NewzIntel.com

Category: India

  • MIL-OSI Video: Paw-lease rise for K9 Ari!#traveling #pets

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

    After years of sniffing out danger and protecting the traveling public, K9 Ari is barking goodbye to the 9-5 and trotting into retirement. He’s joining his brother K9 TTirado, who has been enjoying retirement since 2020!

    Ari’s nose knows no bounds, and he’s been unbe-leash-ably good at his job. From the high-stakes arena of the Royal Rumble to the nail-biting showdown of the Super Bowl, and back home to the Indianapolis International Airport (IND), K9 Ari has been the ulti-mutt paw-fessional. Even if it was a ruff day, he always brought his A-game (A for Ari, of course).

    Now it’s time for long walks just because, belly rubs on-demand, and a strict schedule of snacks, snoozes, and squirrel surveillance.

    Enjoy your retirement Ari! You’re a fur-st class K9 and earned every nap and nibble.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agP34qJhM68

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Paw-lease rise for K9 Ari!

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

    Paw-lease rise for K9 Ari!

    After years of sniffing out danger and protecting the traveling public, K9 Ari is barking goodbye to the 9-5 and trotting into retirement. He’s joining his brother K9 TTirado who has been enjoying retirement since 2020!

    Ari’s nose knows no bounds, and he’s been unbe-leash-ably good at his job. From the high-stakes arena of the Royal Rumble to the nail-biting showdown of the Super Bowl, and back home to the Indianapolis International Airport (IND), K9 Ari has been the ulti-mutt paw-fessional. Even if it was a ruff day, he always brought his A-game (A for Ari, of course).

    Now it’s time for long walks just because, belly rubs on-demand, and a strict schedule of snacks, snoozes, and squirrel surveillance.

    Enjoy your retirement Ari! You’re a fur-st class K9 and earned every nap and nibble.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mVIzyK7IqM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: From photo day to his final day… #dogshorts #pets

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

    TSA K9 Ari is officially retiring today! This sniffer pup has kept the travelers of Indianapolis International Airport safe. He’s trading in knapsacks for naptime. We’re sad to see him go, but here’s quite paw-ssibly the best news you’ve heard in a while… K9 Ari is ready for ALL THE PETS!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CnET0tzS-8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Result of the Daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction held on April 21, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 1-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 1,00,000
    Total amount of bids received (in ₹ crore) 6,332
    Amount allotted (in ₹ crore) 6,332
    Cut off Rate (%) 6.01
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 6.01
    Partial Allotment Percentage of bids received at cut off rate (%) NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/142

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Money Market Operations as on April 18, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 0.00 – –
         I. Call Money 0.00 – –
         II. Triparty Repo 0.00 – –
         III. Market Repo 0.00 – –
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 0.00 – –
         II. Term Money@@ 0.00 – –
         III. Triparty Repo 0.00 – –
         IV. Market Repo 0.00 – –
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    (iii) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Fri, 18/04/2025 1 Sat, 19/04/2025 3.00 6.25
      Fri, 18/04/2025 2 Sun, 20/04/2025 0.00 6.25
      Fri, 18/04/2025 3 Mon, 21/04/2025 0.00 6.25
    4. SDFΔ# Fri, 18/04/2025 1 Sat, 19/04/2025 2,10,856.00 5.75
      Fri, 18/04/2025 2 Sun, 20/04/2025 0.00 5.75
      Fri, 18/04/2025 3 Mon, 21/04/2025 167.00 5.75
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -2,11,020.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Thu, 17/04/2025 4 Mon, 21/04/2025 6,514.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    (iii) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo Thu, 17/04/2025 43 Fri, 30/05/2025 25,731.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Thu, 17/04/2025 2 Sat, 19/04/2025 0.00 6.25
      Thu, 17/04/2025 3 Sun, 20/04/2025 0.00 6.25
      Thu, 17/04/2025 4 Mon, 21/04/2025 2,000.00 6.25
    4. SDFΔ# Thu, 17/04/2025 2 Sat, 19/04/2025 5,893.00 5.75
      Thu, 17/04/2025 3 Sun, 20/04/2025 0.00 5.75
      Thu, 17/04/2025 4 Mon, 21/04/2025 13,808.00 5.75
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       7,998.94  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     22,542.94  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -1,88,477.06  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on April 18, 2025 9,16,175.55  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending April 18, 2025 9,31,571.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ April 17, 2025 6,211.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on April 04, 2025 2,36,088.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    ^ As per the Press Release No. 2025-2026/91 dated April 11, 2025.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/139

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on April 17, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 6,331.27 5.71 5.25-6.00
         I. Call Money 1,373.30 5.50 5.25-5.95
         II. Triparty Repo 3,476.00 5.72 5.25-5.80
         III. Market Repo 213.97 5.25 5.25-5.25
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,268.00 5.98 5.95-6.00
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 14,603.97 5.88 4.95-5.95
         II. Term Money@@ 620.00 – 5.95-6.20
         III. Triparty Repo 3,81,092.95 5.72 5.50-6.00
         IV. Market Repo 2,09,083.41 5.86 3.50-6.66
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Thu, 17/04/2025 4 Mon, 21/04/2025 6,514.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (III) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo Thu, 17/04/2025 43 Fri, 30/05/2025 25,731.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Thu, 17/04/2025 1 Fri, 18/04/2025 18.00 6.25
      Thu, 17/04/2025 2 Sat, 19/04/2025 0.00 6.25
      Thu, 17/04/2025 3 Sun, 20/04/2025 0.00 6.25
      Thu, 17/04/2025 4 Mon, 21/04/2025 2,000.00 6.25
    4. SDFΔ# Thu, 17/04/2025 1 Fri, 18/04/2025 2,36,500.00 5.75
      Thu, 17/04/2025 2 Sat, 19/04/2025 5,893.00 5.75
      Thu, 17/04/2025 3 Sun, 20/04/2025 0.00 5.75
      Thu, 17/04/2025 4 Mon, 21/04/2025 13,808.00 5.75
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -2,21,938.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (III) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       7,998.94  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     7,998.94  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -2,13,939.06  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on April 17, 2025 9,24,106.93  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending April 18, 2025 9,31,571.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ April 17, 2025 6,211.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on April 04, 2025 2,36,088.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    ^ As per the Press Release No. 2025-2026/91 dated April 11, 2025.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/138

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 21, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 21, 2025.

    A secret mathematical rule has shaped the beaks of birds and other dinosaurs for 200 million years
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kathleen Garland, PhD Candidate, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University The faces of living and extinct theropod dinosaurs. Left: Riya Bidaye; right: Indian Roller model (NHMUK S1987) from TEMPO bird project – MorphoSource. Bird beaks come in almost every shape and size – from the straw-like beak

    Curious Kids: if heat rises, why does it get colder in the mountains?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Renwick, Professor, Physical Geography (Climate Science), Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Shutterstock/EvaL Miko If heat rises, why does it get colder as you climb up mountains? – Ollie, 8, Christchurch, New Zealand That is an excellent and thoughtful question Ollie – why indeed?

    From the doable to the downright impossible: your guide to making sense of election promises
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Frank Rindert Algra-Maschio, PhD Candidate, Social and Political Sciences, Monash University Three weeks into the federal election campaign and both major parties have already pledged to spend billions in taxpayer dollars if elected on May 3. But with so many policies announced — and surely more to

    Security without submarines: the military strategy Australia should pursue instead of AUKUS
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Albert Palazzo, Adjunct Professor in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at UNSW Canberra, UNSW Sydney For more than a century, Australia has followed the same defence policy: dependence on a great power. This was first the United Kingdom and then the United States. Without properly

    Prison needle programs could save double what they cost – our new modelling shows how
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Farah Houdroge, Mathematical Modeller, Burnet Institute ChameleonsEye/Shutterstock Needle and syringe programs are a proven public health intervention that provide free, sterile injecting equipment to people who use drugs. By reducing needle sharing, these programs help prevent the spread of blood-borne viruses such as hepatitis C and HIV

    ‘Puppy blues’: how to cope with the exhaustion and stress of raising a puppy
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Hazel, Associate Professor, School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide Lucigerma/Shutterstock Caring for a new puppy can be wonderful, but it can also bring feelings of depression, extreme stress and exhaustion. This is sometimes referred to as “the puppy blues”, and can begin anytime

    A survey of Australian uni students suggests more than half are worried about food or don’t have enough to eat
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katherine Kent, Senior Lecturer in Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Wollongong StoryTime Studio/ Shutterstock Being a university student has long been associated with eating instant noodles, taking advantage of pub meal deals and generally living frugally. But for several years, researchers have been tracking how students are

