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Category: Tourism

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stoke-on-Trent businesses shine with nominations at Tourism Awards

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 4th February 2025

    Some of the city’s best hospitality and leisure businesses have been shortlisted for awards at the prestigious Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent Tourism Awards 2025.

    The annual awards ceremony – sponsored by the University of Staffordshire – recognises the diverse range of attractions, accommodations and food and drink businesses and will be held in Stoke-on-Trent this year as part of the city’s centenary celebrations.

    This comes as latest figures show that a £2.3 billion tourism boom has seen more visitors flock to the area and numbers using the sector are up 30 per cent since 2019.

    World of Wedgwood has been recognised with several nominations, including for the International Tourism Award, Large Visitor Attraction of the Year and the tea room has been nominated in the Taste of England – Tea Room & Coffee Shop of the Year category.

    Jemma Harrison, Director of Destinations at Fiskars UK Limited, who run World of Wedgwood, said: “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted for three awards this year, especially in the new category of International Attraction of the Year.

    “The team at World of Wedgwood have worked hard to build brand awareness within the inbound travel market as well as creating bespoke itineraries and products for our international guests. It’s fantastic news to be shortlisted for an award which reflects such great collaboration between the marketing and operational teams.”

    Doubletree by Hilton, on Festival Park, has been shortlisted for two awards, in the categories of Large Hotel of the Year and their Revenue, Sales & Marketing team have been nominated for Team of the Year.

    Middleport Pottery has been shortlisted for Small Visitor Attraction of the Year and two restaurants, including Lunar Restaurant, are finalists for Restaurant of the Year.

    Craig Wilkinson, Director and Owner of Lunar Restaurant, said: “Words cannot express how much it means to everyone at Lunar to be finalists in the category of ‘Restaurant of the Year’ in our home city which we are so proud to serve and celebrate.

    “Our guests travel from near and far to experience our wonderful county which as well as being steeped in history has so many wonderful opportunities, people, organisations and places to explore in 2025.”

    Other local businesses that have been shortlisted at the awards include:

    • Adventure Mini Village (New Tourism Business of the Year)
    • Dusk Beaver Safari at Trentham Estate (Experience of the Year)
    • Trentham Estate (Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award/Large Visitor Attraction)
    • Waterworld Leisure Resort (Large Visitor Attraction)
    • Willow on the Trentham Estate (Restaurant of the Year)

    The hard work and talent of employees has also been recognised with Jodie Knapper being shortlisted for the Unsung Hero Award (Trentham Estate) and Daniel West being shortlisted for the Rising Star Award (The Upper House Hotel).

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “It is amazing to see so many businesses in Stoke-on-Trent being recognised at the Tourism Awards and the brilliant work of our residents being acknowledged and celebrated.

    “In our centenary year, it is great that we can spotlight the very best that our city has to offer in leisure, hospitality and tourism and we are confident our year-long programme of fantastic events will drive many more people to come and discover what a wonderful part of the world this is.

    “I would like to congratulate all the people and businesses that have been shortlisted at this year’s awards and wish them the best of luck at the ceremony.”

    The winners will be announced live at a ceremony on Thursday 20th March 2025, at the Doubletree by Hilton, Stoke-on-Trent.

    For more information, visit www.enjoystaffordshire.com/awards

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tourism as a Key Driver for Employment and Growth Budget 2025-26 Focuses on Infrastructure, Medical Tourism, and Heritage Conservation

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 2:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    India’s tourism sector, rich in heritage, culture, and diversity, is emerging as a global favorite and a key driver of economic growth. Recognizing its potential for employment-led development, the Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated ₹2541.06 crore to enhance infrastructure, skill development, and travel facilitation. A major initiative includes developing 50 top tourist destinations in partnership with states through a challenge mode, ensuring world-class facilities and connectivity. With committed efforts, tourism is set to drive India’s progress toward becoming a developed nation by 2047.

    Employment-Led Growth in Tourism

     

    The tourism sector’s contribution to GDP regained the pre-pandemic level of 5 per cent in FY23. The tourism sector created 7.6 crore jobs in FY23.  International tourist arrivals (ITAs) in India have rebounded to pre-pandemic level in 2023. The share of India’s ITAs in World ITAs stands at 1.45 per cent in 2023. Foreign exchange earnings through tourism were 28 billion USD. India received 1.8 per cent of world tourism receipts and attained a rank of 14th worldwide in world tourism receipts during 2023.

    Measures to Facilitate Employment-Led Growth in the 2025-26 Budget:

    1) Organizing intensive skill-development programmes for our youth including in Institutes of Hospitality Management

    2) Providing MUDRA loans for homestays

    3) Improving ease of travel and connectivity to tourist destinations

    4) Providing performance-linked incentives to states for effective destination management including tourist amenities, cleanliness, and marketing efforts and

    5) Introducing streamlined e-visa facilities along with visa-fee waivers for certain tourist groups.

    Transforming Tourism Infrastructure: Enhancing Connectivity and Investment

    Presenting the budget, Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman announced a landmark initiative to develop 50 top tourist destinations in partnership with states through a challenge mode. This initiative aims to elevate tourism infrastructure, improve ease of travel, and strengthen connectivity to key sites. As part of this framework, states will be required to provide land for critical infrastructure, including hotels, which will be classified under the Infrastructure Harmonized Master List (HML) to attract investments and boost hospitality services.

    Furthering this commitment, 40 projects across 23 states will receive interest-free loans for 50 years, amounting to ₹3,295.8 crore under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment. This funding will support the creation of globally recognized tourist destinations by facilitating their development and strategic marketing. Additionally, the Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0 (SD 2.0), which focuses on sustainable and responsible tourism, will continue to expand, with 34 projects already approved under this initiative, receiving ₹793.2 crore in total funding. To strengthen employment opportunities in the tourism sector, Government has allocated ₹60 crore for skill development in the financial year 2025-26. This funding will support intensive skill-development programs for youth, including training in hospitality management and other tourism-related services.

    Revitalizing Spiritual Tourism: A Focus on Heritage and Pilgrimage

    Recognizing the deep cultural and spiritual significance of religious tourism, the government will prioritize the development of sites associated with pilgrimage and heritage. Special emphasis will be placed on destinations linked to the life and teachings of Lord Buddha, aligning with India’s vision to become a key center for Buddhist tourism.

    The Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) will continue to play a crucial role in enhancing infrastructure at major pilgrimage sites and heritage cities, ensuring world-class amenities and accessibility for visitors. By strengthening spiritual tourism, the government aims to position India as a global cultural hub while driving economic growth and employment generation in the sector.

    Medical Tourism: Strengthening India’s Global Position Through “Heal in India”

    Recognizing the immense potential of India’s healthcare sector, the Union Budget 2025-26 prioritizes medical tourism as a key growth driver. Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman announced that medical tourism and the “Heal in India” initiative will be promoted in partnership with the private sector, enhancing India’s position as a premier global healthcare destination. By leveraging world-class medical expertise, cutting-edge infrastructure, and traditional wellness systems like Ayurveda and Yoga, India aims to attract a larger share of international patients seeking high-quality, cost-effective treatment.

    Growing Potential of Medical Value Travel (MVT)

    India’s Medical Value Travel (MVT) sector is witnessing significant growth. The market, valued at $2.89 billion in 2020, is projected to reach $13.42 billion by 2026, driven by increasing foreign patient arrivals seeking high-quality and cost-effective treatment.

     India’s key advantages in this sector include:

    Specialties in Focus

    The Indian Healthcare Ecosystem is delivering world-class medical care/treatment across the healthcare spectrum ranging from Modern Medicine, Ayurveda, Yoga, and other Traditional Systems of Healthcare. It provides tertiary-quaternary care, treatment for serious chronic and non-communicable diseases, comprehensive rehabilitation across all major medical specialties such as cardiac care, orthopedics, neurosciences, oncology, and promotive health-revitalization, functional health, and therapeutic wellbeing.

    Medical Visa Introduction

    Gyan Bharatam Mission

    Finance Minister also said that documentation and conservation of our manuscript heritage with academic institutions, museums, libraries and private collectors will be undertaken to cover more than 1 crore manuscripts. She added that Government will set up a National Digital Repository of Indian knowledge systems for knowledge sharing.

    Conclusion

    The Government of India is committed to positioning the country as a global leader in tourism by enhancing infrastructure, boosting employment, and promoting diverse tourism segments, including spiritual, medical, and heritage tourism. The “Heal in India” initiative and Medical Value Travel sector underscore India’s growing prominence as a premier healthcare destination. Additionally, the Gyan Bharatam Mission aims to preserve and digitize India’s rich manuscript heritage, ensuring knowledge accessibility for future generations. With a strong emphasis on ‘Seva’ and ‘Atithi Devo Bhava,’ India is set to redefine its tourism landscape and establish itself as a world-class destination.

    ***

    References:

     

    1. https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/doc/eb/sbe99.pdf
    2. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2098371
    3. https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/economicsurvey/doc/echapter.pdf 
    4. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2098371
    5. https://www.investindia.gov.in/blogs/unlocking-potential-medical-value-travel-india-importance-and-key-factors-developing
    6. https://healinindia.gov.in/

    Click here to see in PDF:

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Anchal Patiyal

    (Release ID: 2099519) Visitor Counter : 18

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE leads delegation to visit Harbin

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, and his wife, Mrs Janet Lee, at the invitation of the Heilongjiang Provincial Government, will visit Harbin on February 6 to attend the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 to be held on February 7.
          
         Members of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government delegation joining the Chief Executive on the visit to Harbin include the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, and the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, Ms Carol Yip.
          
         During the visit, Mr Lee will meet with the Hong Kong, China Delegation to the Asian Winter Games to learn more about the athletes’ preparations and will watch some Asian Winter Games events to cheer for Hong Kong athletes. He will also visit various local cultural and tourism facilities to learn more about the development of industries in Harbin.
          
         Mr Lee will return to Hong Kong on February 11. During his absence, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, will be the Acting Chief Executive. During the absence of Miss Law, the Under Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau, will be the Acting Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pre-event Press release for Chennai Roadshow

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 11:35AM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) will host the North East Trade and Investment Roadshow in Chennai on February 5, 2025, starting at 3:30 PM at Hotel Hilton, Guindy, Chennai. The event will be inaugurated by Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister for MDoNER.

    Key officials, including Shri Chanchal Kumar, Secretary, MDoNER, and Shri Shantanu, Joint Secretary, MDoNER, along with senior representatives from various North Eastern States, will also be in attendance.

    The roadshow will feature B2G meetings, providing a unique opportunity for potential investors to engage directly with state representatives and explore investment opportunities across multiple sectors. This event is organized in collaboration with the State Governments of the North Eastern States, FICCI (Industry Partner), and Invest India (Investment Facilitation Partner).

    This Chennai Roadshow is the eighth event in the ongoing series, showcasing presentations from the eight North Eastern States—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura. These states will highlight a diverse range of investment opportunities in key sectors, including agri-food processing, IT & ITES, entertainment & sports, energy, infrastructure & logistics, tourism & hospitality, education & skill development, healthcare, textiles, handloom & handicrafts, all crucial for driving economic growth in the region.

    The Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat and Viksit North East’ has driven significant infrastructure development in the region over the past decade, including roadways, airways, railways, and waterways. These efforts have greatly improved the lives of the local population, boosting tourism and economic activities.

    The North East Investor Summit supports this vision by attracting investments and unlocking the region’s untapped potential, further advancing its journey toward prosperity and development.

    Previous roadshows in Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad, along with the state seminar at Vibrant Gujarat, have garnered substantial interest from potential investors. Building on these successes, MDoNER organized a signing and exchange of MoUs event for the North East Investors Summit on March 6, 2024, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, facilitating discussions between senior officials and investors.

    The recent Ahmedabad roadshow, attended by  MoS for MDoNER, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, facilitated numerous B2G meetings that encouraged potential investments.

    The upcoming Chennai Roadshow aims to build on this momentum, providing investors with the opportunity to engage directly with state officials. Given the success of previous editions, this event is anticipated to attract even greater attention and participation, solidifying Chennai’s role as a financial hub for the economic growth of the North East.

    The session will include valuable insights from the  Minister of MDoNER and presentations from various states, highlighting investment opportunities and empowering investors to become part of the dynamic investment landscape of North East India.

    *****

    Samrat/Dheeraj@: donerpib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2099415) Visitor Counter : 89

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE to visit Harbin

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    At the invitation of the Heilongjiang Provincial Government, Chief Executive John Lee and his wife, Janet Lee, will visit Harbin on Thursday to attend the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 the following day.

    During the visit, Mr Lee will meet the Hong Kong, China Delegation to the Asian Winter Games and attend some of events at the games to cheer for Hong Kong’s athletes. He will also visit cultural and tourism facilities there to learn more about the development of those sectors in Harbin.

    The Chief Executive will return to Hong Kong on February 11. During his absence, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki will be Acting Chief Executive.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Metropolitan of Pskov and Porkhov Matthew visited the Polytechnic University

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    On February 3, the Polytechnic University was visited by Metropolitan of Pskov and Porkhov, Abbot of the Holy Dormition Pskov-Pechersky Monastery Matfey (Kopylov). The visit was part of the events in honor of the 125th anniversary of the Polytechnic University. The guest got acquainted with the history of the university and its current activities, and discussed opportunities for cooperation.

    The tour of the university began with the Main Academic Building, where Metropolitan Matfey of Pskov and Porkhov got acquainted with the gallery of outstanding polytechnic scientists. In the SPbPU History Museum, its director Valery Klimov spoke about the most important events in the history of the Polytechnic, presented interesting facts and showed key exhibits. In the Technopolis Polytechnic research building, the university’s scientific secretary Dmitry Karpov demonstrated a model of the SPbPU campus.

    During the visit, the bishop met with the rector of SPbPU Andrey Rudskoy. The meeting was also attended by the vice-rector for youth policy and communication technologies Maxim Pasholikov and a member of the initiative group to save the church in Belskoye Ustye Valery Silin.

    The Church of the Ascension of the Lord is located in the village of Belskoye Ustye in the Porkhov District, where the grave of Prince Andrei Gagarin, an outstanding Russian scientist and engineer, the first director of the Polytechnic University, is also located. The 18th-century church is the largest patrimonial church in the Pskov land, which has no analogues in the architectural heritage of the region. It is an integral part of the cultural and historical complex, which includes the estate of Prince A. G. Gagarin in Kholomki, the main building of which was restored by the Polytechnic University in 2013, as well as the outskirts of Porkhov with their unique fortresses, churches and temples.

    The Church of the Ascension of the Lord is one of the pearls of the Pskov region for tourists, especially for pilgrims. It is important to develop tourist routes around Pskov. Together we contribute to the great cause of the revival of Russian history, Andrey Rudskoy emphasized.

    The meeting participants considered possible areas of cooperation in the reconstruction of the church, ways of attracting benefactors, organizing a board of trustees for the implementation of the project, as well as the possibility of opening a Sunday school at the church.

    The first Church of the Ascension of the Lord was built in 1796 with funds from Colonel Artemon Kozhin in his estate Belskoye Ustye in Porkhov district. In the early 1860s, Artemon Osipovich’s son, Pyotr, decided to build a new church, as the old one had fallen into disrepair. The new building was erected according to the design of the St. Petersburg architect Shestakov in the style of early classicism with elements of baroque. In October 1898, a church-parish trusteeship was founded, and in November 1887, a church-parish school began operating.

    A. G. Gagarin often visited the church, and after his death on December 22, 1921, he was buried in this church and buried in the local cemetery. In 1921-1922, a colony of the House of Arts was opened in the estate of Prince Gagarin. Among its participants were famous writers and artists K. I. Chukovsky, E. I. Zamyatin, M. L. Lozinsky, M. L. Slonimsky, M. M. Zoshchenko, V. F. Khodasevich, O. E. Mandelstam and others. All of them regularly visited the Church of the Ascension of the Lord. In 1921, the colony held a memorial service for Alexander Blok there. In the 1960s, the church was closed due to its emergency condition.

    In 2014, an initiative group was created, which included the heads of SPbPU, representatives of the Pskov Region Committee on Culture, Pskov State University, the administration of the Porkhov District, and the St. Petersburg branch of the All-Russian public movement “Orthodox Russia”. Since 2017, active work has been underway to restore and rebuild the church.

    Photo archive

    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-Evening Report: Yes, energy prices are hurting the food sector. But burning more fossil fuels is not the answer

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vivienne Reiner, PhD Candidate, Integrated Sustainability Analysis group, University of Sydney

    Months out from a federal election, the industry lobby is gearing up in opposition to the Albanese government’s renewable energy targets. In a salvo on Monday, food distributors urged the government to increase fossil fuel production, as a way to purportedly tackle high energy prices.

    It was followed by comments on Tuesday by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which also called for fast-tracking of gas expansion to avoid price spikes and blackouts.

    Unfortunately, however, these approaches miss the point. They are a short-sighted response to what is, in large part, a climate-induced problem.

    In fact, evidence suggests burning more coal and gas will only make things worse for many industries, including the food sector.

    More fossil fuels = more industry disruption

    The industry group Independent Food Distributors Australia claims Labor’s energy policies are driving up costs for businesses and, in turn, consumers.

    In comments published in The Australian, the group’s chief executive Richard Forbes said the phase-out of coal-fired energy was too fast and the government’s renewable energy target was too ambitious. The newspaper claimed business owners instead want Labor to support new gas plants and support upgrades to existing coal plants.

    The group represents food manufacturers, suppliers and distributors supporting the food service industry. Its members largely comprise food distribution warehouses operating large refrigerators and freezers.

    First, it’s important to ask whether a focus on renewable energy can be blamed for Australia’s high energy prices. The answer is largely no.

    That aside, would expanding fossil fuel production ultimately be a boon to food distributors? Evidence suggests it would not.

