition and culture, he added. The community radio stations are also taking PM Shri Narendra Modi’s vision and important development initiatives of the central government to all parts of the country. These stations are adding a new dimension of welfare activities for various communities and groups, like women and tribal community among others.

    Speaking about the first edition of WAVES 2025, Dr. L. Murugan stated that new ideas will evolve from it and that creative economy is a sunrise sector that will play a major role in the coming days. 

    List of Community Radio Stations which were awarded under four different themes

    Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Prithul Kumar Joint Secretary (Broadcasting) and MD, NFDC, and IIMC Vice Chancellor Dr. Anupama Bhatnagar were present amongst the dignitaries on the occasion.

    The conference brought together representatives from more than 400 Community Radio (CR) Stations across the country on one platform to provide an opportunity for dialogue and collaboration. At present, there are 531 CR Stations across the country. The conference emphasized the seminal role of Community Radio in public communication and  awareness generation and also their potential in social development.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Streaming platforms enabled democratization of filmmaking in India, says Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos in conversation with actor Saif Ali Khan

    Source: Government of India

    Streaming platforms enabled democratization of filmmaking in India, says Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos in conversation with actor Saif Ali Khan

    Post-COVID, we saw a 2 billion dollar investment into India, showing dynamic shift in content creation and consumption: Sarandos

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 3:56PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai | May 3, 2025

    Ted Sarandos, Co-CEO of Netflix, while talking to actor Saif Ali Khan in an engaging conversation on the third day of the inaugural World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) at Jio World Centre in Mumbai today, said that the streaming platforms had enabled democratization of film making in India. 

    The conversation on the theme “Streaming the New India: Culture, Connectivity, and Creative Capital” explored the evolving landscape of storytelling in the digital era, the impact of streaming on creative freedom, and India’s growing presence on the global entertainment map.

    When asked about the future of storytelling, Sarandos said, “It’s very difficult to predict where storytelling is headed. But what remains constant is the intent to connect with audiences. Post-COVID, we saw a 2 billion dollar investment into India, which is a clear sign of the country’s dynamic shift in content creation and consumption.”

    Saif Ali Khan, reflecting on his collaboration with Netflix in the popular series Sacred Games, emphasized the transformative power of streaming platforms. “Earlier, we had to conform to rigid formats. Streaming has liberated actors and filmmakers from those constraints. Now, people across the globe can watch our stories, which they might have missed in traditional cinema,” he said.

    Elaborating on the democratization of filmmaking in India, he said, “audiences can access diverse stories anytime, and creators have more freedom to tell them. It’s a continuous cycle of watching and making.”

    Addressing the coexistence of cinema and streaming, Sarandos reaffirmed that theatrical releases still hold value. “Cinemas are not outdated. Streaming and theaters are not competitors. They can move ahead coexisting each other as the market before us is huge,” he said.

    Saif echoed the sentiment, adding that the most meaningful projects for him are those rooted in Indian culture. “If someone abroad asks me about my films, I talk about Omkaara or Parineeta — films deeply connected to our culture. There’s something incredibly thrilling about telling our own stories to the world,” he said.

    Both Sarandos and Saif praised WAVES as a platform that amplifies the creative synergy between global and Indian storytellers. Sarandos praised the initiative, saying, “If the ideas presented here work, they’ll succeed beyond imagination. WAVES is a fantastic platform for that momentum.”

    The WAVES summit continues to bring together visionaries and industry experts from across the globe to shape the future of the entertainment industry through dialogue, innovation, and cultural exchange.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Report for Framework on Repairability Index (RI) in Mobile and Electronic Sector submitted

    Source: Government of India

    Report for Framework on Repairability Index (RI) in Mobile and Electronic Sector submitted

    Committee’s recommendations in alignment with best global practices facilitating industry with innovation and ease of doing business

    Repairability Index enabling framework applies to
    Smartphones and Tablets

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 11:03AM by PIB Delhi

    The Committee constituted for the Framework on Repairability Index (RI) in Mobile and Electronic Sector has submitted its Report to Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India.

    The committee’s recommendations have been framed in alignment with the best global practices without causing any impediment to the industry with regard to innovation and ease of doing business. The Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are required to self-declare the Repairability Index based on a standards scoring criteria provided in the framework with no additional compliance burden.

    Further, the committee recommended that the Repairability Index should be displayed at the point of sale/purchase, E-commerce platforms and in form of QR code on packaged products to enable consumer to make informed choices.

    Repairability Index aims to create an ecosystem ,  where consumers choose options that align with the ethos of ‘mindful utilization’ of their products over ‘wasteful consumption’. By empowering consumers with ease and hassle-free repair options, the Department of Consumer Affairs is reaffirming its commitment to a self-reliant, sustainable, and consumer-friendly economy.