    Low effort, high visibility: what bumper stickers say about our values and identity
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Harrison, Director, Master of Business Administration Program (MBA); Co-Director, Better Consumption Lab, Deakin University Justin Sullivan/Getty You may have seen them around town or in the news. Bumper stickers on Teslas broadcasting to anyone who looks: “I bought this before we knew Elon was crazy.” You

    How a new ‘Fishheart’ project is combining science, community and Indigenous art to restore life in the Baaka-Darling River
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Claire Hooker, Senior Lecturer and Coordinator, Health and Medical Humanities, University of Sydney A new state-of-the-art tube fishway technology called the “Fishheart” has been launched at Menindee Lakes, located on the Baaka-Darling River, New South Wales. The technology – part of the NSW government’s Restoring the Darling-Baaka

    Election Diary: Coalition makes ‘law-and-order’ pitch, with plan to invest proceeds of drug crime into communities
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra As it seeks to gain some momentum for its campaign, the Coalition on Monday will focus on law and order, announcing $355 million for a National Drug Enforcement and Organised Crime Strike Team to fight the illicit drug trade. A

    Newspoll steady as both leaders’ ratings fall; Labor surging in poll of marginal seats
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne With less than two weeks to go now until the federal election, the polls continue to favour the government being returned. Newspoll was steady at 52–48 to

    Caitlin Johnstone: ‘I want a death that the world will hear’  –  journalist assassinated by Israel for telling the truth
    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – COMMENTARY: By Caitlin Johnstone Israel assassinated a photojournalist in Gaza in an airstrike targeting her family’s home on Wednesday, the day after it was announced that a documentary she appears in would premier in Cannes next month. Her name was Fatima Hassouna. Nine members of her

    Indicators of alien life may have been found – astrophysicist explains what the new research means
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Whittaker, Senior Lecturer in Physics, Nottingham Trent University Darryl Fonseka/Shutterstocl What do you think of when it comes to extra terrestrial life? Most popular sci-fi books and TV shows suggest humanoid beings could live on other planets. But when astronomers are searching for extra-terrestrial life, it

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 20, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 20, 2025.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A secret mathematical rule has shaped the beaks of birds and other dinosaurs for 200 million years

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kathleen Garland, PhD Candidate, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University

    The faces of living and extinct theropod dinosaurs. Left: Riya Bidaye; right: Indian Roller model (NHMUK S1987) from TEMPO bird project – MorphoSource.

    Bird beaks come in almost every shape and size – from the straw-like beak of a hummingbird to the slicing, knife-like beak of an eagle.

    We have found, however, that this incredible diversity is underpinned by a hidden mathematical rule that governs the growth and shape of beaks in nearly all living birds.

    What’s more, this rule even describes beak shape in the long-gone ancestors of birds – the dinosaurs. We are excited to share our findings, now published in the journal iScience.

    By studying beaks in light of this mathematical rule, we can understand how the faces of birds and other dinosaurs evolved over 200 million years. We can also find out why, in rare instances, these rules can be broken.

    When nature follows the rules

    Finding universal rules in biology is rare and difficult – there seem to be few instances where physical laws are so pervasive across all organisms.

    But when we do find a rule, it’s a powerful way to explain the patterns we see in nature. Our team previously discovered a new rule of biology that explains the shape and growth of many pointed structures, including teeth, horns, hooves, shells and, of course, beaks.

    This simple mathematical rule captures how the width of a pointed structure, like a beak, expands from the tip to the base. We call this rule the “power cascade”.

    After this discovery, we were very interested in how the power cascade might explain the shape of bird and other dinosaur beaks.

    Dinosaurs got their beaks more than once

    Most dinosaurs, like Tyrannosaurus rex, have a robust snout with pointed teeth. But some dinosaurs (like the emu-like dinosaur Ornithomimus edmontonicus) did not have any teeth at all and instead had beaks.

    In theropods, the group of dinosaurs that T. rex belonged to, beaks evolved at least six times. Each time, the teeth were lost and the snout stretched to a beak shape over millions of years.

    But only one of these impeccable dinosaur groups survived the mass extinction event 66 million years ago. These survivors eventually became our modern-day birds.

    The early bird catches the rule

    To investigate the power cascade rule of growth, we researched 127 species of theropods. We found that 95% of theropod beaks and snouts follow this rule.

    Using state-of-the-art evolutionary analyses through computer modelling, we demonstrated that the ancestral theropod most likely had a toothed snout that followed the power cascade rule.

    Excitingly, this suggests that the power cascade describes the growth of not just theropod beaks and snouts, but perhaps the snouts of all vertebrates: mammals, reptiles and fish.

    An evolutionary tree showing how theropod beaks and snouts follow the power cascade throughout their evolution.
    Garland et al., iScience 2025

    The rule followers and breakers

    After surviving the mass extinction, birds underwent a period of incredible change. Birds now live all over the world and their beaks are adapted to each place in very special ways.

    We see beak shapes for eating fruit, netting insects, piercing and tearing meat, and even sipping nectar. The majority follow the power cascade growth rule.

    All these bird beaks follow the power cascade rule of growth, despite being used for very different purposes.
    Eastern osprey by Phill Wall (modified, CC BY 2.0), Eurasian hoopoe by Giles Laurent (modified, CC BY-SA 4.0), common ostrich by Diego Delso (modified, CC BY-SA 4.0) and bar-tailed godwit by JJ Harrison (modified, CC BY-SA 4.0).

    While rare, a few birds we studied were rule-breakers. One such rule-breaker is the Eurasian spoonbill, whose highly specialised beak shape helps it sift through the mud to capture aquatic life. Perhaps its unique feeding style led to it breaking this common rule.

    The beak of a Eurasian spoonbill does not follow the power cascade rule of growth.
    Eurasian spoonbill by Swardeepak (modified,CC BY-SA 4.0)

    We are not upset at all about rule-breakers like the spoonbill. On the contrary, this further highlights how informative the power cascade truly is. Most bird beaks grow according to our rule, and those beaks can cater to most feeding styles.

    But occasionally, oddballs like the spoonbill break the power cascade growth rule to catch their special “worms”.

    Now that we know that most bird and dinosaur beaks follow the power cascade, the next big step in our research is to study how bird beaks grow from chick to adult.

    If the power cascade is truly a foundational growth rule in bird beaks, we may expect to find it hiding in many other forms across the tree of life.

    Kathleen Garland receives funding from the Australian Government, Monash University and Museums Victoria.

    Alistair Evans receives funding from the Australian Research Council and Monash University, and is an Honorary Research Affiliate with Museums Victoria.

    – ref. A secret mathematical rule has shaped the beaks of birds and other dinosaurs for 200 million years – https://theconversation.com/a-secret-mathematical-rule-has-shaped-the-beaks-of-birds-and-other-dinosaurs-for-200-million-years-254481

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives in a building collapse in Dayalpur area of North East Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives in a building collapse in Dayalpur area of North East Delhi

    PM announces ex-gratia from PMNRF

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 9:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today condoled the loss of lives in a building collapse in Dayalpur area of North East Delhi. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured.

    The PMO India handle in post on X said:

    “Saddened by the loss of lives due to a building collapse in Dayalpur area of North East Delhi. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.

    An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2122975) Visitor Counter : 114

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw holds consultations with news media organisations ahead of WAVES 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw holds consultations with news media organisations ahead of WAVES 2025

    WAVES is driven by the industry; Government is a catalyst- Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Massive Response to India’s Creative Economy Push: 1 Lakh+ Registrations, 750 top level creators to showcase their work

    WAVES Emerging as a Global Connector Between Creators, Buyers, and Markets for Scalable Creative Solutions : Union Minister

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 7:03PM by PIB Delhi

    The world of creators and their economy is going through a fundamental change. Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw said this while interacting with the news media today ahead of the maiden World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit scheduled in Mumbai from 1st to 4th May. The interaction was attended by about 20 media houses from the national as well as regional news media. Talking on the challenges faced, the Union Minister said that with the advent of technology, the old model is giving way to the new model, creating opportunities as well as challenges. The shape of the media world  is changing, he said and stressed on the collective need as a country to respond to the new model. Giving an example, he said that gone are the days when a big studio was needed for creating content. Today a creator from a remote village from Jharkhand or Kerala can create good quality and get millions of views.

     

    He mentioned that the creator’s economy is growing exponentially. The Minister said that our visionary Prime Minister acknowledged the work of the creators and their contribution in the economy by promoting India’s soft power globally. WAVES seeks to evolve itself as a global platform for media & entertainment, just as Davos serves as a global platform for economic policies, he added. .