    A study published in 2022, led by my colleagues at the University of Sydney, found that almost one-fifth of total emissions from global food systems were produced by transport and supporting services, such as distribution warehouses. This was equivalent to about 6% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions.

    Of course, greenhouse gas emissions are warming the climate and leading to worse and more frequent natural disasters. And, as another University of Sydney study showed, these disasters have extensive repercussions for the food industry.

    It found the disruptions would be hardest felt by the fruit, vegetable and livestock sectors, however effects flowed to other sectors such as transport services. Overall, people in rural areas and those from a low-socioeconomic background were most vulnerable, both to food and nutrition impacts, as well as losses in employment and income.

    What’s more, research I led into the economic impact of Australia’s 2019–20 bushfires also reveals the vulnerability of the food ecosystem. The 2024 study, which focused on tourism, found employment and income losses were greatest in the hospitality and transport sectors respectively. Restaurants, cafes and accommodation providers were disproportionately hit by job losses resulting from reduced consumption, including less food being consumed out of home.

    So what does all this mean? Clearly, expanding polluting energy generation to reduce food distribution costs in the short term will not, ultimately, secure the sector’s future.

    Making food distribution more sustainable

    Having said all this, Australia’s high energy prices are undoubtedly a stress point for many Australian businesses. So how can the food sector tackle the problem?

    Energy requirements (and therefore costs and emissions) differ according to the type of food. Fruits and vegetables, for example, are likely to require a temperature-controlled environment. This generates about double the emissions produced by growing the crops themselves.

    Growing and distributing crops that can be transported at ambient temperatures would reduce energy use. This is particularly important given refrigeration needs are likely to increase as the planet warms.

    In terms of broader food movements, 94% of domestic transport happens by road. So, there is a strong case for investing in electric trucks to help guard against energy price hikes.

    The weight of food freight has also been correlated with energy use. Cereals – along with fruit and vegetables, flour and sugar beet/cane – are among the food types transported at high tonnages.

    As my colleagues have noted, there are huge energy savings to be gained if the global population ate more locally produced food, and if food businesses used cleaner production and distribution methods, such as natural refrigerants.

    Energy requirements differ according to the type of food.
    BK Awangga/Shutterstock

    Looking ahead

    Global food systems are crucial to human wellbeing. It’s in everyone’s interests to keep them functioning well and protected from climate-fuelled hazards.

    The choices now facing the food-distribution sector represent one of many tradeoffs Australia must make during its transition to a low-carbon future.

    Will we continue the polluting, business-as-usual approach or will we embrace Australia’s natural advantages in renewable energy, and protect the planet that supports us?

    When it comes to food distribution, will Australia expand gas and coal production as a purported answer to lower energy costs in the short term – or will we move swiftly to decarbonise the sector and buy more local, sustainable food?

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

    – ref. Yes, energy prices are hurting the food sector. But burning more fossil fuels is not the answer – https://theconversation.com/yes-energy-prices-are-hurting-the-food-sector-but-burning-more-fossil-fuels-is-not-the-answer-248996

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Global celebrations of Chinese New Year

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

    Global celebrations of Chinese New Year

    Updated: February 4, 2025 09:28 Xinhua
    A woman presents Hanfu attire in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Feb. 2, 2025. A Hanfu-themed gathering in celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, was held here on Sunday. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Guests take part in a closing bell ceremony held by Nasdaq and the Chinese Consulate General in New York in celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year, in New York, the United States, Jan. 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Students from the art troupe of the High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China perform during the Chinese New Year Showcase in Chicago, the United States, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Tunisian Chinese learners practice Chinese calligraphy during a cultural event held at a bookstore in celebration of the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, in Tunis, Tunisia, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A person in Monkey King costume plays Mahjong during a Chinese New Year celebration at Camden Market in London, Britain, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Performers pose for photos during a Chinese New Year celebration at Camden Market in London, Britain, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People watch a performance during a celebration of the Chinese New Year in Madrid, Spain, Jan. 31, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A decoration of a snake is seen on the show window of a bookstore in Turin, Italy, Jan. 31, 2025. Exhibition boards and posters about the Chinese New Year are displayed on the streets of Turin as part of the festival celebration. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Dragon dancers perform in a celebration of the Chinese New Year at Denpasar in Bali Province, Indonesia, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A woman interacts with a lion dancer during an event celebrating the Chinese New Year in Wellington, New Zealand, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Local residents learn to make decorative Chinese knots during an event celebrating the Chinese New Year at the Auckland Art Gallery in Auckland, New Zealand, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A tourist poses for a photo with a mascot during a celebration of the Chinese New Year in Melbourne, Australia, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A lion dance is staged during a celebration of the Chinese New Year in Melbourne, Australia, Feb. 1, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Members of a Yingge team perform the traditional Chaoyang Yingge dance during the Spring Festival temple fair in Frankfurt, Germany, on Jan. 31, 2025. The Yingge team from Shantou, south China’s Guangdong province, offered a rich cultural feast in Frankfurt to friends from all over the world through their Chaoyang Yingge dance, a unique art form combining drama, dance, and martial arts. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: People enjoy Spring Festival holiday across China

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

    People enjoy Spring Festival holiday across China

    Updated: February 4, 2025 08:35 Xinhua
    A child using augmented reality (AR) glasses visits the Chengdu Museum during the Spring Festival holiday in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A child visits the Chengdu Museum during the Spring Festival holiday in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People ride bikes at Shanghai’s World Expo culture park during the Spring Festival holiday in Shanghai, east China, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People have fun at Shanghai’s World Expo culture park during the Spring Festival holiday in Shanghai, east China, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A visitor looks at exhibits displayed at the Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum during the Spring Festival holiday in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum during the Spring Festival holiday in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A tourist poses for a photo at Sanlitun, a popular shopping area during the Spring Festival holiday in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit a temple fair during the Spring Festival holiday in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 3, 2025 shows tourists visiting Xianghuiqiao station during the Spring Festival holiday at Jianshui County of the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture in southwest China’s Yunnan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Tourists are seen on the Duanqiao Bridge, or the Broken Bridge in the West Lake scenic area during the Spring Festival holiday in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People visit the Chengdu Museum during the Spring Festival holiday in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Tourists walk on the Duanqiao Bridge, or the Broken Bridge in the West Lake scenic area during the Spring Festival holiday in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Feb. 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 3, 2025 shows people visiting the Shuanglong bridge during the Spring Festival holiday at Jianshui County of the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture in southwest China’s Yunnan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pocket art guide updated with 10 new artworks showcasing toi Māori in Tāmaki Makaurau

    Source: Auckland Council

    The vibrant cityscape of Tāmaki Makaurau has seen a rise in the presence of Māori design and art in its urban environment in recent years, a result of the ongoing efforts by the Auckland Council group to ensure the stories and identity of mana whenua are visibly reflected and felt in the city centre.  

    This exciting shift is being celebrated through the unveiling of ten new artworks on the pages of ‘Te Paparahi Toi Māori’ the Auckland Art Walk guide, which brings Māori culture and history to life in the city’s public spaces for Aucklanders and tourists to explore. 

    For the online walking guide of Te Paparahi Toi Māori, visit ArtNow.  

    “This growing collection of Māori art serves as a reminder of the rich cultural history that underpins our city,” says Councillor Kerrin Leoni. 

    “I encourage Aucklanders and visitors to explore these meaningful creative expressions in the city’s urban landscape and to reflect on the importance of te ao Māori in shaping modern Tāmaki Makaurau.” 

    Here are 10 of the new must-see toi Māori (Māori artworks) in Auckland’s city centre, recently added to ‘Te Paparahi Toi Māori’: 

    Waimaraha, Myers Park, Auckland – photo David St George.

    1. Waimahara, 2024 – A Captivating Display of Light and Sound

    Waimahara, an extraordinary interactive new Māori artwork in Myers Park, springs to life with mesmerising light and sound displays in response to special waiata. 

    If you sing a special waiata into a sensor, the artwork listens and responds, accompanying you with an awe-inspiring display of light and sound. 

    Commissioned by Auckland Council, this unique creation by artist Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hāua, Ngāti Manu), technology experts IION, and skilled composers features two original waiata for the project.  

    To visit Waimahara and other art works close by, click here .

    Te Kōmititanga, Queen Street, Auckland.

    2. Te Kōmititanga, 2020 – The Merging of Waters and People

    Located in the city’s largest public square, Te Kōmititanga, meaning ‘to mix’ or ‘to merge’ was gifted by local hapū Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei as a powerful symbol of the convergence of people and waters. Situated where the Waitematā Harbour and Te Waihorotiu (The Waihorotiu Stream) once met, this bustling public space boasts 137,000 basalt pavers woven in a harakeke (flax) mat pattern, entwining pedestrians by train, bus, and ferry into the cultural and environmental heritage of the area. 

    To visit Te Kōmititanga and other art works close by, click here. 

    Te Wharekura, Quay Street, Auckland.

    3. Te Wharekura, 2023 – A Treasure Box of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei

    The 108-year-old heritage kiosk next to the Tāmaki Makaurau downtown ferry terminal has been repurposed into a cultural and marine education space to create a new destination on the increasingly beautiful waterfront.  

    Te Wharekura (house of learning) is a waka huia (treasure box) for local hapū, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, offering a fusion of physical and digital taonga toi (artworks) and a rich collection of mana whenua histories and culture. Visitors can explore the environmental challenges of the Waitematā through interactive displays and engage with hapū members onsite who guide the learning experience. 

    To visit Te Wharekura and other art works close by, click here .

    Te Tōangaroa, Tangihua Street to Tapora Lane, Auckland.

    4. Te Tōangaroa Mural Collection, 2021-2024 – Telling Stories of Place

    This captivating mural collection celebrates the deep connection of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei to te taiao (the environment) of Tāmaki and depicts the importance of welcoming different cultures and diversity. Each of the six powerful murals are imbued with symbolism—from the dragging and mooring of ancestral waka, to the star constellations and tohu (signs) of te taiao in guiding the kaiurungi (steerer) on the waka journey into the future, to resilient wildlife like the kawau bird—reminding all who view it of the unwavering whakapapa (genealogy) and wairua (spirit) from the Māori ancestors to their descendants today.  

    To visit Te Tōangaroa Mural Collection and other art works close by, click here 

    5. Te Nukuao, 2020 – A Shelter of Both Passage and Pause

    Located in Wynyard Quarter, Te Nukuao (shelter), draws inspiration from the last remaining customary Māori sail, Te Rā, to reference the journeys, waka and people from past and present connected to this area. This award-winning shading structure, which recalls the double-hulled waka hourua, serves as both a cultural marker of the mana (authority) of tangata whenua over Tāmaki Makaurau, and as a shelter of welcome for all.  

    Designed by artist Tessa Harris (Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki), this artwork connects Aucklanders to the city’s rich ancestral maritime history.  

    To visit Te Nukuao and other art works close by, click here.  

    Papatūānuku, Halsey Street & Tīramarama Way, Auckland.

    6. Papatūānuku, 2021 – Celebrating the Earth Mother

    Papatūānuku (Mother Earth), a vibrant contemporary-art glass installation, reflects the ever-changing colours of the seasons as guided by the Maramataka (Māori lunar calendar). The glass poi of the artwork represents spiritual messengers, while the vibrant wall colour reflects the energy of Tama-nui-te-rā (the sun) and the ahikāroa (long-burning fires) of artist Mei Hill’s hapū, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, in extending manaakitanga (generosity) to all people in Tāmaki Makaurau. The work celebrates the natural world while honouring the whakapapa of mana whenua. 

    To visit Papatūanuku and other art works close by, click here.  

    Te Maharatanga o Ngā Wai, Wellesley Street West & Sale Street, Auckland.

    7. Te Maharatanga o Ngā Wai, 2021 – A Tribute to Māui and the Waters

    Te Maharatanga o Ngā Wai (remembering our waters) is a homage to the stream that once flowed through this site before the colonial settlement of Auckland. This 6.4-metre carved pou (post) commemorates the Māori demigod Māui, whose stories are central to Māori narratives.  

    The sculpture, featuring three key tales of Māui, not only serves as a pou recognising wai as taonga (treasure), the source of life, and vital for our collective wellbeing, but also as a focal point for pōhiri (ceremonial welcomes) and other official theatre events, reflecting Māori cosmology, language and history in the public realm. 

    To visit Te Maharatanga o Ngā Wai (remembering our waters) and other art works close by, click here 

    Whakaako Kia Whakaora, Corner Gundry Street & Karangahape Road, Auckland.

    8. Whakaako Kia Whakaora / Educate to Liberate, 2021 – Honouring the Polynesian Panthers

    This mural honours the historical significance of the Polynesian Panthers in Auckland. With powerful references to social justice, it connects the local struggle for equality with the broader movement for civil rights, reflecting on the ongoing fight for Māori and Pacific rights and freedoms alike.  

    The Polynesian Panthers were formed in Auckland in June 1971, moulded in the shape of the Black Panthers, in response to the marginalisation and discrimination experienced by the Pacific community.  

    To visit Whakaako Kia Whakaora / Educate to Liberate, and other art works close by, click here.

    Tūrama Kaitiaki, Aotea Square, Auckland.

    9. Tūrama, Kaitiaki, 2022 – Celebrating Light, Guardians and Matariki

    Tūrama (light), the hugely popular series of six large-scale illuminated art installations lights up Queen Street to celebrate Matariki (the Māori new year).  

    Tūrama explores the role of kaitiaki (guardians) in protecting the environment. Representing the guardian figure Horotiu, this 9-metre-high artwork reminds all of us to look after the Waihorotiu valley and river, now buried under Queen Street, whose domain Horotiu protects. 

    Tūrama was created by Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Haua, Ngāti Manu), Ataahua Papa (Ngāti Koroki Kahukura, Ngāti Mahuta), Phil Wihongi (Ngāti Hine) and Angus Muir Design. 

    To visit Tūrama (light), and other art works close by, click here .

    Te Mata Topaki, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland.

    10. Te Mata Topaki, 2020 – A Sculptural Pier Connecting People to Waitematā

    Te Mata Topaki (to hover over the headland) is a striking, award-winning 30-meter sculptural pier designed by Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei) that juts out into the Waitematā Harbour. Inspired by the taurapa (stern of a waka) lying on its side, mata – both obsidian and a tip or headland; and topaki – to hover like a bird, this lookout connects both key destinations and people to the water.  

    To visit Te Mata Topaki and other art works close by, click here.

    ‘Te Paparahi Toi Māori’ provides a walking-guide to over 80 sites of public art, architectural design, and historical sites across Tāmaki Makaurau helping to ensure that tangata whenua (local people) see themselves and their culture in the modern landscape. 

    For the online walking guide of Te Paparahi Toi Māori, visit ArtNow.

    To get a physical guide of Te Paparahi Toi Māori, email barbara.holloway@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz, or visit any of the sites listed below: 

    • Auckland Art Gallery, Wellesley Street East

    • Central City Library, 44-46 Lorne Street

    • Ellen Melville Centre, 2 Freyberg Place

    • Auckland Council office foyer, 135 Albert Street

    • Te Wharekura, 117 Quay Street

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: WHO chief asks US to reconsider withdrawal, gender parity remains distant goal, call for rethink on Nordic alcohol law change

    Source: United Nations 4

    Health

    The head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday he would “welcome constructive dialogue” with the United States Government over the decision made by President Donald Trump to withdraw. 

    President Trump’s executive order of 20 January is regrettable “and we hope the US will reconsider,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a speech to the organization’s executive board.

    The WHO chief said he would welcome the opportunity “to preserve and strengthen the historic relationship between WHO and the US.”

    Pushing back on the rationale laid out in the executive order, Tedros said WHO had implemented the deepest and most wide-ranging reforms in its history over the past seven years.

    The US is the biggest donor by far to the agency, accounting for around 14 per cent of its $6.9 billion budget, according to latest WHO figures. 

    Addressing the US complaint that it is paying too much compared to other countries, Tedros said reducing reliance on the US and others who pay the most was a “critical element of our long-term plan to broaden our donor base.”

    COVID record

    Third, he rejected the accusation that WHO had mishandled the COVID-19 pandemic:

    “From the moment we picked up the first signals of ‘viral pneumonia’ in Wuhan, we asked for more information, activated our emergency incident management system, alerted the world, convened global experts, and published comprehensive guidance for countries on how to protect their populations and health systems – all before the first death from this new disease was reported in China on the 11th of January 2020.”

    Tedros also addressed the allegation that WHO lacks independence from “inappropriate political influence” by some Member States: “WHO is impartial and exists to serve all countries and all people,” he said. 

    “Our Member States ask us for many things, and we always try to help as much as we can. But when what they ask is not supported by scientific evidence or is contrary to our mission to support global health, we say no, politely.”

    © UNICEF/Joshua Estey

    A government-run shelter in the Philippines is a safe haven for girls who have been physically and sexually abused and exploited, including through the sex tourism industry. (file)

    A third of women experience physical or sexual violence: Rights experts 

    Approximately one in three women is subjected to physical or sexual violence, and 800 women and girls continue to die every day from preventable causes during pregnancy and childbirth, a top independent rights panel meeting heard on Monday.

    Addressing the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) at the UN in Geneva, Andrea Ori from the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said that the world is “still far” from achieving the goal of gender parity.

    “The global landscape has changed,” she told the CEDAW session.

    Backlash against equal rights

    “We are witnessing a backlash against women’s human rights and gender equality, especially against women’s sexual and reproductive health rights – with an increase in attacks against abortion providers, shrinking civic space for women human rights defenders, and reduced funding.” 

    Mr. Ori noted that 2025 marks 30 years since the universal adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action for ensuring women’s human rights and achieving gender equality around the world.  

    It remains the case, however, that sexual violence against women and girls continues to be used as a tactic of war in numerous conflicts, the UN human rights official said, while only 26 per cent of parliamentarians in the world are women and only around three in 10 women have managerial roles at work. 