    Pertinently, an analysis of grievances received at National Consumer Helpline (NCH) indicates that large number of consumers witness issues while seeking repair for their mobile phone and tablets. There has been significant rise in complaints in Mobiles and Tablets product category from 19,057 in 2022-2023 followed by 21,020 in 2023-2024 and further to 22,864 in 2024-2025, which also highlighted a pressing need to improve repair accessibility and ensure greater transparency of repair and post-sale service-related information to consumers.

    In September 2024, the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), constituted a committee under the chairmanship of Shri Bharat Khera, Additional Secretary for developing the framework of the Repairability Index (RI).

    The committee included

    • Stakeholders from the industry with companies like Apple., Samsung, Google, Vivo, HMD Mobiles., Dell, HP.
    • Prominent Industry associations like ICEA and MAIT,
    • Representatives from consumer organisations like EPIC,
    • Members of academia and senior officials of DoCA, Meity, MSME
    • Scientific organisations such as NTH and BIS

    The committee was mandated to recommend a robust framework for Repairability Index (RI) in Mobile and Electronics Sector. Based on the deliberations, the committee has identified smartphones and tablets as a product category for notification in the initial phase of Repairability Index in Mobile and Electronics Sector.

    The committee identified priority parts which are most prone to frequent failures and have high functional relevance as below:

    • Battery,
    • Display assembly,
    • Back cover assembly,
    • Front-facing camera assembly,
    • Rear-facing camera assembly,
    • Charging port,
    • Mechanical buttons,
    • Main microphone(s),
    • Speaker,
    • Hinge assembly or mechanical display folding mechanism,
    • External audio connector(s).

    Several meetings of the Committee were conducted to deliberate and discuss for identifying parameters for Repairability Index. Repairability is assessed on six core parameters, namely

    1. Disassembly Depth,
    2. Repair Information,
    3. availability of Spare Parts within a reasonable timeline,
    4. Software Updates,
    5. Tools and
    6. Fasteners (types and availability).

    Scoring criteria was evolved for each of these parameters and weightages were decided. After aggregation of weightages for priority parts, a RI on a five-point numeric scale is arrived at.

    The Committee actively engaged with a wide array of relevant stakeholders, including manufacturers, industry associations, consumer advocacy groups, and representatives of government. These consultations were vital for gathering diverse perspectives and ensuring the proposed framework is practical, effective, and addresses the needs and challenges faced by the consumers in India to utilize their product as long as they want.

    As India continues its rapid technological advancement and more and more consumers have access to a variety of consumer products, the need for robust after sales support and equitable repair practices is becoming increasingly crucial. For countless consumers, both in rural and urban areas, access to affordable repair options is fundamental.

    In view of this growing demand for a robust repair ecosystem, the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) had launched the Right to Repair Portal India in 2022, to facilitate relevant repair associated information between the companies and consumers in 4 (four) sectors namely, Automobile, Mobile and Electronics, Consumer Durables and Farming Equipment.

    Over the last two years, consistent efforts have been made by the Department to use this portal for dissemination of repair related information. More than 65 companies across above four sectors have on boarded the portal and offer relevant repair related information to consumers.

    Over the past few years, the rapid growth of the smartphone and tablet market in India has significantly transformed the digital landscape, with smartphones and tablets becoming integral to daily life for millions of people. A National Workshop was conducted in August 2024 wherein it was unanimously agreed that a Repairability Index framework in Mobile and Electronics sector will help consumers assess the ease of repairability of smartphones and tablets and enable them to make an informed choice amongst products available in market based on their repairability.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES 2025: Spotify House Session Highlights Folk as a Living Tradition

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES 2025: Spotify House Session Highlights Folk as a Living Tradition

    Panellists Advocate Preserving the Soul of Folk while Adapting it to Contemporary Cultural Landscapes

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 3:34PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 3 May 2025

     

    The Day 3 of the inaugural WAVES Summit 2025 witnessed an insightful session titled Spotify House: Evolution of Folk Music in India at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. Hosted under the ‘WAVES Culturals and Concerts’ segment, the session brought together leading voices from India’s folk music and cultural space for a conversation on the living tradition of folk.

    Renowned storyteller and host Roshan Abbas moderated the discussion. The panel featured celebrated lyricist and CBFC Chairperson Prasoon Joshi, folk singer Malini Awasthi, music composer Nandesh Umap, singer and composer Papon, and acclaimed performer Ila Arun.

