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Category: Science

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mathematicians from the Nizhny Novgorod Higher School of Economics have proven the existence of stable chaos in complex systems

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Researchers fromInternational Laboratory of Dynamic Systems and Applications HSE University – Nizhny Novgoroddeveloped a theory that allows us to prove with mathematical precision the existence of stable chaotic behavior in networks of interacting elements. The work opens up new possibilities for studying complex dynamic processes in neuroscience, biology, medicine, chemistry, optics and other fields. The results of the study have been accepted for publication in the leading international scientific journal Physical Review Letters. The results of the study can beget acquaintedin the Arxiv.org archive.

    In scientific terminology, chaos does not mean disorder, but dynamics that are extremely sensitive to the slightest changes. In such modes, the system’s behavior becomes unpredictable, which in some cases turns out to be useful. For example, in neuroscience, stable chaos helps prevent excessive synchronization of neurons and, as a result, epileptic seizures. In artificial intelligence algorithms, chaotic modes help improve the efficiency of learning.

    Chaotic dynamics are also used to describe behavioral and economic cycles and help make more accurate short-term forecasts. However, until recently, the question remained open: how to understand whether the observed dynamics are truly chaotic, or just a temporary phenomenon, followed by stabilization of the system?

    Scientists from the National Research University Higher School of Economics – Nizhny Novgorod, Professor Alexey Kazakov and postgraduate students Efrosinia Karatetskaya and Klim Safonov, together with Professor Dmitry Turaev from Imperial College London, were able to answer this question by applying the concept of pseudo-hyperbolicity.

    Professor Turaev took part in the creation of this concept together with the Nizhny Novgorod mathematician Leonid Shilnikov. This property of the system excludes the transition to a stable state and guarantees the preservation of chaotic behavior, even if the system is affected by small external disturbances. By checking the conditions of pseudohyperbolicity, the researchers proved that networks of four or more identical interacting oscillators can demonstrate stable chaos under certain functions of the connections between the elements.

    Moreover, the authors constructed numerical maps of the regions of existence of stable and unstable chaos and described different types of chaotic attractors, including two-winged and four-winged analogues of the classical Lorenz attractor.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Sci-Fi, Sci-Talk” to offer free screenings of two sci-fi films to explore relationship between technology and human (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Jointly organised by the Film Programmes Office, the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Hong Kong Science Museum of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, “Sci-Fi, Sci-Talk” will feature two popular sci-fi films, “Interstellar” (2014) and “A.I. Artificial Intelligence” (2001), which will be screened free of charge at the Lecture Hall of the Hong Kong Space Museum at 2pm on April 20 and 21 respectively, leading audiences to reflect on the impact of technological advancements on human life. 

         Astrophysicist and Associate Professor of the Department of Science and Environmental Studies of the Education University of Hong Kong, Professor Chan Man-ho, and Research Professor of the Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Principal Investigator of the CUHK Jockey Club AI for the Future Project, Professor Yam Yeung, have been invited as guest speakers for post-screening talks respectively to explore the scientific knowledge behind the films.

         In “Interstellar”, the protagonist, Cooper, is pulled into a black hole while on a mission searching for habitable planets for humankind. He accidentally enters a five-dimensional space created by future humans, where he communicates with his daughter on Earth using gravity and helps her achieve a plan to save humanity. The film visually presents scientific concepts such as relativity, black holes and wormholes on the screen, allowing the audience to experience the wonder of science through the story.

         In “A.I. Artificial Intelligence”, directed by Steven Spielberg, a robotic boy named David, endowed with genuine human emotions, is adopted by a human, Monica, as a replacement for her seriously ill son. Following her own son’s recovery and return home, David desperately searches for a way to become a real human in the hope of regaining Monica’s motherly love and care. The film profoundly explores the relationship between love, humanity and technology, making it a classic in the genre of sci-fi films featuring robots.

         Both films are in English with Chinese subtitles.

         Admission is free on a first-come, first-served basis. For programme enquiries, please call 2734 2900 or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/fp/en/listing.html?id=74. “Sci-Fi, Sci-Talk” is one of the programmes of HK SciFest 2025 held by the Hong Kong Science Museum from April 18 to 27. For details about HK SciFest 2025, please visit the website at www.hk.science.museum/scifest2025/?lang=en.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SITI at World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit – Main Forum on the Digital Intelligence Future (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is the speech by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the World Internet Conference (WIC) Asia-Pacific Summit – Main Forum on the Digital Intelligence Future today (April 14):
     
    Vice-chairman Francis Gurry (Vice-chairman of the WIC), Secretary General Ren Xianliang (the Secretary General of the WIC), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good afternoon. Again welcome to Hong Kong.  
     
         Under the theme of “Integration of AI and Digital Technologies Shaping the Future – Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace”, this Summit brings together experts and leaders to explore the establishment of a solid foundation for digital intelligence, the advancement of “AI+” applications across diverse industries, and the resolution of critical challenges in security and governance in the digital era. These areas are pivotal for every economy to fully unlock the potential of the digital economy, drive technological progress and enhance economic competitiveness.
     
         Today, digital intelligence is no longer confined to predictive algorithms or data-driven decision making. It is augmenting human capabilities and redefining governance, commerce, and communication. More importantly, the future will be determined not only by how fast AI and machines learn, but also by how well we, the humanity, adapt and integrate these intelligent systems into our daily lives.
     
         Hong Kong has long benefited from the unwavering support of our motherland in its journey to become an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre. The national strategies have prioritised technological innovation as a core pillar of development, showcasing substantial support for Hong Kong’s progress in this area. The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) has made significant investments in various forms of infrastructure to strengthen the foundation for local I&T development and foster technological innovation.
     
         Among all, a key priority is to reinforce Hong Kong’s strong R&D (research and development) capabilities, with three local universities ranked among the world’s top 20 for data science and AI in the QS 2025 subject rankings. Our global research collaboration platform, the InnoHK Research Clusters, has established collaborations with more than 30 world-renowned universities and research institutes from 12 economies, brought together more than 2,500 researchers from home and abroad, and established a total of 30 InnoHK research laboratories, more than half of which focus on AI and robotics-related technologies.
     
         In addition to the AI Supercomputing Centre (AISC) established by Cyberport in December last year, the Hong Kong Microelectronics Research and Development Institute, which focuses on third-generation semiconductor core technology, is crucial to powering AI systems. Looking ahead, we are preparing to establish the Hong Kong AI Research and Development Institute, which will focus on supporting upstream R&D efforts and facilitating the transformation of R&D outcomes into practical applications, marking another significant step forward in Hong Kong’s innovation journey.
     
         More than just a transformative tool for upgrading traditional industries, AI is a dynamic catalyst for innovation and reinvention. The concept of “AI+”, signifying the seamless integration of AI into various sectors, is bringing about unprecedented breakthroughs and unlocking new opportunities. Hong Kong has firmly grasped this potential to accelerate the development of new quality productive forces and enhance its global competitiveness by intensifying our efforts to promote new industrialisation. 
     
         To this end, the Hong Kong SAR Government has implemented targeted initiatives to assist local manufacturers in adopting smart technologies, advancing production processes and enhancing productivity. For example, the $10 billion New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme provides financial support to enterprises in fields such as AI, robotics, life and health technology, new energy and advanced manufacturing to set up new smart production facilities in Hong Kong.
     
         Furthermore, a $10 billion Innovation and Technology Industry-Oriented Fund is about to be set up to channel more market capital to invest in emerging and future industries of strategic importance. We will also launch the I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme to attract professional start-up service agencies to enrich Hong Kong’s start-ups ecosystem by leveraging their extensive business network and experience.    
     
         While the integration of AI across industries is propelling innovation and growth, the exponential growth of digital intelligence demands a new framework – one built on ethical responsibility, robust security, and inclusivity. No single economy or industry can tackle these challenges alone. As we discuss how to build a robust foundation for digital intelligence, let us not forget to embrace collaborative intelligence – the synergy between human ingenuity and artificial advancements, and strengthen cross-regional, cross-sector and cross-cultural collaboration to ensure that technology amplifies human potential rather than replacing it. This is the truly unbreakable foundation of digital intelligence.
     
         Being Asia’s world city and a strategic hub for digital innovation, Hong Kong will continue to contribute its I&T power to promote collaboration and innovation across the Asia-Pacific region, and the world. As we reflect on the transformative power of AI and digital technologies, let us continue to work together to break new ground, transcend boundaries and borders, and contribute to the betterment of humanity. 
     
         Before I close, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and commitment in making the WIC Asia-Pacific Summit a meaningful and impactful experience. Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Student Mental Health in Focus as National Efforts Intensify on Suicide Prevention and Well-being

    Source: Government of India

    Student Mental Health in Focus as National Efforts Intensify on Suicide Prevention and Well-being

    Ministry of Education Convenes 2nd National Task Force Meeting Chaired by Hon. Justice (Retd.) S. Ravindra Bhat

    Posted On: 14 APR 2025 2:44PM by PIB Delhi

    The 2nd meeting of the National Task Force on the Mental Health Concerns of Students and the Prevention of Suicides in Higher Educational Institutions was held under the chairmanship of Justice S. Ravindra Bhat, former judge of the Supreme Court of India, in New Delhi today.

    Members of the Task Force; Dr. Vineet Joshi, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education; Shri Amit Yadav, Secretary, Department of Social Justice & Empowerment; Shri Anil Malik, Secretary, Ministry of Women and Child Development; senior officials of the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Law and Justice and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare attended the meeting.

    During the meeting, actions taken so far were reported and discussed in detail. Agenda points included developing a portal/website for data collection; reports and regulations/guidelines; dissemination of questionnaires; gathering support from different sectors; onboarding of officers from DoSEL and MoHFW; coordination with institutions and NIEPA, among others.

    The Supreme Court of India, in a judgment dated 24.03.2025, issued significant directions concerning the prevention of student suicides in higher education institutions. The judgment underscored the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address mental health concerns among students. The Supreme Court constituted a National Task Force under the chairmanship of Justice S. Ravindra Bhat, former judge of the Supreme Court of India, along with other experts from various domains as members, to discuss and deliberate on issues related to mental health concerns among students, the prevention of suicides in educational institutions, and to recommend preventive measures. The key areas of focus include:

    i. Identifying predominant causes leading to student suicides, such as academic pressure, discrimination, financial burdens, and the stigma surrounding mental health.

    ii. Analyzing the effectiveness of existing student welfare and mental health regulations/policies.

    iii. Proposing reforms to strengthen institutional frameworks and create a supportive academic environment.

    The composition of the National Task Force is as follows:

    • Justice S. Ravindra Bhat, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India, as the Chairperson;
    • Dr. Alok Sarin, Consultant Psychiatrist, Sitaram Bhartia Institute of Science & Research, New Delhi, as the Member;
    • Prof. Mary E. John (retired), Former Director, Centre, for Women’s Development Studies, New Delhi; as the Member;
    • Mr. Arman Ali, Executive Director, National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People; as the Member;
    • Prof. Rajendar Kachroo, Founder, Aman Satya Kachroo Trust; as the Member;
    • Dr. Aqsa Shaikh, Professor of the Department of Community Medicine in Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, New Delhi; as the Member;
    • Dr. Seema Mehrotra, Professor of Clinical Psychology, NIMHANS; as the Member;
    • Prof. Virginius Xaxa, Visiting Professor at the Institute for Human Development (IHD), New Delhi; as the Member;
    • Dr. Nidhi S. Sabharwal, Associate Professor, Centre for Policy Research in Higher Education, National University of Educational Planning and Administration, New Delhi; as the Member;
    • Ms. Aparna Bhat, Senior Advocate (as amicus curiae).

    The following are the ex-officio members of the Task Force:

    • Secretary, Department of Higher Education, M/o Education, Govt. of India, as the Member Secretary
    • Secretary, Department of Social Justice & Empowerment, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India;
    • Secretary, Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India;
    • Secretary, Department of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Law and Justice, Government of India; and
    • Joint Secretary, Department of Higher Education, M/o Education – Convenor.

    The Task Force has decided to form three working groups each looking after different tasks. Progress of working groups so far was discussed. This includes compiling and reviewing previous reports, examining existing laws and regulations, and developing a methodology for designing questionnaires.

    The first meeting of the Task Force was virtually held on 29.03.2025, in which the Chairperson outlined the agenda of the meeting highlighting the need for collection of data from various stakeholders which included teachers, academics, persons involved in social sector, policy makers, formulation of diverse set questionnaires for collection of data from various stakeholders, making available resources for the task force for effective discharge of its time bound functions, formation of working groups for division of works, dissemination and publicity of the questionnaires and activities to be taken up by the task force etc.

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    MV/AK

    MOE/DoHE/12 April 2025/7

    (Release ID: 2121572) Visitor Counter : 60

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Office of Principal Scientific Adviser to GoI releases First Edition of India’s International Technology Engagement Strategy (ITES) for Quantum

    Source: Government of India

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

    The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India today released the first edition of International Technology Engagement Strategy for Quantum, marking a significant step toward articulating India’s outward-facing strategy in Quantum Science, Technology and Innovation (QSTI), with the intent to accelerate discovery, foster innovation, and catalyse adoption across critical sectors.

    The report was officially unveiled by PSA Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood during the Office of PSA’s podcast on the occasion of World Quantum Day 2025, celebrated every year on April 14. This report comes with a special significance because of 2025 being the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQST) designated by the United Nations and member states.