    One less for the road: Time Europe cut down on booze intake, WHO warns

    The UN World Health Organization (WHO) urged Nordic countries on Monday to keep a lid on alcohol sales, or risk reversing the positive impact of strict regulations put in place years ago.

    For decades, governments in Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and the Faroe Islands have restricted supermarkets and private retailers from selling stronger alcoholic beverages.

    This policy has resulted in some of the lowest alcohol consumption levels in the European Union – which by contrast is the booziest region globally, with drinking habits “largely unchanged” for over 10 years, WHO said.

    Free market pressures

    The Nordic model is now at risk however, from legislative initiatives in the region that signal a potential shift toward privatization of alcohol sales, warned WHO’s Dr. Carina Ferreira-Borges.

    In Sweden, for instance, a court is hearing a challenge to the Government’s exclusive rights to online sales of alcohol, while proposed laws would permit sales of alcoholic beverages in farm shops.

    Dr Ferreira-Borges explained that Nordic countries’ alcohol controls – that involve increasing taxes and raising prices, limiting availability and restricting advertising – have reduced alcohol-related harms. 

    These span from “liver disease, cancers and cardiovascular conditions, to injuries and drownings”, she insisted. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pacific – Fiji to enjoy real estate growth in 2025 driven by foreign investment, infrastructure developments and Google’s data centre plans

    Source: Raine & Horne

    Leading real estate firm Raine & Horne Fiji predicts growth of 2-4% growth for residential markets such as Suva, Nadi and Lautoka in 2025.

    Highlights:

    • The Fijian real estate market demonstrated strong resilience in 2024, with sustained demand for residential properties in key urban centres, including Suva, Nadi, and Lautoka. This trend is expected to result in healthy real estate growth of up to 4% in 2025.
    • The recent announcement of Google’s FJ$200 million data centre investment, expected to create 3,600 jobs, is set to significantly boost the residential real estate markets in Fiji.
    • Infrastructure developments, growing tourism, and the expansion of short-term rentals continue to drive residential property demand in key locations such as Pacific Harbour.

    Lautoka, Fiji – 4 February 2025 – The Fijian real estate market demonstrated strong resilience in 2024, with steady demand for residential properties in key urban centres such as Suva, Nadi, and Lautoka.

    This positive trend is expected to drive healthy growth of up to 4% in 2025, according to leading real estate firm Raine & Horne Fiji. This outlook is further buoyed by the recent announcement of Google’s FJ$200 million data centre investment in the Pacific nation, which is set to bolster the local economy and real estate market.

    Fiji’s real estate growth in 2024

    Ms Shyamlee Raju, Managing Director of Raine & Horne Fiji, says that in 2024, there was sustained demand for residential properties, particularly in Suva, Nadi, and Lautoka, thanks to a growing number of local workers and expatriates leasing apartments.

    “The rebound in tourism, combined with ongoing recovery from COVID-19 impacts, has been a major driver,” Ms Raju said.  

    “Overall, real estate prices in Fiji saw moderate growth in 2024, with some areas such as Nadi and parts of Suva experiencing higher price increases due to ongoing infrastructure developments, such as improvements in transportation, utilities, and tourism-related facilities.

    Google’s game-changer for Fiji’s real estate market and economic growth

    One of the most significant developments in Fiji is the announcement of Google’s FJ$200 million data centre investment, which, according to the Fijian government, has the potential to create 3,600 jobs[i].

    Ms Raju said, “Jobs created by the data centre will generate greater demand for residential housing, particularly for professionals moving to Fiji to work in or around the tech industry. The Google announcement could spur growth in the rental market and the demand for homes for sale.”

    To illustrate, a luxurious three-bedroom penthouse in the heart of Suva within the Brightstar Apartment block on Berry Road is available for rent through Raine & Horne Fiji and is set to attract well-heeled tenants.

    Ms Raju said, “This is the most sought-after executive rental property in the heart of Suva available right now, and it is within minutes of the city’s CBD, supermarkets, cafes, restaurants, schools, cinemas and the iconic Colonial War Memorial Hospital.

    “This penthouse would be ideal for high-end expatriates and those interested in moving to Fiji for work.”

    Other factors driving residential property demand

    The demand for short-term rental properties, particularly for Airbnb holiday rentals, has contributed to rising property prices in Nadi, Suva and Lautoka.

    “We have seen a growing number of apartments and properties purchased as Airbnbs, which is a hindrance for tenants looking for long-term tenancy,” commented Ms Raju.

    “Most properties in Nadi are now run as Airbnbs.”

    Pacific Harbour and infrastructure developments

    According to Ms Raju, demand for real estate in Pacific Harbour, the tourist mecca on the south coast of Viti Levu, was a notable trend in 2024. Pacific Harbour’s natural beauty, improved accessibility to Suva, which is 50 kilometres away, and relatively affordable property prices compared to other regions drove the demand.

    In November alone, Raine & Horne Fiji sold four lots in one week in Pacific Harbour, a significant achievement that underscores the confidence in this market.

    Ms Raju added, “Infrastructure improvements, such as better road access to Suva and the development of tourism-related facilities, are making Pacific Harbour an attractive location for both local buyers and expatriates seeking vacation homes or retirement properties.”

    Fiji’s real estate market poised for steady growth in 2025

    Ms Raju is optimistic about 2025, and she is predicting growth of 2-4% across most regions of Fiji.

    “While economic uncertainties and interest rates could introduce some challenges, the fundamentals of infrastructure development, tourism recovery, and increasing foreign investment provide a solid foundation for market growth,” said Ms Raju.

    Raine & Horne Fiji also anticipates an increase in foreign investment in the country’s real estate market in 2025. Several factors are driving this optimism, including the upcoming Google Data Centre, will potentially attract international interest.

    “Additionally, continued Fijian tourism growth is appealing to foreign buyers, particularly the luxury resorts, beachfront properties, and vacation homes,” said Ms Raju.

    “Strong government support for foreign investment further underpins the longer-term outlook, positioning Fiji as an attractive real estate market for international buyers seeking opportunities in real estate.”

    In response to this promising growth and outlook, Raine & Horne Fiji plans to expand its network of residential sales agents and offices to better serve local and international clients.

    “We are focused on providing tailored advice to first-time homebuyers, expatriates, and foreign investors,” said Ms Raju.

    “Our goal is to remain adaptable and embrace digital tools such as Raine & Horne’s first-to-market AI-powered social media marketing tool Amplify[ii] to expand market reach, keeping up with trends like sustainability and tech-driven developments.

    “Raine & Horne Fiji has the expertise and resources to adapt to these trends and developments, providing clients with the insights, services, and support they need to succeed in the Fijian residential real estate market.

    “With a promising outlook and a growing market, Raine & Horne Fiji is well-positioned to capitalise on the country’s real estate potential in 2025.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Services trade growth hits new highs in third quarter of 2024

    Source: World Trade Organization

    The third quarter of 2024 saw services exports rise by 16 per cent in Asia, followed by 8 per cent in Europe, while North America, South and Central America and the Caribbean expanded by 7 per cent. Marked growth was also recorded on imports across regions, reflecting high demand for diverse services.

    Services are the bright spot of trade, with growth of 9 per cent year-on-year in the first three quarters of 2024 (Chart 1). This is in sharp contrast with goods trade, which was up by only 2 per cent over the same period.

    In the third quarter of 2024, transport saw a 14 per cent rise (Chart 1) as shipping rates climbed amid persistent disruptions on major trade routes. Global freight prices were nearly four times higher than in Q3 2023, at about US$ 4,500, according to data from Freightos.

    Asia’s transport services exports increased by 32 per cent, with peaks of 47 per cent in China and 40 per cent in Singapore. Available monthly statistics of leading Asian transport traders point to sustained growth through the end of the year. For example, in the last quarter of 2024, China’s transport exports soared by 50 per cent, reflecting a surge in shipments.

    International travellers’ expenditure in foreign economies increased by 10 per cent in Q3 2024, and in the first three quarters of 2024, global travel receipts were 15 per cent higher than pre-pandemic levels. Growth is stabilizing after the post-pandemic surge, and visa-free schemes adopted throughout 2024 by many economies have benefited international tourism worldwide. By the end of 2024, international tourist arrivals had almost reached their 2019 levels, suggesting complete recovery for the sector, according to UN Tourism.

    Travel in 2024 was also boosted by the UEFA European Football Championship in Germany and the Olympics in France, and Europe’s travel exports grew by 7 per cent from an already high base in 2023. Many African economies recorded double-digit growth, including Namibia (+32 per cent), Morocco (+19 per cent) and Tanzania (+18 per cent).

    Other commercial services, a heterogeneous group of services accounting for some 60 per cent of total services trade, expanded on average by 8 per cent in Q3. In the European Union and the United Kingdom, exports in this category increased by 9 per cent, and in the United States by 7 per cent. Double-digit growth was widespread in many economies in different regions. For example, South and Central America and the Caribbean economies saw very high growth rates, including Chile (+32 per cent), Argentina (+26 per cent) and Peru (+17 per cent).

    Digitally deliverable services such as computer, financial, business and insurance services were the main drivers of growth. Computer services continued their impressive rise in January-September 2024, with cumulative exports surging globally by 13 per cent (Chart 2). Rapid growth in computer services exports was recorded both in developed and developing economies, including a sharp increase of 77 per cent in Indonesia and strong growth of 37 per cent in Mauritius and 18 per cent in the United States (Chart 3). According to WTO estimates, the European Union’s exports of computer services grew by 15 per cent year-on-year in the first nine months of 2024, or by 10 per cent if excluding the largest EU exporter, Ireland.

    Companies are increasingly outsourcing information technology (IT) services and software development. The rapid expansion of e-commerce and digital platforms, including in developing economies, has accelerated this process. The growing adoption of AI, such as to develop chatbots, machine learning and predictive analytics, as well as for cybersecurity needs, has further accelerated the global demand for computer services. This trend is expected to persist as businesses adapt to new technologies and consumer preferences for digital solutions.

    Quarterly statistics are estimates as of the time of publication, and subject to frequent revisions. They are available for download at WTO Stats, along with monthly and annual statistics. Annual services trade data and related visualizations can also be accessed at the Global Services Trade Data Hub and at WTO World Trade Statistics 2023.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ranbhoomi App

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 4:35PM by PIB Delhi

    As informed by the Ministry of Defence, the Ranbhoomi App and the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan initiative have been launched to open areas of historical importance and valour, for the citizen of India, which signify the sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces.

    State-wise details of 77 Shaurya Gantavya sites are attached as Annexure.

    The Indian Army in collaboration with the State governments and Ministry of Tourism, has put in place risk mitigation and safety measure to ensure the well-being of visitors to these sensitive and remote locations as follows:

    1. Military Point of Contact and Assistance- In high-risk border zones, visitors are required to coordinate with army units for safety and clearances, facilitated via single window, in high altitude areas, precautions to be adopted and acclimatization protocols are also being advised.
    2. Controlled Access and Permits- Entry to certain high-altitude locations is regulated and special permits are issued to ensure security.
    3. Emergency Response and Medical Aid- Incidental availability of district hospitals in the area. Emergency evacuation protocols by the Army are in place to provide immediate medical assistance.
    4. Weather Advisory- Weather advisories are issued to prevent mishaps in extreme conditions.
    5. Tourism and Environment Guidelines- Sustainable tourism practices are promoted to protect fragile ecosystem and ensure responsible travel.

    Infrastructure Enhancement and Amenities Development:

    1. The “Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan” initiative serves as an awareness and digital engagement’ platform.
    2. Currently these places have war memorials/museums and some facilities for refreshment etc. Infrastructure enhancement is done through respective state-led Schemes.

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

    ***

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari    

    E-mail: – tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com                                                             

    ANNEXURE

    State-wise details of 77 Shaurya Gantavya sites

     

    STATE

    SHAURYA GANTAVYA SITES

    TOTAL NUMBER OF SITES

    Jammu & Kashmir

    Gurez Sector

    11

    Bangus Valley

    Aru Vally

    Yusmarg Valley

    Warman Valley

    Chandigram

    Keren

    Machil

    Teetwal

    Baramulla

    Uri

    Himachal Pradesh

    Spiti Valley

    04

    Kinnaur Valley

    Kalpa Valley

    Sangla Valley

    Rajasthan

    Longewala

    07

    Tanot

    Ramgarh

    Sundra

    Munabao

    Gadra Road

    Bhakasar

    Gujarat

    Koteshwar

    05

    Suigam Rann Reigon

    Kutch Region

    Lakhpat

    Bhuj

    Ladakh

    Galwan Valley

    14

    Kargil

    Siachen Base Camp

    Karakoram Pass

    Pangong TSO

    Demchok

    Padum Valley

    Hanle

    Chushul

    Hunder

    Tayakshi

    Turtuk

    Tasking

    Panamik

    Sikkim

    Doklam

    07

    Gurudongmar

    Thangu Region

    Lachung Region

    Geyzing

    Yuksom

    East Sikkim Reigon

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Tawang

    21

    Walong

    Dirang

    Bum La

    Sungetsar

    Zemithang

    Gorsam

    Lumpo

    Bomdila

    Lohit

    Kameng Region

    Bishum Valley

    Dibang Region

    Anini

    Menchuka Region

    Siang Region

    Yingkiong

    Gelling

    Upper Subansiri Valley

    Tsari Chu Valley

    Tuting Valley

    Uttrakhand

    Lipulekh Pass

    08

    Pithoragarh

    Harsil Sector

    Mana Sector

    Malari Sector

    Kumaon Region

    Dharchula

    Gunji

    *****

    (Release ID: 2099162) Visitor Counter : 76

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PPP Model in Hotel Management Institutes

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 4:34PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Tourism acknowledges the potential of Public Private Partnership (PPP) in addressing skill development challenges in the hospitality sector and has taken the following steps:

    1. The Ministry of Tourism constituted a Task Force comprising of industry leaders and IHM academia to review the courses curriculum of Hospitality Institutes and other matter related to branding and marketing of hospitality courses.
    2. For achieving the objective of developing individuals & professionals who become practitioners of the highest standards of hospitality, service, and care, Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) were signed between 21 Central Institute of Hotel Management with 08 leading hospitality groups, these groups included Indian Hotels Company Ltd, IHG Hotels and resorts, Marriott Hotels, Lalit Hotel Group, ITC group of Hotels, Lemon Tree Hotels, Apeejay Surender Park Hotels and Radisson Hotel group.

    The industry-academia collaboration is a pilot project with intent to expand it further including more hospitality chains as part of MOU. The MOU includes the component of supporting innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives within the institutes.

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

    ***

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari 

    E-mail: – tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2099161) Visitor Counter : 68

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pilgrimage Sites Transformed Under Prasad Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Tourism

    Pilgrimage Sites Transformed Under Prasad Scheme

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 4:32PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Tourism under the “Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive” (PRASHAD) provides financial assistance to the State Governments and Union Territories Administrations for development of tourism infrastructure at identified pilgrimage and heritage destinations.

    Components of Infrastructure development admissible under the scheme includes development/upgradation of destination entry points viz. passenger terminals (of road, rail and water transport), basic conveniences like tourism information/interpretation Centres with ATM/ Money exchange counters, improvement of road connectivity (last mile connectivity), procurement of equipment for eco-friendly modes of transport and equipment for tourist activities such as Light & Sound Show, renewable sources of energy for tourist infrastructure, parking facilities, toilets, cloak room facilities, waiting rooms, construction of craft haats/bazars/souvenir shops/cafeteria, rain shelters, watch towers, first aid centers, improvement in communication through establishing telephone booths, mobile services, internet connectivity, Wi-Fi hotspot among others.

    The details of the projects sanctioned along with major components developed under the scheme is given in the annexure.

    Under the scheme, three sites have been identified for development in Maharashtra namely, Shri Ghrushneshwar Shivalaya, Tuljapur and Shre Kshetra Rajur. Receiving proposals from the State Governments/UT Administrations for financial assistance for tourism projects is a continuous process. The proposals received are examined with reference to the prescribed guidelines and financial assistance is extended for such projects subject to fulfilment of the stipulated conditions and availability of funds.

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

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    E-mail: – tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    ANNEXURE

    List of projects sanctioned under PRASHAD Scheme                                                    (Rs. in Crore)

     

    State/UT

    S.

    No.

    Project Name

    Major components

    Sanction Year

    Approved

    Cost

    Andhra Pradesh
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrim Amenities at Amaravati

    •  Development at AmaralingeshwaraSwamy Temple (Tourist Amenities, Beautification- Land hardscape &softscape, Infrastructure provision & management)

    •  Mahachaitya Stupa & ASI Museum (Tourist Amenities, Infrastructure provision & management, Safety & security)

    •  Dhyana Buddha Site Development (Beautification, Infrastructure provision & management)

    •  Ghat Development

    •  Urban Infrastructure Development (Enhancing mobility, Entry gate to Amravati, Eco-friendly vehicles)

    2015-16

    27.77
    1.  

    Development of Srisailam Temple

    •  Development at Main temple (Illumination, Sound & Light show, Amphitheatre, Brass queues)

    •  Sikharam (Tourist amenity centre, changing room, lighting of sikharam area, viewing deck, parking)

    •  Tourist Amenity Centre at Hatakeswara

    •  PanchaMathas (pathway, lighting)

    •  Development works at Patalaganga (jetty, changing room)

    •  Common Toilet Complexes including Drinking water facility at 8 locations

    •  Road Improvement Works

    •  Tourist facilitation centre

    2017-18

    43.08
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Amenities at Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narsimha Swami VariDevasthanam at Simhachalam

    •  Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre

    •  Ghat road development (Viewpoints & parking with watch towers, Upgradation of steps)

    •  Temple Amenities and infrastructure with Amphitheatre (Illumination, Development of steps, Parking, Yagyashaala)

    •  Kitchen mechanization

    •  Multipurpose hall

    •  Pan area Development (Multimedia center with Augmented Reality (AR) setup, Electric mini vans, Signage, Baggage screening)

    2022-23

    54.04
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Tourism Infrastructure in Annavaram Temple Town
    • Queue Complex
    • Annadanam Building
    • E-vehicles
    • Male and Female Toilets at Satyagiri hill

    2024-25

    25.33

    Arunachal Pradesh
    1.  