    Panellists discussed how Indian folk music continues to thrive as a living, collective tradition. They agreed that folk is not a relic of the past but a force deeply embedded in daily life and passed down across generations. Prasoon Joshi described folk as a “tactile feel of life” and a dynamic expression of shared human experience.

    The conversation revolved around efforts to bring folk music into the mainstream. The panellists appreciated platforms like Spotify and initiatives like WAVES for including folk in larger cultural narratives. Nandesh Umap called folk “an open university,” stressing its inclusive and democratic nature.

    Papon recounted his journey with folk music, including a memorable moment in Serbia when Assamese folk songs received a standing ovation. He highlighted how Indian folk resonates globally when presented with authenticity. Ila Arun and Malini Awasthi echoed the sentiment, stressing that the roots of folk music lie in community and emotion.

    Prasoon Joshi noted, “When you seek yourself, you write poetry. When you subsume yourself, you write folk.” This statement captured the essence of the discussion as a genre rooted in collective identity and constantly reshaped by those who live it.

    The panel underscored the vast diversity within Indian folk traditions, with each state offering a unique musical idiom. They called for systemic support to nurture this diversity and credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for enabling platforms like WAVES that bring traditional art forms to the forefront.

    The discussion also addressed the need for innovation. The panellists emphasised that while the essence of folk must be preserved, its form should evolve to speak to new generations. They encouraged creative reinterpretations that remain true to cultural roots yet appeal to contemporary audiences.

    The session featured spontaneous musical moments. Several panellists broke into impromptu singing, bringing the spirit of folk to life. The audience enjoyed an authentic and immersive experience.

    The session ended with a unified call to listeners, institutions, and creators to support India’s folk heritage. The panellists urged that folk must not only be preserved but also celebrated and shared widely.

     

    For official updates on realtime, please follow us: 

    On X : 

    https://x.com/WAVESummitIndia

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    https://www.instagram.com/wavesummitindia

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    https://www.instagram.com/pibindia

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Call for Nominations for Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Call for Nominations for Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025

    Last date for submission of nominations is 31st July 2025

    Nominations to be submitted online through the official Rashtriya Puraskar Portal

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 10:44AM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India has invited nominations for the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) 2025, a prestigious national-level award conferred annually by the President of India to recognize exceptional achievements of children across the country. The last date for submission of nominations is 31st July 2025. All nominations must be submitted online through the official Rashtriya Puraskar Portal at https://awards.gov.in.

    Nominations are open to children aged between 5 and 18 years (as on 31st July 2025). Any individual or institution may nominate children with exceptional achievements for PMRBP. Children may also apply through self-nomination.

    To apply, applicants must first register or log in on the portal by providing details such as First Name, Last Name, Date of Birth, Applicant Type (Individual/Organisation), Mobile Number, Email ID, Aadhaar Number, etc. and CAPTCHA verification. Once registered, they should select the “Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025” under the Ongoing Nominations section and click on “Nominate/Apply Now.” Applicants must then choose the relevant award category and indicate whether the nomination is for themselves or for someone else.

    The application form requires nominee details, a concise narrative (maximum 500 words) describing the achievement and its impact, and the upload of supporting documents (PDF format, up to 10 attachments) and a recent photograph (in jpg/jpeg/png format). Applications can be saved as drafts and edited before final submission. Once reviewed and submitted, a downloadable copy of the application will be available for reference.

    The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar honours young individuals below the age of 18 (as on 31st July 2025) who have demonstrated excellence in the following six categories: Bravery, Social Service, Environment, Sports, Art & Culture, and Science & Technology.

    The objectives of Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awards are to celebrate and amplify the achievements of India’s youth in diverse spheres, to inspire peers nationwide by showcasing real-life role models and to foster an enabling environment for children’s holistic development.

    For more information and to nominate, please visit https://awards.gov.in.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Workshop on “Driving Innovation with IP” Held at IISc Bengaluru to Mark World Intellectual Property Day 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 3:25PM by PIB Delhi

    To commemorate World Intellectual Property (IP) Day 2025, the National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), under the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, organized a national workshop titled “Driving Innovation with IP: Strategic Approaches to Commercialization” at the historic Faculty Hall, IISc.

    Jointly supported by key institutions including IIIT Bangalore, CMTI, C-DOT, Central Silk Board, BeST Cluster, IPTel, and IISc, the event brought together over 250 in-person and 500 virtual participants from academia, research, startups, industry, PSUs, and government to deliberate on IP management and commercialization strategies.

