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March 2017

CONTENTS

A quarterly newsletter from the Embassy of Japan in India

The 2nd STS Forum India–Japan Workshop in New Delhi 10 Signing Ceremony of GGP for Underprivileged 10 Girls Hostel in Rajasthan Talks held on “Changes in China's Foreign Policy and 11 Japan-China Relations” Conferment of 2016 Autumn Imperial Decoration on 11 Mrs. Manorama Jafa, Secretary-General of IBBY Lecture-cum-Demonstration of Calligraphy, Tea Ceremony 12 and Kimono & Exhibition of “Cherry Blossoms and Tale of Genji” Professor P.A. George of JNU awarded by Japanese 12 Foreign Minister Congratulations to newly-graduated students of 13 MOSAI Institute of Japanese Language Fabulous performance in Table Tennis by Team Japan 13 - ITTF World Tour India Open 2017 Screening Events of Japanese Short Films 14 JET Programme Reopened After 7 Years for Participants 14 from India Updates from Consulates 15 Exploring Japan: Cherry Blossoms in Tohoku and Hokkaido 19 Good News for Visa Applicants! 19 Embassy of Japan in India Officially on Faccebook 20

Ambassador Kenji Hiramatsu (centre) with other dignitaries at the inauguration of “2017 the Year of Japan- India Friendly Exchanges”, at The Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi, on January 12, 2017 (Photo : Embassy of Japan, New Delhi)

The Opening of “2017 the Year of Japan-India Friendly 2 Exchanges” Tentative List of Commemorative Events 3 from April 2017 Onwards Ambassador Hiramatsu's Visit to Assam and Nagaland 4 Interaction with Members of FICCI India Japan Forum of 4 Parliamentarians Ambassador addresses Conferences on Indo-Pacific 5 Cooperation and Emerging Realignments in Asia Japan to cooperate on “Smart City” initiatives in 5 Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Varanasi Mr. Hiroshige Seko, Minister of Economy, Trade, and 6 Industry, Government of Japan, visits India Launch of an Experimental Project to Promote Cargo Rail 6 Transportation in India Ambassador Hiramatsu 's visit to Kolkata, West Bengal 7 The 9th Japan-India Joint Committee on Science and 7 Technology Cooperation Reception for Japan-India Game Industry 8 Ambassador Hiramatsu's Visit to Jharkhand 8 Japan and India sign Memorandum of Cooperation on 9 Railway Safety Seminar on Quality Infrastructure: Japanese Investment 9 for Better Infrastructure in India

Japan Calling2

On January 12, “2017 the Year of Japan-India

Friendly Exchanges” was formally inaugurated at

The Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi. The event was

co-hosted by Ambassador Hiramatsu, the Japan

Tourism Agency, and the Japan National Tourism

Organization (JNTO), and graced by the presence

of many dignitaries from India and Japan,

including H.E. Mr. Suresh Prabhu, Hon'ble

Minister of Railways, Mr. Amitabh Kant, CEO of

NITI Aayog, and Mr. Ryoichi Matsuyama,

President of JNTO.

An announcement regarding the new Japan-India

collaborative film project “Love in Tokyo” was

also made on the occasion. Indian film directors,

Mr. Imtiaz Ali and Mr. Arif Ali, and Japan's major

film studio SHOCHIKU, talked about the film on

the stage.

(For more information on the opening event, as

well as “2017 the year of Japan-India Friendly

Exchanges”, please visit http://www.in.emb-

japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000222.html)

The Opening of “2017 the Year of Japan-India Friendly Exchanges”

(Photos : Embassy of Japan, New Delhi)

Tentative List of Commemorative Events from April 2017 Onwards

Japan Calling 3

Date Venue Name of Event Organizer

28th March-29th April The Japan Foundation, New Delhi Exhibition-On Line Dot Devi Art Foundation and

curated by Maki Nishida The Japan Foundation, New Delhi

10th-11st April Mandala Minamiaoyama (Tokyo) India Classical Dance Solo Act 2017 Kadamb Japan

12nd-22nd April New Delhi "UNDOKAI WORLD CARAVAN" NPO Japan Sports Communications

Project

15th-16st April Tenjin Central Park (Fukuoka) NAMASTE FUKUOKA 2017 Namaste Fukuoka 2017 executive

committee

1st May-31st August programmes at each organization PIITs WEB STAFF

2nd-15th May Onagawa town (Miyagi), Sado city India Folk dance performance in Japan NPO Society to Promote Indo-Japan

(Niigatata), Nara city (Nara), Tokyo etc. sent by ICCR (First Batch) Cultural Relations

14th May KINSHO HALL at Todaiji Bodhi Sena inheritance project 2017 NPO Society to Promote Indo-Japan

Cultural Relations

1st-15th June Kobe, Kyoto, Hiroshima Exchanges with Keimei School, Kobe, Bluebells School International

and Ritsumeikan School, Kyoto

15th July Kyoto Ryukoku University Avanti Hall Odissi Mahotsav Odissi Dance Centre

15th July-8th August Government High School, Earth Art Project in Ladakh Wall Art Project