     

    The strategy report provides a foundational landscape analysis to enable domestic and foreign stakeholders in government, academia, and industry to formulate context-specific action points aligned with their engagement goals complementing the ambitions of India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM) and other ongoing efforts by various agencies and stakeholders in the ecosystem.

    Talking about the importance of Quantum Tech, Prof. Sood highlighted it is an area where no country wants to be left behind because it is important for strategic autonomy and there cannot be strategic autonomy without being quantum safe. Further speaking about gaps and potential in the sector for India, he stated, “India has to invest in Quantum hardware, we have to reduce our dependencies on imports, and advancements in all areas of quantum computing can help with that. We need to bring much more funds for startups, and de-risk the investment — which means we need to create markets for the products. And this is where all the players, be it government, private sectors, academia, or startups, play a role to create this ecosystem,” he added. “We need to be an active player in defining the global standards for Quantum Tech. This is a gap we need to fill. Because once we have that, we will also play a role in standardisation efforts, and that is what leads to strategic autonomy. We have to do that very proactively and ensure that we have these global standards because our market is not only the Indian market but global.“

    While talking about NQM, Prof. Sood mentioned that the mission being very efficiently rolled out by the Department of Science and Technology ( DST ) under the leadership of Secretary DST looks at the complete life cycle of this frontier technology – the R&D needed, what does it take to translate that R&D to technology and how to make a product from that for the market scale up. He also explained the key features of the hub-and-spoke model that is being implemented by NQM at the national scale involving 152 researchers from 43 institutions across 17 states and 2 UTs .

     

    This inaugural edition of ITES-Q provides a comprehensive overview of both global and national quantum ecosystems, covering analysis of investments, talent development, institutional strengths, research publications, intellectual property, startups, supply chains, and industrial activity. The ITES-Q is thought out to facilitate impactful partnerships and particularly add value to the efforts of Indian missions abroad in strengthening bilateral and multilateral engagements for QSTI.

    The ITES is an initiative of the Office of the PSA to GoI, designed to strengthen and elevate India’s Technology Diplomacy efforts across critical and emerging domains.

    The full ITES-Q report can be accessed through the Office of PSA website: https://psa.gov.in/CMS/web/sites/default/files/publication/ITES_QWEBSITE1.pdf

    World Quantum Day 2025 Podcast with PSA can be tuned in here: https://youtu.be/454E5OY2ygA

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    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2121527) Visitor Counter : 132

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit (English only) (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by CE at World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit (English only) (with photo) 
    Honourable Wang Yong (Vice-Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference), Honourable Zhuang Rongwen (Minister of the Cyberspace Administration of China), Honourable Zheng Yanxiong (Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Honourable Ren Xianliang (Secretary General of the World Internet Conference), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good morning. I’m delighted to welcome you to Hong Kong, and the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit.
     
    And I am honoured to say that the Asia-Pacific Summit, taking place over these next two days in Hong Kong, marks the first time the World Internet Conference has held an international summit outside Mainland China.
     
    That, ladies and gentlemen, is a testament to Hong Kong’s rising role as an international innovation and technology hub. It also reflects our deepening integration with our country’s national development.   
     
    That will become abundantly clear over these next two days. Like the World Internet Conference itself, this Summit offers high-level dialogue for the global internet community – for you – the nearly 1 000 professionals here from 30 countries and regions.
     
    You are senior government officials and business leaders, industry association heads, academics and researchers and professionals from different disciplines. And you’re here to expand your international connections, create business opportunities and help build the interconnected digital future.
     
    Hong Kong’s rise as an I&T hub has been fast-tracked by our vibrant economy, which is powered by free trade and boasts the world’s third-largest financial centre. It helps, too, that Hong Kong has long been a key business conduit between the Mainland and the rest of the world.
     
    And it all comes together under our unique “one country, two systems” framework.
     
    This cardinal governing principle gives Hong Kong the best of both worlds: access to the vast opportunities of the Mainland market, while maintaining the advantages of our unmatched connectivity of our common law system, free flow of information, capital, goods and people. This unmatched connectivity has brought you here.
     
    There are many good examples. A shining example is the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou science and technology cluster, which ranks second, globally, in the World Intellectual Property Organization’s Global Innovation Index. It shows how, with the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, we can converge Hong Kong’s excellent research and development and world-class, international business environment, with the innovative prowess of the Mainland’s technology industry.
     
    We are building Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, which straddles the small river that separates Hong Kong and Shenzhen. The Hong Kong Park within this Co-operation Zone smartly embodies the virtues of the “one country, two systems” principle and cross-boundary co-operation.
     
    Last month, I attended the topping-out ceremony for the Park’s first three buildings – two wet laboratories and a talent accommodation complex. The Park will enter its operational phase this year, with the first tenants – from life and health technology, artificial intelligence, to data science and other pillar industries – moving in.
     
    The development of another five buildings is in full swing. We have earmarked some US$500 million to expedite the Park’s two-phase development.
     
    We need, of course, strategic companies and talent to take full advantage of the Park’s opportunities – and other of Hong Kong’s far-reaching prospects. And we’re getting them. Under the enhanced talent admission regime we rolled out in 2022, we have already approved more than 300 000 talent admission applications. Over 200 000 of them, i.e. two-thirds, have already arrived here.
     
    Meanwhile, over 80 strategic enterprises from around the world in the booming industries of life and health technology, AI and data science, fintech and more, have joined us. They will invest over US$6 million and create over 20 000 jobs here in the coming years.
     
    The Park is situated in the Northern Metropolis, an entirely new economic engine for Hong Kong. The Northern Metropolis, which makes up one-third of Hong Kong’s area, straddles our land boundary with Shenzhen.
     
    I’m confident that our collaborative efforts with Shenzhen, and throughout the Greater Bay Area, will see the rise of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone as a world-class I&T hub, creating a critical source of new quality productive forces for the country.
     
    AI is central to Hong Kong Park’s research and development. It’s no less central to Hong Kong’s future.
     
    In December last year, the first phase of Cyberport’s AI Supercomputing Centre became operational. Hong Kong’s digital technology flagship, Cyberport is home to more than 330 start-ups specialising in AI and big data.
     
    Hong Kong is determined to maximise AI’s immense potential for new industrialisation, and to further society’s digital transformation.
     
    We have, for example, set up funding schemes to help local manufacturers switch to smart manufacturing and strategic industries to establish smart production facilities here in Hong Kong. 
     
    And our HK$10 billion I&T Industry-Oriented Fund, amounting to nearly US$1.3 billion, channels market capital to invest in industries of strategic importance, including AI and robotics. 
     
    There’s more.  We aim to establish, by the next financial year, the Hong Kong AI R&D Institute, having reserved nearly US$130 million to get it up and running. The Institute will spearhead Hong Kong’s R&D and drive AI-based industrial applications.
     
    AI will also promote smart government. Not only driving document digitalisation and automation, and payments and business processes, but, more important, how we go about making policy and delivering public services.
     
    All that, and much more, will fuel discussion and debate at today’s main forum and the three sub-forums taking place tomorrow.
     
    This Summit matters. Co-operation matters. Especially during these challenging times to geopolitics and trade relations. Hong Kong champions free trade and multilateralism. We believe in teamwork and offer a range of welcoming programmes for investors, companies, researchers and other strategic talent. Hong Kong welcomes all business interests from those who are keen to pursue development with us. In this global city, we will make a decided difference for you, and your future.
     
    I am grateful to the World Internet Conference for hosting the Asia-Pacific Summit here in Hong Kong. Grateful, too, to our Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau and other government offices for organising this high-profile global event.
     
    I wish you all an inspiring Summit, and the best of business, and health, through this endlessly challenging, but promising, year.
     
    Thank you.
    Issued at HKT 12:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit – Main Forum on the Digital Intelligence Future (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by FS at World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit – Main Forum on the Digital Intelligence Future (English only)
    Professor Francis Gurry (Vice-Chairman of the World Internet Conference), (Secretary General  of the World Internet Conference, Mr Ren Xianliang),  (Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Qi Bin), (Chief Engineer of the Cyberspace Administration of China, Ms Sun Weimin), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

    It is a great pleasure to join you all at the Asia-Pacific Summit of the World Internet Conference. The WIC has long served as a vital platform for global dialogue, enabling policymakers, business leaders, scholars and innovators to come together and explore the digital challenges and opportunities of our time, and to find new ways of working together. It is an honour for Hong Kong to host this event for the first time.

    The global digital landscape

    The Internet stands as the most transformative force of connection of our time.  It is also a story of continuous reinvention, from static content in Web 1.0 to social media, e-commerce in Web 2.0, and to the age of Web 3.0 underpinned by blockchain technologies. Coupled with artificial intelligence (AI), this next-generation Internet is once again transforming the way we live and do business. AI-powered tools are enabling governments and businesses to deliver smarter and more responsive services. Decentralised finance and tokenisation, for example, are substantially reducing the cost and improving the efficiency of financial and business transactions.

    The digital era today has created significant opportunities for new entrants.  Consider the DeepSeek Moment. While global headlines often focus on the AI rivalry between the two great nations, it also reminds us of the innovative prowess and agility of startups, and the multiple pathways to technological progress. It has opened up a future where development will not be decided simply by size or resources, but also by creativity and the courage to pursue visionary ideas.

    Despite the enormous progress, equitable digital access remains a global issue.  Today, nearly one-third of the world’s population – or some 2.6 billion people – are still offline. For these communities, the absence of digital access means fewer opportunities for education, economic advancement and social inclusion.

    Governments and regulators worldwide are also facing mounting challenges such as cybersecurity, data privacy and complexities of cross-border regulatory arbitrage. For example, it is estimated that cybercrime could cost the global economy over US$10 trillion in 2025 alone.  This amount, ironically, exceeds the GDP of most nations. Yet, across jurisdictions, governance frameworks are still struggling to keep pace with the speed of technological change.

    Currently, a more urgent concern is digital fragmentation. The trade war initiated by the United States is likely to extend beyond tariffs.  We can foresee more barriers, “larger yards” and “higher walls”, which could stifle innovation and jeopardise global technological progress.

    Hong Kong’s vision

    Ladies and gentlemen, now allow me to turn to Hong Kong.  How can we navigate these complex global dynamics to foster a more inclusive and interconnected digital environment?  I hope our perspectives and experience can contribute to the current discussions on global digital development.

    Our digital strategy is founded on the principles of openness and global connectivity. Under the “one country, two systems” principle, we champion the free flow of data and information – just as we do with goods and capital – as a cornerstone of our competitiveness and status as a free and open economy.

    To seize new opportunities brought by the digital economy and address the associated challenges, we need a comprehensive and forward-looking strategy. That’s why, over the past two years, the HKSAR Government has put in place a concrete action plan, covering such areas as digital infrastructure and governance, digital transformation, cross-boundary flow of data and talent development.

    A key part of this strategy is to enhance economic inclusiveness through digitalisation. For example, we are supporting SMEs in their digital transformation.  At the same time, we have strengthened the sharing of data held by government departments with financial institutions, on a consent basis, to enhance the efficiency of credit assessments.

    Another strategic objective is to unlock the full value of data. Hong Kong’s unique position as a convergence point for both Mainland and international data gives us a distinct advantage. This will help us not only in developing data-driven industries such as AI and health tech but also a data trading market in Hong Kong.

    As we enter the “AI+” era, we will develop AI as a core industry for Hong Kong by the deep integration of AI across industries.  Our efforts  focus on five key fronts: computing power, algorithms, data, capital and talent.  With our international connectivity, we also aim to position Hong Kong as a global hub for AI exchange, promoting dialogues, research collaboration and thought leadership.

    A shared future in cyberspace

    Ladies and gentlemen, looking forward, we believe there are several key priorities that must be addressed at the global level to ensure the healthy and inclusive development of the Internet.

    The first is digital governance. As emerging technologies become more powerful and pervasive, our regulatory frameworks must evolve accordingly, addressing issues such as cybersecurity, data privacy and ethical use of AI.  In Hong Kong, we advocate for a balanced, pro-innovation regulatory approach, putting in place appropriate safeguards while encouraging innovation.  Our approach to Web 3 and digital assets is a good case in point.

    The second is bridging the digital divide. For many developing economies, digital access is a powerful enabler for inclusive growth – improving education, expanding financial inclusion and enhancing public service delivery. I’m glad to report that in Hong Kong, many of our startups have developed innovative and robust solutions in these areas.  They are eager to share their technologies with emerging economies.

    The third is talent development. In the age of AI, digital literacy is no longer optional – it is essential. This imperative goes beyond formal education and calls for partnerships between the public and private sectors. In Hong Kong, we are working closely with leading tech companies – including Tencent, Alibaba, Lenovo, SenseTime, and startups at Science Park and Cyberport – to deliver technology training and share their entrepreneurial experience with students. Our aim is to cultivate the interest of the next generation and prepare them for a dynamic and innovation-led future.

    Concluding remarks

    Ladies and gentlemen, the challenges and opportunities of the digital age transcend borders. In this era of rapid technological transformation, what we need is more dialogue, sharing and co-operation so that we can drive the development in Internet, AI and other emerging technologies for the common good of humanity.