    Commodore Amit Rastogi (Retd.), CMD, NRDC, delivered the keynote, emphasizing NRDC’s role in scaling academic innovations via initiatives like NETRA, Design Clinic, and blended financing to Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) 7–9. He announced upcoming projects including a Technology Exchange Portal, IP Fairs, and a National Tech Translation Organization (NTTO), reinforcing the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

     

    Prof. Govindan Rangarajan, Director, IISc, underlined the need for structured IP protection in academia and acknowledged efforts to address cultural barriers to patenting.

    Key dignitaries included Ms. Manjushree N, IAS, Commissioner, DCTE GoK, Prof. Suryasarathi Bose (IISc), Dr. U T Vijay (KSCST), Prof. Debabrata Das (IIIT-B), Dr. S Manthira Moorthy (CSB), and Shri Prakash Vinod (CMTI)—all advocating for deeper academia-industry collaboration and robust IP ecosystems.

    A MoA was signed between NRDC and IIIT Bangalore to facilitate tech commercialization.

    Along with it a Tripartite Licensing Agreement signed between NRDC, CSIR-CFTRI, and M/s Varre Corporate Solutions for CSIR-CFTRI’s Spirulina Cereal and Choco Bar technology.

    Dr. Dilip Krishnaswamy (C-DOT) and Dr. Vishal Rao (Innaumation Medical Devices) shared insights on embedding IP into business strategy.
    Dr. B. K. Sahu (NRDC) presented strategies for overcoming commercialization barriers.

    Two major panel discussions featured leaders from Biocon Academy, BeST, CSIR-CFTRI, IIIT Innovation Centre, and IPTeL, focusing on bridging gaps between research and market, effective licensing strategies, and the critical role of policy and institutional mindset shifts.

    The workshop concluded with a unified call to action for scaling India’s innovation ecosystem through strategic IP commercialization, fostering national development and global competitiveness.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government Prohibits Import of All Goods Originating in or exported from Pakistan to India

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 3:20PM by PIB Delhi

    The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has issued a notification prohibiting import of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan to India.

    This will prohibit import of goods from Pakistan directly or through any other trade route.

    The directive, issued via Notification No. 06/2025-26 dated 2nd May 2025, has come into effect immediately.  A new paragraph, Para 2.20A, has been inserted in the FTP 2023:

      “Direct or indirect import or transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan, whether or not freely importable or otherwise permitted, shall be prohibited with immediate effect, until further orders. This restriction is imposed in the interest of national security and public policy.”

    The detailed notification is available on the DGFT website at https://dgft.gov.in.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 9:12AM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today condoled the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa.

    The PMO India handle in post on X said:

    “Saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected: PM @narendramodi”

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Breakout Session at Waves 2025 Highlights Madhya Pradesh as India’s Emerging Creative Hub

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 3:10PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 3 May 2025

     

    A high-profile breakout session titled “Digital Dreams & Cinematic Visions: Madhya Pradesh as the Next Creative Hub” was held today at Waves 2025. The session was moderated by Naman Ramachandran, International Correspondent of Variety.

    Renowned producer and director Ekta Kapoor officially launched the Film Tourism Policy 2025 of the Madhya Pradesh government. The session also witnessed the launch of the AVGC XR Policy 2025 and the Second Phase of the Madhya Pradesh Film Cell Portal.

    Speaking on the occasion, Ekta Kapoor emphasized that while choosing a film destination, factors like rebate, ease of obtaining permissions, visual scenery, and ease of shooting are paramount.

    Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, IAS, Principal Secretary, Tourism Department, Government of Madhya Pradesh, highlighted that MP is the heart of Incredible India and is fast becoming the heart of filmmakers as well. He noted the state’s shooting-friendly environment, rich history and heritage, and ready talent pool. The state has one of the best benchmark financial incentive policies and a simplified single portal system for permissions, ensuring ease of shooting. He mentioned that the 2.0 policy marks an improvement with increased incentives and special provisions for repeat shooting. Extra incentives will be extended to films using local languages and local talent as well as films made in other Indian languages that shoot in MP. He added that Madhya Pradesh is aiming to give Mumbai a run for its money by branding the state through facilitating filmmaking.

    Shri Sanjay Dubey, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of IT and DST, Government of Madhya Pradesh, said the new AVGC policy will support pre and post-production and also promote related sectors like animation, gaming, and VFX. He emphasized the government’s proactive and risk-taking approach in supporting filmmakers.

    Shobha Sant, CEO of Creativeland Studios and a seasoned producer, shared her experiences from the film Stree 2, shot in MP using local talent and technicians. She cited international productions like Lion and A Suitable Boy, also shot in the state. An upcoming Australian co-production has also chosen MP as its location. Remarking that no complaints have ever been reported by film teams located in Madhya Pradesh added that “People who come once to Madhya Pradesh, want to keep coming back”.