    India’s creative economy has received an overwhelming boost, with more than 1 lakh registrations for WAVES 2025. The top innovators will be honoured with Awards, celebrating their contributions to the evolving global media and entertainment landscape.  Shri Vaishnaw said, we are finding a way to connect the world with our creators. WAVES is emerging as a global connector between creators, buyers, and markets for scalable creative solutions, the Minister said. Through WAVES, buyers and sellers are getting a platform, where creators can offer their content & firms can source quality creative work.

    Participating in the interaction, heads of various media organisations congratulated the Government for conceptualising a novel concept in the form of WAVES to bring policy makers, creators, industry stalwarts, tech giants and start ups in the M&E sector on one platform.

    Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju welcomed all the participants and dignitaries, highlighting the significance of collective dialogue in shaping the future of the media landscape. He emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders across platforms and appreciated the active participation of media organizations in the lead-up to WAVES 2025.

     

    *****

     

    Dharmendra Tewari/Virat Majboor/Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2122945) Visitor Counter : 116

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Vice-President greets the nation on the eve of Easter

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 6:09PM by PIB Delhi

    On this Easter Sunday, I extend solemn greetings to all citizens across India, with special acknowledgment to our Christian communities celebrating this sacred occasion.

    Easter symbolizes hope and renewal through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. His timeless teachings of compassion, forgiveness, and service guide us toward building a harmonious society.

    May this holy day inspire all of us to renew our commitment towards the welfare of the vulnerable and to embodying Christ’s message of unconditional love. Let peace and renewal fill our nation’s homes and communities.

     

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    JK/RC/SM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Kathua Gets First Municipal Parking Complex, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and J&K CM Omar Abdullah Inaugurate Project

    Source: Government of India

    Kathua Gets First Municipal Parking Complex, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and J&K CM Omar Abdullah Inaugurate Project

    ‘From Three Cars to Parking Crisis’: Dr. Jitendra Singh Showcases Kathua’s Transformation

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Flags Off Infrastructure Push in Kathua, Calls for United Fight Against Drugs and Illegal Mining

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 5:11PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant push for urban infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh and Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah today jointly inaugurated the first-ever Municipal Parking Complex in the town of Kathua, marking a milestone in the region’s transformation from a sleepy town to a modern urban hub.

    Addressing a packed gathering under the sweltering sun, Dr. Jitendra Singh described the inauguration as a symbol of Kathua’s rapid urban evolution, underscoring how a town once unfamiliar with personal vehicles now demands structured car parking solutions. “There was a time when only three cars were visible in the entire city — one each belonging to the DC, SP, and Executive Engineer,” he recalled. “Today, we are inaugurating a full-fledged parking facility because of the sheer number of private vehicles. This reflects the aspirational rise of this once-overlooked town.”

    Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah’s presence, despite his pressing commitments in Delhi, was hailed by Dr. Jitendra Singh as a gesture of Centre-State cooperation. “His presence here demonstrates the shared commitment of the state and Centre to jointly develop Jammu & Kashmir under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said.

    The Minister highlighted that the new parking facility is just one among several transformative projects that have changed Kathua’s landscape in the last decade. From running Vande Bharat trains to upgrading the Kathua railway station, establishing three medical colleges in the constituency, launching a Biotech Park, and building an Engineering and Homeopathy college, the region has witnessed a sweeping change in public infrastructure.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that connectivity projects like the Express Corridor, which will soon enable direct travel to Delhi in five hours, are set to further boost mobility and economic prospects for the region. “When that happens, you’ll realize just how dramatically the picture has changed,” he said.

    Beyond infrastructure, Dr. Jitendra Singh touched upon social challenges such as illegal mining and drug abuse, which he said are now being firmly addressed. “Kathua’s name should no longer be linked with these issues. Let’s make it an example of a model town,” he urged, calling for a united fight involving civil society, administration, and parents to protect the youth from the scourge of drugs.

    The inauguration ceremony also spotlighted completed landmark projects like the bridge at Kediyan-Gandyal, Maharaja Gulab Singh’s grand statue at the entrance to Jammu & Kashmir, and the setting up of a large stadium with BCCI support. Dr. Jitendra Singh acknowledged the role of Corporate Social Responsibility in developing facilities like Birla Park, which he invited the Chief Minister to visit during his morning walks.

    While celebrating the region’s development, the Union Minister reiterated the importance of sustaining it through civic responsibility and future planning. “If our youth fall prey to addiction, who will drive the cars or sit in the Vande Bharat train? Who will serve their parents or benefit from these amenities?” he asked.

    As Dr. Jitendra Singh noted in his closing remarks, “Kathua is not just a town; it is a source of inspiration for the BJP and a living tribute to the sacrifices of national heroes like Syama Prasad Mukherjee.”

    With the new parking complex operational and more development in the pipeline, today’s inauguration stands as a testament to the town’s growing role in the region’s socio-economic revival.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman to leave tonight for an official visit to USA and Peru from 20th to 30th April 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman to leave tonight for an official visit to USA and Peru from 20th to 30th April 2025

    Union Finance Minister to attend Spring Meetings of the IMF-World Bank

    FM will also take part in G20 Finance Ministers & Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) meetings besides bilateral meetings with many countries and organisations

    Smt. Sitharaman will participate in multilateral dialogues on various fora to showcase India’s economic dynamism

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 5:11PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman will embark on an official visit to USA and Peru beginning 20th April, 2025. During the visit to the USA, the Union Finance Minister will visit San Francisco and Washington D.C. from 20th to 25th April, 2025.

    In the course of her two-day visit to San Francisco beginning 20th April 2025, the Union Finance Minister will deliver a keynote address at the Hoover Institution at the Stanford University, San Francisco, on ‘Laying the foundations of Viksit Bharat 2047’ followed by a fireside chat session.

    Smt. Sitharaman will also interact with top CEOs from prominent fund management firms during a Roundtable meeting with investors, besides holding bilateral meetings with CEOs from top information technology (IT) firms based in San Francisco. Smt. Sitharaman will also participate in an event featuring Indian diaspora in San Francisco and interact with the Indian community settled there.

    During her visit to Washington D.C., USA, from 22nd to 25th April 2025, Smt. Sitharaman will participate in the Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, the 2ndG20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governor (FMCBG) Meetings, Development Committee Plenary, IMFC Plenary, and Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable (GSDR) meeting.

    On the sidelines of the Spring Meetings in Washington D.C., Smt. Sitharaman will hold bilateral meetings with her counterparts from several countries, including Argentina, Bahrain, Germany, France, Luxembourg, Saudi Arabia, United Kingdom, and USA; besides meeting EU Commissioner for Financial Services; President, Asian Development Bank (ADB); President, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB); United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Financial Health (UNSGSA); and First Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    During her maiden visit to Peru from 26th to 30th April 2025, the Union Finance Minister will lead an Indian delegation of officials from the Ministry of Finance and business leaders, highlighting the strengthening bilateral economic and trade relations between the two nations.

    Beginning her visit in Lima, Union Finance Minister Smt. Sitharaman is expected to call on the President of Peru, H.E. Ms. Dina Boluarte, and Prime Minister of Peru, H.E. Mr. Gustavo Adrianzén, besides holding bilateral meetings with the Peruvian Ministers of Finance and Economy; Defence; Energy and Mines; and also holding interaction with local public representatives.

    In the course of her visit to Peru, the Union Finance Minister will chair the India-Peru Business Forum meeting with prominent business representatives in attendance from both India and Peru. Smt. Sitharaman will also hold an interaction with the Indian investors & businesses currently operating in Peru, as well as the Indian Business delegation visiting Peru.

    Given Peru’s importance in the global supply chain of critical minerals and precious metals, discussions during these engagements are also expected to explore avenues for greater collaboration in the mining sector, particularly to strengthen India’s resource security and facilitate value-chain linkages between the two economies.

    The Union Finance Minister will also participate in a community event at Lima, where she will interact with the Indian diaspora living in Peru.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LOK SABHA SPEAKER GREETS THE PEOPLE ON THE EVE OF EASTER

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 1:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla has greeted the people on the eve of Easter.

    In his message, Shri Birla said, “Wishing everyone a blessed and joyful Easter.  May this day of resurrection bring love, faith, and renewed hope into your lives. Let’s celebrate the spirit of renewal and new beginnings.”