    On that note, I wish this Summit every success, and I hope each of you will find the discussions ahead insightful, productive and inspiring. Thank you very much.
    Issued at HKT 16:36

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Five lessons from Perugia’s global gathering of journalists, climate changemakers and media leaders

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Anna Turns, Senior Environment Editor

    Perugia, Italy. Anna Turns, CC BY-NC-ND

    Last week, I travelled to the historic city of Perugia in Umbria, Italy. With clear blue skies, wisteria hanging over ancient Roman walls, plenty of gelato and beautiful vistas from the hilltop, the setting was pretty special. More inspiring though, were the people I spoke to during my visit. Perugia is the home of the annual international journalism festival, a meeting of media movers and shakers from all over the globe. These are my five biggest takeaways.

    1. In-person connections are irreplaceable

    Yes, I see the irony of flying to talk about climate journalism, but sometimes face-to-face connections, impromptu chats and dinner table discussions are just impossible to replicate on a video call. I caught up with journalists from my Oxford Climate Journalism Network cohort. Run by the Reuters Institute, this six-month programme is proving invaluable, not only for seminars from guest speakers at the top of their game, but for the collaborations that are developing within the network. Learning from my peers working in Austria, Brazil, Canada and way beyond has opened my eyes so much to the diversity of challenges we all face – and the creative possibilities.

    Kevin Burden (European media leaders fellowship project manager), Nina Fasciaux (director of Solutions Journalism Network) and Anna Turns.
    Kevin Burden, CC BY-NC-ND

    During my discussions with colleagues from my European media leaders climate solutions fellowship visiting from France, Italy and the Czech Republic, I listened to the lightbulb moments others have had and reflected on my own progress – internally, in terms of what leadership means to me and how I can effect meaningful change, plus externally, in terms of supporting my own team and encouraging more collaboration within this organisation.

    By sharing joys and worries over a margarita pizza or scoop of nocciola (hazelnut icecream – my favourite), I was struck that authenticity is the most important attribute. All else follows and every single one of those real, honest and open in-person connections deepens my appreciation for that.

    2. Environmental journalism is thriving

    So many early career journalists approached me, keen to chat and wanting to know more about how to immerse themselves in this specialism. When I first started out as a biology graduate, I worked in wildlife TV production and magazine journalism. Back then, environment coverage tended to be an outlier, an afterthought at best. Climate journalists were few and far between; willing mentors were difficult to find.

    Anna Turns chatted to lots of environmental journalists after her conference event.
    Monica Rizza #IJF25, CC BY-NC-ND

    That landscape has shifted so much over the past 20 years and I’m proud that this part of our industry is growing, and becoming richer for it. Now, people want to cover climate stories in so many creative formats and that’s invigorating.

    3. Science doesn’t have to stay in silos

    With growing misinformation, (both inadvertent misinterpretation and deliberate miscommunication) online, combined with widespread disengagement from mainstream news sources, social media has a big role to play in how we engage with climate, or not.

    I hosted an event with Adam Levy about how to make climate science shine on social media. With a PhD in atmospheric physics from the University of Oxford, Levy now works as a science journalist and broadcaster, while producing jargon-free videos that make complex climate issues relatable and succinct.

    Anna Turns interviewed Adam Levy at the International Journalism Festival.
    Monica Rizza #IJF25, CC BY-NC-ND

    Climate communication is definitely not just about imparting facts. There’s space for nuance, even humour. We chatted about bridging the gap between science and storytelling, how to apply a rigorous journalistic approach to all forms of content and how integrity must be the top priority. That all builds precious trust and creates connection.

    4. Time is ticking

    The next UN climate summit (Cop30) is coming and we’re getting ready. One of my favourite sessions was a talk by Daniel Nardin, another solutions journalist member of the Oxford Climate Journalism Network. He lives in Belem, the Brazilian city that will be hosting Cop30 in November, where negotiators will continue to debate how best to tackle and adapt to climate change. But those strategies, frameworks and commitments can seem dry, dense and hard to digest.

    Nardin’s publication, Amazonia Vox, platforms the voices of the people living in the Amazon, in forested, deforested and urban areas. He explained that the environmental, social and political issues in the Amazon are complex and full of nuance, which is why he makes local voices central to the narrative.

    None of this is rocket science. But Nardin is proactively cracking on with it, because there isn’t time to wait.

    Mark Hertsgard from Covering Climate Now (far left) talks about how newsrooms can make climate training effective.
    Alexa Cano #IJF25, CC BY-NC-ND

    5. Newsroom culture is transforming

    The Conversation is already highly respected. So many expert communicators, academics and readers told me how much they love what we do and what we stand for. Tackling misinformation in engaging ways is what we do best. Connecting you, our audience and community, with the most accurate and evidence-based knowledge is our purpose. We’re already bridging the gap between research and the real world. But there’s still scope to evolve and embrace change.

    Looking ahead, The Conversation can help shift the way climate stories can be told. The climate crisis has gone way beyond being an environmental issue. It’s linked to all aspects of our lives, from health and education to business and democracy, as well as conflicts and culture. Newsrooms don’t have to function like they have done for decades. By being curious, we can experiment, find out what works and reinvent the norm.

    At the New York Times, the climate team is physically in the centre of the office. At the French newswire Agence France-Presse, job titles such as “future of the planet, global editor” reflect big ambitions to integrate climate into everything. At CBC, the Canadian public broadcaster, the science and climate unit has made climate literacy training a top priority for all staff – not because it’s worthy, but because future proofing makes business sense.

    As the executive director of Covering Climate Now, a media community based in the US, Mark Hertsgard said: “Every journalist in the 21st century will need to be a climate journalist.”

    Now, my job is to turn Perugia’s inspiration into action. Watch this space.

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

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    – ref. Five lessons from Perugia’s global gathering of journalists, climate changemakers and media leaders – https://theconversation.com/five-lessons-from-perugias-global-gathering-of-journalists-climate-changemakers-and-media-leaders-254457

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SPbPU journals entered the first and second quartiles of the international ranking

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    In April 2025, the ranking quartiles were updated. The Fangular Magazine Rank. This indicator reflects the popularity and authority of publications of journals included in the Scopus database since 1996. It takes into account not only the number of citations, but also their quality, assessing the prestige of the journals from which the citations were obtained.

    Published by Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University Terra Lingoustics entered the first quartile (Q1) in the Linguistics and Language subject area.

    It is noteworthy that this magazine was included in Scopus MNDB only in December 2024. The journal is also included in the HAC List and has the scientific significance category K1, indexed in the Russian Science Citation Index (RSCI), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Index Copernicus International, ROAD and CyberLeninka databases.

    The first quartile is a goal for any scientific journal, as it is recognition of its authority and significance in the scientific community. A humanities journal requires much more effort and time to reach this peak, but editor-in-chief Valeria Evgenyevna Chernyavskaya and the Center for Scientific Publications, which publishes the journal, set the bar high enough at the start and achieved an excellent result, commented Vice-Rector for Research at SPbPU Yuri Fomin.

    Another highly rated publication is Technology And Language, included in Scopus in 2023, received the second quartile (Q2) in the subject areas of Cultural Studies and History and Philosophy of Science. The journal, whose editor-in-chief is the director of the Humanities Institute, Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences Natalia Chicherina, publishes studies on various relationships between technology and language from the perspective of history, linguistics, cultural studies, anthropology, philosophy, literary studies and media studies.

    For journals participating in the rating for the first time, this is a very high and honorable result. These indicators show the great work of editors-in-chief, reviewers, authors and the editorial team. Now, inclusion in the White List has become a global task for many Russian publications, but it is also important to strengthen their positions in international databases, which is what Polytechnic publications are actively striving for, noted Ekaterina Linnik, Director of the Scientific Publications Center.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Investments in the Future: GUU students attended the presentation of the national project “Youth and Children”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On April 12, students and young scientists of the State University of Management attended the presentation of the national project “Youth and Children”, launched on the initiative of the President of Russia.

    The event took place in the national center “Russia”, where the main ideas of the national project, innovations of the upcoming forums and a demonstration of national values that form the basis of the cultural code of Russia were presented.

    At the ceremony, First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office of the Russian Federation Sergei Kiriyenko addressed the participants.

    “The decision of the President of Russia has established the children and youth of our country as a key state priority. It is very important that you are not just beneficiaries of the national project “Youth and Children”, you are its co-authors. Because the basic principle that our President set for all state work with youth can be formulated as follows: nothing for children and youth without the participation of children and youth themselves. This is your time, because Russia today is truly a country of opportunities,” emphasized Sergei Kiriyenko.

    Together with Sergei Kiriyenko, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Dmitry Chernyshenko launched online registration for the upcoming forum events of Rosmolodezh.

    The official presentation ceremony of the national project “Youth and Children” and the opening of the forum season were also attended by the head of Rosmolodezh, associate professor of the department of state and municipal administration of the State University of Management Grigory Gurov, chairman of the board of the Movement of the First, Hero of Russia Artur Orlov, general director of the Russian society “Knowledge” Maxim Dreval and others.

    “The national project “Youth and Children” has united all the opportunities for young people, and our task is to help the children realize their potential both at our forums and at the sites of year-round youth educational centers, opened on the instructions of the President, throughout the year,” noted Grigory Gurov.

    The event was attended by about a thousand graduates of Rosmolodezh forums of previous years, representatives of regional organizations responsible for the implementation of this national project, winners of the Rosmolodezh grant competition, including students and young scientists of the State University of Management.

    “The national project “Youth and Children” clearly demonstrates that the youth of Russia is the main state priority that needs to be developed. The young generation has unique talents, and it is precisely such strategic initiatives that help to reveal their potential, shaping the future based on the values and meanings that were presented at the Presentation,” shared Nikita Smirnov, a second-year student of the State and Municipal Administration Department of the State University of Management.

    The event was organized by Rosmolodezh together with the Ministry of Education of Russia, the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia, the State Corporation Roscosmos, the Russian Society Znanie, the ANO National Priorities of Russia, the presidential platform Russia – the Land of Opportunities, the Movement of the First, the National Center Russia, and the portal Dobro.rf.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 04/14/2025

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Quantum Computing and Virtual Cities: A Future with Artificial Intelligence

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    What is the essence of hybrid quantum-classical artificial intelligence? In which high-tech areas are quantum computing already being piloted today? And when might high-performance quantum computers appear in Russia? Anton Guglya, an employee of the National University of Science and Technology MISIS, told participants of the SPbPU seminar on artificial intelligence about this.

    Anton Pavlovich in his review focused on the practical application of quantum computing for the implementation of business projects. In Russia, there are already the first experimental versions of quantum computers and a cloud interface for accessing them, although none of the domestic quantum computers can yet solve industrial-scale problems. At this stage, businesses and scientific groups have the opportunity to carry out research and pilot projects using quantum computing emulators – “digital twins” of quantum computers that use new algorithmic approaches, but operate on traditional CPU and GPU architectures.

    The financial, oil and gas and other industries need business effects, they need results, not just advanced technology. If their tasks are solved using traditional methods, they will not invest in advanced equipment, new software and obtaining additional competencies. But if they see the benefit, even if it is delayed in time, from using quantum computing, then, of course, they will prefer to use it, the speaker emphasized.

    Anton Guglya spoke about the technical features of hybrid quantum-classical neural networks, describing their advantages over classical ones:

    quantum algorithms will be able to solve some classes of problems faster and more accurately than classical analogs; it is possible to process a larger volume of information with less energy consumption; a smaller set of hyperparameters for training a neural network when working with noisy data.

    The MISiS specialist presented a typical process for developing an industrial quantum algorithm and launching it on an emulator, as well as several cases from his practice. For example, a credit scoring algorithm was implemented using quantum neural networks. The resulting model, based on data, calculates the probability of the return of funds received from the borrower to the bank.

    Another popular area is image classification. Using hybrid quantum-classical neural networks, this task can be performed faster and with greater accuracy. Also, with the help of a quantum neural network, the task of generating new drugs is performed more efficiently. At the same time, the learning speed of quantum neural networks is much higher than that of traditional ones.

    The second presentation at the seminar was devoted to the prospects of creating “virtual cities”. Ivan Dorokhov, a research fellow at the AI Center of Novosibirsk State University, spoke about the integrated system for modeling “virtual cities” that he and his colleagues from SPbPU and SPbSU are proposing.

    According to the speaker, unlike digital twins, which directly reflect the physical environment, virtual twins can simulate a wide range of objects or scenarios for various purposes and are not conceptually limited to digital computing.

    Our results show that such virtual environments can facilitate the emergence of societies consisting of AI agents, i.e. subjects with artificial intelligence, in which governance mechanisms such as decentralized autonomous organizations (DAO) and artificial collective consciousness (ACC) provide ethical and normative control, said Ivan Dorokhov.

    Agent-based AI systems are already on their way to engaging in cultural, economic, and political activity, shaping the social fabric of cities, and researchers must address how to make their impact as beneficial to people as possible. This will require understanding how advanced rendering and procedural generation techniques can provide the high realism required for complex simulations, how IoT data and predictive modeling can make these environments more responsive and adaptive, and what ethical and legal frameworks will be needed when AI agents gain autonomy. Answering these questions is important to realizing the potential of virtual worlds as platforms for innovation, experimentation, and sociotechnical evolution.

