India is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to transform public services, focusing on practical applications that improve governance rather than disrupt it. S. Krishnan, Secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, highlighted this approach during his speech at the Abu Dhabi Global AI Summit. He emphasized that India’s AI-driven governance model is affordable, open-source, and designed to foster innovation. Krishnan cited specific examples, such as using AI for chest X-ray diagnostics in rural healthcare clinics and detecting road potholes through data collected from food-delivery services. These initiatives are part of India’s broader Digital Public Infrastructure, which includes frameworks like Aadhaar and the Unified Payments Interface. Krishnan stressed that the open-source nature of these AI solutions allows them to be exported to other regions, such as Africa, without significant licensing barriers. He also called for flexible regulations to encourage innovation, stating that policymakers should trust innovators to address governance challenges effectively. The panel discussion, which included Baroness Joanna Shields of the Responsible AI Future Foundation, concluded that India’s approach exemplifies ‘agentic governance,’ where AI is used to deliver tangible benefits to citizens.
标签： Asia
亚洲
-
Palestine Action prisoners launch rolling hunger strike over detention conditions
Three detainees in the UK, held on remand for alleged offenses linked to Palestine Action activities, have initiated a hunger strike to protest what they describe as “systematic abuse” by prison authorities. The campaign group Prisoners for Palestine (PFP) revealed on Sunday that Qesser Zurah and Amu Gibb began a rolling hunger strike at HMP Bronzefield by refusing food. Huba Muraisi, detained at HMP New Hall, joined the protest on Monday. PFP anticipates more participants in the coming days but refrained from disclosing exact numbers due to fears of further targeting by authorities. Muraisi, a Yemeni national with family in Gaza, is part of the Filton 24, a group arrested on terrorism charges in August 2024 for targeting an Israeli arms company’s research hub in Bristol. Although the charges are now non-terror-related, the Crown Prosecution Service plans to argue a “terrorism connection” in court, potentially worsening their sentences. All Filton 24 defendants have been denied bail and held beyond the UK’s standard 182-day pre-trial custody limit. PFP claims Muraisi has faced severe restrictions, including privacy violations, limited access to books and visits, and forced segregation. Her hijab, a kuffiyeh used during prayers, was reportedly removed by prison security. Muraisi was transferred to HMP Newhall, far from her family and support network. Qesser was allegedly confined to her cell after announcing her hunger strike, with guards threatening disciplinary action. The strike follows the Home Secretary’s failure to address their demands for bail and an end to prison interference with communications. In July, Palestine Action was banned and classified as a terrorist organization, leading to increased restrictions on detainees’ post, calls, and visits. This prompted a previous hunger strike by detainee T Hoxha in August.
-
Shanghai Disney Resort reaches 100 million visitors
Shanghai Disney Resort has marked a significant milestone by welcoming its 100 millionth visitor since its inauguration in 2016. This achievement underscores the resort’s enduring popularity and its pivotal role in the global theme park industry. In a strategic move to bolster its offerings, the resort announced plans for a fourth themed hotel, set to be situated near the main entrance of Shanghai Disneyland. This expansion is part of a broader initiative to enhance the visitor experience with new shopping and dining options. The resort currently boasts the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel, the Toy Story Hotel, and a third hotel under construction. Additionally, the resort is advancing several major projects, including a new Spider-Man-themed land, an expansion of the ‘soaring over the horizon’ attraction, and a residential complex for front-line employees. According to the TEA Global Experience Index 2024, Shanghai Disneyland achieved a record-breaking annual attendance of 14.7 million visitors in 2024, securing its position as the fifth most visited theme park globally and the top in China. These developments highlight the resort’s commitment to innovation and its strategic vision for sustained growth.
-
Xinjiang’s desert poplar forests shine with autumn tourism
As autumn unfolds, the desert poplar forests of Shaya county in Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region have transformed into a breathtaking golden landscape, attracting visitors from far and wide. Located on the northern edge of the Taklimakan Desert, Shaya county boasts one of the world’s largest and most well-preserved desert poplar forests, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts. The trees, with their sturdy and twisted trunks, line the banks of the Tarim River, resembling strokes of calligraphy. Under the warm autumn sun, their leaves shimmer in the wind, creating a mesmerizing symphony of colors. This seasonal spectacle has not only highlighted the region’s natural beauty but also boosted local tourism, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the serene charm of Xinjiang’s autumnal wilderness.
-
China’s northernmost city welcomes first visitors with extended ski season
The Arctic Ski Resort, located in Mohe, Heilongjiang province—China’s northernmost city—officially opened its doors to visitors this Saturday, marking the start of an extended ski season that promises to run through April. Known for its breathtaking snowy landscapes and ideal conditions for winter sports, Mohe has become a magnet for ski enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The resort not only offers traditional skiing but also a variety of engaging activities, including tug-of-war, snow soccer, and exhilarating snowmobile rides. This year’s extended season is expected to attract even more tourists, boosting local tourism and providing a unique winter experience for visitors from across the country.