    Other dignitaries in the panel, Jyotirmoy Saha, CEO of August Media Group, stated that the new policies will catalyze the formation of creative hubs across the state while Ashish Kulkarni, Chairman, FICCI AVGC sector, spoke on the other attractions of Madhya Pradesh, including its cuisine, the Tribal Museum, and the Global Skills Park.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: A hundred applications expressing interest for shooting in India received in India Cine Hub (ICH) within a year: Prithul Kumar, MD, NFDC

    Source: Government of India

    A hundred applications expressing interest for shooting in India received in India Cine Hub (ICH) within a year: Prithul Kumar, MD, NFDC

    “A Lot of foreign productions are going to come to India in the coming days”: Bhumi Pednekar

    “Many locations from popular films have become popular tourist destinations in India”: Nitin Tej Ahuja, CEO, Producers Guild of India

    Panel discussion on ‘Lights, Camera, Destination! Branding India Through Films’ at WAVES 2025

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 10:09PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

     

    “It is India’s time; everyone knows it globally” – stated actor Bhumi Pednekar in a panel discussion titled ‘Lights, Camera, Destination! Branding India Through Films’ at WAVES 2025 in Mumbai today.

    The other panellists in the discussion included Shri Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary (I&B) and MD, NFDC, Shri Nitin Tej Ahuja, CEO, Producers Guild, Shri Rajender Kumar, Secretary (Tourism), Government of Gujarat, Mugdha Sinha, MD, ITDC.

    Shri Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary (I&B) and MD, NFDC, informed that the India Cine Hub (ICH) set up by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting promotes and facilitates film shootings in India for global film makers and producers. He said that it is a one-stop destination for filming in India, which also has links to various state portals for film facilitation. It acts as a single-window facilitation and clearance mechanism that eases filming in India, as well as endeavouring to create a film-friendly ecosystem and promoting the country as a filming destination. The incentives have been upscaled in 2023 and as a result, business multiplied tenfold and more than hundred applications expressing to shoot in India has been received in the portal. These incentives made India an attractive shooting destination for foreign film makers. 

    Bhumi Padnekar said that a lot of foreign productions are going to come to India in the coming days. “People in many parts of the world know about Mumbai because of our cinema”, she added. Speaking about her preference for shooting in destinations around India, Bhumi Pednekar said, “Most of my films are in culturally dense, heartland films. Our jaazba and love for our cinema, the way our cast and crew work with dedication, is incomparable”.

    Throwing light on the film industry in India, Bhumi Pednekar remarked that film sets now have almost equal number of men and women working in it. The gentry people coming in filmmaking in India is only getting better, she added.

    Nitin Tej Ahuja said that many locations from popular films have become popular tourist destinations in India. The ‘Bobby’ bungalow in Gulmarg, yellow mustard fields in Punjab popularized by DDLJ, Ratlam to Bhathinda train journey showcased in ‘Jab Me Met’, Pangong lake where scenes from ‘Three Idiots’ were shot are some such examples. Youngsters in India had started travelling to Goa in group of friends ever since ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ released, he added.

    Mugdha Sinha, MD, ITDC, opined that the country may think of opening our institutions for film shooting. She stated that it is the most opportune time for film making and tourism in the country. Rajender Kumar, Secretary (Tourism), Government of Gujarat, spoke about initiatives taken by the Government of Gujarat to promote tourism through films shot in Gujarat, like mentioning in the credit lines the place where shooting took place. Positive policy paradigms, good infrastructure and ease of obtaining permission for shooting are attracting film makers to the state, he added.

    The session was moderated by Supriya Suri, Founder, Creative Economy Forum.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: At WAVES 2025, experts call for unified action against piracy, blending technology, law, and awareness

    Source: Government of India

    At WAVES 2025, experts call for unified action against piracy, blending technology, law, and awareness

    Panel discussion highlights economic losses, cybercrime risks, and solutions combining enforcement and education

    “Effective anti-piracy enforcement could drive a 25% increase in legal video service users”

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 2:51PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 3 May 2025

     

    At WAVES 2025, a panel discussion on “Piracy: Safeguarding Content through Technology” brought together global leaders in media, law, and cybersecurity to address one of the most pressing challenges facing the digital content economy. Moderated by Neil Gane, Vice President and Head of Asia Pacific at IP House, the conversation reflected the growing consensus that piracy is no longer a fringe concern but a mainstream threat demanding coordinated, multi-dimensional responses.