    Both presentations raised many questions and a lively discussion, which you can join at the next seminar on April 23, which was announced by the Head of the Department for Support of Scientific Projects and Programs Natalia Leontyeva.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Loanboox accelerates the digitalization of real estate financing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, Switzerland, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The digitalization of commercial real estate financing is gaining momentum – and Loanboox is establishing itself as a key technology partner for real estate companies across Europe. The Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution for the real estate industry, which was launched in 2022, is enjoying strong demand: the financing volume tendered via the Loanboox software now amounts to more than five billion euros, around 50 percent of which has been processed since the beginning of 2024 alone.

    “The real estate industry is local and highly fragmented. It is therefore under particular pressure to digitize processes and make them more transparent – especially when it comes to financing,” says Urs Meier, CEO of Loanboox. “With our software, we offer exactly the right tool at the right time: a comprehensive solution that efficiently brings borrowers and lenders together and maps the entire process from the tender to portfolio management.”

    A study conducted by Loanboox in collaboration with Fresenius University of Applied Sciences shows that 67% of the real estate companies surveyed see digitalization deficits in their core processes, especially in financing. Three out of four users explicitly want specialized industry software instead of general “office applications” – a clear sign of the need for tailor-made solutions.

    Loanboox’s software specifically addresses this need: Borrowers can manage the financing process digitally with their chosen lenders. The success in the commercial real estate financing segment speaks for itself: the average annual growth rate of user access is over 100 percent. In addition, around 90 percent of financing requests are successfully completed. In total, Loanboox’s technology has already processed well over EUR 100 billion in financing volumes across all customer segments since the company’s launch in 2016.

    Loanboox on its way to becoming pan-European financing software in real estate

    Loanboox customers have made financings in 16 European countries already, with Germany, Switzerland, France and Austria being the key markets. The company has recently seen a sharp increase in demand. In Germany in particular, Loanboox has signed up tier 1 real estate asset managers and project developers. And in the last six months alone they have already published financing requests in the three-digit million range via Loanboox’s software.

    “Today, we have more than 500 lenders in Europe using our software, who particularly appreciate the ease of use, the multilingualism and the quality of the tendering process. This means that Loanboox has one of the largest networks of lenders and the high number of repeat deals shows the very solid level of acceptance of our technology,” says Dominique Hügli, CPO (Chief Product Officer) at Loanboox. The large network of lenders is also particularly attractive for companies looking to finance real estate projects in the DACH region from other European countries.

    Debt Management module allows customers to manage their capital efficiently

    Another growth driver is the integrated debt management module: European asset managers, real estate companies, project developers and housing companies currently use the software to manage a loan volume of more than five billion euros via the software – and the trend is rising.

    “Our solution offers a 360-degree view for financing experts – from relationship management with lenders and financing processes to comprehensive loan management, evaluation and scenario planning,” explains Hügli.

    2025: Digitalization is advancing – broad market comparison for financing necessary

    With banks still reluctant to lend and the cost of managing loans rising, digital financing processes with a broad network of lenders are becoming increasingly important. Loanboox intends to take advantage of this momentum and the ongoing digitalization of the real estate industry and systematically expand its reach in Europe.

    Artificial intelligence (AI) is of course also finding its way into the real estate industry and will in the future help finance teams to process complex data efficiently, identify suitable financing options more quickly and facilitate the exchange with lenders. Whether it is the automated extraction of information from loan agreements and term sheets, the creation of teaser documents or the targeted analysis of portfolio data, AI opens up new efficiency potential along the entire financing process. AI also significantly simplifies the intelligent search in the data room of a tender – a function that has already been successfully implemented at Loanboox. The continuous integration of AI will continue for Loanboox in 2025 to enable even more effective and data-driven collaboration between borrowers and lenders.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8038b456-146d-46c6-9430-8e7ab54b3663

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Recovery work helping Daintree National Park (CYPAL) get ‘back to business’

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Issued: 10 Apr 2025

    Key points

    • Recovery works are helping Daintree National Park (CYPAL) get back to business following recent weather events.
    • Repairs and upgrades are ongoing at key sites, returning the national park to a leading ecotourism destination.
    • Sites include the Kulki Boardwalk Lookout, Dubuji and Madja boardwalks, and sections of the Mossman Gorge walking tracks.

    Ongoing repairs and upgrades across Daintree National Park (CYPAL) are on track to reopen key visitor infrastructure in time for the Easter school holidays, ensuring visitors can explore the world’s oldest rainforest and support local tourism.

    The upgrades will help Far North Queensland get ‘back to business’ following the impact of weather events which caused significant flooding, debris and landslips on a number of sites and assets in the national park.

    Work in Daintree National Park (CYPAL) includes:

    • Starting the $4.5 million Jindalba boardwalk upgrades – including accessibility improvements that are set to open mid-2025.
    • Mobilising construction on the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Bamanga Muruku Tourism Hub – allowing traditional owners of the world’s oldest rainforest to share their culture with visitors, set to open later this year.
    • Reopening the Kulki Boardwalk Lookout after repairs from debris damage.
    • Reopening the Dubuji and Madja boardwalks after cyclone debris removal and flood repairs.
    • Reopening Mossman Gorge walking tracks after repairing a damaged pedestrian bridge.
    • Progressing plans for the Walu Wugirriga Alexandra Range Lookout upgrade for enhanced views.

    Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Deputy Director-General Ben Klaassen said they’re ensuring these wonders can be witnessed for generations to come.

    “Our dedicated Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service team has been working hard to ensure visitors to the national park can truly enjoy north and far north Queensland’s wonderful natural environment,” said Mr Klaassen.

    “Daintree National Park (CYPAL) protects one of the oldest rainforests in the world, which is teaming with diverse wildlife.

    “Attracting visitors who appreciate this stunning environment allows the national park to play an essential role for the local economy, while showcasing unique biodiversity and rich Indigenous culture.

    “We are forging ahead with a number of exciting projects to ensure ecotourism icons like the Daintree continue to support our vibrant state.”

    Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen welcomed the recovery work and upgrades in Daintree National Park (CYPAL).

    “These works are essential for preserving the region’s world-renowned natural beauty and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for visitors,” said Mr Olsen.

    “This work is vital for tourism, helping to support local businesses, attract nature lovers from around the globe, and strengthen the region’s reputation as a must-visit destination.”

    Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation CEO Joshua Paterson said the Daintree National Park (CYPAL) held deep cultural significance for the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people.

    “This is part of our ancestral land, rich with sacred sites, stories, and traditions passed down for generations,” said Mr Paterson.

    “Our partnership with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to protect and preserve the park’s cultural and environmental values, allows us to share our knowledge and heritage while safeguarding the rainforest’s unique ecosystems for all to experience and respect.”

    Daintree National Park (CYPAL), a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity, featuring a rare convergence of reef, rainforest, and mangrove ecosystems that support unique species like the southern cassowary and Bennett’s tree-kangaroo.

    The national park is under the joint management of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, whose efforts are focused on preserving the park’s cultural and environmental significance while promoting sustainable tourism.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Phase Two of Tech4Nature Jaguar Protection Project Launched in Mexico

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Phase Two of Tech4Nature Jaguar Protection Project Launched in Mexico

    [Merida, Mexico, April 14, 2025] At the recent 2025 Tech4Nature Summit, Huawei, International Union of Conservation for Nature (IUCN), and local partners launched Phase Two of the Mexico Tech4Nature project, which aims to strengthen the protection of jaguars in Dzilam de Bravo State Reserve and study the effects of climate change on biodiversity.
    Alongside Huawei and IUCN, the launch was officiated by Mexico’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the State Government of Yucatán, and local partner C-Minds.
    “In Mexico, 42% of our country’s ecosystems face some degree of degradation that we have to work towards solving. This involves monitoring and a lot of restoration work, but it also means something more important, which is precisely what we’re seeing thanks to this alliance,” said Dr. Marina Robles García, Undersecretary of Biodiversity and Environmental Restoration for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources in Mexico.
    Aligned with Huawei’s TECH4ALL initiative and the IUCN Green List, Tech4Nature is a global partnership launched by Huawei and IUCN in 2020 to scale up success in nature conservation through technological innovation.
    “Today we celebrate a shared vision, a vision that understands that conservation can no longer depend solely on good intentions or isolated policies. We need science, technology, empowered communities, and committed governments,” said Joaquín Díaz Mena, Governor of Yucatán in Mexico, at the 2025 Tech4Nature Summit.
    Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, the jaguar is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. To contribute to its conservation, the first phase of the project installed 60 audio devices and more than 20 camera traps in Dzilam de Bravo State Reserve. Using trained AI models, the system is able to recognize the vocalizations and images of species that inhabit the reserve. By April 2025, the solution had identified a total of 147 species and confirmed the presence of nine jaguars in the territory.
    The second phase of the project focuses on gathering data about the distribution of jaguar populations, and providing data-driven insights to support decision-making and improve reserve management with a view to creating a biological corridor.
    The 2025 Tech4Nature Summit brought together experts, scientists, and conservation leaders from around the world to share advances and strategies in technology-driven nature conservation.
    “Digital technology is making biodiversity conservation much more efficient and helping governments and conservationists take faster, more targeted action,” said Tao Jingwen, Director of the Board and Director of the Corporate Sustainable Development Committee for Huawei. “I want to call on more of our partners to join the Tech4Nature initiative to make digital technology a common tool for global ecosystem conservation.”
    As well as Mexico, the summit explored Tech4Nature Phase Two projects in Brazil, China, Spain, Kenya, and Türkiye, showcasing how digital technologies and AI analytics can be adapted to the specific needs of diverse ecosystems.
    “Building on our momentum so far, we look forward to the second phase of this partnership with great anticipation. This new chapter will address six countries, promoting transformative change for species, ecosystems, and their communities,” said Úrsula Parrilla, Director, Regional Office for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean (ORMACC) for IUCN. “By integrating technology into large-scale conservation, we contribute to global goals that seek to put nature at the center of decision-making for sustainable development.”
    Tech4Nature phase two projects
    Brazil will study the impact of climate change on Marajó Island and monitor the mangrove crab as an indicator of ecosystem health.
    China uses networked digital solutions and AI analytics to track and support the repopulation of the world’s rarest primate, the Hainan gibbon, just 42 of which remain in existence.
    Spain aims to protect the Bonelli’s eagle in Sant Llorenç del Munt i l’Obac Natural Park by using digital technologies to analyze the impact of park visitors on the eagles’ reproductive success.
    Kenya aims to improve monitoring in protected marine areas and coral reef in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve to help tackle issues such as illegal fishing and pressure from tourism, and monitor the parrot fish, which helps coral survive.
    Türkiye represents a pioneering collaboration between NGOs, the private sector, and the government to evaluate biodiversity protection, with a focus on large mammals, including the fallow deer and wild goat in two pilot sites.
    The 2025 Tech4Nature Summit attested to how collaboration between the technology sector, NGOs, governments, academic institutions, and local communities has created a new paradigm for protecting biodiversity and ecosystems.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Phase Two of Tech4Nature Jaguar Protection Project Launched in Mexico

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Phase Two of Tech4Nature Jaguar Protection Project Launched in Mexico

    [Merida, Mexico, April 14, 2025] At the recent 2025 Tech4Nature Summit, Huawei, International Union of Conservation for Nature (IUCN), and local partners launched Phase Two of the Mexico Tech4Nature project, which aims to strengthen the protection of jaguars in Dzilam de Bravo State Reserve and study the effects of climate change on biodiversity.
    Alongside Huawei and IUCN, the launch was officiated by Mexico’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the State Government of Yucatán, and local partner C-Minds.
    “In Mexico, 42% of our country’s ecosystems face some degree of degradation that we have to work towards solving. This involves monitoring and a lot of restoration work, but it also means something more important, which is precisely what we’re seeing thanks to this alliance,” said Dr. Marina Robles García, Undersecretary of Biodiversity and Environmental Restoration for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources in Mexico.
    Aligned with Huawei’s TECH4ALL initiative and the IUCN Green List, Tech4Nature is a global partnership launched by Huawei and IUCN in 2020 to scale up success in nature conservation through technological innovation.
    “Today we celebrate a shared vision, a vision that understands that conservation can no longer depend solely on good intentions or isolated policies. We need science, technology, empowered communities, and committed governments,” said Joaquín Díaz Mena, Governor of Yucatán in Mexico, at the 2025 Tech4Nature Summit.
    Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, the jaguar is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. To contribute to its conservation, the first phase of the project installed 60 audio devices and more than 20 camera traps in Dzilam de Bravo State Reserve. Using trained AI models, the system is able to recognize the vocalizations and images of species that inhabit the reserve. By April 2025, the solution had identified a total of 147 species and confirmed the presence of nine jaguars in the territory.
    The second phase of the project focuses on gathering data about the distribution of jaguar populations, and providing data-driven insights to support decision-making and improve reserve management with a view to creating a biological corridor.
    The 2025 Tech4Nature Summit brought together experts, scientists, and conservation leaders from around the world to share advances and strategies in technology-driven nature conservation.
    “Digital technology is making biodiversity conservation much more efficient and helping governments and conservationists take faster, more targeted action,” said Tao Jingwen, Director of the Board and Director of the Corporate Sustainable Development Committee for Huawei. “I want to call on more of our partners to join the Tech4Nature initiative to make digital technology a common tool for global ecosystem conservation.”
    As well as Mexico, the summit explored Tech4Nature Phase Two projects in Brazil, China, Spain, Kenya, and Türkiye, showcasing how digital technologies and AI analytics can be adapted to the specific needs of diverse ecosystems.
    “Building on our momentum so far, we look forward to the second phase of this partnership with great anticipation. This new chapter will address six countries, promoting transformative change for species, ecosystems, and their communities,” said Úrsula Parrilla, Director, Regional Office for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean (ORMACC) for IUCN. “By integrating technology into large-scale conservation, we contribute to global goals that seek to put nature at the center of decision-making for sustainable development.”
    Tech4Nature phase two projects
    Brazil will study the impact of climate change on Marajó Island and monitor the mangrove crab as an indicator of ecosystem health.
    China uses networked digital solutions and AI analytics to track and support the repopulation of the world’s rarest primate, the Hainan gibbon, just 42 of which remain in existence.
    Spain aims to protect the Bonelli’s eagle in Sant Llorenç del Munt i l’Obac Natural Park by using digital technologies to analyze the impact of park visitors on the eagles’ reproductive success.
    Kenya aims to improve monitoring in protected marine areas and coral reef in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve to help tackle issues such as illegal fishing and pressure from tourism, and monitor the parrot fish, which helps coral survive.
    Türkiye represents a pioneering collaboration between NGOs, the private sector, and the government to evaluate biodiversity protection, with a focus on large mammals, including the fallow deer and wild goat in two pilot sites.
    The 2025 Tech4Nature Summit attested to how collaboration between the technology sector, NGOs, governments, academic institutions, and local communities has created a new paradigm for protecting biodiversity and ecosystems.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: I&T collabs create productivity: CE

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee

    I am delighted to welcome you to Hong Kong, and the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit.