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    AM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah attends the program organized by Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) on the occasion of World Liver Day in New Delhi as the Chief Guest

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah attends the program organized by Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) on the occasion of World Liver Day in New Delhi as the Chief Guest

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has launched many programs in the last 10 years to keep the countrymen healthy with a holistic approach

    All countrymen should take good diet, adequate water, adequate sleep and regular exercise, the rest Modi government will take the responsibility of taking care of your health

    A healthy liver is the gateway to a healthy body

    On the occasion of ‘World Liver Day’, everyone should take a pledge to keep their ‘liver’ healthy with awareness, diligence and complete information

    Young people can achieve a lot in their lives with water, diet, exercise and sleep as per the requirement of the body

    The innovative initiative of HEALED scheme by ILBS will be successful in spreading awareness in the country towards keeping the ‘liver’ healthy

    Today the whole world is moving forward by accepting the mantra given in our Vedas ‘Aahaar Hi Aushdhi Hai’

    Home Minister said that the corporate sector should, through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), spread awareness about the importance of liver and help organisations working for a healthy liver

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 4:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah attended the program organized by Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) on the occasion of World Liver Day in New Delhi today as the Chief Guest. Many dignitaries including Delhi Lieutenant Governor Shri Vinay Kumar Saxena and Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta were present on the occasion.

    In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that the liver plays a very important role in our body and in keeping it healthy. Among all the organs in our body, the liver has the greatest ability to regenerate and healthy liver is the gateway to a healthy body. He said that today on the occasion of ‘World Liver Day’, everyone should take a pledge to keep their ‘liver’ healthy with awareness, diligence and complete information. Sharing his experience of a healthy lifestyle, Home Minister said that there has been a huge change in his life since May 2020. Shri Shah said that Young people can achieve a lot in their lives with water, diet, exercise and sleep as per the requirement of the body.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has set before the country the goal of making India developed in 2047, coinciding with the centenary of independence, where India will be self-reliant in every field and will lead the world. He said that the concept of a developed India cannot be realised by being unwell and that is why it is very important that every citizen remains healthy.

    Union Home Minister said that today the HEALED scheme has been launched by ILBS and this innovative initiative of HEALED scheme by ILBS will be successful in spreading awareness in the country towards keeping the ‘liver’ healthy. He said that every person should also get Vitamin E tested during regular health checkup. Shri Shah said that today the whole world is moving forward by accepting the mantra given in our Vedas ‘Aahaar Hi Aushdhi Hai’. He said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has launched many programs in the last 10 years to keep the countrymen healthy with a holistic approach.

    He said that the Ministry of AYUSH is working to develop a system so that we do not fall ill. Shri Shah said that today even big allopathic hospitals are opening AYUSH wings. The mental and physical health of a person was included in the idea of ​​​​World Yoga Day. He said that today the Modi government is bearing the entire cost of treatment up to Rs 5 lakh for crores of people of the country. The government is also bearing all expenses up to Rs 5 lakh for the treatment of citizens above 70 years of age.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the Modi government has spent 65 thousand crore rupees to build the health infrastructure in the country and has made arrangements to make every Primary Health Center (PHC) and Community Health Center (CHC) a complete unit. He said that for generic medicines, a network of more than 15 thousand Jan Aushadhi Centers has been created in the country and through these centres medicines are available up to 80 percent cheaper. Under Mission Indradhanush, arrangements have been made for free vaccination of children from birth to the age of 15 years and 1 crore 32 lakh mothers were also vaccinated. Shri Shah said that under the e-Sanjeevani app, the work of providing more than 30 crore 90 lakh digital medical consultations from big health institutions in rural areas across the country has been carried out. Shri Shah said that in 2014 there were 7 AIIMS in the country, today the number has reached 23, there were 387 medical colleges in 2014, today it stands at 780, there were 51 thousand MBBS seats which have increased to 1 lakh 18 thousand today and now 75 thousand more seats are going to be increased. Along with this, there were 31 thousand PG seats which have increased to 74 thousand today. He said that in 2014 the country’s health budget was 37 thousand crore rupees which has been increased to 1 lakh 27 thousand crore rupees by Prime Minister Modi today.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that over the past 10 years, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has created a comprehensive framework for the health of the country’s 1.3 billion citizens. He said, all countrymen should take good diet, adequate water, adequate sleep and regular exercise, the rest Modi government will take the responsibility of taking care of your health. Home Minister requested the corporate world of the country to give importance to the promotion of healthy liver in their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and help the organizations working for healthy liver. He also appealed to the media to spread awareness about health along with entertainment. Shri Shah said that ILBS should tie itself up with AIIMS and major government hospitals across the country to make arrangements for guidance of liver patients and spread awareness about it.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to address the Nation’s Civil Servants on 17th Civil Services Day 2025 on April 21, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to address the Nation’s Civil Servants on 17th Civil Services Day 2025 on April 21, 2025

    On this occasion, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will confer the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration on 17th Civil Services Day 2025

    Civil Services Day is an occasion for the Civil Servants across India to rededicate themselves to the cause of citizens and renew their commitment to public service and excellence in their work

    Posted On: 20 APR 2025 12:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi will address the Nation’s Civil Servants on the 17th Civil Services Day on April 21, 2025.

    On this occasion, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will confer the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration for effective implementation of identified Priority Programmes and Innovation to Districts and Central/ State Governments. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will release e-books on Holistic Development and on Innovations comprising of the successes stories on the implementation of the identified priority programmes and Innovations. A film on the Award-winning initiatives will also be screened before the presentation of Awards. This will mark the 7th occasion when Prime Minister Modi will be addressing the National Civil Services Day ceremonies.

    Civil Services Day is an occasion for the Civil Servants across India to rededicate themselves to the cause of citizens and renew their commitment to public service and excellence in their work. This date was chosen to commemorate the day when Sardar Vallabhai Patel addressed the probationers of Administrative Service Officers in 1947 at Metcalfe House Delhi. To mark the Civil Services day, Government is organizing a day-long Civil Services Day conference at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

    The Scheme for Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration has been instituted to recognize the extraordinary and innovative work done by Districts & Organizations of the Central and State Governments for the welfare of common citizen. For the Prime Minister’s Awards Scheme 2024, the following priority programmes have been identified for the awards to be presented on Civil Services Day 2025: (a) Category 1 – Holistic Development of Districts (b) Category 2- Aspirational Blocks Programme (c) Category 3 – Innovation. 14 Awardees have been shortlisted from 1588 nominations after a comprehensive evaluation. The Prime Minister’s Awards consist of: (i) Trophy, (ii) Scroll and (iii) an incentive of Rs. 20 lakh to the awarded District/organization to be utilized for implementation of project/programme or bridging resources gaps in any area of public welfare. *The Awards ceremony will be followed by a plenary session on “Civil Services Reforms- Challenges and Opportunities”, chaired by Dr.T.V. Somanathan, Cabinet Secretary. Four Breakaway Sessions on Strengthening Urban Transportation, Promoting Swasth Bharat through Ayushman Bharat PM – Jan Arogya Yojana and Ayushman Arogya Mandir, Promoting Nutrition for Women and Children through Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, Aspirational Blocks Programme will be conducted to mark the occasion.

    Shri Manohar Lal, Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs and Minister of Power, will chair the Session on Strengthening Urban Transportation, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers will chair the session on Promoting Swasth Bharat through Ayushman Bharat PM Jan Arogya Yojana and Ayushman Arogya Mandir, while Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister of Women and Child Development will chair the session on Promoting Nutrition for Women and Children through Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0. Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO, NITI Aayog, will chair the session on Aspirational Blocks Programme.

    Senior Officials of Government of India including Secretaries, Additional Secretaries, Joint Secretaries, Deputy Secretaries, Assistant Secretaries and Senior Officials of State Governments including Chief Secretaries, Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries and Heads of Central Training Institutions, Resident commissioners, Officials of Central Services and District Collectors will participate in the day-long event.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA’S GREETINGS ON THE EVE OF EASTER

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 3:45PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu has sent her greetings to all fellow citizens on the eve of Easter.

    In a message, the President has said, “On the auspicious occasion of Easter, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all fellow citizens especially to the Christian community residing in India and abroad.

    The sacred festival of Easter commemorating resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ, conveys a message of selfless love and service. The sacrifice of Jesus Christ teaches us the value of renunciation and forgiveness. His life inspires humanity to follow the path of truth, justice and compassion.

    On this joyous occasion, let us adopt his life-values and promote peace and prosperity in the society”. 