    Development of Parshuram

    Kund

    •  Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre

    •  Ghat road development (Viewpoints & parking with watch towers, Upgradation of steps)

    •  Temple Amenities and infrastructure with Amphitheatre (Illumination, Development of steps, Parking, Yagyashaala)

    •  Kitchen mechanization

    •  Multipurpose hall

    •  Pan area Development (Multimedia center with Augmented Reality (AR) setup, Electric mini vans, Signage, Baggage screening)

    2020-21

    37.88

    Assam
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage amenities at Kamakhya Temple

    •  Development of existing 3Nos of foot tracks to Kamakhya Temple from foothill

    •  AmbubachiMela Ground Development

    •  Multistoried car parking (Parking, cloak room, Baby care & senior citizen rest centers, public toilet)

    •  Construction of viewpoints

    •  Site development & retaining wall

    2015-16

    29.80

    Bihar
    1.  

    Development at Patna Sahib

    •  Development at Patna Sahib (Illumination, dustbin, CCTV)

    •  Linked infrastructure (City wide signage, Tourist information centre at Railway centre, External Street lighting, Illumination at Gaighat&Handisahab)

    •  Development at KanganGhat (TFC, River ghat development, sitting area, upgradation of Kanganghat)

    •  Development at Guru KaBagh (Sound & light show, Illumination)

    2015-16

    29.62
    1.  

    Development of basic facilities at Vishnupad temple

    •  Public Conveniences

    •  Yatri Sheds

    •  Development of Temple Fore Court

    •  Area Illumination

    •  Street Scaping& Parking

    •  Development of SitaKund and GayatriGhat (Changing room, toilet block, pilgrimage shed, drinking water kiosk, solar high mast light)

    2014-15

    3.63

    Chhattisgarh
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage amenities at MaaBamleshwari Devi Temple

    •  Development of MaaBambleshwari Devi Temple (hand railing & shed along the steps, Rest areas, Medical room, Solar lights, Parking, Development of lake front)

    •  Development of Pragyagiri (Meditation center, Cafeteria, Solar illumination, Parking)

    •  Development of Pilgrimage facilitation centre (Shri Yantra building, Solar illumination, Landscaping, Boundary wall, CC road)

    2020-21

    48.44

    Goa
    1.  

    Development of Bom Jesus Basilica

    •Parking

    •Interpretation Centre

    •External / Street Lighting

    •E-Auto

    •Monument facade Illumination

    •CI Park Bench

    •Informational & Directional Signage

    •Dust Bins

    •Visitor footfall counting device

    2024-25

    16.46

    Gujarat
    1.  

    Development of Dwarka

    •Development at Dwarkadhish Temple (Queue complex, Illumination, Temporary shading device)

    •Development at New GomtiGhat (Drinking water facility, Landscaping)

    •Development at Old GomtiGhat (Drinking water facility, Illumination of temple, Flooring, Temporary shading device)

    •Development at Rukshmani Temple (Toilet, Illumination, Parking & Pathway)

    •City-wide Interventions (Directional & Informational Signage)

    •Interventions at Railway Station (Tourist reception centre, Drinking water facility, Landscaping, CCTV)

    •Interventions at Bus Stand (TRC, Drinking water facility, Landscaping, CCTV)

    2016-17

    10.46
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Amenities at Somnath

    •Parking Area development (Toilet, Cloak room, cafeteria, signage, public address system)

    •Tourist Facilitation Centre (TFC, Campus & site development, electrification works)

    •Solid Waste Management System

    2016-17

    45.36
    1.  

    Development of Promenade at Somnath

    •Excavation & ground improvement

    •Rubble

    •Walkway Pavement

    •Tetrapod

    •Kiosk, Seating Arrangements, Drinking water, Dust bin

    •High Mast Light

    •Electric Pole with music system and area

    2018-19

    47.12
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Facilities at Ambaji Temple

    •Intervention at Ambaji temple (TFC, Approach Road, Pathway, Parking, Toilet block)

    •Approach road to Gabbar Hill (Toilet block, Stone pathway, Drinking water facility, Shaded resting areas, Electrical work, Signage)

    2022-23

    50.00

    Haryana
    1.  

    Development of Mata Mansa Devi Temple and Nada SahebGurudwara

    •Development at Gurudwara Nada Saheb (Façade illumination, Surface parking, Toilet block, STP, Covered pathway, Multilevel car parking, Entrance gate, Landscaping)

    •Mansa Devi Temple Area Development (Façade illumination, Plaza development, Gazebo, First aid facility)

    •Parking Area Development (TFC, Parking, Cultural activity area, Roads)

    •Integrated area development (Pathways, Benches, Signage, Toilet block)

    2019-20

    48.53

    Jammu and Kashmir
    1.  

    Development at Hazratbal Shrine

    •Development of existing inner approach road to the shrine

    •Site development (Boundary wall, Improvement of ghats and Devri Paths, Landscaping, Illumination)

    •Public convenience block and entrance gateway

    •Tensile structure for shading

    •Prefabricated shopping kiosks

    •Tourist Facilitation Center

    •Multi storied car parking

    2016-17

    40.46

    Jharkhand
    1.  

    Development of Baba Baidya Nath

    Dham

    •Shivganga Pond Development (Paving with footpath, Street furniture, Mandapas, Retaining wall, Entrance Arch, High mast & area lighting)

    •Jalsar lake front Development (Jalsar waterfront development, Walkway, Mandapa, Pergola, Retaining wall, City entrance gateways)

    •Kanwaria Path Development (Spiritual congregation hall, Community toilet, First aid centre, Landscape & paving, Drinking water kiosk)

    •Approach Pathways (Paving of approach roads, CCTV cameras, people counting system for temple, Control & command center and Jyotirlinga theme walk)

    2018-19

    36.79

    Karnataka
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Amenities at Sri Chamundeshwari Devi Temple

    •Development at Chamundi Temple Premises (Queue Mandapam Stretch, Multipurpose Area & Stage, Cloak room, Illumination)

    •Pilgrimage Facilities development at Mahisasura plaza (Amenities block, Entrance stone arch, Illumination)

    •Development at Devikere (Handrails for entire steps, Steps and mandapa beautification)

    •Nandi Statue Pavilion Development (Queue Mandapam, Paver area development)

    •Devi Pada Redevelopment (Steps and mandapa beautification, Handrails for entire steps)

    2023-24

    45.71

    Kerala
    1.  

    Development at Guruvayur Temple

    •Tourist Facilitation Centre

    •Tourist Amenity Centre

    •Multi-Level Car Parking (MLCP)

    •CCTV Network Infrastructure

    2016-17

    45.19

    Madhya Pradesh
    1.  

    Development of Amarkantak

    •Development around Narmada Mandir (Gateway, Waiting pavilion, Dining & kitchen for prasad distribution, Kiosks, Street furniture)

    •Illumination of Temples

    •Development of Indra Daman Lake, Ma kiBagia, KapilDhara

    •Development of Ghat at South Bank, Sonmuda

    •Development of Mela Ground, Ped Street

    •Development of Tourist Facility Centre

    •Development of Public Amenities

    2020-21

    49.99
    1.  

    Development of Omkareshwar

    •Development works at Omkareshwar  Temple (Darshan hall, Waiting hall,  Foot bridge on river side with retaining wall, Medical room, Prasad counters)

    •Development of GauGhat (Renovation & extension of ghat, food court & day shelter, security booth, changing room, florist shops)

    •Development of JP Chowk (Uniform façade elevation, entrance public plaza)

    •Pilgrimage Walk (covered walkway, entrance gate, parikrama path, steps from Brahmeshwar temple to Gaughat, Renovation of existing steps, widening of existing pathway)

    •Sound & Light Show

    •Linked Infra (Development of sheds for shopping streets, day shelters, watch tower, security booth cum information kiosk, signage, toilet, solid waste management)

    2017-18

    43.93

    Maharashtra
    1.  

    Development of Trimbakeshwar

    •TrimbakeshwarParikrama (Holy Pond/lake development, Landscaping, Junction improvement)

    •Tourism/ Pilgrimage Infrastructure, Trimbak Town (TFC, Parking, PFC at Sangam)

    •Pilgrimage Parikrama of Anjaneri- Trimbak- Brahmagiri (Camping & waiting area, Community Hall, Changing room, Toilet)

    •Development Work at Shri NivruttinathMaharaj Samadhi Temple (Queuing complex, administrative block, Cloak and waiting rooms)

    2017-18

    42.18

    Meghalaya
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Facilitation at Nongswalia Church, NartiangShakti Peeth, Aitnar Pool and Charantala Kali Temple

    •Development at Nongswalia Church (Entrance gates, Welsh history interpretation centre, pathway, parking, public convenience, Pilgrimage walk, Illumination)

    •Development at Nartiang Shakti Peeth (Pilgrimage facilitation center, pathway, illumination, parking, signage)

    •Development at Aitnar Pool (Festival gallery area development, Behdeinkhlam festival facilitation centre, AR-VR at facilitation centre)

    •Development at Charantala Kali Temple (Vehicular cross bridge, Approach Road, Retaining wall, PFC)

    2020-21

    29.29

    Mizoram
    1.  

    Development of Infrastructure for Pilgrimage and Heritage Tourism at ChiteVang, Zuangtai, Reiek and Aizawl

    •Heritage Congregation Centre, Aizwal

    •Prayer Mountain, Zuangtai (PFC with viewing gallery, signage, Multipurpose Hall & kitchen)

    •Development at Khuangchera Cave (PFC, Safety equipment required for visiting the cave)

    •Development at KalvariTiang, Aizwal (Protective railing, PFC, Lighting, Rain shelter, Signage, Wooden benches)

    2022-23

    44.89

    Nagaland
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Infrastructure at Molungkimong, Noksen Church, Aizuto, Wokha and Kohima

    •Development at Molungkimong (Church gate, Toilet, Interpretation centre, Illumination, Signage, Approach Road)

    •Development at Noksen Church (Pilgrimage arrival centre, Illumination, Parking, Approach Road, Retaining wall)

    •Development at Mission Compound, Aizuto (Sacred Pond edge lining area development, Illumination, PFC, Approach Road, Signage, Rain Shelter)

    •Development at Cathedral of Kohima (Entrance gate, Illumination, Interpretation centre, Signage, Parking, Retaining wall)

    •Wayside amenity-Wokha

    2018-19

    25.20
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Tourism Infrastructure at Zunheboto

    •Naga Entrance Gate

    •Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre

    •Illumination of Sumi Baptist Church

    •Multilevel Car Parking

    2022-23

    18.18

    Odisha
    1.  

    Infrastructure Development at Puri

    •Tourist Facilitation Centre at Puri

    •Development of Beach at Shree JagannathDhamPuri (Benches, Drinking water facilities, Public convenience, signage, watch tower, food court)

    •Development of Ramchandi Temple

    •Development of Shree JagannathVishramsthali and Amphitheatre

    •Development at Gundicha temple (Dustbins, landscaping, pathways, signage, illumination)

    •Development at Prachi River Front (Drinking water facilities,Entrance gate, prayer hall, bridge to connect temple campus, steps, walkway)

    •Development at MaaMangla Temple (Drinking water facilities, dustbins, pathways, public convenience, signage)

    2014-15

    50.00

    Punjab
    1.  

    Development of KarunaSagar Valmiki Sthal at Amritsar

    •External sewerage

    •Water Supply

    •Toilet blocks & cloak room

    •Landscaping

    •Solid Waste collection & management

    •Main gate structure

    •Road widening and beautification

    2015-16

    6.40
    1.  

    Development of Chamkaur Sahib

    •Tourist Facilitation Centre at Puri

    •Development of Beach at Shree JagannathDhamPuri (Benches, Drinking water facilities, Public convenience, signage, watch tower, food court)

    •Development of Ramchandi Temple

    •Development of Shree JagannathVishramsthali and Amphitheatre

    •Development at Gundicha temple (Dustbins, landscaping, pathways, signage, illumination)

    •Development at Prachi River Front (Drinking water facilities,Entrance gate, prayer hall, bridge to connect temple campus, steps, walkway)

    •Development at MaaMangla Temple (Drinking water facilities, dustbins, pathways, public convenience, signage)

    2021-22

    31.57

    Rajasthan
    1.  

    Integrated Development of Pushkar/

    Ajmer

    •Development at Ajmer Sharif Dargah (Refurbishment of façade, Tensile fabric structure, Shading devices)

    •Improvement of Delhi gate and Dargah gate chowk (Illumination, Refurbishment work)

    •Tourist information kiosk at railway & bus stand Restoration & development works at Pushkar Sarovar, Pushkar Market Street

    •Development work at Brahma temple, Savitri Mata temple &Parikrama Path, Pushkar

    2015-16

    32.64

    Sikkim
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Facilitation at Four Patron Saints, Yuksom

    •Coronation Throne of Norbugang (Approach Road, Traditional gate, Illumination)

    •Pilgrimage facilities near helipad (PFC, parking and entrance gate, Landscaping)

    •Pilgrimage stopover facility at Rimbi

    2020-21

    33.32

    Tamil Nadu
    1.  

    Development of Kanchipuram

    •Bus terminus upgradation (Tourist information centre, cloak room, RO plant)

    •Pilgrimage walk (Pathway, pedestrian guard rail, signage)

    •Ekambareswarar temple (Parking platform, Security room, Compound wall)

    •Rangaswamy tank rejuvenation (Entrance Arch & Gate, Seating facilities, Pathway)

    •Illumination of monuments

    2016-17

    13.99
    1.  

    Development of Velankanni

    •Velankanni beach (Paver block road)

    •Bus stand (Toilet block)

    •Improvement of Oorani-MariammanKulam

    •City level interventions (CCTV, Wi-Fi, Control room, Street lighting)

    2016-17

    4.86

    Telangana
    1.  

    Development of Jogulamba Devi Temple

    •Connectivity Node (New bus stand, Cultural haat)

    •Pilgrimage Facilitation Node (Pilgrim facilitation cum Cultural centre, Public amenity complex, Pathway)

    •Approach Level Intervention (Rain shelter, High mast lighting, Signage)

    •Jogulamba Temple Premises (Parking complex, Lightng& illumination, Alternate access road, Shower & changing room, Solid waste management)

    •Tungabhadra Ghat (Floating jetty, Landscaping, Cruise boat, Illumination)

    •Other ASI Sites (Proposed new access to Sangamedhwara temple)

    2020-21

    38.90
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage and Heritage Tourism Infrastructure at Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple

    •Interpretation Centre

    •Amphitheater

    •4D Movie Hall

    •Sculpture Park

    •Lakefront Development

    •Bus and car Parking Area

    2022-23

    62.00
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Infrastructure at Bhadrachalam

    •Development works at Main Temple (Change of flooring, MS roofing structure, Mechanization for Prasadam production)

    •Development around Main Temple (Approach Road, Pilgrim amenities centre, Ghat area development- Changing room, Toilet, Jetty)

    •Town Entrance (Entrance bridge, Washroom & canteen complex, Compound wall, Chain link fencing, Battery operated cars)

    •Development works at Parnasala and SeethammaVaagu (Pilgrim amenities centre, Street light, Kiosks, Foot over bridge, Toilet)

    •Allied development works (Street lighting, Signage, CCTV)

    2022-23

    41.38

    Tripura
    1.  

    Development of Tripura Sundari Temple

    •Development of Main Temple area (Food court, Meditation Hall, Illumination, Pooja shops)

    •Covered Aastha Path (Flooring, Railing, Roofing)

    •External Development works (Foot over bridge, STP, Signage Entrance gate, Toilet)

    2020-21

    34.43

    Uttar Pradesh
    1.  

    Development of Varanasi –Phase –I

    •Sound & Light show

    •Integrated development of MarkandeyMahadev temple (Shade for pathway and railing, Gantry signage, campus illumination)

    •SarangNath Pond Rejuvenation (Retaining wall, ghat development, viewing deck, gazebos, pathways)

    •Buddha Theme Park, Sarnath (Gazebos, feature wall, parking)

    •Conservation and development of Gurudham temple (Softscape, Hardscape, New gate, Toilet, Illumination)

    2015-16

    18.73
    1.  

    Development of Mathura-Vrindavan as Mega Tourist Circuit (Ph-II)

    •Krishna Sarovar, Baad, Mathura (Landscaping, Chain link, Pathway, Information centre, Kund rejuvenation centre, Toilet, Open air stage, Sitting place, Ghat development)

    •Jai Kund, Jait, Mathura (Landscaping, Chain link, Pathway, Kund rejuvenation, provision of fountain for movement of Kund water, ghat development)

    •Chandra Sarovar, Chaumuha, Mathura (Landscaping, Chain link, Construction of bore well, Kund rejuvenation, ghat development)

    •Akbar kataal Mathura (Kund rejuvenation, Entry gate, Toilet, Open air stage)

    2014-15

    10.98
    1.  

    Development of River Cruise Tourism at Varanasi

    •Passenger cum cruise vessel

    •320 sq. m. HDPE modular system Jetty (pontoon)

    •Aesthetics & vernacular exterior finish of the cruise vessel & jetty

    •Audiovisual intervention (Story board)

    •Surveillance & security

    •CCTV surveillance

    2017-18

    9.02
    1.  

    Construction of Tourist Facilitation Centre at Vrindavan

    •Cost of building (Souvenir shops, Tourist assistance counter, Tourist waiting area, Toilets, driver lunge, covered parking)

    •Internal development cost (Boundary wall, Rainwater harvesting, Electrification)

    2014-15

    9.36
    1.  