     

    And I am honoured to say that the Asia-Pacific Summit, taking place over these next two days in Hong Kong, marks the first time the World Internet Conference has held an international summit outside Mainland China.

     

    That, ladies and gentlemen, is a testament to Hong Kong’s rising role as an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub. It also reflects our deepening integration with our country’s national development.  

     

    That will become abundantly clear over these next two days. Like the World Internet Conference itself, this summit offers high-level dialogue for the global internet community – for you – the nearly 1,000 professionals here from 30 countries and regions.

     

    You are senior government officials and business leaders, industry association heads, academics and researchers and professionals from different disciplines. And you are here to expand your international connections, create business opportunities and help build the interconnected digital future.

     

    Hong Kong’s rise as an I&T hub has been fast-tracked by our vibrant economy, which is powered by free trade and boasts the world’s third-largest financial centre. It helps, too, that Hong Kong has long been a key business conduit between the Mainland and the rest of the world.

     

    And it all comes together under our unique “one country, two systems” framework.

     

    This cardinal governing principle gives Hong Kong the best of both worlds: access to the vast opportunities of the Mainland market, while maintaining the advantages of our unmatched connectivity of our common law system, free flow of information, capital, goods and people. This unmatched connectivity has brought you here.

     

    There are many good examples. A shining example is the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou science and technology cluster, which ranks second, globally, in the World Intellectual Property Organization’s Global Innovation Index. It shows how, with the development of the Greater Bay Area, we can converge Hong Kong’s excellent research and development and world-class, international business environment, with the innovative prowess of the Mainland’s technology industry.

     

    We are building Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, which straddles the small river that separates Hong Kong and Shenzhen. The Hong Kong park within this co-operation zone smartly embodies the virtues of the “one country, two systems” principle and cross-boundary co-operation.

     

    Last month, I attended the topping-out ceremony for the park’s first three buildings – two wet laboratories and a talent accommodation complex. The park will enter its operational phase this year, with the first tenants – from life and health technology, artificial intelligence (AI), to data science and other pillar industries – moving in.

     

    The development of another five buildings is in full swing. We have earmarked some US$500 million to expedite the park’s two-phase development.

     

    We need, of course, strategic companies and talent to take full advantage of the park’s opportunities – and other of Hong Kong’s far-reaching prospects. And we are getting them. Under the enhanced talent admission regime we rolled out in 2022, we have already approved more than 300,000 talent admission applications. Over 200,000 of them, ie two-thirds, have already arrived here.

     

    Meanwhile, over 80 strategic enterprises from around the world in the booming industries of life and health technology, AI and data science, fintech and more, have joined us. They will invest over US$6 million and create over 20,000 jobs here in the coming years.

     

    The park is situated in the Northern Metropolis, an entirely new economic engine for Hong Kong. The Northern Metropolis, which makes up one-third of Hong Kong’s area, straddles our land boundary with Shenzhen.

     

    I am confident that our collaborative efforts with Shenzhen, and throughout the Greater Bay Area, will see the rise of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone as a world-class I&T hub, creating a critical source of new quality productive forces for the country.

     

    AI is central to the Hong Kong park’s research and development. It is no less central to Hong Kong’s future.

     

    In December last year, the first phase of Cyberport’s AI Supercomputing Centre became operational. Hong Kong’s digital technology flagship, Cyberport is home to more than 330 startups specialising in AI and big data.

     

    Hong Kong is determined to maximise AI’s immense potential for new industrialisation, and to further society’s digital transformation.

     

    We have, for example, set up funding schemes to help local manufacturers switch to smart manufacturing and strategic industries to establish smart production facilities here in Hong Kong.

     

    And our HK$10 billion I&T Industry-Oriented Fund, amounting to nearly US$1.3 billion, channels market capital to invest in industries of strategic importance, including AI and robotics.

     

    There is more. We aim to establish, by the next financial year, the Hong Kong AI R&D Institute, having reserved nearly US$130 million to get it up and running. The institute will spearhead Hong Kong’s research and development, and drive AI-based industrial applications.

     

    AI will also promote smart government. Not only driving document digitalisation and automation, and payments and business processes, but, more important, how we go about making policy and delivering public services.

     

    All that, and much more, will fuel discussion and debate at today’s main forum and the three sub-forums taking place tomorrow.

     

    This summit matters. Co-operation matters. Especially during these challenging times to geopolitics and trade relations. Hong Kong champions free trade and multilateralism. We believe in teamwork and offer a range of welcoming programmes for investors, companies, researchers and other strategic talent. Hong Kong welcomes all business interests from those who are keen to pursue development with us. In this global city, we will make a decided difference for you, and your future.

     

    I am grateful to the World Internet Conference for hosting the Asia-Pacific Summit here in Hong Kong. Grateful, too, to our Innovation, Technology& Industry Bureau and other government offices for organising this high-profile global event.

     

    I wish you all an inspiring summit, and the best of business, and health, through this endlessly challenging, but promising, year.

     

    Chief Executive John Lee gave these remarks at the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit on April 14.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New Initiative Uses Behavioural Science to Encourage Bengaluru Metro Adoption

    Source: Toyota

    Headline: New Initiative Uses Behavioural Science to Encourage Bengaluru Metro Adoption

    Bengaluru, April 11, 2025: The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (BMRCL) and the Electronics City Industries Association (ELCIA), in collaboration with Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and WRI India today launched the “STAMP: Nudging Commuter Behaviour” – a pioneering initiative that leverages behavioural science and technology to encourage commuters to shift from personal vehicles to public transport.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong’s InnoEX 2025 draws record global exhibitors, spotlights low-altitude economy

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The third edition of InnoEX, a four-day innovation and technology expo, kicked off in Hong Kong on Sunday, spotlighting cutting-edge advancements in AI, robotics, low-altitude economy, cybersecurity, and smart mobility.

    Co-organized by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the event aims to foster global collaboration in tech innovation, focusing on the theme of “Innovate, Automate and Elevate”.

    Sun Dong, secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, said the expo brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and tech leaders worldwide through exhibitions, networking sessions, and seminars, creating opportunities for international partnerships.

    HKTDC Executive Director Margaret Fong said this year’s InnoEX features over 500 exhibitors from 17 countries and regions, including first-time participants such as Australia, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates, alongside expanded showcases from Japan, Thailand, and the UK.

    Running concurrently, the 21st Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition) focuses on smart home solutions, health tech, and wearable devices.

    As core events of Hong Kong’s International I&T Business Week 2025, the twin expos have drawn more than 2,800 exhibitors from 29 countries and regions.

    Ida Liu, marketing director of Seagull (Suzhou) Flying Car Limited, said in an interview that the company is leveraging Hong Kong’s global connectivity to expand its international presence and explore partnerships.

    Derek Chim, head of Startup Ecosystem and Development at Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), said the InnoEX has become a flagship innovation and technology exhibition in Asia, attracting industry experts, investors and buyers from around the world.

    “We will seize this opportunity to accelerate the expansion of tech enterprises in the Asia-Pacific region and global markets,” he added.

    The expo also features four themed days, each hosting forums on trending tech topics, further enriching the exchange of ideas. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Curious Kids: If you scoop a bucket of water out of the ocean, does it get lower?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dylan Irvine, Outstanding Future Researcher – Northern Water Futures, Charles Darwin University

    Lizzie Lamont/Shutterstock

    If you scoop a bucket of water out of the ocean, does it get lower?

    –Ellis, 6 and a half, Hobart

    This is a great question Ellis! The short answer is yes, but the change in water level will be extremely tiny. You can actually test this idea at home.

    For starters, you’ll need a glass of water and a teaspoon. Fill the glass almost to the top, and take note of the water level. Now, carefully remove a teaspoon of water. Can you see the difference in the water level? Maybe you can, but maybe not.

    You could repeat this experiment in the kitchen sink, or a bathtub if you have one. The key point is that the water level does drop, but only by a very small amount. If you scoop a teaspoon of water out of the bathtub, you probably won’t see the difference with the naked eye.

    Millions of buckets

    So, let’s return to the ocean. It’s truly huge, especially compared to a bucket.

    Let’s say that you have a bucket that fits ten litres. Using the information here, there are about 137 million, million, million buckets of water in the ocean (that is, all of Earth’s oceans combined).

    I crunched the numbers. If you took a bucket of water from the ocean, the water level would drop by around 0.0000000000277 millimetre. You can see how small a millimetre is on your school ruler. We don’t have anything on Earth that can measure anything this small. For example, this is way, way, way smaller than even a single atom.

    So, the more detailed answer to your question is: yes, the water level gets lower, but by such a small amount that we can’t even measure it.

    But wait, there’s more

    Earth is a really interesting place. When you take your bucket of water, all that water is moving through something called the water cycle.

    Sea levels are actually constantly changing. Each year, a lot of water evaporates from the ocean. Some of it is even lost to outer space.

    However, most of the evaporated water rains back down directly onto the ocean, or onto the ground, with that water making its way to rivers that eventually flow to the ocean. There is also a lot of water stored underground, and some of it makes its way to the ocean, as well.

    So, if you poured your bucket of water onto the ground, eventually it would end up back in the ocean via the water cycle!

    A few fun facts

    There’s a lot to know about water. Some more fun facts (and big numbers):

    1. There are 1,500,000,000,000,000,000 molecules of water (H₂O) in a single drop of water. That’s 1.5 million, million, million.

    2. The oldest water in the world is estimated to have fallen as rain more than 1.6 billion years ago.

    3. Most (about 98%) of the world’s fresh, liquid water is underground – that’s why it’s called groundwater.

    Dylan Irvine receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Cooperative Research Centre program, the National Water Grid Authority and the Ian Potter Foundation. This article is independent of these funded research activities.

    – ref. Curious Kids: If you scoop a bucket of water out of the ocean, does it get lower? – https://theconversation.com/curious-kids-if-you-scoop-a-bucket-of-water-out-of-the-ocean-does-it-get-lower-233249

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Fewer Chinese studying in US due to rising tensions

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The number and proportion of Chinese students studying in the United States continue to decline as rising geopolitical tensions and safety concerns weigh heavily on families’ decisions, according to official reports and education experts.
    The 2024 Blue Paper for Chinese Overseas Students Returning to China for Employment, recently released by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange under the Ministry of Education, shows that while the U.S. remains a key destination for Chinese students, its dominance is fading.
    In 2023, only 14.54 percent of Chinese returnees with doctoral degrees studied in the U.S., down from 25 percent in 2020 — a decline of more than 10 percentage points over four years, according to the blue paper.
    Among returnees from the top three study destinations — the United Kingdom, the U.S. and Australia — 51.5 percent had studied in those countries, marking a decrease of approximately 3 percentage points from the previous year, driven primarily by the drop in the number of U.S.-based graduates, it added.
    The decline comes as more Chinese families are rethinking their higher education plans in light of worsening bilateral relations and growing concerns over safety abroad.
    The Ministry of Education last week warned Chinese students to make security assessments if choosing to study in certain U.S. states, citing a bill passed in the U.S. state of Ohio that contains negative provisions related to China. It imposes restrictions on education exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and U.S. higher education institutions.
    “Geopolitical tensions inevitably affect the international flow of students,” said Chen Zhiwen, a member of the Chinese Society of Educational Development Strategy.
    “The U.S. has increasingly restricted China in areas such as trade, technology and talent, making the study environment more hostile. Over the past four years, the number of Chinese students in the U.S. has dropped by 100,000,” Chen said, urging Chinese parents to carefully evaluate study-abroad destinations.
    According to data from the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, produced in part by the U.S. Department of State, China was surpassed by India as the largest source of international students in the U.S. for the 2023-24 academic year. There were 277,398 students from the Chinese mainland enrolled in U.S. higher education institutions during that period, a figure that has been dropping annually since peaking at 372,532 in the 2019-20 academic year.
    Chinese parents are increasingly factoring in national relations and domestic stability when considering where to send their children.
    Kendy Jia, the mother of a secondary school student in Beijing, said she had been planning to send her child abroad for high school just a few years ago.
    “Now, that plan is on hold,” she said at the 2025 China International Education Exhibition Tour in Beijing on Friday.
    “With the current international situation, we’re leaning toward waiting until after high school,” Jia said. “We might still consider sending him abroad for university, but not necessarily to the U.S. As parents, we first consider the country’s relationship with China, because political stability is very important and affects our child’s personal safety overseas,” she said, adding that worsening international relations might also add to the cost of overseas study.
    A survey by consultancy EIC Education released last month found that safety and financial support have become top concerns for prospective Chinese students during the 2024-25 academic year. The local security environment ranks fourth among factors influencing study-abroad decisions, it said.
    Hannah Song, secretary-general of the America-China Education Foundation Greater China, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization, said many Chinese parents have expressed concerns about whether bilateral relations might pose safety risks for students studying in the country.
    “Parents don’t need to be overly worried,” she said. “Most U.S. states and universities focused on educational exchange rather than politics. For the majority of American institutions, the impact is minimal,” she said.
    Despite current geopolitical tensions, Song said the U.S. remains a top choice for many Chinese families in terms of undergraduate education.
    According to the blue paper, the U.S. kept attracting Chinese students in certain academic fields. Economics and mathematics remain the top choices for undergraduates from 2022 to 2024, while computer science and finance dominate among graduate applicants in 2024.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Vietnam to consolidate trade ties

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    The economic and trade ties between China and Vietnam are expected to rise to a new level, driven by the two countries’ highly complementary trade structures, Vietnam’s modernization drive and the growing influence of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, according to market watchers and exporters.