    Please click here to see the President’s message – 

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES Cosplay Championship Wildcard Showdown in Mumbai a Massive Hit as Over 50 Cosplayers Set the Stage on Fire

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES Cosplay Championship Wildcard Showdown in Mumbai a Massive Hit as Over 50 Cosplayers Set the Stage on Fire

    30 Finalists Selected for Grand Finale at Jio World Centre

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 9:02PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 19 April 2025:

    The city of dreams turned into a galaxy of fandoms as Mumbai hosted the explosive WAVES Cosplay Championship Wildcard Showdown, presented by Creators Street, the Indian Comics Association (ICA), and the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), and powered by Epiko Con, India’s next big pop culture festival, at Thakur Collage of Science and Commerce today, April 19th, 2025.

    Held as a spectacular prelude to the WAVES Cosplay Championship grand finale, this blockbuster pre-event saw over 50 top-tier cosplayers from across the region lighting up the stage with high-octane performances, screen-accurate costumes, and electrifying fandom energy.

    Out of the cosplayers participated, the Jury comprising Mr Venkatesh, Founder and CEO of Wharf Street Studios, Ajay Krishna of Forbidden Verse, and Anadi Abhilash, Secretary, Indian Comics Association, selected 30 wild card entries who will now meet at the grand finale which will be held at WAVES at Jio World Centre, Mumbai during May 1st to 4th, 2025.

    A majestic portrayal of Lord Narasimha, bringing to life the power and divinity of India’s rich cultural heritage and appearances from celebrity guests, creators, and influencers within India’s growing cosplay community were the highlights of the event. A fan-fueled celebration packed with photo ops, spontaneous performances, and viral social media moments also added colour to the event.

    The high-energy meetup wasn’t just a qualifier—it was a cultural phenomenon. Every moment at the venue captured the sheer power of community, creativity, and youth expression in India’s rising cosplay revolution. The Wildcard Showdown was a breakout success, setting the tone for what is being called India’s biggest cosplay movement to date. From incredible craftsmanship to compelling performances, the Mumbai showdown was a reminder that cosplay in India is not just growing—it’s booming.

    “This event just proves how powerful the cosplay movement is becoming in India,” said one jury member. “The energy, the effort, the love for characters—it’s all real, and it’s growing bigger every year,” he said.

    The grand finale will feature top cosplayers from across India and the winners will be awarded with cash prizes and exclusive showcases. The jury will have members top studios in animation, film, and gaming. The highlight of the championship is the collaborations with ICA, Forbidden Verse, TVAGA, MEAI, Creator Street, and the powerhouse of pop culture – Epiko Con.

     

    About WAVES

    The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

    Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.

    WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR).

    Have questions? Find answers here  

    Stay updated with the latest announcements from PIB Team WAVES

    Come, Sail with us! Register for WAVES now

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    सोशल मिडियावर आम्हाला फॉलो करा:  @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM wishes everyone a blessed and joyous Easter

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 APR 2025 8:58AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today wished everyone a blessed and joyous Easter.

    In a post on X, he said:

    “Wishing everyone a blessed and joyous Easter. This Easter is special because world over, the Jubilee Year is being observed with immense fervour. May this sacred occasion inspire hope, renewal and compassion in every person. May there be joy and harmony all around.”

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: InvestHK visits India to promote Hong Kong’s business advantages and opportunities (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         ​Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) Mr Charles Ng will commence his duty visit to Mumbai and New Delhi in India today (April 20), highlighting Hong Kong’s unrivalled role as a gateway for Indian companies to expand into Mainland China and across North Asia and Southeast Asia.

         A highlight of the visit is the event Gateway to Growth: Exploring Business & Investment Opportunities in and via Hong Kong, jointly organised by InvestHK, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Singapore, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. As a keynote speaker, Mr Ng will update the participants on the latest developments in Hong Kong’s business landscape, as well as the strategic advantages of establishing operations in Hong Kong for Indian companies.

         Mr Ng said, “As one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, India is not only a major start-up base but also is home to numerous high-net-worth individuals and wealthy families seeking diversified investment opportunities. Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to meet these needs. Our vibrant start-up ecosystem, boasting nearly 4 700 ventures in AI, healthtech, fintech, Web3 and other cutting-edge fields offers exceptional opportunities for Indian start-ups and investors alike. Moreover, our New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme offers an attractive pathway for Indian wealthy families looking to combine investment with the option of living in the city.”

         Mr Ng’s visit includes high-level discussions with prominent Indian firms and investors focusing on establishing a presence in Hong Kong to capitalise on its strategic advantages for global growth. Hong Kong’s business-friendly environment, characterised by clear and transparent regulations, a simple and low tax regime, robust capital markets and free capital flows, positions the city as the ideal platform for Indian companies exploring expansion opportunities.

         Mr Ng added, “With its unique position at the heart of Asia, world-class financial infrastructure, and deep connectivity with Mainland China and global markets, Hong Kong can empower Indian businesses to scale regionally and compete globally. This visit underscores InvestHK’s commitment to strengthening Hong Kong–India ties by fostering greater investment and innovation between the two places.”

         The economic synergy between Hong Kong and India is profound. In 2024, India ranked as Hong Kong’s ninth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade amounting to approximately US$26 billion. Hong Kong is home to a vibrant and long-standing Indian community of over 42 000 people. Bilateral ties have been further reinforced by the Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement, signed in March 2018 and enhanced through a protocol in November 2018, which provides a robust framework for cross-border trade and investment.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: I4C alerts public about online booking scams impersonating religious institutions and tourist services

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 10:50AM by PIB Delhi

    The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has alerted the public about online booking frauds, especially those targeting religious pilgrims and tourists across the country. These frauds are being perpetrated through fake websites, deceptive social media pages, Facebook posts, and paid advertisements on search engines like Google.

    These scams involve the creation of professional-looking but fake websites and social media profiles and WhatsApp accounts offering services such as:

    • Helicopter booking for Kedarnath, Chaar Dhaam
    • Guest house and hotel booking for pilgrims
    • Online cab/taxi service bookings
    • Holiday packages and religious tours

     

    Unsuspecting individuals, upon making payments through these portals, often realize they have been duped when no confirmation or service is received, and the contact numbers go unreachable.

    People are advised to exercise extreme caution:

    1. Always verify the authenticity of websites before making any payments.
    2. Verify before clicking on “sponsored” or unknown links on Google, Facebook, or WhatsApp.
    3. Cross-check bookings only through official government portals or trusted travel agencies.
    4. Report such websites immediately at the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal: www.cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 in case of any frauds.
    5. Kedarnath Helicopter booking can be done via https://www.heliyatra.irctc.co.in
    6. Somnath Trust’s official website is https://somnath.org and guest house booking can be done via same.

    To contain the scams, Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre is taking multi-prolonged strategy.

    • Scam Signal Exchange – Scam Signals are being regularly exchanged with IT intermediaries viz. Google, WhatsApp, Facebook for proactive detection.
    • Enforcement – Cybercrime Hotspots are being identified and State / UTs are being originated are being sensitized.
    • Cyber Patrolling – Fake websites/advertisement and impersonating social media accounts access are being disabled on to protect citizens.
    • Suspect checking and Reporting feature on National Cybercrime Reporting Portal is developed to facilitate hassle free reporting.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HQ IDS to conduct second edition of Tri-services Future Warfare Course in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 10:45AM by PIB Delhi

    The second edition of the Tri-services Future Warfare Course will be held at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi from April 21 to May 09, 2025. The course is being conducted under the aegis of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff and coordinated by the Tri-services think-tank, Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS).  

    Building on the success of the first course held in September 2024, this expanded three-week program continues the vision of Chief of the Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan to prepare officers for the complex challenges of modern warfare. The course maintains its rank-agnostic approach, albeit with an enhanced and diverse participation. 

    This edition features an enhanced curriculum covering specialised subjects and domain-specific warfare developments in military operations. It focuses on developing an erudite understanding on how war fighting is being impacted by technology, necessitating a relook at the thinking, concepts, doctrines, strategies and Tactics, Techniques and Procedures. It will align operational priorities with the capabilities of the indigenous defence industry and enable a free-flowing discussion on the various facets of modern and futuristic war fighting.

     The attendees in the course range from Major Generals to Majors and their equivalent officers from other Services, along with representatives from other Departments under the Ministry of Defence, including DRDO, as well as the defence industry incorporating start-ups, MSMEs, DPSUs and private industry.  