    Development of Varanasi – Phase II

    •Godowliachowk to DashashwamedhGhat (Street pedestrianization& footpath, Façade development)

    •Varanasi by Night (Lighting of ghats, Raj ghat to bridge- Toilts, Road improvement, TIC, Parking, River boat platform)

    •Revitalization of PanchkoshiParikarma (Road development, PFC, Signage)

    2017-18

    44.60
    1.  

    Development of Infrastructure facilities at Govardhan

    •Development at Govardhan Bus Station (Car stand block, Cloak room, Toilet, Boundary wall)

    •Development at GovardhanParikrama (Street Furniture, CCTV, WiFi)

    •Development at Chandra Sarovar (Toilet, Ticket counter, Pathway, bench, Landscaping, Solar light)

    •Development at KusumSarovar (Illumination, Toilet, Paved pathway)

    •Development at Mansi Ganga (Pilgrim amenities, Lighting of ghats, Connecting bridge from temple to amenity block)

    2018-19

    37.59

    Uttarakhand
    1.  

    Integrated Development of Kedarnath

    •Development at Rudraprayag (Eco-log interpretation centre, Snaanghat, Signage, Sitting arrangement, Parking, Viewpoint)

    •Development at Tilwara (Parking, Sitting arrangement, Signage)

    •Development at Augustmuni (Rest shelter, Viewpoint, Toilet, Approach Road, Tourist information/Assistance centre& souvenir shop, Parking)

    •Development at Ukhimath (Approach Road, Eco-log interpretation centre, Multilevel parking)

    •Development at Guptkashi (Toilet, Signage, Parking, Solid waste management, Solar LED streetlight)

    •Development at Kalimath (Retaining wall, Approach Road, Solar LED streetlight)

    •Development at Sitapur (TIC, Sitting arrangement, Solar LED streetlight)

    2015-16

    34.77
    1.  

    Development of Infrastructure for Pilgrimage Facilitation in Badrinath Ji Dham

    •Temple complex and surrounding area (Illumination, Waste management, Storm water drainage)

    •Development at Aastha Path (Solar lights, Dust bins, Benches)

    •Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre

    •Parking Complex, Tourist management system, Tourist arrival plaza

    2018-19

    56.15
    1.  

    Augmentation of Pilgrimage Infrastructure Facilities at Gangotri and Yamunotri

    Dham

    •Development at Gangotri Temple (PFC, Rejuvenation of temple verandah, Entry gate, LED illumination, public amenities Pilgrimage registration & dynamic crowd management system, Alarm system at ghat, Parking)

    •Development at Yamnotri (Entry gate, LED illumination, Development of ghat, Pilgrimage information centre, public convenience)

    •Trek from JankiChatti to Yamnotri (Rain shelter &parademiccentre, Publlic convenience, Benches, Signage)

    •Development at Kharsali (Approach Road, Entry gate, Illumination, Landscaping)

    2021-22

    54.36

    West Bengal
    1.  

    Development of Belur Math

    •Solid Waste Management

    •Signage & giant LED display

    •Provision of pathway

    •Drinking water kiosks and hand washing facility

    •Tourist reception center, Gangway & jetty

    •Multi-level car parking

    •Installation of roof top solar panels

    2016-17

    30.03

     

     

    ****

    (Release ID: 2099160)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tourism Ministry has set up an Incredible India Pavilion in Mela area to provide information

    Source: Government of India

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

    The Maha Kumbh 2025, is taking place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Organization, Enhancement of infrastructure and facilities is subject of the State Government.

    The Ministry of Tourism is promoting Maha Kumbh 2025 through various initiatives. Ministry has set up an Incredible India Pavilion in Mela area to provide information, and to engage tourists, media, influencers etc. New creatives, a Digital brochure of various tour packages, flight options, accommodation options etc. for Maha Kumbh have been prepared and circulated. Additionally, a dedicated Maha Kumbh Tourist Infoline (1800111363) has been established for tourists.

    The promotion of Maha Kumbh is also being done through social media handles of Ministry of Tourism.

    India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), a PSU of Ministry of Tourism has setup 80 Luxury tent accommodation at Tent City, Prayagraj.

    Ministry of Culture has set up a cultural village viz. Kalagram in Mela Area through North Central Zone Cultural Centre, which features Anubhut Mandapam, Artists performances, Food zone, display and sale of traditional Indian Handicrafts and Handlooms etc.

    As per the information received from Ministry of Railways, to cater the needs of passengers and to facilitate their journey to/from Prayagraj, 16 train services (including 05609/05610 Jabalpur-Bargawan Kumbh Mela Special) are being operated on the Beohari -Katni sector. For onward journey to Prayagraj, passengers may changeover at Katni and avail the 176 trains (including 32 Special trains) serving the Katni-Prayagraj sector.

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

    ***

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari  

    E-mail: – tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com                                                               

    (Release ID: 2099159) Visitor Counter : 68

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government sanctioned 40 projects under SASCI Scheme in 23 States for ₹3295.76 Crore in the Financial Year 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 4:27PM by PIB Delhi

    Government of India under its ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) – Development of Iconic Tourist Centres to Global Scale’ sanctioned 40 projects in 23 States for ₹3295.76 Crore in the country in Financial Year 2024-25, with the primary objective to comprehensively develop iconic tourist centres in the country, branding and marketing them at global scale. The details of the sanctioned projects under this scheme are annexed.

    The Ministry of Tourism issued operational guidelines to all States for submission of project proposals. On receipt of the project proposals from the State Governments, the same were evaluated on the given parameters such as connectivity to the site, tourism eco-system, carrying capacity, sustainability measures, sustainable operation and management, project impact and value created, tourism marketing plans etc. While the implementation of projects sanctioned under SASCI scheme is being undertaken by the State Implementing Agencies, the Ministry of Tourism has also formulated mechanism to review the progress of sanctioned projects from time to time, in order to ensure seamless implementation of the sanctioned projects. 

    Ministry of Tourism promotes various tourist destinations and products of the country including lesser-known destinations in domestic and international markets through its various promotional initiatives such as website, social media promotions, participation in events, assistance to State Governments for organizing fairs and festivals, etc.

    The Ministry of Tourism did not receive any proposal from the State of Haryana within the time lines stipulated for submission of proposals for consideration under SASCI scheme. As of now, there is no provision to include the Bhiwani-Mahendergarh Lok Sabha constituency under this scheme.

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

    ***

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    E-mail: – tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    ANNEXURE

    List of Projects sanctioned under ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) – Development of Iconic Tourist Centres to Global Scale

    (Amount in ₹ Crore)

    S.

    No.

    State

    Project Name

    Cost

    		  
     
     

    Andhra Pradesh
    • 1. Gandikota – Enriching the Fort and Gorge Experience

    77.91

    		  
    • 2. Akhanda Godavari: (Havelock Bridge & Pushkar Ghat), Rajamahendravaram

    94.44

    		  
     

    Arunachal Pradesh
    • 3. Siang Adventure & Eco-Retreat, Pasighat

    46.48

    		  
     

    Assam
    • 4. Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden, Guwahati

    97.12

    		  
    • 5. Beautification of Rang Ghar at Sivasagar

    94.76

    		  
     

    Bihar
    • 6. Development of Matsyagandha Lake, Saharsa

    97.61

    		  
    • 7. Karamchat Eco-Tourism and Adventure Hub

    49.51

    		  
     

    Chhattisgarh
    • 8. Development of Chitrotpala Film City

    95.79

    		  
    • 9. Development of Tribal & Cultural Convention Centre

    51.87

    		  
     

    Goa
    • 10. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum, Ponda

    97.46

    		  
    • 11. Proposed Townsquare, Povorim

    90.74

    		  

    Gujarat
    • 12. Ecotourism Destination at Kerly (Mokarsagar), Porbandar

    99.50

    		  
    • 13. Tented City and Convention Centre, Dhordo

    51.56

    		  
     

    Jharkhand
    • 14. Eco-Tourism Development of Tilaiyya, Koderma

    34.87

    		  
     

    Karnataka
    • 15. Ecotourism & Cultural Hub at Roerich and Devika Rani Estate Tataguni, Bengaluru

    99.17

    		  
    • 16. Development of Savadatti Yallammagudda, Belgavi

       100.00

    		  
     

    Kerala
    • 17. Ashtamudi Biodiversity and Eco-recreational Hub, Kollam

    59.71

    		  
    • 18. Sargaalaya: Global Gateway to Malabar’s Cultural Crucible

    95.34

    		  
     

    Madhya Pradesh
    • 19. Orchha A Medieval Splendour

    99.92

    		  
    • 20. International Convention Centre for MICE in Bhopal

    99.38

    		  
     

    Maharashtra
    • 21. Ex-INS Guldar Underwater Museum, Artificial Reef, and Submarine Tourism, Sindhudurg

    46.91

    		  
    • 22. Development of “RAM-KAL PATH” at Nashik

    99.14

    		  
     

    Manipur
    • 23. Loktak Lake Experience

    89.48

    		  
     

    Meghalaya
    • 24. MICE Infrastructure at Mawkhanu, Shillong

    99.27

    		  
    • 25. Re-development of Umiam Lake, Shillong

    99.27

    		  

    Odisha
    • 26. Development of Hirakud

    99.90

    		  
    • 27. Development of Satkosia

    99.99

    		  
     

    Punjab
    • 28. Development of Heritage Street, SBS Nagar

    53.45

    		  
     

    Rajasthan
    • 29. Development at Amber-Nahargarh and surrounding Area, Jaipur

    49.31

    		  
    • 30. Development at Jal Mahal, Jaipur

    96.61

    		  
     

    Sikkim
    • 31. Skywalk, Bhaleydhunga, Yangang, Namchi

    97.37

    		  
    • 32. Border Experience, Nathula

    68.19

    		  

    Tamil Nadu
    • 33. Nandavanam Heritage Park at Mamallapuram

     99.67

    		  
    • 34. Garden of flowers at Devala, Ooty

    70.23

    		  
     

    Telangana
    • 35. Ramappa Region Sustainable Tourism Circuit

    73.74

    		  
    • 36. Somasilla Wellness & Spiritual Retreat Nallamala

    68.10

    		  

    Tripura
    • 37. 51 Shakti Peethas Park at Banduar, Gomati

     97.70

    		  
     

    Uttar Pradesh
    • 38. Development of Bateshwar, District- Agra

    74.05

    		  
    • 39. Integrated Buddhist Tourism Development, Shrawasti

    80.24

    		  
     

    Uttarakhand
    • 40. Iconic City Rishikesh: Rafting Base Station

    100.00

    		  

    TOTAL

    3,295.76

    		  

    ***

     

    (Release ID: 2099157) Visitor Counter : 71

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rejuvenation of Religious Sites

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 4:26PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Tourism under the “Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive” (PRASHAD) scheme provides financial assistance to the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations for development of tourism infrastructure at important pilgrimage and heritage destinations. A total of 47 projects has been sanctioned in 27 States/UTs with estimated cost of Rs.1594.40 crore.

    Details of the projects sanctioned under the PRASHAD Scheme is given in the annexure.

    As per information received from the State Government of Uttar Pradesh, there is substantial increase in religious tourism to Ayodhya after construction of Ram Mandir. As per tourism statistics of Ayodhya, the total number of visitors to the district has risen from 6,022,618 in the year 2020 to 164,419,522 in the year 2024.

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

    ***

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari  

    E-mail: – tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    ANNEXURE

      List of projects sanctioned under PRASHAD Scheme 

                                                                                                                          (in Rs. Crore)

    State/UT

    S.

    No.

    Project Name

    Sanction Year

    Approved

    Cost

    Andhra Pradesh
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrim Amenities at Amaravati

    2015-16

    27.77
    1.  

    Development of Srisailam Temple

    2017-18

    43.08
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Amenities at Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narsimha Swami VariDevasthanam at Simhachalam

    2022-23

    54.04
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Tourism Infrastructure in Annavaram Temple Town

    2024-25

    25.33

    Arunachal Pradesh
    1.  

    Development of ParshuramKund

    2020-21

    37.88

    Assam
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage amenities at Kamakhya Temple

    2015-16

    29.80

    Bihar
    1.  

    Development at Patna Sahib

    2015-16

    29.62
    1.  

    Development of basic facilities at Vishnupad temple

    2014-15

    3.63

    Chhattisgarh
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage amenities at Maa Bamleshwari Devi Temple

    2020-21

    48.44

    Goa
    1.  

    Development of Bom Jesus Basilica

    2024-25

    16.46

    Gujarat
    1.  

    Development of Dwarka

    2016-17

    10.46
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Amenities at Somnath

    2016-17

    45.36
    1.  

    Development of Promenade at Somnath

    2018-19

    47.12
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Facilities at Ambaji Temple

    2022-23

    50.00

    Haryana
    1.  

    Development of Mata Mansa Devi Temple and Nada SahebGurudwara

    2019-20

    48.53

    Jammu and Kashmir
    1.  

    Development at Hazratbal Shrine

    2016-17

    40.46

    Jharkhand
    1.  

    Development of Baba BaidyaNathDham

    2018-19

    36.79

    Karnataka
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Amenities at Sri Chamundeshwari Devi Temple

    2023-24

    45.71

    Kerala
    1.  

    Development at Guruvayur Temple

    2016-17

    45.19

    Madhya Pradesh
    1.  

    Development of Amarkantak

    2020-21

    49.99
    1.  

    Development of Omkareshwar

    2017-18

    43.93

    Maharashtra
    1.  

    Development of Trimbakeshwar

    2017-18

    42.18

    Meghalaya
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Facilitation at Nongswalia Church, Nartiang Shakti Peeth, Aitnar Pool and Charantala Kali Temple

    2020-21

    29.29

    Mizoram
    1.  

    Development of Infrastructure for Pilgrimage and Heritage Tourism at ChiteVang, Zuangtai, Reiek and Aizawl

    2022-23

    44.89

    Nagaland
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Infrastructure at Molungkimong, NoksenChurch, Aizuto, Wokha and Kohima

    2018-19

    25.20
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Tourism Infrastructure at Zunheboto

    2022-23

    18.18

    Odisha
    1.  

    Infrastructure Development at Puri

    2014-15

    50.00

    Punjab
    1.  

    Development of KarunaSagar Valmiki Sthal at Amritsar

    2015-16

    6.40
    1.  

    Development of Chamkaur Sahib

    2021-22

    31.57

    Rajasthan
    1.  

    Integrated Development of Pushkar/Ajmer

    2015-16

    32.64

    Sikkim
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Facilitation at Four Patron Saints, Yuksom

    2020-21

    33.32

    Tamil Nadu
    1.  

    Development of Kanchipuram

    2016-17

    13.99
    1.  

    Development of Velankanni

    2016-17

    4.86

    Telangana
    1.  

    Development of Jogulamba Devi Temple

    2020-21

    38.90
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage and Heritage Tourism Infrastructure at Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple

    2022-23

    62.00
    1.  

    Development of Pilgrimage Infrastructure at Bhadrachalam

    2022-23

    41.38

    Tripura
    1.  

    Development of Tripura Sundari Temple

    2020-21

    34.43

    Uttar Pradesh
    1.  

    Development of Varanasi –Phase –I

    2015-16

    18.73
    1.  

    Development of Mathura-Vrindavan as Mega Tourist Circuit (Ph-II)

    2014-15

    10.98
    1.  

    Development of River Cruise Tourism at Varanasi

    2017-18

    9.02
    1.  

    Construction of Tourist Facilitation Centre at Vrindavan

    2014-15

    9.36
    1.  

    Development of Varanasi – Phase II

    2017-18

    44.60
    1.  

    Development of Infrastructure facilities at Govardhan

    2018-19

    37.59

    Uttarakhand
    1.  

    Integrated Development of Kedarnath

    2015-16

    34.77
    1.  

    Development of Infrastructure for Pilgrimage Facilitation in Badrinath Ji Dham

    2018-19

    56.15
    1.  

    Augmentation of Pilgrimage Infrastructure Facilities at Gangotri and YamunotriDham

    2021-22

    54.36

    West Bengal
    1.  

    Development of Belur Math

    2016-17

    30.03

     

    *****

    (Release ID: 2099155) Visitor Counter : 62

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Josh Stein Advocating for $1.07 Billion to Rebuild Western NC

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Josh Stein Advocating for $1.07 Billion to Rebuild Western NC

    Governor Josh Stein Advocating for $1.07 Billion to Rebuild Western NC
    bwood

    Raleigh, NC

    Governor Josh Stein today requested $1.07 billion in immediate funding to support urgent rebuilding needs in western North Carolina. Governor Stein’s budget request includes funds to strengthen the economy, get people back into homes faster, repair infrastructure, support farmers, fix private roads and bridges, remove debris, and help school children stay at grade level. 

    “The people of western North Carolina have suffered tremendously since Helene swept through,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I appreciate what the General Assembly has done so far, but it’s time for us to step up and get them the money they need right now to rebuild. We can’t forget western North Carolina – and I will do everything in my power to ensure that the state shows up for them.” 

    Governor Stein made his budget request at MANNA Food Bank, which works with over 300 community-based nonprofit food assistance partner agencies in 16 western North Carolina counties. 

    “MANNA has been an essential resource for the people it serves, and its work has become even more critical since Hurricane Helene struck,” said Governor Stein. “As these organizations continue the daily work of supporting their community, we have a responsibility to support them.”  

    The Governor’s budget request includes funding in the following categories. An overview of some of the programs is below; full request details are available here.  

    Strengthening the Economy

    • $150 million across two grant programs for businesses that suffered physical damage or significant economic loss.

    • $30 million for grants to small towns and counties to rebuild downtowns and other business districts.

    • $15 million to the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina’s VisitNC division to support North Carolina’s tourism industry and to attract travelers and new businesses to the area.

    • $100 million for revenue replacement grants to support local governments whose resources were exhausted by immediate disaster response, as they work to keep water and sewer services going, pay law enforcement, and support school operations.