    Amid rising protectionism and unilateral challenges, China and Vietnam are pressing ahead with industrial upgrading and digital transformation, positioning themselves to tap into new growth opportunities across key sectors such as advanced manufacturing, green energy, smart logistics, e-commerce and regional supply chain integration, they said.

    United by common aspirations for sustainable growth and economic resilience, the two countries are on track to forge even deeper and more dynamic economic ties in the years to come, said Wan Zhe, a professor specializing in regional economic development at Beijing Normal University.

    Bilateral business relations have witnessed remarkable progress, especially in recent years, with Vietnam introducing key national strategies such as the National Green Growth Strategy for 2021-2030, vision towards 2050; the National Strategy on R&D and Application of Artificial Intelligence; and the National Strategy for 4th Industrial Revolution.

    Wan said that these forward-looking initiatives have significantly enhanced Vietnam’s appeal as a destination for investment and innovation, attracting a substantial influx of Chinese and foreign capital and technologies over the past several years.

    “This growing synergy has laid a strong foundation for deeper economic and technological collaboration between the two countries,” she added.

    Vietnam has become a key overseas investment destination for China. In 2024, from January to August, Chinese companies invested $1.97 billion in the Southeast Asian country, maintaining a rapid rate of growth, according to the latest data released by China’s Ministry of Commerce.

    Benefiting from a booming intermediate goods trade, the rising freight volume on the China-Vietnam Railway and substantial gains resulting from the RCEP and the Belt and Road Initiative, China-Vietnam trade surged 14.6 percent year-on-year to 1.85 trillion yuan ($254.05 billion) in 2024, statistics from China’s General Administration of Customs showed.

    This momentum continued in the first two months of this year, with the value of bilateral trade rising 8.2 percent on an annual basis to 270.96 billion yuan, customs data showed.

    China’s exports to Vietnam include machinery, telecommunication equipment, electronic components, industrial raw materials, trains, ships, trucks, household appliances and construction materials.

    In addition to agricultural and aquatic products such as seafood, fruits, coffee and rice, Vietnam’s exports to China include smartphones, computers, rubber, footwear, garments and furniture.

    In the medium to long term, China and Vietnam are more likely to deepen industrial complementarity and division of labor rather than engage in direct competition, said Gao Lingyun, a researcher at the Institute of World Economics and Politics, which is affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing.

    “This is because both countries are at different stages of development and have distinct strengths,” said Gao, adding China leads in high-end manufacturing and technological capabilities, while Vietnam offers advantages in assembly industries and young and high-quality workers.

    On top of this, free trade deals with various economies, such as the EU (European Union)-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, have opened up opportunities, he added.

    Echoing that sentiment, Lan Qingxin, a professor specializing in cross-border investment studies at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, said that compared with other Southeast Asian countries as well as India and Mexico, Vietnam holds a competitive edge and market potential due to its proximity to China and its friendly foreign investment policies.

    This complementary dynamic fosters a win-win partnership, reinforcing the depth and resilience of China-Vietnam economic ties, said Lan.

    Ningbo Dafa Chemical Fiber Co, a textile and chemical raw materials manufacturer in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, has been actively exploring new possibilities in the Vietnamese market.

    “Vietnam has a well-developed furniture manufacturing industry, which drives strong demand for textile yarns and synthetic fiber materials. Our products are mainly used for furniture padding and bedding production,” said Wang Ling, the company’s sales director.

    Ningbo Dafa’s exports to Vietnam grew by 10.3 percent year-on-year to 20.64 million yuan in the first two months of this year, according to Ningbo Customs.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at Opening Ceremony of 2nd Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and Xiangjiang Nobel Forum 2025 (English only) (with video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by CE at Opening Ceremony of 2nd Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and Xiangjiang Nobel Forum 2025 (English only) (with video) 
    Deputy Director Liu Guangyuan (Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Ms Li Ran (President of the Hong Kong Alumni Association of Beijing Universities), academics and scientists, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    I am pleased to join you, virtually, at the opening ceremony of this year’s Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and Xiangjiang Nobel Forum. For those speakers, academics, scientists and guests coming from abroad, a very warm welcome to Hong Kong.
     
    I am glad to note that many brilliant minds are brought together by the event today, from Nobel laureates, Turing laureates, and some 50 internationally renowned academics and scientists, to more than 600 leaders of innovation and technology enterprises from around the world.
     
    You come from a wide scope of disciplines in frontier technologies and strategically important industries, such as life and health technology and artificial intelligence. We look forward to your insights at the upcoming conference and forum, bringing us inspiration and enlightenment for our innovation and technology (I&T) journey ahead.
     
    You gather today in Hong Kong, a vibrant metropolis dedicated to innovation and technology. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to promoting scientific progress, technological breakthroughs, and realising the boundless potential of talent like yourselves.
     
    Innovation and technology form an important engine for economic development. And Hong Kong provides the ideal environment for I&T growth. Hong Kong is proud to be home to five of the world’s top 100 universities, with many academic subjects within the world’s top 10. Our universities and research institutions attract some of the world’s top scholars. Beyond our scientific excellence, Hong Kong’s world-class business environment also makes it easy for us to foster a vibrant I&T ecosystem here, where research and development, entrepreneurship, and I&T collaboration flourish.
     
    Hong Kong is dedicated to develop into an international I&T centre. We will set up an Innovation and Technology Industry-Oriented Fund, worth HK$10 billion, or over US$1.2 billion, to channel more market capital into emerging and future industries of strategic importance.
     
    We will also launch an I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme, which will provide nearly US$4 million in funding, on a one-to-two matching basis, to each professional start-up service agency joining the Scheme. It will help to enrich our start-up ecosystem and widen their business network. These efforts bring together our prowess as an international financial and trade centre, and build the momentum for the future growth of our vibrant I&T scene.

    Innovation does not exist in isolation. It thrives through exchange, dialogue, and collaboration – precisely the spirit of this conference. Over the next few days, Hong Kong will usher in a rich line-up of I&T activities to foster exchanges on various strategic areas.
     
    Tomorrow, the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit will take place, for the first time, in Hong Kong. InnoEx, our flagship marketing-oriented event that showcases smart solutions, will be held this coming week. All these, during our Business of Innovation and Technology Week led by the Government’s Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau.
     
    I look forward to the exchange of innovative ideas among scientists, academics, industry experts, and more. While you’re here, rejoicing in these intellectually stimulating events, also enjoy all that our world city has to offer, from natural scenery, to wine and dine.
     
    I wish you all the best in your scientific endeavours and business, and an extraordinary stay in Hong Kong. Thank you.     
    Issued at HKT 16:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Minister-President of the German State of Bavaria, Markus Söder called on Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences; reiterates strong collaboration between the two nations

    Source: Government of India

    Minister-President of the German State of Bavaria, Markus Söder called on Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences; reiterates strong collaboration between the two nations

    Long – standing Indo-German cooperation in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI), underlines the potential for bilateral cooperation, says Dr Jitendra Singh

    India and Germany to Deepen Cooperation in AI, Quantum Tech, Clean Energy, and Biotechnology

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Hails Indo-German 2+2 University and Industry Collaboration

    Highlights India emergence in Space, Nuclear and Biotech and next generation technologies such as AI, Quantum technologies

    Posted On: 13 APR 2025 4:21PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant diplomatic and scientific engagement, Minister-President of the German State of Bavaria, Markus Söder called on Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, and reiterated strong collaboration between the two nations.

    One to one bilateral between the two leaders, was followed by high-level delegation level meeting led by the two Ministers

    Welcoming the high-level German delegation, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the long-standing Indo-German cooperation in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI), underlining the potential for bilateral cooperation in priority areas including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technologies, Biotechnology, Clean Energy, Electric Mobility, Cyber-Physical Systems, and Green Hydrogen.

    “India has embarked on mission-mode programs under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. We seek economic and sustainable solutions through scientific and technological interventions, and Germany is a natural partner in this endeavor,” stated Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh applauded the Indo-German 2+2 collaboration model involving joint efforts between academia and industry from both countries, calling it a landmark step toward creating future-ready, innovation-driven ecosystems.“The 2+2 collaboration is a futuristic model. It brings together universities and industries from both countries to solve global challenges through innovation, co-development, and commercialization,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh recalled the Golden Jubilee of Indo-German S&T Partnership celebrated last year, adding that the recent Indo-German S&T Governing Body Meeting in Germany further reinforced the commitment to deepen scientific engagement. He highlighted the shared cultural and intellectual legacy between the two nations, mentioning Max Mueller’s pioneering translation of the Upanishads and the Rigveda, which laid the foundation for Indo-European scholarly ties.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh spotlighted India’s remarkable progress in the biotech sector, boasting over 3000 startups and leading globally as the largest vaccine manufacturer. He noted the significance of the recently approved BIOe3 policy, which focuses on Energy, Economy, and Employment to drive the next wave of biotech innovation.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh outlined India’s emergence as a biotech powerhouse with over 3000 startups and the recent launch of the BIOe3 policy, aimed at driving Energy, Economy, and Employment through biotech innovation.

    The Science and Technology Minister states that India’s Space-Tech and Nuclear sectors, now open to private players, offer tremendous collaborative opportunities. He further stated that India ranks 3rd globally in startups and unicorns, making it a vibrant destination for tech partnerships.

    “India’s academic outreach to Germany continues to deepen, with over 50,000 Indian students enrolled in German universities—mostly in STEM disciplines—a number that has tripled in the last seven years”, says Dr. Singh

    Dr. Jitendra Singh called for a reciprocal increase in German students studying in India, particularly in the areas of Oriental Studies, Indian Culture, and Traditional Knowledge Systems.

    “Germany has emerged as a favoured academic destination for Indian youth. Now we hope to see more German students exploring India’s intellectual heritage and scientific capabilities,” he said.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh fondly recalled his recent visit to Berlin, observing the growing popularity of Indian cuisine and culture, with locals enthusiastically embracing Indian flavours in more than a dozen Indian food outlets.

    The German side was represented by Dr. Markus Söder, along with Dr. Philipp Ackermann, German Ambassador to India, and other senior delegates. From the Indian side, Dr. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST); Dr. Praveen Somasundaram, Head of International Cooperation, and Dr. Alka Sharma, Senior Advisor,Department of Biotechnology, also participated in the deliberations.

    *****

    NKR/PSM

     

    (Release ID: 2121439) Visitor Counter : 85

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DPO’s Smart Hong Kong Pavilion showcases over 100 achievements in Hong Kong’s innovation and technology (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau (ITIB) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) co-organised the third edition of the InnoEX at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) for four consecutive days starting today (April 13). The Digital Policy Office (DPO) set up a large-scale Smart Hong Kong Pavilion to showcase over 100 technology solutions, including those developed by different government departments in relation to citizens’ daily lives. Through interactive experiences and on-site demonstrations, the Pavilion demonstrates the solid achievements in advancing the development of innovation and technology (I&T) and smart city in Hong Kong brought about by the concerted efforts of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and various sectors.

    On the opening day of the Pavilion, a number of officials, including the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, and the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, visited the Pavilion. They were briefed by the Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, on how the DPO leads various government departments in leveraging I&T to enhance city management and operational efficiency, delivering enhanced public services to citizens. The DPO has all along worked in close collaboration with the local I&T industry to develop a variety of innovative solutions, with a view to continuously enhancing public services for the benefit of the public and businesses, jointly strengthening Hong Kong’s leading position as an international I&T hub.

