Author: admin_fijitimes

A decade ago, on 12 March 2015, while commissioning in Mauritius the gleaming Offshore Patrol Vessel Barracuda, built in Garden Reach, Kolkata to Mauritian specifications, Prime Minister Modi outlined India’s policy towards the Indian Ocean Region (IOR): SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region. The Indian Ocean, he pointed out, was critical to the future of the world bearing two-thirds of the world’s oil shipments, one third of its bulk cargo and half of its container traffic. The forty states that are on its littoral host nearly 40% of the world’s population. SAGAR policy emphasized five aspects:…

Ten years ago, the idea of a global day dedicated to “yoga” might have seemed far-fetched. But here we are—yoga mats unrolled across the globe, from bustling urban parks to silent, icy outposts in Antarctica. The International Day of Yoga (IDY) has become much more: a movement rooted in well-being, connection, and a shared sense of humanity. The journey to make yoga a global movement started in the year 2014, when our Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the UN General Assembly in September that year. His message was simple and powerful: “Yoga is an invaluable gift of India’s…

At the 2nd Voice of the Global South Summit hosted virtually by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 17th November 2023, one key focus area was on, “Sustain the momentum of exchange and sharing of ideas and best practices between member countries…” At the 3rd Summit also hosted by the Indian PM on 17th August 2024, there was focus on, “…challenges of new technologies and need for South-South Cooperation co-operation for technology transfers…”. Of the four-fold Global Compact put forward by PM Modi one is on technology sharing. Thus, it is clear, that as a responsible voice of the Global…

Nurses and midwives across the state are being recognised for their passion and dedication in caring for patients, with 27 finalists announced in the 13th annual NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards. The finalists have been nominated across nine award categories, including Team of the Year, the Judith Meppem Lifetime Achievement Award, and the consumer-nominated Healing Heart Award which recognises a nurse or midwife whose compassion, kindness, and professionalism stood out to a patient or family. NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM said this year’s finalists have demonstrated outstanding care and contributed to improved health outcomes in their…

Every year, thousands of young Indians students leave their homes and fly across continents to study in Australia. For many, studying in Australia is more than just a degree, it’s a stepping stone to a better life. According to Australia’s Department of Education, as of April 2025, there were 794,113 international student enrollments, with Indian students making up 17% of that total. That means nearly 1 in every 6 international students in Australia is from India, showing just how deeply connected the two countries have become through education. Students come for many reasons such as world-class universities, promising career paths,…

Remembering the Yash Chopra concert Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein organised by SCREAN Australia’s Manju Mittal was a truly resounding success. As the skies slowly darkened and a cold evening blanketed the city, there was a joyful hustle and bustle at the Pacific Hills Christian School with gentlemen in their warm winter clothes and the ladies clad in fine chiffon saris, a la Yash Chopra style. The event began on time with the baritone of popular MC Kartik Mohandas. The lamp was lit, the audience lights were dimmed and the very talented and jovial band was introduced. Latecomers were still…

The Albanese Government has taken the next step towards tackling modern slavery, with a public consultation process now open on options to strengthen the Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth). Modern slavery practices, such as human trafficking, forced marriage, forced labour, deceptive recruiting and debt bondage deprive individuals of their freedom and control over their lives. The Modern Slavery Act is a key pillar of Australia’s response to modern slavery. It requires certain large businesses based or operating in Australia to report on how they assess and address modern slavery risks in their operations and supply chains. The Act complements the Albanese Government’s…

ANDREW CLENNELL, HOST: Joining me live is the Federal Attorney-General, Michelle Rowland. Thanks for your time. I have to start then on this Tasmanian election result. I know you’re a NSW MP, so you’re probably not that much into Tasmanian politics, but you’d have to say there’s an argument for changing the Hare-Clark system, wouldn’t you? MICHELLE ROWLAND, ATTORNEY-GENERAL: I won’t dictate to the Tasmanians on their systems, Andrew, but I think there is something to be said about the desire for stability, I think by all voters. I think that this has a bit of a way to go…

The much-anticipated trailer of Son of Sardaar 2 created a laughter riot amongst fans as they witnessed Ajay Devgn reprise their all-time favorite character, Jassi! Filled with madness, masti, and Punjabi flair, the trailer gives a glimpse of the grand celebration ahead. The songs have already struck a chord, from the catchy title track to the viral Pehla Tu Duja Tu hook step. Adding more fun to this entertainment ride, the makers today dropped NachDi, the ultimate bridal anthem, with Mrunal Thakur radiating grace and glamour! Now, brides have their own anthem, a catchy, foot-tapping song that promises to get…

Tanvi The Great, Anupam Kher’s film already declared as ‘A True Cinematic Masterpiece’ by several critics abroad, has earned global recognition after its international festival run across Cannes, New York, Houston and London. These multiple early screenings have got the film a thundering standing ovation including the ovations from 2500 cadets and army officers and their families at the National Defence Academy and the Southern Command, Pune respectively. The movie has now reached a defining moment even before the release of the film as the Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, will be watching the film at a special…