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Over 160k already sign up for Huanggang e-channel
The Immigration Department said more than 160,000 people have registered for the “collaborative inspection” automated channels at the redeveloped Huanggang port ahead of its opening on Monday. Under the co-location arrangement that features a "collaborative inspection and joint clearance" model, travellers can complete both Hong Kong and mainland immigration procedures in a single stop. At a press briefing, assistant immigration director Jacky Wong said SAR travellers only have to present either their HKID or home-return permit when going through the automated channels, but they should still bring along both documents. He said more than 160,000 Hong Kong residents had completed the registration on the department's mobile app as of noon on Friday since it was rolled out three days ago. The figure is expected to climb after the redeveloped port opens, Wong added. He called on residents to complete the registration in advance so as to enjoy a convenient boundary-crossing experience. Travellers can also register on-site, Wong said, and his department will arrange sufficient staff for assistance. “We find that the process is smooth and fast. The time for enrolment only takes seconds. We think that it will not affect the whole clearance process.” Authorities said overall clearance time will be slashed from approximately 30 minutes to just five minutes. They also said they will deploy manpower in a flexible manner and arrange additional staff to ensure smooth operation at the round-the-clock port. Edited by Edmond Fong
BJP to question legitimacy of Keralam Assembly amid Congress protest against CEC
BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar announced plans to question the Congress government in Kerala during the Assembly session. He mentioned three BJP MLAs inquiring about the legality of the Assembly after recent remarks regarding the electoral revisions. Meanwhile, KPCC president Sunny Joseph dismissed the BJP’s claims as excuses and defended the electoral process.
Victory smiles on those who anticipate changes in character of warfare: IAF chief
During a seminar discussing modern warfare dynamics, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh pointed out the importance of predicting shifts in conflict to ensure success in today's battlefields. He stressed that air power is essential for defending national priorities amidst global unrest. The seminar also marked the occasion of the 'Tarang Shakti' air exercise, showcasing the Indian Air Force’s transformation into a premier military force since its establishment in 1932.
Kerala launches Tech Keralam brand, IT Parks Affiliation Scheme to boost technology investments
The initiatives aim to connect technology companies, startups, research institutions, investors and infrastructure developers while expanding employment opportunities across the State
South Africa vs Australia 1st Test Day 1: Highlights from Durban
South Africa vs Australia 1st Test Day 1: Highlights from Durban
Govt likely to finalise critical minerals stockpiling policy in a month
Mines Secretary Keshav Chandra indicated that a policy on stockpiling critical minerals will be announced soon. This initiative is designed to support strategic sectors like defence, advanced electronics, and aerospace. The government plans to establish four dedicated critical minerals processing parks across various states to enhance value addition. A comprehensive list of over 30 critical minerals has been released for essential industry needs.
Flipkart customer orders smartphone but receives soap in sealed box: Court orders full refund with interest & compensation for mental harassment
A Delhi consumer commission has held Flipkart guilty of deficiency in service and unfair trade practice after a customer received bars of soap instead of a Realme Narzo 50A smartphone worth Rs 10,574. The commission directed Flipkart to refund the purchase price with 7% annual interest and pay Rs 5,000 as compensation for mental harassment and Rs 5,000 towards litigation expenses. The company has been given 60 days to comply with the order.
NEET protest: SC rejects plea for independent probe into CJP agitation
On Friday, the Supreme Court turned down a petition for a fair investigation into the Cockroach Janta Party protests. The demonstrations were held concerning the alleged NEET paper leak, leading to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The petition called for police independence in maintaining law and order during the investigation processes. The court also upheld its previous decision to quash certain FIRs under Article 142.
Bessent may skip Apec in Hong Kong to focus on Trump’s Shenzhen visit, sources say
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent may skip a meeting of Apec finance ministers in Hong Kong later this month to focus on preparing for President Donald Trump’s historic visit to Shenzhen in November, sources told the South China Morning Post. Bessent is expected to meet Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng in Shenzhen ahead of Trump’s visit – when Trump will again hold talks with President Xi Jinping – as the two sides look to secure a longer extension of the bilateral trade truce, which is due to...