    This year’s Smart Hong Kong Pavilion focuses on AI and data-driven applications, and showcases I&T solutions contributed by 20 government departments and the winning entries of international and domestic I&T competitions, including the Hong Kong ICT Awards, Asia Pacific Information and Communications Technology Alliance Awards, Maker in China SME Innovation and Entrepreneurship Global Contest – Hong Kong Chapter and Open Data Hackathon, from local innovators and students. Through the exhibition, the DPO hopes to recognise outstanding local innovations, encourage and inspire industry players to develop more innovative solutions as well as promote Hong Kong’s I&T development to local industries, exhibitors and experts from home and abroad.

    Following are highlights of the six areas of the Smart Hong Kong Pavilion:

    Smart Living: “iAM Smart”, the one-stop personalised digital services platform that provides citizens with access to over 1 100 government, public and private online services and government e-Forms; the Hong Kong Observatory’s AI-powered weather prediction models that provide reference in preparing weather forecasts and tropical cyclone forecast tracks; and the industry’s award-winning solution, a smart packaging system from the Hong Kong Productivity Council that significantly increases packaging output of Chinese medicine and reduces manpower requirements.

    Smart Mobility: Award of the Year in the Hong Kong ICT Awards 2024, a solution from the MTR Corporation Limited and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology that adopts a digital twin calibrated with big data for railway planning and simulating service disruptions and congestion, thereby assisting the MTR to plan corresponding arrangements early to meet the travel needs of citizens.

    Smart Environment: The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department’s Shark Species Rapid DNA Identification technology that uses AI to rapidly identify the species of shark fins and more efficiently determine whether the imported shark fins are regulated; and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department’s AI-powered Aqua-bot that is used in early detection and rapid response to invasive alien species to protect ecosystems in wetlands.

    Smart People: The Architectural Services Department’s Wall-Climbing Robot that can move flexibly on building facades and conduct building facade assessments efficiently and accurately; the Drainage Services Department’s Tumbler Inspection Ball Robot with Embodied Intelligence, honoured with a Gold Medal in the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva 2024, that can monitor condition of pipelines through clear 360-degree panoramic videos and AI technology; as well as the Highways Department’s adoption of geospatial and AI technologies to automatically detect various road objects and create survey maps, enhancing efficiency of road construction projects.

    Smart Government: The Hong Kong Fire Services Department’s Virtual Fire Scene Incident Command Training System that allows firefighters to practice command and decision-making skills in an immersive experience; the Hong Kong Police Force’s The New Generation Scenario-based Interactive Multiplayer Simulation System that adopts multimedia broadcasting and simulated communication systems to train officers to respond to various simulated incidents; and the Hong Kong Immigration Department’s Mutual Use of QR Code between HKSAR and Macao SAR Clearance Service that fosters ease in cross-boundary mobility.

    Smart Economy: The Lands Department’s leverage of spatial data and Geographic Information System to enhance the safety, efficiency and planning of drone operations, supporting low-altitude economy development; and the award-winning solution, Hong Kong Housing Authority Project Information Management and Analytics Platform, that implements digital project management from planning to handover stages, thereby expediting decision-making process.

    The annual I&T mega event of Hong Kong, InnoEX, brings together I&T elites, enterprises and buyers from the Mainland and overseas to jointly promote I&T advancements and applications and explore global collaboration opportunities. Themed “Innovation • Automate • Elevate”, this year’s InnoEX will showcase cutting-edge technology solutions across five key areas: low-altitude economy, AI, robotics, cybersecurity and smart mobility. Interested parties from the trade can register free of charge at the HKTDC’s website (www.hktdc.com/event/innoex/en).
     
    Meanwhile, another major I&T highlight this April – the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit – a high-level conference in the global Internet field, will take place on April 14 and 15 at the HKCEC concurrently. Under the theme “Integration of AI and Digital Technologies Shaping the Future – Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace”, the Summit will focus on forward-looking discussions in large AI models, digital finance, and digital government and smart life, attracting around 1 000 participants from the Mainland and overseas, including representatives from governments and enterprises, international organisations, internet giants, experts and scholars to attend.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: A Dose of Atmanirbhar Bharat

    Source: Government of India

    A Dose of Atmanirbhar Bharat

    How Make in India is transforming India’s Global Pharmaceutical Footprint

    Posted On: 13 APR 2025 2:56PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    The Department of Pharmaceuticals, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, is responsible for matters related to the pricing and availability of affordable medicines, research and developmentand international obligations. With a vision to make India the world’s largest provider of quality medicines at reasonable prices, the department’s efforts align with the Make in India initiative. The Indian pharmaceutical industry continues to play a crucial role in manufacturing high-quality, cost-effective medicines for both domestic and global markets, marked by its dominance in branded generic medicines, competitive pricing, and a robust network of indigenous brands.[1]

     

    India has been UNICEF’s largest vaccine supplier for the past six to seven years, contributing 55% to 60% of total volume procured contributing 99%, 52% and 45% of the WHO demand for DPT, BCG and the measles vaccines, respectively.[2]

     

    Overview of the Indian Pharmaceutical Industry

    [3][4]

    Medical Devices

    The medical devices sector in India is an essential and integral constituent of the Indian healthcare sector, particularly for prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of all medical conditions and disabilities. The medical devices sector is a multi-disciplinary sector. Its constituent device categories are-

     

    1. electro-medical equipment
    2. implants
    3. consumables and disposables
    4. surgical instruments
    5. in vitro diagnostic reagents

    Several segments of the medical device industry are highly capital-intensive, with a long gestation period, and require continuous induction of new technologies and the ongoing training of healthcare professionals to adapt to new technologies in the sector.

    [5]

    Export & Import of Medical Devices

    Foreign Direct Investment

    The Department of Pharmaceuticals considers FDI proposals falling under the Government approval route in pharmaceutical and meditech activities for approval or rejection as per FDI Policy.

    In the financial year of 2024-25, from April 2024 to December 2024, FDI inflows (in both pharmaceuticals and medical devices) has been ₹11,888 Crore.

    Further, the Department of Pharmaceuticals has approved 13 FDI proposals worth ₹7,246.40 Crore for brownfield projects during FY 2024-25.

     

    [6]

    Production Linked Incentive Scheme

    The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, launched in 2020 by the Government of India, is a transformative initiative aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing, attracting investments, reducing reliance on imports and increasing exports. Aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and the larger Make in India initiative, the scheme offers financial incentives based on production performance, encouraging companies to scale up operations, adopt advanced technologies, and improve global competitiveness.

    For pharmaceuticals, the initiative aims to reduce import dependence on Key Starting Materials (KSMs), Drug Intermediates (DIs), and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), strengthening India’s manufacturing base. By promoting production and innovation, it boosts domestic capabilities and global competitiveness.

    Overview of the PLI Schemes

    The Department of Pharmaceuticals administers three PLI schemes as part of the Government of India’s larger initiative to enhance manufacturing capabilities. These include:

    1. PLI Scheme for Pharmaceuticals
    2. PLI Scheme for promotion of domestic manufacturing of critical KSMs/DIs/APIs
    3. PLI Scheme for promoting domestic manufacturing of Medical Devices[7]

     

    PLI Scheme for Pharmaceuticals[8]

    The PLI Scheme for Pharmaceuticals was approved by the Union Cabinet on 24 February 2021[9], with a financial outlay of ₹15,000 croreand the production tenure from FY 2022- 2023 to FY 2027-28, provides financial incentive to 55 selected applicants for manufacturing of identified products under three categories for a period of six years. Under this scheme, high value pharmaceutical products such as patented/off-patented drugs, biopharmaceuticals, complex generics, anti-cancer drugs, autoimmune drugs, among others, are manufactured.[10]

    Key Features of the Scheme:

    The scheme supports the manufacturing of pharmaceutical goods under three categories:

    1. Category 1: Biopharmaceuticals, complex generic drugs, patented drugs or those nearing patent expiry, gene therapy drugs, orphan drugs, and complex excipients.
    2. Category 2: Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), Key Starting Materials (KSMs), and Drug Intermediates (DIs).
    3. Category 3: Repurposed drugs, autoimmune drugs, anti-cancer drugs, anti-diabetic drugs, cardiovascular drugs, and in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) devices [11]

     

    PLI Scheme for KSMs, DIs, and APIs[12]

    The PLI Scheme for KSMs, DIs, and APIs was launched on 20 March 2020, with a financial outlay of ₹6,940 crore for the period FY 2020-21 to FY 2029-30. The main objective of Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for promotion of domestic manufacturing of critical Key Starting Materials (KSMs)/ Drug Intermediates and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in India is to promote domestic manufacturing of 41 identified bulk drugs to address their high import dependence.

    Achievements under the PLI Scheme for KSMs, DIs, and APIs

    One of the significant achievements under the PLI scheme has been the surpassing of targeted investments. While the initial commitment was ₹3,938.57 crore, the actual realized investment has already reached ₹4,253.92 crore (as of December 2024).

    Under the PLI scheme for Bulk Drugs, a total of 48 projects have been selected under the scheme, of which 34 projects have been commissioned for 25 bulk drugs as of December 2024.

    Notable Projects Under the PLI Scheme for Bulk Drugs

    • Penicillin G Project (Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh): ₹1,910 crore investment; expected import substitution of ₹2,700 crore per annum.
    • Clavulanic Acid Project (Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh): ₹450 crore investment; expected import substitution of ₹600 crore per annum.[13]

    PLI Scheme for Medical Devices[14]

    The PLI Scheme for Medical Devices was launched to support domestic manufacturing of high-end medical equipment and reduce reliance on imports. The scheme provides financial incentives to manufacturers in key segments such as radiology, imaging, cancer care, and implants.The period of the scheme is from financial year 2020-21 to financial year 2027-28 with total financial outlay of Rs. 3,420 crore. Under the scheme, financial incentive is given to selected companies, at the rate of 5% of incremental sales of medical devices manufactured in India and covered under the target segments of the scheme, for a period of five years.

    Category of applicant

    Incentive Period

    Incentive rate

    Category A

    FY 2022-23 to FY 2026-27

    5% limited to Rs.121 crore per applicant

    Category B

    FY 2022-23 to FY 2026-27

    5% limited to Rs.40 crore per applicant

    The details of incentive under the scheme are as follows:

    https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2025/jan/doc202516481901.pdf

    [15]

    Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks

    Approved in March 2020, the Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks scheme (FY 2020–21 to FY 2025–26) aims to establish parks with world-class common infrastructure to reduce manufacturing costs and enhance self-reliance in bulk drugs. Proposals from Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh were approved under the scheme. Financial assistance is capped at ₹1,000 crore per park or 70% of the project cost (90% for Northeastern and Hilly States), with a total outlay of ₹3,000 crore.[16]

     

    Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana

    With an objective of making quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana (PMBJP) aims to ensure access to affordable, quality generic medicines across India.

    Some of the activities under this initiative include:

    • Raising Awareness: Educating the public on the benefits of generic medicines, highlighting that affordability doesn’t compromise quality and countering the belief that higher prices mean better efficacy.
    • Encouraging Prescriptions of Generic Drugs: Promoting the use of generics by motivating healthcare professionals, especially in government hospitals, to prescribe cost-effective alternatives.
    • Enhancing Accessibility: Ensuring the availability of essential generic medicines across therapeutic categories, with a focus on reaching underserved communities.[17]

    As of April 8, 2025, there are a total of 15,479 Jan AushadiKendras across the country.

     

    Strengthening of Pharmaceuticals Industry Scheme (SPI Scheme)

    The SPI scheme is a Central Sector Scheme (CSS) with an outlay of Rs.500 Cr with thescheme period from FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26. [18]

     

    Conclusion:

    India’s pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors stand as a testament to the country’s growing capabilities in science, innovation, and manufacturing. Through visionary initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes and Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana (PMBJP), the Department of Pharmaceuticals has not only bolstered domestic production but also ensured equitable access to affordable healthcare solutions. With its continued commitment to self-reliance under the Make in India vision, India is poised to solidify its position as a global hub for high-quality, cost-effective medicines and medical technologies, empowering both its citizens and contributing significantly to global health outcomes.

    References:

    A Dose of Atmanirbhar Bharat

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Jitendra Singh Hails International Certification for Indigenously Developed Underwater Acoustic Test Facility

    Source: Government of India

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Hails International Certification for Indigenously Developed Underwater Acoustic Test Facility

    With Global Recognition, Acoustic Lab at NIOT Chennai Now Sets India’s global Standards in Underwater Technology

    Posted On: 12 APR 2025 5:40PM by PIB Delhi

    CHENNAI, April 12: 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 today hailed the global recognition and international certification of the Underwater Acoustic Test Facility (ATF) at the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai, describing it as a proud milestone in India’s journey towards scientific self-reliance in underwater acoustics and ocean technology.

    After unveiling the commemorative plaque, Dr. Jitendra Singh witnessed a live demonstration of the facility’s capabilities, which include precise testing and calibration of a wide range of underwater acoustic instruments such as hydrophones, transducers, and acoustic modems—vital for both strategic and civilian applications.

    Describing the facility as a “critical national asset,” the Minister highlighted its pivotal role in strengthening India’s self-reliance in ocean technology. “The Acoustic Test Facility enhances our ocean observation capabilities, supports tsunami detection systems, and reinforces national security through its strategic applications,” he said.