    This second edition continues the larger mission of making the Armed Forces ‘future ready’ fostering Jointness and Integration among the Services and developing strategic leaders equipped to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of modern warfare.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitates First Commercial Sea shipment of Indian pomegranates from Maharashtra to USA

    Source: Government of India

    Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitates First Commercial Sea shipment of Indian pomegranates from Maharashtra to USA

    14 Tons of Indian pomegranates exported from Ahilyanagar in Maharashtra to New York, USA

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 9:39AM by PIB Delhi

    In a historic initiative towards introducing Indian Pomegranates to distant markets, a landmark commercial sea shipment of the prized Indian Bhagwa variety of Pomegranate has successfully arrived in New York, marking a significant milestone for India’s Fresh Fruits exports. With growing international demand for premium quality of Fresh Fruits, the arrival of this shipment heralds the potential of Indian Pomegranates becoming a preferred choice in the competitive U.S. market.

    The Pomegranate season, which traditionally saw air freight as the primary mode of transportation, shifted gears in recent weeks to embrace the cost-effective and sustainable sea freight mode.

    After India had been granted market access by USA for Pomegranates, during the season in 2023, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in collaboration with United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS), National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO – India) and National Research Centre for Pomegranate, Solapur (NRCP) successfully conducted the trial shipment of Pomegranate to USA by air.  

    Owing to the success of the static trial to enhance the shelf life of Pomegranates for up to 60 days by APEDA in collaboration with ICAR-National Research Centre for Pomegranate, India had successfully flagged off its first trial commercial sea shipment of Pomegranates comprising of 4200 boxes i.e. 12.6 tons to the U.S. in collaboration with InI Farms from Irradiation Facility Center (IFC), Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB), Vashi, Navi Mumbai in February, 2024.

    APEDA facilitated the USDA pre-clearance program for Pomegranates in December, 2024 which played a pivotal role in easing the logistical and regulatory hurdles for Indian agriculture exporters and enabled them to enter the U.S. market. APEDA’s proactive approach in inviting the USDA inspectors for the pre-clearance process three months in advance ensured the smooth and timely arrival of the shipment

    The inaugural sea shipment of 4,620 boxes of Indian Pomegranates, weighing approximately 14 tons reached the U.S. East Coast in the second week of March, well within five weeks of the point of departure. The shipment was met with exceptional enthusiasm in New York. The arrival quality was reported as “excellent” and customers were captivated by the remarkable visual appeal and the superior eating quality of the Indian Bhagwa variety of Pomegranates.

    Chairman, APEDA, Shri Abhishek Dev remarked, “Government of India has been at the forefront in promoting Indian fresh fruits for the global market. APEDA has been supporting the export of Indian fruits like Mangoes and Pomegranates to USA by funding the pre-clearance program. Indian farmers will achieve better realisation when their fruit gets exported to premium international markets like USA. Indian mangoes have already reached annual exports of around 3500 tons and we hope that Pomegranates will also reach such strong numbers in the years to come”.

    This consignment was sent by Kay Bee Exports, a leading exporter of fruits and vegetables from Mumbai and a registered exporter with APEDA. The Pomegranates in this consignment were directly sourced from the farms of Kay Bee Exports, ensuring that the benefits of this export reach Indian farmers at the grassroots level.

    “We are thankful to APEDA for facilitating exports of Indian Pomegranates to USA. APEDA’s efforts have ranged from securing market access to setting up export protocols, co-ordinating with multiple stake-holders and organising the pre-clearance program in conjunction with USDA. Kay Bee is specialised in Pomegranates and hope to offer the best fruit that India has to offer. Our customers expect the best fruit quality and we always strive to do so” said Mr. Kaushal Khakhar, CEO, Kay Bee Exports on the successful shipment.

    “While Indian Pomegranates have always been recognized for their taste, this shipment has proven that with the right quality and consistency, Indian fresh fruits can meet the discerning tastes of the American consumer,” said a representative from the Indian export consortium. “We are delighted with the reception in the market and are confident that this successful arrival will pave the way for an increase in volumes in the coming seasons.”

    Looking ahead, the industry is optimistic that with continued marketing efforts and strategic promotional campaigns, Indian Pomegranates can carve a niche for themselves in the premium U.S. market. In light of the growing success, industry stakeholders sought APEDA’s continued support in launching promotional campaigns for the Indian Pomegranate in the coming year, with the aim of educating U.S. consumers on the fruit’s exceptional eating quality and diverse culinary applications.

    India, being the second-largest producer of horticulture crops, sees major Pomegranate production in states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh. APEDA has established Export Promotion Forums (EPF) specifically for Pomegranates, aimed at boosting exports and removing supply chain bottlenecks. These EPF forums include representatives from the Department of Commerce, Department of Agriculture, state governments, national referral laboratories and the top ten leading exporters, ensuring a collaborative effort in promoting Pomegranate exports.

    In the financial year 2023-24, India exported 72,011 metric tons of Pomegranates worth USD 69.08 million. This year, there has been a significant growth in Pomegranate exports from India registering a growth of 21% with a value of USD 59.76 million in the period April – January, 2024-2025. Key export destinations include the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bangladesh, Nepal, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bahrain, Oman and USA.

    Indian Pomegranates, particularly the Bhagwa variety, are renowned for their rich flavour, deep red colour and high nutritional value. These Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants and vital nutrients, making them a popular choice among health-conscious consumers worldwide.

    The Government of India’s commitment to promoting the export of fresh fruits and vegetables, despite their perishable nature, is evident in their development of sea protocols to retain product attributes when exporting to long-distance destinations. This initiative not only reinforces India’s position in global markets but also directly supports Indian farmers by creating sustainable export opportunities.

    The steady supply of high-quality fruit, coupled with continued marketing initiatives, will undoubtedly position Indian Pomegranates as a desirable choice for American consumers, ensuring their place on the U.S. retail shelves in years to come.

     

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Since 2014, India has begun discussing its culture with pride – Shri Harivansh

    Source: Government of India

    Since 2014, India has begun discussing its culture with pride – Shri Harivansh

    India’s cultural environment has transformed since 2014 – Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri

    Posted On: 18 APR 2025 9:45PM by PIB Delhi

    On the occasion of World Heritage Day (18 April), a compilation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speeches and thoughts on culture, titled ‘Sanskriti ka Panchva Adhyay’, was released at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). The book was released  by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Pujya Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, the head of the Juna Akhara. The event was chaired by Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh, with IGNCA Chairman Shri Ram Bahadur Rai present as the Guest of Honour. IGNCA Member Secretary Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi also graced the occasion.

    The book ‘Sanskriti ka Panchva Adhyay’ compiles Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s addresses on Indian culture, traditions, spiritual values, and cultural heritage delivered on various occasions. The foreword has been penned by Shri Ram Bahadur Rai, and the compilation has been curated by Dr. Prabhat Ojha. Published by Prabhat Prakashan, the book represents Prime Minister Modi’s vision of cultural resurgence as a central objective of his government.

    On the occasion, Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj remarked that since 2014, innovation has been witnessed in every direction across the country and that a transformation in the atmosphere is evident. He lauded Prime Minister Modi’s cultural contributions, saying, “Since Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014, a definite change has occurred. People now discuss cultural subjects with greater depth and pride.” Citing an example, he said, “In 2008, an Indian guru residing in Europe made great efforts to establish an International Yoga Day and sought help from the Indian government. In 2016, Narendra Modi made it a reality. Today, 21st June is celebrated worldwide as International Yoga Day-a proof to his commitment to India’s cultural heritage.”

    Shri Harivansh referred to Ramdhari Singh Dinkar’s seminal work ‘Sanskriti ke Chaar Adhyay’, whose foreword was written by Jawaharlal Nehru. He said that had Dinkar been alive today, he would have revisited and revised parts of his work to enrich it further. Shri Harivansh added that after 1952, discussions around culture faded, but since 2014, they have re-emerged. “Post-2014, India has begun to speak about its culture and ancient heritage with pride, and this credit goes to the Prime Minister.” He concluded his speech by quoting a famous lines from Shri Raghubeer Narayan’s ‘Batojhiya’ song: “Sundar su bhoomi bhaiya Bharat ke deshwa mein, mor praan base him khoh re Batojhiya.”

    Shri Ram Bahadur Rai highlighted two dimensions of Narendra Modi’s persona – that of a statesman and an administrator, and that of a spiritually inclined leader. Light-heartedly addressing the Prime Minister’s critics, he said, “Narendra Modi’s personality evokes chemical reactions in people -those with a positive outlook see his virtues, while the negative-minded remain entangled in criticism.” He added that various narratives are woven around Modi, but this book presents a distinct portrayal- that of a saint-hearted Prime Minister. “Among the vast repository of books written on the Prime Minister, this one stands out. It contains that brilliant Kohinoor which a saint offers to King Vikramaditya in the ‘Vetal Pachisi’ . That Kohinoor is India’s culture.”

    Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi highlighted the significance of the Prime Minister’s motto “Virasat bhi, Vikas bhi” (Heritage as well as Development). He noted the special importance of launching this book on World Heritage Day, stating that it presents the vision of a new India. Dr. Prabhat Ojha, the compiler of the book, introduced it, stating that it features 34 of the Prime Minister’s speeches, along with an appendix containing the reflections of two spiritual leaders, both of whom appear to endorse the Prime Minister’s cultural perspective. The programme was anchored by Shri Prabhat Kumar of Prabhat Prakashan, who also delivered the vote of thanks.

    About the Book

    Towards the end of his detailed foreword, Shri Ram Bahadur Rai writes: “If we are searching for the keyboard to the supercomputer of Indian culture, that quest begins and ends with this book. In this sense, this chapter is inspired by culture in the Modi era. It is also an invitation to a cultural journey.” This thought clearly articulates the objective behind publishing Prime Minister Modi’s cultural addresses in the form of a book.

    This journey includes various milestones that the reader can interpret through these speeches. The speeches are arranged chronologically, beginning with the 2015 Independence Day address and concluding with one delivered on 20 October 2024 at the inauguration of the R.J. Shankar Eye Hospital in Varanasi. The first speech, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, discusses national issues, welfare schemes, and government achievements. The final one, naturally, touches on public health, but also includes the Prime Minister’s tribute to three Shankaracharyas of the Kanchi Kamakoti tradition.

    Together, these 34 speeches cover a wide range of cultural contexts – from sacred shrines like Kedarnath, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi, Kashi Vishwanath Mandapam, and Omkareshwar, to occasions such as the launch of various editions of the ‘Bhagavad Gita’, Guru Nanak Jayanti, the Global Buddhist Conference, the birth anniversary of Acharya Vijay Vallabh Surishwar Ji Maharaj, and the World Sufi Conference.

    An excerpt from the Prime Minister’s address at the World Sufi Conference reads:  ‘Rooted in the sacred Quran and Hadith, Sufism became the face of Islam in India. It flourished in India’s openness and pluralism, and by connecting with its ancient spiritual traditions, it evolved a uniquely Indian identity. Sufism helped shape a distinctive Islamic legacy in India.”

    These speeches reflect a quest to identify the Indianness in various religious traditions. The appendix contains reflections by Acharya Shri Pragya Sagar Ji Maharaj and Shankaracharya Shri Shankar Vijayendra Saraswati Swami Ji of Kanchi Kamakoti. Both appear to affirm the cultural vision espoused by the Prime Minister.

     

    ****

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2122825) Visitor Counter : 62

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES Film Poster Making Challenge Announces Top 50 Digital Poster Winners

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES Film Poster Making Challenge Announces Top 50 Digital Poster Winners

    Final Awards to Be Revealed at WAVES in Mumbai

    10 Selected to Compete at Live Hand-Painted Poster Making Competition at WAVES

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 1:00PM by PIB Mumbai

     

    April 17, 2025

    The World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) has announced the Top 50 digital poster winners of its Film Poster Making Challenge following an overwhelming response from artists across India. The competition received 542 digital submissions reflecting the passion and innovation of emerging visual storytellers. In the Hand-Painted Poster Making Competition, 10 entries have been chosen from different art institutions across the country. The winners will be selected at the live finale set to take place during the WAVE Summit in Mumbai.

    Digital Poster Making Competition

    The jury comprising Aditya Arya, Photographer and Founder Director, Museo Camera Gurugram, and Ananda Moy Banerji, Artist Printmaker and Vice Principal, South Delhi Polytechnic for Women, along with co-organisers Imagenation Street Art and National Film Development Corporation-National Film Achieves India conducted a rigorous multi-stage evaluation. From a preliminary shortlist of 197 posters, the jury selected the final top 50 based on creativity, originality and storytelling impact.

    Among the top 50, three standout finalists have been identified (in alphabetical order):

    • Saptosindhu Sengupta
       
    • Shivangi Sarmah Kashyap
       
    • Suresh D Nair
       

    The final rankings of the top three will be announced at the WAVE Summit scheduled to take place in Mumbai from May 1 to 4, 2025. The 50 winning posters will also be digitally exhibited at the summit offering participants a valuable platform for visibility and recognition.

    Hand-Painted Poster Art to Be Celebrated with Live Competition at WAVES

    The WAVES will also host a Live Hand-Painted Film Poster Making Competition shining a spotlight on a traditional art form that once defined Indian cinema’s visual identity. Evoking the spirit of legendary artists such as MF Husain and SM Pandit, this segment honors the rich heritage of hand-painted posters.

    Out of all entries, 10 student artists have been selected to participate in the live competition at the WAVES. The event will showcase their skills as they create hand-painted film posters in real time. The top three winners will be recognized and awarded for their outstanding contributions to this culturally significant medium.

    About Film Poster Making Challenge

    The WAVES Film Poster Making Challenge is part of a broader initiative to celebrate cinematic art, foster emerging talent, and bridge traditional and contemporary forms of visual storytelling. For more information and the complete list of winners, visit:
     👉 https://www.nfdcindia.com/waves-poster-challenge-2025/

    About WAVES

    The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit, a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

    Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.

    WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Extended Reality.

    Have questions? Find answers here  

    Stay updated with the latest announcements from PIB Team WAVES

    Come, Sail with us! Register for WAVES now

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES 2025 Animation Film makers Challenge announces top 42 finalists

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES 2025 Animation Film makers Challenge announces top 42 finalists

    WAVES brings to the fore a global showcase of original Animation, VFX, AR/VR & Virtual Productions

    Talented finalists of animation film-making competition to pitch their projects in WAVES 2025

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 12:03PM by PIB Mumbai

    : Mumbai, April 19, 2025

    The finalists of the Animation Film Makers Competition (AFC) being held as part of the ‘Create in India Challenge Season-1’ of WAVES 2025 has been announced. The best 42 projects, focussing on original storytelling across the entire spectrum of animation, encompassing traditional animation, VFX, Augmented Reality (AR)/Virtual Reality (VR), and virtual production, have made it to the final round. These talented participants will now have the opportunity to pitch their original projects during the WAVE Summit which will be held in Mumbai from May 1-4, 2025. The top 3 winners will each receive a cash prize of up to INR 5 Lakhs.

    The selection of the top-42 finalists was the result of a rigorous nine-month evaluation process led by the Dancing Atoms team, in collaboration with the WAVES team. The  dedicated efforts of the participants were complemented by the discerning expertise of an esteemed panel of national and international jury members, including:

    ●     Anu Singh

    ●     Farrukh Dhondy

    ●     Dan Sarto

    ●     James Knight

    ●     Jan Nagel

    ●     Gianmarco Serra

    ●     Indu Ramchandani

    The talented finalists, who will now have the opportunity to pitch their original projects in Mumbai, are: Abhijeet Saxena, Anika Rajesh, Anirban Majumder, Anuj Kumar Choudhary, Arundhati Sarkar, Atreyee Poddar, Bhagat Singh Saini, Bhagyashree Satapathy, Bimal Poddar, Catharina Dian Wiraswati S, Gadam Jagadish Prasad Yadav, Gargi Gawthe, Harish Narayan Iyer, Harshita Das, Hirak Jyoti Nath, Isha Chandna, Jacqueline C Ching, Jyothi Kalyan Sura, Khambor Batei Kharjana, Kishore Kumar Kedari, Kiruthika Ramasubramanian, Makam Neha, Martand Anand Ugalmugle, Nandan Balakrishnan, Piyush Kumar, Prasanth Kumar Nagadasi, Prasenjit Singha, Richa Bhutani, Rishav Mohanty, Rohit Sankhla, Sandhra Mary, Sangeeta Poddar, Segun Samson, Shreeyaa Vinayak Pore, Shreya Sachdev, Shrikant S Menon, Srikanth Bhogi, Shubham Tomar, Shweta Subhash Marathe, Sundar Mahalingam, Sukankan Roy, Triparna Maiti, Tuhin Chanda, Vamsi Bandaru, Vetriveare.

     

    The potential economic impact of their projects is significant, with each animated VFX feature film capable of generating employment for 100-300 individuals. WAVES AFC 2025 represents a crucial investment in creative talents of India, fostering job creation and global opportunities. The competition’s ambition extends to fostering international co-productions.

    This groundbreaking global initiative, supported by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and spearheaded by Dancing Atoms, marks the first time all four verticals of the AVGC sector are represented under one umbrella in such a competition.