    Vivek Couto, Managing & Executive Director of Media Partners Asia, underlined the economic cost of unchecked piracy. “Online piracy is expected to cost the industry over 10% in lost revenue between 2025 and 2029,” he said. “But effective anti-piracy enforcement could drive a 25% increase in legal video service users and unlock a US$ 0.5 billion boost in content investment, raising the total value to US$ 3.8 billion by 2029.” He urged stakeholders to reframe the piracy discussion from protection to potential, especially as India’s digital video economy scales.

    Dr. Shruti Mantri, Associate Director at ISB Institute of Data Science, highlighted the intersection of digital piracy and cybercrime. “Piracy often involves malicious tools like trojans, ransomware, and spyware. Users between 18–24 years old are particularly vulnerable,” she said. She called for comprehensive public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives, noting that prevention must begin with informed consumers. She also announced a Digital Piracy Summit being organized by ISB in collaboration with CBI and Interpol on July 9–10.

    Speaking on anti-piracy operations in the sports sector, Anurag Kashyap, Head of Anti-Piracy Operations at DAZN, explained the preventive approach. “Our strategy is built around the three Ds: detection, disruption, and deterrence. We start enforcement even before the event goes live,” he said. Invisible watermarking, he added, plays a pivotal role in tracking leaks.

    Legal expert Anil Lale, Head-Legal at Jio Hotstar, stressed the importance of strong enforcement. “The biggest deterrent is prosecuting the pirates. Law enforcement must identify the source of leaks and stop playing catch-up,” he said. Prevention, he asserted, should be proactive rather than reactive.

    Praveen Anand of Anand and Anand Associates emphasized that the solution lies in both technology and judicial reform. “Tools like AI, blockchain, and watermarking are crucial. But we must also make camcording difficult with measures like metal detectors. Timely legal action is essential to create deterrence,” he noted.

    The panel converged on the need for a united front, where technology, legislation, enforcement agencies, and public awareness work in tandem to protect the future of digital content. WAVES 2025, through such discussions, continues to spotlight actionable strategies for the Media and Entertainment industry’s most pressing concerns.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES Bazaar 2025 garners over ₹250 Crore in Deals and Unveils Major International Alliances: Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, I&B

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 9:33PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

     

    WAVES Bazaar, the flagship global market initiative of the WAVES Summit, has emerged as a powerful catalyst for international collaboration in the media and entertainment industry. Designed to connect creators with investors, buyers, and collaborators across borders, WAVES Bazaar is poised to transform India into a strategic hub for content commerce. WAVES Bazaar 2025 garners over ₹250 Crore in Deals and Unveils Major International Alliances, informed Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, I&B at WAVES in Mumbai today.

    In its inaugural edition, WAVES Bazaar brought together leading players from over 22 countries—including South Korea, Japan, USA, Germany, Russia, Netherlands, and New Zealand—and featured participation from 95 global buyers and 224 sellers. Key buyers included Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Meta, Disney Star, Zee Entertainment, Banijay Asia, Warner Bros. Discovery, Sony LIV, YRF, Dharma, Jio Studios, Rotterdam Film Festival, and Rushlake Media.

    Viewing Room & Market Screenings:

    115 filmmakers presented completed works to international buyers.15 standout projects were selected as Top Selects from the Viewing Room and showcased live. These filmmakers were felicitated by acclaimed casting director Mukesh Chhabra, with actor Tiger Shroff joining to support one of the selected titles. Market Screenings, showcased 15 notable and appreciated projects from talented filmmakers.

    Pitch Room: From 104 project submissions, 16 curated projects were selected to pitch live, offering early-stage creators a platform to engage directly with industry stakeholders in the over 2 days of Waves Bazaar.

    B2B Buyer-Seller Market: WAVES Bazaar launched India’s first dedicated B2B buyer-seller meetings in association with FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry), held from May 1–3, enabling targeted deal-making and creative business development.

    Early Business Outcomes

    WAVES Bazaar recorded confirmed transactions worth ₹250 crore across film, music, animation, radio, and VFX sectors within the first day and a half of the market. This figure is expected to rise significantly over the next two days and expected to cross more than 400 crores.

    Notable deals and Landmark Announcements on May 2, 2025

    • Khidki Gaon, a Top Selects film, secured a post-production and VFX deal with the Asian Cinema Fund. The Asian Cinema Fund (ACF) is a support program of the Busan International Film Festival that provides funding for Asian films, including both fiction and documentary projects.
    • Indo-European Animation Alliance (€30 Million) 

    Broadvision Perspectives (India) and Fabrique d’Images Group (Europe) announced a €30 million co-production agreement for four animated features. Each title, budgeted at €7–8 million, will be developed under Indo-French and Indo-Belgian treaty frameworks. The alliance was formalized by Mark Mertens (COO, FDI Group) and Sriram Chandrasekaran (Founder & CEO, Broadvision), establishing a new benchmark for international animation collaborations from India.