    Providing Safe and Warm Places to Live

    • $150 million for a Helene Home Construction and Repair Program to immediately start rebuilding the estimated 5,100 homes that will need to be rebuilt post-Helene. 

    • $25 million to support people struggling to afford rent, mortgage, or utility costs because their home or livelihood was affected.

    • $10 million for Back@Home, a program that supports people who are without homes and provides them with case management support.

    • $50 million in incentives for affordable housing construction. 

    • $25 million to fill in gaps for home repairs that are not covered by FEMA. 

    Repairing Infrastructure

    • $75 million to repair private roads and bridges. 

    • $25 million to clean up local parks and greenways in affected areas.

    • $12 million to expedite debris removal.

    • $10 million to provide backup power for emergency operations and other critical infrastructure. 

    • $4 million to repair septic systems.

    Supporting Farmers

    • $15 million for grants to farmers for verified uninsured losses to crops, livestock, aquaculture, and infrastructure.

    • $100 million to help farmers clear debris and repair their land and waterways so they can resume production and protect against future flooding.

    • $19.4 million to prepare for the wildfire season and mitigate future risk.

    Caring For Families and Children

    • $34.2 million for school districts that missed 15 or more days of school to provide summer instruction and other support services to ensure students continue to perform at grade level on End of Grade and End of Course assessments.

    • $20 million to fund food banks in affected areas.

    • $2 million to help college students who are struggling to pay tuition, fees, or emergency expenses that might force them to drop out of school at UNC Asheville, Appalachian State University, and Western Carolina University.  

    Feb 3, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: St Albans Spring Festival – thousands expected at an exciting new street event in May

    Source: St Albans City and District

    Publication date:

    An exciting new street event is to be held in St Albans City Centre featuring free entertainment for everyone.

    The St Albans Spring Festival on Sunday 18 May will be a celebration of food, well-being, community spirit and sustainability.

    Thousands of people are expected at the street party which will take place from 11am to 5pm, with St Peter’s Street closed to traffic. 

    Among the attractions will be live music, arts and crafts, street theatre and dozens of stalls selling takeaway food, drink and other produce. There will be opportunities to learn, play and create with fun activities.

    To ensure accessibility, sighted guides and British sign language interpreters will be in attendance.

    St Albans City and District Council is organising the Festival and will also be bringing back its popular Christmas Cracker, the event which launches the festive season in the District. This will be held on Sunday 16 November.

    The St Albans Feastival, usually staged in September, will not take place this year with May’s Spring Festival being used instead to highlight the District’s hospitality businesses and tourism offering.

    Councillor Anthony Rowlands, Lead for Events, said:

    We have rearranged our street events to give our residents an excellent choice of things to do from May all the way through to November.

    Our Feastival was held in September, but there are a lot of things going on in the late summer, such as Pub in the Park, and it was felt May was a better date for an event.

    The Spring Festival will mark the start of the warmer months and with the Cracker in November, our events will book- end the outdoor season.

    During that time, from May through to November, there will be many other events, run by a host of organisations. Residents and visitors will have an abundance of opportunities to get out and about and socialise with their friends and neighbours.

    More details about the Spring Festival entertainment will appear in the Council’s social media channels in the run-up to the event.

    Among the other events to be held in the District this year are: 

    Hertfordshire County Show, Redbourn – Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 May.

    Foodies Festival, Oaklands College, St Albans – Friday 30 May to Sunday 1 June.

    Harpenden Carnival – Saturday 7 June.

    St Albans Half Marathon, Verulamium Park, St Albans – Sunday 8 June.

    Alban Day, a procession of giant puppets recreating the story of St Alban through the City to the Cathedral – Saturday 21 June.

    Highland Gathering, Rothamsted Park, Harpenden – Sunday 13 July.

    Comedy Garden, Verulamium Park, St Albans – Wednesday 23 to Sunday 27 July.

    Classics on the Common, Harpenden – Wednesday 23 July.

    Pub in the Park, Verulamium Park, St Albans – Friday 5 to Sunday 7 September

    Harpenden Food and Drink Festival – Saturday 13 September

    Gin and Jazz Festival, George Street, St Albans – Friday 3 October.

    St Albans Cathedral Fireworks – Saturday 1 November

    St Albans Christmas Cracker, St Peter’s Street – Sunday 16 November.

    Harpenden Christmas Carnival – Sunday 23 November.

    Photo: scene from a street event last year.

    Media contact:  John McJannet, Principal Communications Officer: 01727- 819533; john.mcjannet@stalbans.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Filming Generates £4.6m for Local Economy

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    FifeScreen+TayScreen is pleased to announce the release of its annual report for 2023/24, showcasing a successful year for the screen industry in the Fife Tay region with figures showing the media industry’s multi-million pound contribution to the economy of the Fife and Tay region. The office also supported ground-breaking work that was a finalist in the Screen International Global Production Awards at the Cannes Film Festival for a UK first – virtual production over 5G between Dundee and Manchester. 

    The figures show continuing resilience for film and TV production in 2023-24 despite challenges such as writer and actor strikes in the USA that have directly affected production in the UK and employment of freelance crew. Production spend reached £2.3 million, generating economic impact of approximately £4.6 million. This highlights the significant contribution that the screen industry makes to the local economy and the wider region.  

    Key Achievements in 2024 

    • Production Activity: the office facilitated over 100 productions, contributing an estimated £2.4 million to the local economy. The office recorded a total of over 400 filming days at locations across the region. Projects ranged from feature films and television dramas to commercials and independent productions. 
    • Diverse Locations Utilised: The region’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and urban settings attracted high-profile projects. These productions not only boosted the local economy but also showcased the region’s unique character on the global stage. 
    • Support for Regional Business: the office connected regional businesses with opportunities in the screen industry. 
    • Sustainability: the office implemented eco-friendly production guidelines towards support Scottish and UK initiatives to ensure the industry’s growth aligns with environmental goals. 
    • The sector supports jobs and livelihoods including freelance crew and services that are integral to production such as hospitality and accommodation. It plays a major part in promoting the region for economic and social development and attracting tourism.   

    Some production highlights 

    The report features several exciting highlights. Time-travel romantic drama series ‘Outlander’, returned for Season 8 and Prequel, Blood of My Blood that filmed across the region. There was filming for the final series of Netflix show, The Crown. The region’s attraction for crime on screen continued with production of Val McDermid’s Karen Pirie Season 2. James McAvoy, star of productions such as X-Men and Atonement, made his directorial debut in Dundee with California Schemin’. Iconic, global fashion brand, Christian Dior brought an A-list event and fashion shoots to Perthshire. This further solidifies the Fife Tayside region’s position as a preferred destination for high-profile productions, drawing attention and visitors from around the world.  

    Studios/Virtual Production and Remote Broadcasting 

    FifeScreen+TayScreen has continue to collaborate with the Tay Cities Deal project, Tay5G Virtual Production and Julie Craik has been appointed to the national board of the £76m CoSTAR programme supported by the UK Government. Virtual Production is an exciting evolution of greenscreen. Real environments or digitally created experiences are projected in specialist studios so that cast and crew can see and interact with them in real time. The office also supported the Tay5G project that saw Neutral Wireless and QTV advancing 5G enabled, live production technology in the region.  

    Dundee’s Fair Work, Economic Growth & Infrastructure Convener, Steven Rome says: “As a city renowned for its creativity and innovation, Dundee is proud to support the ongoing success of Tayscreen in showcasing our region as a vibrant hub for film, television, and creative production. This year’s Tayscreen annual report highlights the collaborative spirit that make our area such an attractive destination for production. Dundee continues to play a vital role in this industry, bringing economic opportunities and raising our profile on the global stage.” 

    Cllr Altany Craik, Spokesperson for Fife Council Finance, Economy & Strategic Planning says: “The film industry continues to play a vital role in Fife’s economy. The support that FifeScreen provides makes it easy for production companies to choose Fife as a location to film audience favourites such as Outlander and The Crown. The effects of having Fife showcased in this way must not be underestimated in terms of the visitor economy and inward investment. Embracing new technology will ensure that FifeScreen+TayScreen continues to be relevant and attractive to this vibrant industry.” 

    Councillor Eric Drysdale, Convener of Perth & Kinross Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, says: “Perth & Kinross is proud to be a part of the TayScreen network, which continues to shine a spotlight on our region’s stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and thriving creative industries. This year’s Tayscreen annual report underscores the significant contribution our area has made to the screen sector, attracting high-profile productions and delivering economic benefits to local communities. From our picturesque countryside to our vibrant towns, Perth & Kinross offers a wealth of opportunities for filmmakers and content creators. We remain committed to supporting the creative industries, recognising their vital role in driving cultural and economic growth in our region.” 

    The report also emphasises the positive impact of screen tourism on the local economy. While tourism services faced challenges due to increased operating costs and the cost-of-living crisis, screen tourism continued to play a crucial role in raising awareness and influencing destination and economic development decisions. The allure of seeing Scotland on screen remains a significant factor for up to 40% of visitors to the region with the impact reported to last for at least four years. 

    FifeScreen+TayScreen is committed to supporting and promoting the region as a premier filming location, as well as leveraging the power of screen tourism to boost the local economy. As part of its mission, the office continues to collaborate with industry partners, local businesses, and stakeholders to create a ‘film-crew friendly’ environment for filmmaking. The success of the past year reflects the continued collective effort and dedication of all engaging with the screen industry in the Fife Tay region. 

    Looking forward, TayScreen remains determined to build on this success and further solidify the region’s reputation as a vibrant hub for screen production. By attracting more high-profile productions, nurturing local talent, and fostering collaborations, TayScreen aims to continue driving economic growth and showcasing the unique charm and beauty of the region to audiences worldwide. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Retail sales down 9.7% in December

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The value of total retail sales for December, provisionally estimated at $32.8 billion, was 9.7% less than in the same month a year earlier, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.

    After netting out the effects of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate represents an 11.5% year-on-year decrease.

    The value of total retail sales for 2024 as a whole was provisionally estimated at $376.8 billion, down 7.3% in value and 9% in volume against 2023.

    Online sales accounted for 7.2% of December’s total retail sales value. Provisionally estimated at $2.4 billion, the value of this segment fell 17.2% from the same month a year earlier.

    The value of sales of jewellery, watches, clocks and valuable gifts dropped by 13.8%.

    Meanwhile, decreases were likewise seen in sales of “consumer goods not elsewhere classified” (down 2.9%); commodities in supermarkets (down 3.1%); clothing (down 11.1%); food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco (down 0.6%); commodities in department stores (down 8.9%); and medicines and cosmetics (down 2.2%).

    Sales also declined in the following categories: electrical goods and other consumer durable goods not elsewhere classified (down 20.2%); motor vehicles and parts (down 36.3%); fuels (down 11.2%); footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (down 4.9%); Chinese drugs and herbs (down 2.2%); furniture and fixtures (down 22%); books, newspapers, stationery and gifts (down 9.6%); and optical items (down 7.5%).

    The Government commented that the decline in the value of total retail sales in December from a year earlier partly reflected an increase in outbound trips by residents during the holidays.

    Looking ahead, it said the retail sector’s near-term performance will continue to be affected by changes in the consumption patterns of visitors and residents.

    However, it added that increasing earnings from employment, and the introduction of various measures by the central government to boost the Mainland’s economy and benefit Hong Kong, together with proactive efforts by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to promote tourism and boost market sentiment, will benefit the sector.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Provisional statistics of retail sales for December 2024 and whole year of 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released the latest figures on retail sales today (February 3).

         The value of total retail sales in December 2024, provisionally estimated at $32.8 billion, decreased by 9.7% compared with the same month in 2023. The revised estimate of the value of total retail sales in November 2024 decreased by 7.3% compared with a year earlier.

         Of the total retail sales value in December 2024, online sales accounted for 7.2%. The value of online retail sales in that month, provisionally estimated at $2.4 billion, decreased by 17.2% compared with the same month in 2023. The revised estimate of online retail sales in November 2024 decreased by 7.2% compared with a year earlier.

         After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate of the volume of total retail sales in December 2024 decreased by 11.5% compared with a year earlier. The revised estimate of the volume of total retail sales in November 2024 decreased by 8.4% compared with a year earlier.

         Analysed by broad type of retail outlet in descending order of the provisional estimate of the value of sales and comparing December 2024 with December 2023, the value of sales of jewellery, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts decreased by 13.8%. This was followed by sales of other consumer goods not elsewhere classified (-2.9% in value); commodities in supermarkets (-3.1%); wearing apparel (-11.1%); food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco (-0.6%); commodities in department stores (-8.9%); medicines and cosmetics (-2.2%); electrical goods and other consumer durable goods not elsewhere classified (-20.2%); motor vehicles and parts (-36.3%); fuels (-11.2%); footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (-4.9%); Chinese drugs and herbs (-2.2%); furniture and fixtures (-22.0%); books, newspapers, stationery and gifts (-9.6%); and optical shops (-7.5%).

         Based on the seasonally adjusted series, the provisional estimate of the value of total retail sales decreased by 0.1% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared with the preceding quarter, while the provisional estimate of the volume of total retail sales decreased by 0.2%.

         For 2024 as a whole, the value of total retail sales was provisionally estimated at $376.8 billion, decreased by 7.3% in value and 9.0% in volume compared with 2023. The value of online retail sales was provisionally estimated at $31.7 billion, decreased by 2.6% over 2023.
     
         Analysed by broad type of retail outlet in descending order of the provisional estimate of the value of sales and comparing the whole year of 2024 with the whole year of 2023, the value of sales of jewellery, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts decreased by 14.5%. This was followed by sales of commodities in supermarkets (-1.5% in value); wearing apparel (-10.6%); food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco (-3.2%); electrical goods and other consumer durable goods not elsewhere classified (-11.3%); commodities in department stores (-13.9%); motor vehicles and parts (-17.2%); fuels (-11.4%); footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (-7.5%); furniture and fixtures (-14.4%); Chinese drugs and herbs (-14.8%); and optical shops (-13.6%).

         On the other hand, the value of sales of other consumer goods not elsewhere classified increased by 0.4% in 2024 compared with 2023. This was followed by sales of medicines and cosmetics (+4.4% in value); and books, newspapers, stationery and gifts (+4.7%).

    Commentary

         A government spokesman said that the value of total retail sales declined further in December from a year earlier, partly reflecting the impact of residents’ increased outbound trips during the holidays. For the fourth quarter as a whole, the value of total retail sales fell by 6.7% year-on-year, narrower than the 9.6% decrease in the preceding quarter.

         Looking ahead, the spokesman said that the near-term performance of the retail sector would continue to be affected by the change in consumption patterns of visitors and residents. Nevertheless, the introduction of various measures by the Central Government to boost the Mainland economy and benefit Hong Kong, together with the SAR Government’s proactive efforts to promote tourism development and boost market sentiment, as well as increasing employment earnings, would benefit the retail sector.

    Further information

         Table 1 presents the revised figures on value index and value of retail sales for all retail outlets and by broad type of retail outlet for November 2024 as well as the provisional figures for December 2024. The provisional figures on the value of retail sales for all retail outlets and by broad type of retail outlet as well as the corresponding year-on-year changes for the whole year of 2024 are also shown.

         Table 2 presents the revised figures on value of online retail sales for November 2024 as well as the provisional figures for December 2024. The provisional figures on year-on-year changes for the whole year of 2024 are also shown.
     
         Table 3 presents the revised figures on volume index of retail sales for all retail outlets and by broad type of retail outlet for November 2024 as well as the provisional figures for December 2024. The provisional figures on year-on-year changes for the whole year of 2024 are also shown.

         Table 4 shows the movements of the value and volume of total retail sales in terms of the year-on-year rate of change for a month compared with the same month in the preceding year based on the original series, and in terms of the rate of change for a three-month period compared with the preceding three-month period based on the seasonally adjusted series.

         The classification of retail establishments follows the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification (HSIC) Version 2.0, which is used in various economic surveys for classifying economic units into different industry classes.

         These retail sales statistics measure the sales receipts in respect of goods sold by local retail establishments and are primarily intended for gauging the short-term business performance of the local retail sector. Data on retail sales are collected from local retail establishments through the Monthly Survey of Retail Sales (MRS). Local retail establishments with and without physical shops are covered in MRS and their sales, both through conventional shops and online channels, are included in the retail sales statistics.

         The retail sales statistics cover consumer spending on goods but not on services (such as those on housing, catering, medical care and health services, transport and communication, financial services, education and entertainment) which account for over 50% of the overall consumer spending. Moreover, they include spending on goods in Hong Kong by visitors but exclude spending outside Hong Kong by Hong Kong residents. Hence they should not be regarded as indicators for measuring overall consumer spending.

         Users interested in the trend of overall consumer spending should refer to the data series of private consumption expenditure (PCE), which is a major component of the Gross Domestic Product published at quarterly intervals. Compiled from a wide range of data sources, PCE covers consumer spending on both goods (including goods purchased from all channels) and services by Hong Kong residents whether locally or abroad. Please refer to the C&SD publication “Gross Domestic Product by Expenditure Component” for more details.

         More detailed statistics are given in the “Report on Monthly Survey of Retail Sales”. Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1080003&scode=530).