    Established in 2004 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the ATF is India’s only facility accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) for hydrophone calibration. Since 2005, it has consistently maintained this accreditation and caters to a broad spectrum of users, including naval laboratories, IITs, universities, and major industrial players such as BEL, L&T, and Tata Power.

    In 2018, the facility’s global competence was validated when it participated in a Key Comparison Test organized by the National Physical Laboratory, UK, alongside laboratories from seven other countries, including the US, UK, and Russia. The ATF’s calibration results matched international benchmarks, establishing its parity with top global labs.

    In a significant milestone, the facility was recently recognized as India’s “Designated Laboratory” in the field of underwater acoustics under the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), Paris, through CSIR-NPL, effective January 30, 2024. This means NIOT now holds the national standards for measurements in underwater acoustics—a crucial responsibility for ensuring measurement accuracy across strategic sectors.

    Experts say this recognition not only boosts India’s scientific credibility but also opens up opportunities for global collaborations in underwater research and maritime technology.

    As India scales up its ambitions in ocean exploration and maritime security, the Acoustic Test Facility is expected to play a defining role in shaping future technologies, offering both precision and indigenous strength to the nation’s deep-sea endeavours.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: BCCL’s Central Hospital Dhanbad Expands Medical Education: Now a Training Ground for India’s Future Specialists

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 APR 2025 5:32PM by PIB Delhi

    Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), India’s leading coking coal producer, has taken a significant step in strengthening the nation’s healthcare infrastructure by expanding the Diplomate of National Board (DNB) medical training programs at its Central Hospital Dhanbad (CHD). The recent addition of an Ophthalmology (Eye) specialization course brings the total to five key disciplines, positioning CHD as the most comprehensive DNB training center among all Coal India subsidiaries.​

     

    DNB Programs Offered at CHD:

    • General Medicine :   4 seats (Post MBBS 3 years Course)
    • General Surgery :     2 seats​ (Post MBBS 3 years Course)
    • Anaesthesia :  2 seats​ (1 Post MBBS 3 years Course + 1 Post Diploma  2 years Course)
    • Family Medicine :     2 seats​ (Post MBBS Diploma 2 years course)
    • Ophthalmology :       2 seats​ (Post MBBS Diploma 2 years course)

     

    The DNB qualification, awarded by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), is recognized as equivalent to MD/MS degrees in India, ensuring that CHD’s programs meet the highest standards of medical education. ​

    Empowering In-House Talent and the Nation:

    In a strategic move to enhance internal capabilities and serve the Coal Industry across the nation and entire Dhanbad with adjoining areas in the optimum ways, CHD has reserved 50% of the DNB seats for internal doctors from CIL and its subsidiaries, facilitating their advancement into specialized roles. The remaining 50% are open to candidates nationwide, corroborating a diverse and competitive learning environment.

    BCCL’s Commitment to Holistic Nation-Building:

    This initiative aligns with BCCL’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) objectives, which encompass healthcare, education, and community development. By investing in advanced medical training, BCCL is not only contributing to the nation’s energy needs but also playing a significant role in enhancing healthcare services across India.

    ‘Today, BCCL has taken its Central Hospital Dhanbad to the forefront of leading healthcare institutes in the CIL family, furthering its vision of ensuring holistic healthcare infrastructure and wellness for all,’ CMD, BCCL, Shri Samiran Dutta.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DEP attends seminar by Ministry of Ecology and Environment in Beijing (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Director of Environmental Protection, Dr Samuel Chui, began his visit in Beijing on April 10 and called on the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) yesterday (April 11). 

    Dr Chui was invited to attend the first session of the 2025 “Science, Culture, and Literacy” Lecture Series organised by the MEE to deliver a keynote presentation. The Minister of MEE, Mr Huang Runqiu, also attended the seminar.

    The presentation, titled “Smart Environmental Governance Strategies and Practices of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government,” highlighted the successful application of sewage surveillance and real-time forecasting models to assist in pandemic control efforts, practice cases of Hong Kong’s innovation in pollution control by utilising smart technologies, and the two latest developed technological applications by the Environmental Protection Department, the biological water quality indicator “Phytoplankton Community Integrity Index” and the risk-based composite index for evaluating overall air quality status.

    Participants unanimously agreed that the successful scientific pollution control practices introduced during the seminar provided valuable references for kick-starting ecological and environmental protection efforts. They should study and learn from these practices to further enhance the awareness and capacity of applying scientific thinking and methods to improve environmental quality, better promoting pollution control in a precise, scientific, and law-based manner.

    The seminar was held in a hybrid format, combining online and offline participation. The Vice Minister of MEE, Mr Yu Huiwen; the Chief Inspector of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection Inspector’s Office, Mr Liao Xiyuan; and Vice Minister of MEE, Mr Dong Baotong also attended the event.

    The Chief Engineer of MEE, Mr Ren Yong, chaired the seminar. Key personnel and administration of State Committee of Supervisory (SSC) Supervisor’s Office, Ministry’s various departments, the Environmental Emergency and Accident Investigation Center and Agency Service Center attended the event in person at the main venue. Other staff from the SSC Supervisor’s Office, Ministry’s various departments and the affiliated institutes joined from sub-venues or virtually.

    During his visit to Beijing, Dr Chui also attended the 23rd China International Environmental Protection Exhibition and Conference. He met with representatives from the BRI International Green Development Coalition and the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences to explore collaboration on environmental technologies, aiming to jointly achieve the goal of high-quality green and sustainable development under the Belt and Road Initiative.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SITI at Opening Ceremony of 2nd Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and Xiangjiang Nobel Forum 2025 (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is the speech by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the Opening Ceremony of 2nd Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and Xiangjiang Nobel Forum 2025 today (April 13):

    First of all, a very warm welcome to our distinguished guests and friends from aboard, including the Nobel Laureates and Academicians, for joining us at today’s event, which is one of the highlights of the BIT Week (Business of Innovation and Technology Week) 2025.

    Science is more than just discovery. In particular in a world of uncertainties and rapid technological shifts, the role of scientists and scholars has become even more critical in providing clarity, unravelling mysteries and fostering global collaboration. Hong Kong, as an international hub for highly skilled professionals and higher education, is blessed with five world’s top 100 universities and many renowned scholars and scientists, providing a solid foundation for our outstanding R&D (research and development) achievements and our ambition to be an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre.

    I&T talents and enterprises are the core elements for Hong Kong’s I&T development. Hong Kong has spared no effort to promote international I&T exchanges by fully leveraging its two-way platform role as an important bridge connecting the Mainland and the rest of the world. Today’s World Youth Science Congress best demonstrates Hong Kong’s unique advantages in attracting global talents and enterprises. We will continue to support world-class science and technology exchange events in Hong Kong, such as the WIC (World Internet Conference) Asia Pacific Summit, which our Chief Executive mentioned earlier, and the International Science, Technology and Innovation Forum of the Boao Forum for Asia 2025 Hong Kong. Thank you again for coming and I wish you all a wonderful experience here in Hong Kong.

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  • MIL-OSI China: Xi’s Southeast Asia tour to cement neighborly bond, bolster regional cooperation

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HONG KONG, April 13 — Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia from Monday to Friday, marking his first overseas trip of the year. The journey underscores the emphasis China places on its Southeast Asian neighbors — partners bound not only by geographical proximity, but by decades of cooperation and mutual support.

    The visits aim to deepen ties and chart the course for future cooperation. From infrastructure to trade, China and its neighbors are aligning their modernization efforts. At each stop, the two sides will work together to strengthen political trust and expand practical cooperation.

    The trip reflects China’s broader vision of building a community with a shared future with its neighboring countries. In an era of global uncertainty, Asia’s unity, coupled with the promise of common development, presents a model of stability and progress.

    “CAMARADERIE PLUS BROTHERHOOD”

    In October 2024, the China-Vietnam Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall cross-border tourism cooperation zone was officially launched. Tourists from both sides of the border can now leisurely walk through the streets that seamlessly blend Chinese and Vietnamese architectural styles, while enjoying the magnificent vista of the shared waterfall. This landmark project, China’s first cross-border tourism cooperation zone, stands as a testament to the strengthening of people-to-people ties between the two neighboring countries.

    This year marks the 75th anniversary of China-Vietnam diplomatic relations. From their early revolutionary struggles to their current modernization efforts, the two countries have forged a profound bond featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood.”

    During Xi’s visit to the country in December 2023, bilateral ties were elevated to a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance. Xi proposed the six major goals of “greater political mutual trust, more substantive security cooperation, deeper practical cooperation, more solid popular foundation, closer multilateral coordination and collaboration, and more proper management of differences.” That laid the groundwork for the vision of building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    In August 2024, then Vietnamese President To Lam chose China as the destination for his first overseas visit only two weeks after being elected general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee. During the visit, the two sides reaffirmed the six goals and emphasized joint efforts to advance shared development.

    Trade remains the engine of their relationship. China is Vietnam’s largest trading partner, and infrastructure links from rail to ports are expanding fast. Fruit from Vietnam frequents Chinese tables while Chinese raw materials and machinery fuel Vietnamese industry. The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Vietnam’s Two Corridors and One Economic Circle strategy are increasingly aligned.

    Under the strategic guidance of head-of-state diplomacy, Vietnam-China relations have developed rapidly in recent years, said Nguyen Thi Phuong Hoa, deputy director at the Institute of Chinese Studies of Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. She expressed confidence that the profound friendship between the two countries will be passed down from generation to generation.

    FRIENDSHIP FORGED IN HISTORY

    At the Gombak station site along Malaysia’s East Coast Rail Link, cranes swing vigorously under the scorching sun while Chinese and Malaysian workers assemble steel girders together. This railway, slated for completion in 2027, stands as a prestigious project within the BRI cooperation framework. It will link Malaysia’s east and west coasts for the first time, emerging as a powerful symbol of the deepening partnership between these two nations.

    China-Malaysia ties run deep. From the voyages of renowned Chinese navigator Zheng He (1371-1433) to the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1974, the two countries have long enjoyed cultural affinity and strategic trust. During Xi’s 2013 visit, they upgraded ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. A decade later, the relationship was elevated again to a China-Malaysia community with a shared future.

    Economic cooperation continues to thrive. China has maintained its position as Malaysia’s leading trading partner for 16 consecutive years. On top of that, bilateral initiatives like the “Two Countries, Twin Parks” program, which pairs industrial zones in Qinzhou and Kuantan, have emerged as a model for regional collaboration. This partnership has spurred the expansion of port collaboration and infrastructure connection. Furthermore, Malaysian fresh durians have been on sale in the Chinese market since last August, witnessing rising popularity among Chinese consumers.

    People-to-people exchanges are also flourishing. From international students to visa-free travel arrangements, cultural exchanges are growing deeper and more meaningful. Collaborative efforts now span a wide range of activities, from panda research to the joint pursuit of getting the lion dance recognized as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.

    With Malaysia serving as the 2025 chair of ASEAN and a BRICS partner country, the two countries are working more closely on regional cooperation, with an eye on stability and shared prosperity in a shifting global landscape.

    “The bilateral relationship between Malaysia and China is currently at its best,” said Dato’ Abdul Majid Ahmad Khan, president of the Malaysia-China Friendship Association and former Malaysian ambassador to China.

    IRONCLAD FRIENDSHIP

    Through towering pillars and glass walls, sunlight streams into Techo International Airport, evoking a tranquil ambiance reminiscent of standing beneath the sugar palm trees that dot the Cambodian landscape.

    Scheduled to commence operations in July, the new airport constructed by a Chinese company is expected to significantly enhance the tourism capacity of Cambodian capital Phnom Penh. This project marks yet another notable milestone in China-Cambodia cooperation within the framework of the BRI.

    China and Cambodia are ironclad friends who always support each other and stand together through thick and thin. Under the care of the leaders of both nations, the tree of China-Cambodia friendship has flourished, yielding a bountiful harvest of cooperation and mutual trust.

    The two countries have maintained frequent high-level exchanges and strategic communication. In September 2023, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet visited China on his first official trip abroad after taking office. One month later, Hun Manet was in China again to attend the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation.

    In December 2024, Cambodian People’s Party President and Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen visited China. Xi said in a meeting with Hun Sen that the ironclad friendship between China and Cambodia is of high quality, while Hun Sen described China as Cambodia’s most trusted friend.

    Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries, the building of a China-Cambodia community with a shared future has progressed into a new era characterized by high quality, high level and high standard.

    China has remained Cambodia’s biggest source of foreign investment and biggest trading partner for years. The China-Cambodia free trade agreement, along with the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, has given a substantial boost to trade growth between the two nations.

    The two countries have seen frequent people-to-people exchanges. In 2024, various events were held to celebrate the China-Cambodia people-to-people exchange year, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples.

    With the collaborative efforts of scholars from both countries, a new Khmer version of The Customs of Cambodia, an ancient Chinese travelogue that serves as a crucial source for studying Cambodia’s history, was released in April last year.

    Over the decades, Chinese experts have been working with their Cambodian peers in preserving and restoring Angkor temples to revive the invaluable treasures of Cambodia.

    Thong Mengdavid, a lecturer at the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy of the Royal University of Phnom Penh, said the deeply rooted Cambodia-China ties are rock-solid and unbreakable, serving as a paragon of South-South cooperation

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