    • India–UK Co-Production MoU Signed

    Amanda Groom (Founder & CEO, The Bridge, UK) and Munjal Shroff (Co-founder, Graphiti Studios, India) signed an MoU to co-develop a slate of factual series exploring India’s colonial history. The partnership, developed over years of collaboration since Film Bazaar and finalized at Content India, marks a significant step in transnational storytelling.

    • “Shin chan India Year” Initiative Launched by TV Asahi

    TV Asahi announced the “Shin chan India Year” to celebrate the franchise’s immense popularity in India. Highlights include:

    • Theatrical release of Shin chan: Our Dinosaur Diary on May 9
    • A Diwali 2025 release of a second film, The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers in India
    • Fan engagement events at Anime India (August) and Mela Mela JAPAN (September)

    This initiative further establishes India’s rising role in the global anime ecosystem and strengthens Indo-Japanese cultural ties.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Master actor-creator Aamir Khan shares his views on ‘The Art of Acting,’ at WAVES 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Master actor-creator Aamir Khan shares his views on ‘The Art of Acting,’ at WAVES 2025

    “For 3-4 months, I only remain with the script” – Aamir Khan

    “The more honest you are, the better you will perform” – Aamir Khan

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 6:08PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 3 May 2025

     

    Master actor-creator Aamir Khan won many a heart with his down-to-earth tips on ‘The Art of Acting’ given from the Creatosphere stage in WAVES 2025 today. The practical advice came from his years of experience in film-making as the veteran actor said, “I am not a trained actor. I wanted to go to the National School of Drama, but couldn’t. I have picked up tips on the way, which work for me.”

    Speaking about the future of film-making, Aamir Khan said, that AI technology has enabled films to be shot without the actor in the scene! AI and technology is capable of adding the Actor later in the scene.

    The first and foremost task for an actor is to get into the mind of the character, said the versatile actor who over the years have gifted many memorable characters to Indian Cinema. And how does he get into the skin of the character? The dedicated actor states, “I spend a lot of time with scripts. I read the script again and again. If the script is good, you will understand the character, its physicality, attitude etc. will all come from it”. Additionally, discussions on the character and story with the director also gives an idea.

    By throwing light on his hard-working nature, Mr. Khan revealed, “I have a weak memory. So, I hand-write dialogues. I take up the difficult scenes first. The dialogues must be by heart. On first day, I just work on it.  I do it every day for 3-4 months, and then it gets into me. The dialogues have to become yours. You have to own it. When it was written it was the script-writer’s. It later becomes yours. When you repeat the same line, you realize, you can do it many a way.

    What is a difficult task for actors? An actor has to repeat and go for retake of scenes with same emotional intensity every day, said Aamir Khan.

    Another important tip for budding actors which came from Aamir Khan is – “The more honest you are, the better you will perform”. 

    So, how does Mr. Aamir Khan practice his scenes?

    The answer is “I visualize scenes before giving shots. I never look into mirror while practicing scenes.”

    What is Aamir Khan’s personal favourite of all his film-projects?  As many guessed, it is ‘Taare Zameen Par’ as it taught many parents to be patient with their children, support them and be empathetic with their little ones!

    What other tips did the veteran actor have for those who are just starting off?

    “When I use emotion, it has to come from the script. You have to believe the script. Sometimes there are scenes in the films which are not believable. But the actor may make you believe it. Actor has to convince the audience about what is being shown”.

    What is a good script? Aamir Khan said, “A good script will have a clear premise. Goal setting should come in first ten percent of the story. Otherwise the interest of audience will be lost”.

    But most important tip for all involved in a film project – “Do what the scene demands, and don’t just think of your own work in it”.

    Aamir Khan felicitated by Union Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Sets Global Vision in AVGC-XR: IICT Launches Strategic Collaborations with Industry Leaders

    Source: Government of India

    India Sets Global Vision in AVGC-XR: IICT Launches Strategic Collaborations with Industry Leaders

    Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flags off partnerships to position India as a global hub for media and immersive tech

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 2:36PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 3 May 2025

     

    On the third day of WAVES 2025, in a landmark initiative, the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) launched a series of high-impact collaborations in the AVGC-XR sector with global industry leaders. These collaborations aim to strengthen India’s position as a global hub in media, entertainment and immersive technologies.

    The occasion was graced by the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, who ceremonially flagged off these strategic associations. He emphasized India’s potential to become a global leader in media and entertainment, stating that IICT is on track to evolve into a premier institution in its field, much like how IITs and IIMs have become benchmarks in technology and management education.