         Users who have enquiries about the survey results may contact the Distribution Services Statistics Section of C&SD (Tel: 3903 7400; email : mrs@censtatd.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special traffic and transport arrangements for Hong Kong Marathon 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Special traffic and transport arrangements for Hong Kong Marathon 2025
    Special traffic and transport arrangements for Hong Kong Marathon 2025
    **********************************************************************

         The Transport Department (TD) today (February 3) reminded members of the public that, to facilitate the holding of the Hong Kong Marathon 2025 this Sunday (February 9), temporary road closures will be implemented at various locations in phases from Saturday (February 8) at 11.30pm and will be reopened subject to the progress of the race. It is anticipated all closed roads will be reopened by about 2pm on Sunday.      This year, the full and half marathon races will start at Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui. The full marathon race will route through major road sections including Nathan Road (from Granville Road to Argyle Street), Argyle Street, Lin Cheung Road, West Kowloon Highway, Stonecutters Bridge, Nam Wan Tunnel, Ting Kau Bridge, Cheung Tsing Tunnel, Tsing Kwai Highway, the Western Harbour Crossing (WHC), Connaught Road West flyover, Lung Wo Road, Expo Drive, Hung Hing Road, Lockhart Road, Percival Street, Hennessy Road, Yee Wo Street and Sugar Street, and finish at Victoria Park. The half marathon race route will follow that of the full marathon race from the starting point at Nathan Road to Lin Cheung Road with the turning point at Tsing Kwai Highway and then rejoin the full marathon race route at West Kowloon Highway.      As for other races, the starting point will be set at different locations on Hong Kong Island while all the finishing points will be set at Victoria Park. The 10-kilometre race will start at the Island Eastern Corridor (IEC) near the exit/entrance of Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel (CWBT) and run along the IEC eastwards to the turning point near Oi Tak Street and then return to the finishing point. The 10-kilometre wheelchair race will start at Wan Chai Sports Ground and route through Hung Hing Road, Expo Drive, Lung Wo Road and Central Ferry Piers area and then return to run along Lung Wo Road, Hung Hing Road, Marsh Road, Lockhart Road and Hennessey Road heading for the finishing point. The Wheelchair Trial and Leaders Cup will also start at Wan Chai Sports Ground and route through Hung Hing Road and Marsh Road and then rejoin the 10-km wheelchair race route heading for the finishing point.      According to the arrangements for the full and half marathon race routes, temporary closures of major road sections and their vicinities in Yau Tsim Mong area will be implemented extensively, including (i) the whole section of Nathan Road (in both directions) between Salisbury Road and Gascoigne Road, (ii) the northbound carriageway of Nathan Road between Gascoigne Road and Argyle Street, and (iii) the westbound carriageway of Argyle Street between Nathan Road and Tong Mi Road. The above road sections will be reopened at or before about 10.30am in phases, subject to the progress of the races. At the same time, public transport services in this area will also be subject to extensive adjustments. Members of the public heading to this area are advised to use railway services.      Moreover, since the full marathon will use the Kowloon-bound carriageways of Cheung Tsing Highway, Cheung Tsing Tunnel and Nam Wan Tunnel as the race route, vehicles on Lantau Link (Tsing Ma Bridge) heading to Kowloon will be diverted to use North West Tsing Yi Interchange, Tsing Yi North Coastal Road, Tsing Tsuen Road, Tsuen Wan Road, Kwai Chung Road, Cheung Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road. It is anticipated that traffic congestion along North Lantau Highway, Tsing Ma Bridge and the vicinity of North West Tsing Yi Interchange may occur.      The above road closures will not affect vehicles from Hong Kong Island/Kowloon/New Territories East heading for Hong Kong International Airport and Lantau Island. Vehicles from the New Territories West to the airport and Lantau Island could travel via Tuen Mun-Chek Lap Kok Tunnel. Due to the closure of the Kowloon-bound carriageway of Ting Kau Bridge, vehicles travelling via Tuen Mun Road or Tai Lam Tunnel to the airport and Lantau Island will be diverted to use Tsuen Wan Road, Tsuen Tsing Interchange, Tsing Tsuen Road, Tsing Tsuen Bridge and Tsing Yi North Coastal Road to enter Tsing Ma Bridge.      During the races, the Kowloon-bound tube of the WHC will remain opened, while the Hong Kong-bound tube of the WHC will be temporarily closed from 0.45am on Sunday till about 1.15pm, subject to the progress of the races. Motorists in Kowloon West heading for Hong Kong Island are advised to use the Cross-Harbour Tunnel or Eastern Harbour Crossing (EHC). For the race routes in Causeway Bay, Yee Wo Street eastbound will be temporarily closed to serve as a race route. Most of the public transport services operating along Yee Wo Street (in the direction of North Point) will be diverted to use Percival Street, Leighton Road and Pennington Street during the closure period.      According to the arrangements for the 10-km race, both bound carriageways of the IEC between Victoria Park Road and Shau Kei Wan, and the CWBT linking to and from the IEC will be closed from 1.15am on Sunday in phases, and traffic will be diverted via appropriate alternative routes such as Connaught Road Central, Gloucester Road, King’s Road, Shau Kei Wan Road, etc. Traffic to and from the EHC will be diverted to the Sai Wan Ho or Kornhill exit/entrance. Depending on the progress of the races, different sections of the CWBT will be reopened in phases to minimise the impact on traffic. Upon the anticipated reopening of the IEC before noon, the section of the CWBT between Central and North Point will be reopened while the Wan Chai North exit from and entrance to the CWBT will be closed for most of the race time.      In connection with the road closure arrangements, starting from 11.15pm on Saturday until the reopening of the roads, 211 daytime bus routes and 33 daytime green minibus (GMB) routes will be subject to suspension, truncation or diversion, and the stopping points concerned of the affected bus and GMB services will be relocated accordingly in phases. Also, 49 overnight bus routes and six overnight green minibus routes to be affected by the road closures will be subject to the associated service adjustments. These affected bus routes include the cross-harbour routes and bus services operating in the following areas:     Hong Kong Island – bus routes operating along the IEC, the CWBT, in Central and Western District, Wan Chai and Causeway Bay areas;     Kowloon – bus routes operating along Nathan Road, Argyle Street, Shanghai Street, Jordan Road and Yau Tsim Mong areas; and New Territories – bus routes operating along Ting Kau Bridge, Cheung Tsing Highway, Cheung Tsing Tunnel and Nam Wan Tunnel.     The following bus termini and public transport interchanges on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon will be suspended: Hong Kong Island – Tin Hau Station Public Transport Interchange, Expo Drive East Bus Terminus, Central Ferry Piers Bus Terminus and Whitfield Road Bus Terminus; and      Kowloon – China Ferry Terminal Public Transport Interchange and Star Ferry Bus Terminus.     To enable participants of the full/half marathon and 10-km races that start in the early morning to go to Tsim Sha Tsui or Causeway Bay, the first departures of eight rail lines of MTR services will be advanced suitably on Sunday, with the first departures on the Tuen Ma Line and East Rail Line to be operated at 3.25am. In addition, 28 special bus routes will also be operated to serve participants going to Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay on Sunday.      During the road closure period, bus stops, taxi stands, taxi pick-up/drop-off points, public light bus/GMB stands, roadside parking spaces and private car parks within the closed roads and their vicinities may be suspended subject to the situation.      The commencement time of the pedestrian precinct on Lockhart Road, East Point Road and Great George Street in Causeway Bay will be postponed to 3pm on Sunday subject to the road reopening situation in the vicinity of Causeway Bay.     Members of the public and tourists heading for Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal, Hong Kong Station and Kowloon Station of the Airport Express Line, Hong Kong West Kowloon Station of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link, China Ferry Terminal (China Hong Kong City) or Ocean Terminal are advised to plan their journeys early to avoid any delays caused by road closures and traffic diversions.      The TD anticipates that the traffic at various locations on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon and the New Territories will be more significantly congested when compared with normal Sundays, including:     Hong Kong Island – King’s Road, Shau Kei Wan Road, Victoria Park Road, Leighton Road, Hennessy Road, Gloucester Road, Queensway, Connaught Road Central, Aberdeen Tunnel (Wan Chai bound) and Central Ferry Piers areas;     Kowloon – Nathan Road and its vicinity, Argyle Street, Wylie Road, Gascoigne Road flyover, West Kowloon Corridor and Cross-Harbour Tunnel (both bounds), with a higher chance of long traffic queues along Gascoigne Road flyover and West Kowloon Corridor; and     New Territories – Lantau Link (Kowloon bound) and North West Tsing Yi Interchange.     Motorists should avoid driving to the above affected areas. In case of traffic congestion, they should exercise patience and drive with care, and follow the instructions of the Police on-site.      Members of the public should plan their journeys early and use alternative routes to avoid unexpected delays, and take railway services as far as possible. Public transport users are advised to pay attention to the arrangements of route diversions and changes of stop locations.      Other ad-hoc traffic and public transport measures, including adjusting the extent of road closures, traffic diversions, alterations and suspensions of public transport services, may be implemented by the Police on-site at short notice depending on the actual traffic and crowd conditions. The TD and the Police will closely monitor the traffic situation and implement appropriate measures whenever necessary. Members of the public are advised to stay alert to the latest traffic news through the media.      For information about the above special traffic and transport adjustments, members of the public may browse the TD’s website at www.td.gov.hk or the “HKeMobility” mobile application.

     
    Ends/Monday, February 3, 2025Issued at HKT 15:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: NBA teams to generate $285.8 million from jersey patch deals for 2024-25 season, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    NBA teams to generate $285.8 million from jersey patch deals for 2024-25 season, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Sport

    At the start of the 2024-25 National Basketball Association (NBA) season, all but three of the 30 competing teams boast an official patch partner. The league has permitted patch partners on jerseys since the start of the 2017-18 season, and the teams are financially benefitting from the additional sales opportunity. Overall, patch partnership deals are estimated to generate $285.8 million across the league, with teams averaging $10.6 million a season from these rights, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “The Business of the NBA 2024-25,” reveals that, based on the biggest individual market in the US, the New York Knicks are linked to the largest valued patch deal this season. Its partnership with ‘Experience Abu Dhabi’ is new for the 2024-25 season and valued at $30 million a season. For the brand, it is a deal based around tourism, as it looks to boost the global visibility of Abu Dhabi as a popular destination and comes off the back of several sports sponsorship rights claimed by Emirati brands in recent years.

    Jake Kemp, Sport Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The arrival of ‘Experience Abu Dhabi’ in the league highlights a global push of the Middle Eastern brands in global sports markets. The size of its deal with the Knicks holds a higher value too because of its extended branding on the team warm-up shirts and the ability to use trademarks against the Knicks and its home venue – Madison Square Garden.

    “Brands from the region have been signing big deals in European sport for a number of years now, and North America could be a major target for Middle Eastern brands in the coming years. It highlights the popularity of the NBA, as a global product, with brand sponsorship interest moving away from the standard home-based brand deals.”

    The Charlotte Hornets, Los Angeles Clippers, and San Antonio Spurs are the only NBA teams this season without a patch partner. It marks a second straight season for the Clippers, which represents significant missed financial revenue, particularly given its strong city (LA) marketplace value.

    The Clippers most recently ended its patch partnership with ‘Honey’ at the end of the 2022-23 season, which was worth $8 million. Its lack of replacement since, however, suggests that they are overvaluing their patch rights. The Hornets and the Spurs have yet to replace their expired patch partnership from the 2023-24 season, with ‘Feastables’ and ‘Self’ respectively, worth $5 million and $10 million a season.

    Kemp continues: “Patch partnerships offer great exposure for brands, with prime branding on popular sports jerseys. With NBA teams playing 82 games a season, these brands are receiving strong exposure regularly and for a long period of time each season. NBA athletes are also seen as some of the biggest names in world sport and most followed on social media. Brands are able to build an association with these sports superstars through team jersey branding.”

    Patch partnerships were only introduced in the NBA in 2017, and every team has in this time signed a patch partner. Their popularity continues, as teams remain committed to not missing out on the multi-millions on offer. Across the league, there were 11 new patch partnerships signed ahead of the 2024-25 season.

    Kemp concludes: “The new patch deals in the league hold a combined estimated $122 million annual value. This is significantly boosted by the deals from the two New York based teams, as the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets deals stand at $30 million and $20 million, respectively.  Patch partnerships are highly sought after because of the in-game visibility if offers. Besides the Nike swoosh on all kits, there are no other brand logos as visible in the NBA.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hotel services evolve to match Spring Festival trends

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Located near Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing is a popular hotel choice for travelers exploring the Chinese capital, while a set of thoughtful services to embrace the Year of the Snake adds to this hotel’s unique appeal.

    Customers can enjoy steamed red buns filled with Beijing’s famous roast duck, and make a woodblock printing of their personal Chinese zodiac animal or a Peking Opera portrait of Sun Wukong, the star of the globally popular 3A game which debuted last year. Served on a traditional copper hot pot, desserts at this hotel are shaped after auspicious Chinese icons like lion, persimmon and cabbage.

    Customized Spring Festival food and services, designed with local cultural characteristics, are also rolled out in many other Hilton hotels across the country, and even in some overseas markets, according to Wendy Huang, senior vice president and commercial director with Hilton Greater China & Mongolia.

    “We hope to leverage creative cuisine and local culture — especially unique intangible cultural heritage and local customs, to make their holiday a meaningful cultural journey for our guests,” Huang said.

    Celebrating the Chinese New Year by traveling and experiencing Chinese culture has become a new tradition during the Spring Festival, which nurtures new business opportunities for the hospitality sector.

    Increasing affluence and a growing preference for convenience has prompted many Chinese families to dine out on Chinese New Year’s Eve. Some online platforms reported a more than 100-percent increase in orders for family reunion dinners compared to the previous year, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

    “Our 10-person table dining set on that evening was fully booked,” said a staff member at Hilton Beijing Wangfujing.

    The Spring Festival holiday has become a crucial period for the tourism industry. Hilton’s data showed that while bookings in traditional tourism hubs like east China during this period had remained robust this year compared to 2024, some niche destinations such as Jiuzhaigou, Urumqi and Maotai Town had also posted positive booking trends in 2025 compared with last year.

    As a significant holiday characterized by family reunions, over 80 percent of the travelers during the Chinese New Year period are families, according to a report issued by the China Association of Travel Services and travel platform Tuniu.com.

    Notably, the trend of multi-generational travel, including grandparents, parents and children, as well as parent-child trips, is particularly prominent, accounting for 36 percent and 27 percent of total travel numbers, respectively, the report said.

    To meet family travel needs, Hilton offers connecting rooms to ensure close interaction while providing independent space for family members. Pet-friendly services are also available for people traveling with cats or dogs, according to Huang.

    In recent years, the U.S.-based group has seen more than 100 hotels open each year in China — its largest overseas market. Hilton had opened hotels in over 250 destinations across China by the end of 2024.

    “Chinese travelers’ needs are constantly evolving, and this will continue to fuel our service innovation,” Huang said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HIGHLIGHTS OF UNION BUDGET 2025-26

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 12:42PM by PIB Delhi

    PART A

    Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt Nirmala Sitharaman presented Union Budget 2025-26 in the Parliament today. The highlights of the budget are as follows:

    Budget Estimates 2025-26

    • The total receipts other than borrowings and the total expenditure are estimated at ₹ 34.96 lakh crore and ₹ 50.65 lakh crore respectively.
    • The net tax receipts are estimated at ₹ 28.37 lakh crore.
    • The fiscal deficit is estimated to be 4.4 per cent of GDP.
    • The gross market borrowings are estimated at ₹ 14.82 lakh crore.
    • Capex Expenditure of ₹11.21 lakh crore (3.1% of GDP) earmarked in FY2025-26.

    AGRICULTURE AS THE 1ST ENGINE OF DEVELOPMENT

    Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana – Developing Agri Districts Programme

    • The programme to be launched in partnership with the states, covering 100 districts with low productivity, moderate crop intensity and below-average credit parameters, to benefit 1.7 crore farmers.

    Building Rural Prosperity and Resilience

    • A comprehensive multi-sectoral programme to be launched in partnership with states to address under-employment in agriculture through skilling, investment, technology, and invigorating the rural economy.
    • Phase-1 to cover 100 developing agri-districts.

    Aatmanirbharta in Pulses

    • Government to launch a 6-year “Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses” with focus on Tur, Urad and Masoor.
    • NAFED and NCCF to procure these pulses from farmers during the next 4 years.

    Comprehensive Programme for Vegetables & Fruits

    • A comprehensive programme to promote production, efficient supplies, processing, and remunerative prices for farmers to be launched in partnership with states.

    Makhana Board in Bihar

    • A Makhana Board to be established to improve production, processing, value addition, and marketing of makhana.

     

    National Mission on High Yielding Seeds

    • A National Mission on High Yielding Seeds to be launched aiming at strengthening the research ecosystem, targeted development and propagation of seeds with high yield, and commercial availability of more than 100 seed varieties.

    Fisheries

    • Government to bring a framework for sustainable harnessing of fisheries from Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and High Seas, with a special focus on the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands.

    Mission for Cotton Productivity

    • A 5-year mission announced to facilitate significant improvements in productivity and sustainability of cotton farming, and promote extra-long staple cotton varieties.

    Enhanced Credit through KCC

    • The loan limit under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme to be enhanced from ₹ 3 lakh to ₹ 5 lakh for loans taken through the KCC.

    Urea Plant in Assam

    • A plant with annual capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tons to be set up at Namrup, Assam.

    MSMEs AS THE 2ND ENGINE OF DEVELOPMENT

    Revision in classification criteria for MSMEs

    • The investment and turnover limits for classification of all MSMEs to be enhanced to 2.5 and 2 times respectively.

    Credit Cards for Micro Enterprises

    • Customized Credit Cards with ₹ 5 lakh limit for micro enterprises registered on Udyam portal, 10 lakh cards to be issued in the first year.

    Fund of Funds for Startups

    • A new Fund of Funds, with expanded scope and a fresh contribution of ₹ 10,000 crore to be set up.

    Scheme for First-time Entrepreneurs

    • A new scheme for 5 lakh women, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes first-time entrepreneurs to provide term-loans upto ₹ 2 crore in the next 5 years announced.

    Focus Product Scheme for Footwear & Leather Sectors

    • To enhance the productivity, quality and competitiveness of India’s footwear and leather sector, a focus product scheme announced to facilitate employment for 22 lakh persons, generate turnover of ₹ 4 lakh crore and exports of over ₹ 1.1 lakh crore.

    Measures for the Toy Sector

    • A scheme to create high-quality, unique, innovative, and sustainable toys, making India a global hub for toys announced.