-
Tianshan: A Story of Canals inspires youth to aid Xinjiang
The China National Opera House in Beijing recently premiered the modern dance drama ‘Tianshan: A Story of Canals’ on Saturday, aiming to foster patriotism and inspire young individuals to contribute to the growth of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. This production, a collaborative effort between Jiangsu province and Xinjiang, highlights the cultural synergy between the two regions. The narrative follows a graduate student who, influenced by the historical legacy of Qing Dynasty national hero Lin Zexu, returns to his hometown in the Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture. Through a fantastical cross-temporal dialogue, the protagonist is moved to dedicate his life to the advancement of his homeland. The dance drama not only celebrates cultural achievements but also serves as a call to action for the younger generation to engage in regional development.
-
Seminar seeks to help developing countries modernize agriculture
A groundbreaking seminar on agricultural and rural digitalization for developing countries commenced in Beijing on October 31, 2025. Organized by China’s Ministry of Commerce and the Foreign Economic Cooperation Center under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the 14-day event brought together 27 agricultural officials, experts, and scholars from nations including Cuba, Gambia, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, El Salvador, and Thailand. The seminar aims to share China’s expertise in agricultural digital transformation and explore how emerging technologies like big data and artificial intelligence can modernize agriculture and foster sustainable rural development globally. Ma Zhigang, deputy director of the center, emphasized China’s commitment to sharing its innovative practices in smart agriculture and digital village construction. Omar Muntaha Athman Lali, a Kenyan county government director, praised China’s leadership in agricultural innovation and its role in South-South cooperation. Participants will engage in lectures, case studies, and field visits, including a trip to Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region for the 2025 World Expo on Digital Agriculture, to gain practical insights into cutting-edge agricultural technologies.
-
China ranks 35th among academic IELTS test takers in 2024-25
In the 2024-25 academic year, Chinese mainland test takers achieved an average score of 5.9 in the academic IELTS exam, securing the 35th position globally, as reported by the British Council. The score distribution remained stable, with nearly 60% of candidates scoring between 5.5 and 6.5, marking a slight 1.7% decline from the previous year. Reading emerged as the strongest skill for Chinese candidates, with an average score of 6.2, while speaking and writing showed significant improvement compared to 2018-19 levels, reflecting progress in productive language skills. The report also noted advancements across various education stages, with secondary, vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate test takers all demonstrating enhanced performance, particularly in writing and speaking. Middle school students made steady progress, vocational college candidates excelled in reading and writing, undergraduates performed well in reading but struggled with listening, and postgraduate candidates maintained high scores in reading and writing. Regionally, Shanghai led in average scores, though regional disparities are narrowing. Among top institutions, 38 universities achieved an average score of 6.5 or above, with Fudan University reaching the 7 band for the second consecutive year.
-
Women’s cricket headed for ‘stratosphere’ in India after long-awaited first World Cup victory
In a historic moment for Indian cricket, the women’s team, led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, clinched their first-ever Women’s Cricket World Cup title on Sunday, defeating South Africa by 52 runs. This victory not only ended a decades-long wait but also marked a transformative milestone for women’s cricket in India. The triumph was sealed when Kaur took a crucial catch, symbolizing the culmination of years of perseverance and determination. India, a dominant force in men’s cricket, had previously fallen short in the women’s World Cup finals in 2005 and 2017, but this win has redefined the narrative. Kaur, who played a pivotal role in the tournament, including a stunning 171 not out against Australia, has become a beacon of inspiration. The victory has sparked a renewed enthusiasm for women’s cricket in India, with experts like former England captain Nasser Hussain predicting that this achievement will elevate the sport to unprecedented heights. The launch of the Women’s Premier League in 2023 and the emergence of young talents like Kranti Goud and Shree Charani have been instrumental in this success. Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar likened the euphoria of this win to India’s 1983 men’s World Cup victory, emphasizing its potential to inspire a new generation of female cricketers. The team’s gesture of honoring past players, including Jhulan Goswami, underscores the collective effort behind this triumph. Goswami expressed confidence that this victory will set a benchmark for future teams, fostering a culture of resilience and self-belief. As India celebrates this landmark achievement, the focus now shifts to sustaining this momentum and furthering the growth of women’s cricket globally.
-
Bollywood star Pankaj Tripathi’s mother dies at 89
Renowned Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi is grieving the loss of his mother, Hemwanti Devi, who passed away at the age of 89 on October 31. The actor, known for his acclaimed performances in ‘Criminal Justice,’ ‘Sacred Games,’ and ‘Mirzapur,’ was by his mother’s side during her final moments in their hometown of Belsand, Gopalganj district, Bihar. According to a family statement, Hemwanti Devi had been unwell for some time and died peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by her loved ones. Her final rites were conducted on November 1 in the presence of close family members, relatives, and friends. The family has requested privacy during this period of mourning, urging the media and well-wishers to respect their need for solace. Pankaj Tripathi, who recently appeared in the fourth season of ‘Criminal Justice’ and ‘Metro…In Dino,’ has earned widespread recognition for his versatile roles in films like ‘Gangs of Wasseypur,’ ‘Bareilly Ki Barfi,’ and ‘OMG 2.’ The news of his mother’s passing has deeply saddened fans and colleagues, who have extended their condolences to the grieving family.