    During the session, representatives from IICT and leading industry partners came together to exchange Letters of Intent (LoIs), marking the launch of long-term collaborative efforts aimed at advancing the AVGC-XR ecosystem in India. The signings involved prominent global industry leaders including Jiostar, Adobe, Google, YouTube, and Meta.

    These alliances are designed to boost education, R&D and innovation across animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, film, and extended reality. The goal is to replicate India’s successful IT model within the creative and digital media space, developing a sustainable ecosystem for future growth.

    Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan; Secretary, Ministry of I&B, Shri Sanjay Jaju; and Principal Director General, Press Information Bureau, Shri Dhirendra Ojha were also present, reflecting the government’s unified support for the initiative.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State Dr. L Murugan Launches White Paper on India’s Live Events Economy at WAVES 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 5:46PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 3 May 2025

     

    Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. L Murugan unveiled “India’s Live Events Economy: A Strategic Growth Imperative”—a first-of-its-kind White Paper commissioned by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and prepared by EventFAQs Media, one of the knowledge partners of WAVES 2025.

    The launch event was attended by Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri R.K. Jena, Senior Economic Advisor; Smt. Meenu Batra, Joint Secretary; and Shri Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary (Broadcasting). Shri Deepak Choudhary, Managing Director, EVA Live and EventFAQs was also present.

    The White Paper presents a comprehensive analysis of India’s rapidly expanding Live entertainment industry, highlighting emerging trends, growth trajectories, and strategic recommendations for the sector’s continued evolution.

    India’s live events landscape is undergoing a transformation—from a fragmented sector to a structured and influential pillar of the country’s cultural and creative economy. The period from 2024 to 2025 marks a defining inflection point, with international acts such as Coldplay performing in Ahmedabad and Mumbai, signaling India’s readiness to host global-scale events.

    Key trends in the sector include the rise of event tourism, with nearly half a million attendees traveling specifically for live music events—indicating the emergence of a robust music-tourism economy. Premium ticketing segments—such as VIP experiences, curated access, and luxury hospitality—have witnessed over 100% year-on-year growth, pointing to an increasingly experience-driven audience. Participation from Tier-2 cities has surged, driven by multi-city tours and the growing popularity of regional festivals.

    This momentum is also mirrored in the sector’s rising influence on jobs and talent development. Live entertainment is not a side note to India’s creative economy anymore; it is a strategic lever that stimulates employment and drives skill development. Large-scale events in the current landscape typically generate approximately 2,000 to 5,000 temporary jobs each, underscoring the sector’s growing role in supporting livelihoods and fostering a dynamic workforce.

    The event also saw the launch of key reports, including the Statistical Handbook on Media & Entertainment Sector 2024–25 by Ministry of Information Broadcasting, ‘From Content to Commerce: Mapping India’s Creator Economy’ by Boston Consulting Group (BCG), ‘A Studio Called India’ by Ernst & Young, and ‘Legal Currents: A Regulatory Handbook on India’s Media & Entertainment Sector 2025’ by Khaitan & Co.

    With focused investments, policy support, and infrastructural upgrades, India is on track to position itself as one of the top five live entertainment destinations globally by 2030, unlocking new avenues for economic growth, employment generation, tourism, and enhanced global cultural presence.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates Khelo India Multipurpose Hall in Kamle District, Arunachal Pradesh

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 1:59PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant boost to sports infrastructure in the Northeast, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, inaugurated the Khelo India Multipurpose Hall in Kamle district of Arunachal Pradesh today. State Ministers Shri Kento Jini and Shri Nyato Dukam along with MLA 25th Raga, Shri Rotom Tebin were also present on the occasion.

    Fully funded by Central Government, the Khelo India Multipurpose Hall has been built at a cost of Rs. 8 Crore. It aims to provide state-of-the-art infrastructure and training facilities to promote grassroots-level sports in the region.

    Equipped with modern amenities, the hall will cater to multiple indoor sports including boxing, badminton, judo, wushu, karate, taekwondo, weightlifting, table tennis, and volleyball, enabling young athletes from the region to train professionally and compete at national and international levels.

    Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the Government of India’s commitment to inclusive sports development, particularly in remote districts. “This initiative reflects our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of nurturing talent from every corner of the country. Arunachal Pradesh has immense potential, and through facilities like these, we aim to create opportunities for youth to shine in sports and contribute to nation-building,” he said.

    The Union Minister also interacted with local youth and sportspersons, encouraging them to make full use of the facility. He further highlighted the importance of integrating fitness, sports, and discipline into everyday life, especially among the youth. Senior officials from the Sports Authority of India, State government representatives, and local dignitaries were present during the event.

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    Manish Gautam/Divyanshu Kumar

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