    Support for Food Processing

    • A National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management to be set up in Bihar.

    Manufacturing Mission – Furthering “Make in India”

    • A National Manufacturing Mission covering small, medium and large industries for furthering “Make in India” announced.

    INVESTMENT AS THE 3RD ENGINE OF DEVELOPMENT

    1. Investing in People

    Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0

    • The cost norms for the nutritional support to be enhanced appropriately.

    Atal Tinkering Labs

    • 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs to be set up in Government schools in next 5 years.

    Broadband Connectivity to Government Secondary Schools and PHCs

    • Broadband connectivity to be provided to all Government secondary schools and primary health centres in rural areas under the Bharatnet project.

    Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme

    • Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme announced to provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education.

    National Centres of Excellence for Skilling

    • 5 National Centres of Excellence for skilling to be set up with global expertise and partnerships to equip our youth with the skills required for “Make for India, Make for the World” manufacturing.

    Expansion of Capacity in IITs

    • Additional infrastructure to be created in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students.

    Centre of Excellence in AI for Education

    • A Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education to be set up with a total outlay of ₹ 500 crore.

    Expansion of medical education

    • 10,000 additional seats to be added in medical colleges and hospitals next year, adding to 75000 seats in the next 5 years.

    Day Care Cancer Centres in all District Hospitals

    • Government to set up Day Care Cancer Centres in all district hospitals in the next 3 years, 200 Centres  in 2025-26.

    Strengthening urban livelihoods

    • A scheme for socio-economic upliftment of urban workers to help them improve their incomes and have sustainable livelihoods announced.

    PM SVANidhi

    • Scheme to be revamped with enhanced loans from banks, UPI linked credit cards with ₹ 30,000 limit, and capacity building support.

    Social Security Scheme for Welfare of Online Platform Workers

    • Government to arrange for identity cards, registration on e-Shram portal and healthcare under PM Jan Arogya Yojna, for gig-workers.

     

    1. Investing in the Economy

    Public Private Partnership in Infrastructure

    • Infrastructure-related ministries to come up with a 3-year pipeline of projects in PPP mode, States also encouraged.

    Support to States for Infrastructure

    • An outlay of ₹1.5 lakh crore proposed for the 50-year interest free loans to states for capital expenditure and incentives for reforms.

    Asset Monetization Plan 2025-30

    • Second Plan for 2025-30 to plough back capital of ₹ 10 lakh crore in new projects announced.

    Jal Jeevan Mission

    • Mission to be extended until 2028 with an enhanced total outlay.

    Urban Challenge Fund

    • An Urban Challenge Fund of ₹ 1 lakh crore announced to implement the proposals for ‘Cities as Growth Hubs’, ‘Creative Redevelopment of Cities’ and ‘Water and Sanitation’, allocation of ₹ 10,000 crore proposed for 2025-26.

    Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat

    • Amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act to be taken up.
    • Nuclear Energy Mission for research & development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) with an outlay of ₹20,000 crore to be set up, 5 indigenously developed SMRs to be operational by 2033.

    Shipbuilding

    • The Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy to be revamped.
    • Large ships above a specified size to be included in the infrastructure harmonized master list (HML).

    Maritime Development Fund

    • A Maritime Development Fund with a corpus of ₹ 25,000 crore to be set up, with up to 49 per cent contribution by the Government, and the balance from ports and private sector.

    UDAN – Regional Connectivity Scheme

    • A modified UDAN scheme announced to enhance regional connectivity to 120 new destinations and carry 4 crore passengers in the next 10 years.
    • Also to support helipads and smaller airports in hilly, aspirational, and North East region districts.

    Greenfield Airport in Bihar

    • Greenfield airports announced in Bihar, in addition to the expansion of the capacity of Patna airport and a brownfield airport at Bihta.

    Western Koshi Canal Project in Mithilanchal

    • Financial support for the Western Koshi Canal ERM Project in Bihar.

    Mining Sector Reforms

    • A policy for recovery of critical minerals from tailings to be brought out.

    SWAMIH Fund 2

    • A fund of ₹ 15,000 crore aimed at expeditious completion of another 1 lakh dwelling units, with contribution from the Government, banks and private investors announced.

    Tourism for employment-led growth

    • Top 50 tourist destination sites in the country to be developed in partnership with states through a challenge mode.

     

    1. Investing in Innovation

    Research, Development and Innovation

    • ₹20,000 crore to be allocated to implement private sector driven Research, Development and Innovation initiative announced in the July Budget.

    Deep Tech Fund of Funds

    • Deep Tech Fund of Funds to be explored to catalyze the next generation startups.

    PM Research Fellowship

    • 10,000 fellowships for technological research in IITs and IISc with enhanced financial support.

    Gene Bank for Crops Germplasm

    • 2nd Gene Bank with 10 lakh germplasm lines to be set up for future food and nutritional security.

    National Geospatial Mission

    • A National Geospatial Mission announced to develop foundational geospatial infrastructure and data.

    Gyan Bharatam Mission

    • A Gyan Bharatam Mission for survey, documentation and conservation of our manuscript heritage with academic institutions, museums, libraries and private collectors to be undertaken to cover more than 1 crore manuscripts announced.

    EXPORTS AS THE 4TH ENGINE OF DEVELOPMENT

    Export Promotion Mission

    • An Export Promotion Mission, with sectoral and ministerial targets, driven jointly by the Ministries of Commerce, MSME, and Finance to be set up.

    BharatTradeNet

    • ‘BharatTradeNet’ (BTN) for international trade to be set-up as a unified platform for trade documentation and financing solutions.

    National Framework for GCC

    • A national framework to be formulated as guidance to states for promoting Global Capability Centres in emerging tier 2 cities.

    REFORMS AS FUEL: FINANCIAL SECTOR REFORMS AND DEVELOPMENT

    FDI in Insurance Sector

    • The FDI limit for the insurance sector to be raised from 74 to 100 per cent, for those companies which invest the entire premium in India.

    Credit Enhancement Facility by NaBFID

    • NaBFID to set up a ‘Partial Credit Enhancement Facility’ for corporate bonds for infrastructure.

    Grameen Credit Score

    • Public Sector Banks to develop ‘Grameen Credit Score’ framework to serve the credit needs of SHG members and people in rural areas.

    Pension Sector

    • A forum for regulatory coordination and development of pension products to be set up.

    High Level Committee for Regulatory Reforms

    • A High-Level Committee for Regulatory Reforms to be set up for a review of all non-financial sector regulations, certifications, licenses, and permissions.

    Investment Friendliness Index of States

    • An Investment Friendliness Index of States to be launched in 2025 to further the spirit of competitive cooperative federalism anounced.

    Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0

    • The Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 to decriminalize more than 100 provisions in various laws.

     

    PART B

     

    DIRECT TAX

     

    • No personal income tax payable upto income of Rs 12 lakh (i.e. average income of Rs 1 lakh per month other than special rate income such as capital gains) under the new regime.
    • This limit will be Rs 12.75 lakh for salaried tax payers, due to standard deduction of Rs 75,000.
    • The new structure will substantially reduce the taxes of the middle class and leave more money in their hands, boosting household consumption, savings and investment.
    • The new Income-Tax Bill to be clear and direct in text so as to make it simple to understand for taxpayers and tax administration, leading to tax certainty and reduced litigation.
    • Revenue of about ₹ 1 lakh crore in direct taxes will be forgone.

     

    • Revised tax rate structure

     

    • In the new tax regime, the revised tax rate structure will stand as follows:

     

    0-4 lakh rupees

    Nil

    4-8 lakh rupees

    5 percent

    8-12 lakh rupees

    10 percent

    12-16 lakh rupees

    15 percent

    16-20 lakh rupees

    20 percent

    20- 24 lakh rupees

    25 percent

    Above 24 lakh rupees

    30 percent

     

     

    • TDS/TCS rationalization for easing difficulties

     

    • Rationalization of Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) by reducing number of rates and thresholds above which TDS is deducted.
    • The limit for tax deduction on interest for senior citizens doubled from the present Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh.
    • The annual limit of Rs 2.40 lakh for TDS on rent increased to Rs 6 lakh.
    • The threshold to collect tax at source (TCS) on remittances under RBI’s Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS) increased from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
    • The provisions of the higher TDS deduction will apply only in non-PAN cases.
    • Decriminalization for the cases of delay of payment of TCS up to the due date of filing statement.

     

     

    • Reducing Compliance Burden

     

    • Reduction of compliance burden for small charitable trusts/institutions by increasing their period of registration from 5 years to 10 years.

     

    • The benefit of claiming the annual value of self-occupied properties as nil will be extended for two such self-occupied properties without any condition.

     

    • Ease of Doing Business

     

    • Introduction of a scheme for determining arm’s length price of international transaction for a block period of three years.
    • Expansion of the scope of safe harbour rules to reduce litigation and provide certainty in international taxation.
    • Exemption of withdrawals made from National Savings Scheme (NSS) by individuals on or after the 29th of August, 2024.
    • Similar treatment to NPS Vatsalya accounts as is available to normal NPS accounts, subject to overall limits.

     

    • Employment and Investment

     

    Tax certainty for electronics manufacturing Schemes

     

    • Presumptive taxation regime for non-residents who provide services to a resident company that is establishing or operating an electronics manufacturing facility.
    • Introduction of a safe harbour for tax certainty for non-residents who store components for supply to specified electronics manufacturing units.

     

    Tonnage Tax Scheme for Inland Vessels

     

    The benefits of existing tonnage tax scheme to be extended to inland vessels registered  under the Indian Vessels Act, 2021 to promote inland water transport in the country.

     

     

    • Extension for incorporation of Start-Ups

    Extension of the period of incorporation by 5 years to allow the benefit available to start-ups incorporated before 1.4.2030.

     

     

    • Alternate Investment Funds (AIFs)

     

    Certainty of taxation on the gains from securities to Category I and Category II AIFs which are undertaking investments in infrastructure and other such sectors.

     

     

    • Extension of investment date for Sovereign and Pension Funds

     

    Extension of the date of making investments in Sovereign Wealth Funds and Pension Funds by five more years, to 31st March, 2030, to promote funding from them to the infrastructure sector.

     

     

    INDIRECT TAX

    Rationalisation of Customs Tariff Structure for Industrial Goods

    Union Budget 2025-26 proposes to:

    1. Remove seven tariff rates. This is over and above the seven tariff rates removed in 2023-24 budget. After this, there will be only eight remaining tariff rates including ‘zero’ rate.
    2. Apply appropriate cess to broadly maintain effective duty incidence except on a few items, where such incidence will reduce marginally.
    3. Levy not more than one cess or surcharge. Therefore Social Welfare Surcharge on 82 tariff lines that are subject to a cess, exempted.

    Revenue of about ₹ 2600 crore in indirect taxes will be forgone.

    Relief on import of Drugs/Medicines

    • 36 lifesaving drugs and medicines fully exempted from Basic Customs Duty (BCD).
    • 6 lifesaving medicines to attract concessional customs duty of 5%.
    • Specified drugs and medicines under Patient Assistance Programmes run by pharmaceutical companies fully exempted from BCD; 37 more medicines added along with 13 new patient assistance programmes.

    Support to Domestic Manufacturing and Value addition

    • Critical Minerals :
      • Cobalt powder and waste, the scrap of lithium-ion battery, Lead, Zinc and 12 more critical minerals fully exempted from BCD.
    • Textiles:
      • Two more types of shuttle-less looms fully exempted textile machinery.
      • BCD rate on knitted fabrics revised from “10% or 20%” to “20% or ` 115 per kg, whichever is higher.
    • Electronic Goods:
      • BCD on Interactive Flat Panel Display (IFPD) increased from 10% to 20% .
      • BCD reduced to 5% on Open Cell and other components.
      • BCD on parts of Open Cells exempted.
    • Lithium Ion Battery:
      • 35 additional capital goods for EV battery manufacturing, and 28 additional capital goods for mobile phone battery manufacturing exempted.
    •  Shipping Sector: 
      • Exemption of BCD on raw materials, components, consumables or parts for the manufacture of ships extended for another ten years.
      • The same dispensation to continue for ship breaking.
    • Telecommunication: 
      • BCD reduced from 20% to 10% on Carrier Grade ethernet switches.

    Export Promotion

    • Handicraft Goods:
      • Time period for export extended  from six months to one year, further extendable by another three months, if required.
      • Nine items added to list of duty-free inputs.
    • Leather sector:         
      • BCD on Wet Blue leather fully exempted.
      • Crust leather exempted from 20% export duty.
    • Marine products:
      • BCD reduced from 30% to 5% on Frozen Fish Paste (Surimi) for manufacture and export of its analogue products.
      • BCD reduced from 15% to 5% on fish hydrolysate for manufacture of fish and shrimp feeds.
    • Domestic MROs for Railway Goods: 
      • Railways MROs to benefit similar to the aircraft and ships MROs in terms of import of repair items.
      • Time limit extended for export of such items from 6 months to one year and made further extendable by one year.

    Trade facilitation

    • Time limit for Provisional Assessment: 
      • For finalising the provisional assessment, time-limit of two years fixed, extendable by a year.
    • Voluntary Compliance:
      • A new provision introduced to enable importers or exporters, after clearance of goods, to voluntarily declare material facts and pay duty with interest but without penalty.
    • Extended Time for End Use:
      • Time limit for the end-use of imported inputs in the relevant rules extended from six months to one year.
      • Such importers to file only quarterly statements instead of a monthly statement.

    *****

    NB/RC/VV/KS/CNAN/GS/SC/AG/NJ

    (Release ID: 2098353) Visitor Counter : 643

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public invited to vote in Taxi Service Commendation Scheme 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Public invited to vote in Taxi Service Commendation Scheme 2024
    Public invited to vote in Taxi Service Commendation Scheme 2024
    ***************************************************************

         The Transport Department (TD) said today (February 1) that the Taxi Service Commendation Scheme 2024 will be open for public voting starting from today. Members of the public are welcome to cast their votes online by May 31 through the Committee on Taxi Service Quality’s (CTSQ) website (www.ctsq.org.hk/voting) or by scanning the QR code on the scheme’s publicity material (see Annex).      Jointly launched by the CTSQ and the TD, the scheme has received a record high number of over 1 400 nominations in total for the Quality Taxi Drivers and Good Driver, Good Service awards. Among them, 70 nominees for the Quality Taxi Drivers award and six for the Good Driver, Good Service award were shortlisted for public voting. After the end of public voting, a professional assessment panel will evaluate the driving records, conduct, in-service training records, commended behaviour and passengers’ satisfaction of the drivers, as well as the management on taxi service quality, application of advanced technology in enhancing the efficiency and quality of taxi service, and social responsibility of the management teams.      Twenty nominees for Quality Taxi Drivers and two for Good Driver, Good Service obtaining the highest combined scores from the public voting and professional assessment panel will receive the awards, while the driver given the highest score from public voting will be named the Most Popular Taxi Driver. In addition, the taxi service management team with the highest score from the panel will receive the Quality Taxi Service Management Team award.      A spokesman for the TD appealed to members of the public and tourists to vote and join hands to recognise the quality taxi services provided by trade practitioners and enhance the image of the industry. Apart from promotional materials displayed inside taxi compartments, at other modes of public transport and the information plates at taxi stands, the scheme is also publicised through the TD’s website, the HKeMobility mobile application and collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

     
    Ends/Saturday, February 1, 2025Issued at HKT 11:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s annual trade in services exceeds $1 trillion, boasting significant potential

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s annual trade in services exceeded 1 trillion U.S. dollars for the first time last year, demonstrating significant potential for further growth.

    China’s services import and export value amounted to a record-high of 7.5 trillion yuan (about 1.05 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2024, expanding 14.4 percent year on year, according to the latest data from the Ministry of Commerce (MOC).

    Exports grew 18.2 percent year on year and imports grew 11.8 percent, according to the MOC.

    Driven by the global trends of digitization, smart technology advancement and green development, China’s trade in services grew in scale, its structure was optimized further and its international competitiveness was enhanced in 2024, said Li Jun, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation under the MOC.

    He noted that the comprehensive relaxation and optimization of China’s visa-free transit policy has played a role in boosting inbound tourism over the last year.

    The broadly welcomed new policy has sparked the rise of “China Travel,” a popular hashtag on social media where many travelers share their experiences in China, with increasing numbers of international tourists being drawn by the country’s cultural landmarks, nature and city walks.

    “‘China Travel’ is booming rapidly, and this growth is expected to boost the country’s services trade further, while helping to drive the global travel industry toward continued recovery and prosperity,” Li said.

    China’s digital cultural platforms and content have been gaining significant traction overseas, Li said, noting the popularity of Chinese video game “Black Myth: Wukong,” the distribution of high-quality Chinese films and TV dramas on overseas streaming platforms such as Netflix and YouTube, and the fact that Chinese internet literature is influencing an increasing number of international readers.

    The Chinese government released a guideline on promoting the high-quality development of trade in services through high-standard opening-up in August last year.

    The document offered robust policy support for the development of China’s services trade, Li said, calling for more efforts to advance opening-up, innovation and international cooperation in the sector.

    Noting that China established a nationwide negative list management system for cross-border trade in services last year, Li suggested that the level of institutional opening-up should be improved continuously, that the negative list should be shortened gradually as appropriate, and that high-standard international economic and trade rules should be aligned with actively.

    He urged launching the construction of national demonstration zones for the innovative development of trade in services as soon as possible.

    To facilitate innovation, Li called for the potential of industrial digitization and digital transformation to be unlocked, for support for the professional organizations offering services in finance, consulting, design and certification to enhance their ability to provide international services, and for the accelerated development of green services.

    Bilateral, multilateral and regional collaboration in digital trade and trade in services should be expanded, Li said, suggesting that the role of major exhibition platforms should continue to be leveraged, and that international services trade cooperation parks should be developed.

    MIL OSI China News –