    WAVES AFC 2025 garnered an overwhelming response, receiving approximately 1900 registrations and 419 diverse entries from amateur enthusiasts, talented students, and seasoned professionals worldwide. This enthusiastic participation underscores the competition’s vital role in identifying and nurturing fresh creative voices within the animation industry.

    Beyond showcasing talent, the initiative has prioritized mentorship at all stages. All contestants, regardless of their final selection, benefited from invaluable masterclasses led by renowned industry leaders such as Academy Award winner Guneet Monga, acclaimed producer Shobu Yarlagadda, and Saraswathi Buyyala. These sessions focused on refining pitching skills and navigating the complexities of the industry. These projects will be pitched to various OTT platforms and key industry players. Dancing Atoms Studios founder Saraswathi Buyyala is actively engaging with embassies from 17 countries (Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Korea, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Spain, United Kingdom) to facilitate collaborations for these top- 42 projects. In order to promote these projects, meetings are also being scheduled with prominent distributors. The top 42 projects represent a diverse spectrum, including 12 feature films, 9 TV series, 3 AR/VR experiences, and 18 short films, offering a rich variety for potential viewers and collaborators.

    The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s crucial support has been instrumental in elevating AFC WAVES 2025 to its current stature. The dedication to fostering original storytelling within the animation, VFX, AR/VR, and virtual production sectors has provided invaluable resources and recognition, empowering emerging talent on a significant platform. This  competition and its rigorous screening processes and enriching learning opportunities, underscored the government’s commitment to nurturing India’s creative potential in the dynamic world of animation. Each selected entry offers a unique narrative and showcases diverse creative approaches, including compelling international submissions. Going forward, the future of animation, VFX, AR/VR, and virtual production storytelling will unfold at WAVES AFC 2025.

    About WAVES

    The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

    Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.

    WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR).

    Have questions? Find answers here  

    Stay updated with the latest announcements from PIB Team WAVES

    Come, Sail with us! Register for WAVES now

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM to address programme marking Civil Services Day on 21st April

    Source: Government of India

    PM to address programme marking Civil Services Day on 21st April

    PM to confer Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 1:16PM by PIB Delhi

    On the occasion of 17th Civil Services Day, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will address Civil Servants on 21st April, at around 11 AM, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. He will also confer the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration.

    Prime Minister has always encouraged Civil Servants across India to dedicate themselves to the cause of citizens, be committed to public service and strive towards excellence in their work. This year, 16 awards will be given by the Prime Minister in the categories of Holistic Development of Districts, Aspirational Blocks Programme and Innovation to civil servants. They will be recognised for work done for the welfare of common citizens through this.

    *****

    MJPS/SR/SKS

     

    (Release ID: 2122847) Visitor Counter : 149

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister urges citizens to embrace mindful eating and combat Obesity on World Liver Day

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 1:13PM by PIB Delhi

    On the occasion of World Liver Day, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi urged all citizens to adopt mindful eating practices and prioritize healthier living. Stressing the importance of small yet impactful changes, the Prime Minister highlighted that measures such as reducing oil intake can significantly contribute to improving overall health and well-being.

    Responding to a post by Union Minister, Shri JP Nadda on X, Shri Modi said:

    “Commendable effort to mark #WorldLiverDay with a call for mindful eating and healthier living. Small steps like reducing oil intake can make a big difference.  Together, let’s build a fitter, healthier India by raising awareness about obesity. #StopObesity”

    ****

    MJPS/SR/SKS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Data Users Conference on insights of latest survey results and key initiatives in macro-economic indicators:

    Source: Government of India

    Data Users Conference on insights of latest survey results and key initiatives in macro-economic indicators:

    Fostering Dialogue Between Data Producers and Data Users

    Posted On: 19 APR 2025 11:12AM by PIB Delhi

    The National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), Government of India, in line with its continued efforts to strengthen engagement with data users and other stakeholders, is organizing a Data Users Conference in collaboration with the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR), Mumbai, on the 21st April 2025 at the IGIDR campus, Goregaon (East), Mumbai.

    The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) conducts large-scale sample surveys to generate key economic indicators in critical areas such as employment and unemployment, consumption expenditure, and industrial statistics. It also produces essential macroeconomic indicators, including National Accounts and Price Indices. These data sets form the foundation for evidence-based policy formulation and effective governance in India.

    The conference is being organized to promote dialogue between data producers and data users, fostering knowledge exchange and discussions on the latest developments in the field. The conference will focus on the following key areas:

    • Sampling methodologies adopted in surveys
    • Insights to the latest results of Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES 2023-24)
    • Recent changes in Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)
    • GDP compilation and base revision
    • Key initiatives of CPI base updation

    The Data Users Conference will be chaired by Dr. Saurabh Garg, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. Distinguished dignitaries, including Dr. Neelkanth Mishra, Member, EAC to PM & Chairman, UIDAI, Prof. Basanta Kumar Pradhan, Director, IGIDR, Ms. Geeta Singh Rathore, Director General, National Sample Survey (NSS) and Shri. N.K. Santoshi, Director General, Central Statistics (CS) will grace the occasion and share their insights.

    The event will host approximately 250 participants, comprising researchers, academicians, Economists, industrial associations, policymakers, representatives from international organizations, private survey agencies, as well as esteemed institutions from academia and the media. Experts and members of the National Statistical Commission (NSC) and technical committees will also be present.

    The technical sessions on National Sample Surveys will provide an overview of the sampling design, computation of multipliers, and estimation of parameters in NSS household surveys. The sessions will also highlight key lessons from the conduct of the Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys (HCES) for 2022–23 and 2023–24, with insights drawn from the latest data releases. A panel discussion will follow to further explore the same. In addition, recent changes in the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) methodology will be presented to enhance users’ understanding and ensure clarity in interpretation.

    In the second half, technical sessions on key Macro-economic indicators will be presented on the following topics and each presentation will be followed by a Panel Discussion:

    • Measurement of GDP and GDP Base Revision — Data Sources, Methodology for compilation of GDP. Sectoral Databases, Measurement Issues, Methodological Improvements proposed in base revision.
    • Key initiatives on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) Base updation.

    The Panel Discussions organised will be chaired by distinguished experts, providing a platform for critical review and discussion of the presented topics. The panels will include a diverse group of experts from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), National Stock Exchange, private survey agencies and academic institutions including IGIDR, IIPS, among others. Post-panel discussions, the floor will be opened for open discussions, offering participants the opportunity to directly engage with the speakers and panelists, thus facilitating dynamic exchange between data users and data producers. To streamline the interactive sessions, participants will be encouraged to submit questions via the Mentimeter platform, ensuring that discussions remain focused and engaging.

    The conference aims to foster dialogue on emerging methodologies, survey practices, and the relevance of official statistics in policymaking and research, reaffirming MoSPI’s commitment to improving the statistical ecosystem of the country.

    ****

    Samrat

    (Release ID: 2122834) Visitor Counter : 36

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 484

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 0484
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0225 PM CDT Sat Apr 19 2025

    Areas affected…parts of southern Indiana…northern Kentucky…and
    southwestern Ohio

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch unlikely

    Valid 191925Z – 192130Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…20 percent

    SUMMARY…A few stronger storms — capable producing strong wind
    gusts and small hail — will be possible this afternoon. WW
    issuance is not anticipated at this time.

    DISCUSSION…Latest satellite imagery shows that filtered sunshine
    — and associated afternoon heating — has occurred over the last
    couple of hours, but with an increase in cu/cb at this time —
    particularly over southern Indiana. On the western fringe of the
    cumuliform cloudiness, radar indicates increasing deep convection
    (over far southwestern Indiana) near the cold front, with some
    lightning now indicated.

    RAP-based objective analysis shows — aided by the aforementioned
    heating — that mixed-layer CAPE has increased to near/just above
    500 J/kg, and with a bit of additional heating destabilization
    possible, some increase in convective intensity is expected over the
    next couple of hours.

    With low-level flow weakly veering, and increasing to 50 kt between
    2km and 3km AGL, and in excess of 70 kt at mid levels, shear is
    plenty sufficient to aid in convective organization, and associated
    potential for strong wind gusts locally. Though coverage of any
    severe-weather reports would likely remain sparse, thus negating any
    current consideration for WW issuance, we will continue to monitor
    environmental evolution across the area.

    ..Goss/Mosier.. 04/19/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…JKL…ILN…LMK…IND…PAH…

    LAT…LON 37898660 37938741 38488714 39268587 39918382 39418305
    38518373 38328457 37898660

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…55-70 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK HAIL SIZE…UP TO 1.25 IN

    MIL OSI USA News –