Thiksay (Ladakh)

20th September-2nd October Sendai city (Miyagi), Sado city India Folk dance performance in Japan NPO Society to Promote Indo-Japan

(Niigata), Kariya city (Aichi), Tokyo etc. sent by ICCR (Second Batch) Cultural Relations

23rd, 24th September Yoyogi Park Event Square & outside Namaste India 2017 NPO Society to Promote Indo-Japan

state (Tokyo) Cultural Relations

28th October-5th November National Institute of Fashion Technology Odisha Biennale 2017 Tokyo-Odisha Cultural Exchange,

(Bhubaneshwar) Mudra Foundation

22nd-30th November Kamani Auditorium (New Delhi) Iwami Kagura Performance Tour in India Hamada Iwami Kagura Shachu

University of Bangalore (Bengarulu) Renrakukyougikai

Kamaraj Memorial Hall (Chennai)

Throughout the Year ABK-AOTS Dosokai, Training Program on Japanese ABK-AOTS Dosokai, Tamilnadu Centre

(Total 20 programs Planned) Tamilnadu Centre Management Technique

Throughout the Year High Schools, Universities etc. Promotion for Study in Japan The University of Tokyo,

(February-December) (Study in Japan Fair, School Visits etc.) INDIA OFFICE

Throughout the year Planned at 70 companies Seminar: Introduction to 5S and Mr. Ravindra Kalur

TPM Concepts

Please ask organizers for details of the events.

Japan Calling4

Ambassador Hiramatsu’s Visit to Assam and Nagaland

Ambassador Hiramatsu hosted an interaction with Members of FICCI India Japan Forum of Parliamentarians on February 6, at the Embassy of Japan, New Delhi. The Ambassador along with 16 MPs had a lively interactive session where they shared views on Japan-India relations in various fields including economy, politics and strategy.

Interaction with Members of FICCI India Japan Forum of Parliamentarians

(Photos : Embassy of Japan, New Delhi)

North East India is a land full of natural beauty and cultural diversity. The region has unique historical links with Japan. Ambassador Hiramatsu visited Guwahati, Assam, from January 20-22, marking his second visit to the region, after a trip to Imphal, Manipur, last November.On Saturday, January 22, Ambassador met the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Assam, Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, and discussed various issues, such as investment promotion, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges, to give a boost to bilateral relations.Ambassador also visited the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati. While his visit was on a weekend, he was warmly welcomed by the Director, Prof. Gautam Biswas, and other staff of the university as well as over a hundred students keenly interested in Japan. Thereafter, Ambassador Hiramatsu paid a visit to Kohima, Nagaland, for the first time as Ambassador of Japan to India, from January 22 to 23. The Battle of Kohima was one of the most frightful battles during the World War II, fought between the Japanese and British as well as Indian soldiers, from April to June 1944.Ambassador visited the War Cemetery and the Catholic Cathedral, among others, and expressed his heartfelt condolence and respect to the dead, and offered sincere prayers for peace. Ambassador met the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Nagaland, Mr. T.R. Zeliang, at the CM's office in Kohima, on Monday, January 23. They discussed possible cooperation between Japan and Nagaland, such as on the State's development, youth exchanges, and the collection of the remains of Japanese soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the World War II. They agreed to explore future-oriented cooperation.

Meeting with the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Assam Meeting with the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Nagaland

(Photos: Embassy of Japan, New Delhi)

Kohima War Cemetery

On January 5, Ambassador Hiramatsu called on H.E. Mr. Venkaiah Naidu, Minister of Urban Development, and discussed Japan's cooperation on “Smart City” initiatives, flagship initiatives for urban development by the Government of India. In the meeting, Ambassador Hiramatsu conveyed to H.E. Mr. Naidu that Japan has decided to cooperate on “Smart City” initiatives in the cities of Ahmedabad, Chennai and Varanasi. In Ahmedabad, the terminal station for Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Railway is planned to be developed through Japan's cooperation. In addition, Japan is supporting the construction of the Ahmedabad Metro project and the unique road traffic management system in Ahmedabad. Chennai has strong ties with Japan through the establishment of a wide range of Japanese manufacturing units, and Japan is also cooperating on the Chennai Metro project. In Varanasi, Japan is supporting the construction and rehabilitation of sewerage facilities under the “Ganga Action Plan Project (Varanasi)” and the capacity building on disaster risk reduction in grass-root level. The Government of Japan hopes to further enhance its cooperative relationship with India through Japan's participation in “Smart City” initiatives in these cities.

Japan to cooperate on “Smart City” initiatives in Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Varanasi

Traffic Information Board in Ahmedabad

(Photo: ZERO-SUM, LTD.)

Chennai Metro Sewerage Treatment Plant in Varanasi

(Photo: JICA) (Photo: JICA)

Japan Calling 5


Ambassador addresses Conferences on Indo-Pacic Cooperation andEmerging Realignments in Asia

On February 13, Ambassador Hiramatsu made the opening remarks at an international seminar entitled “Indo-Pacific Region: Converging India-Japan Interests”, organized by the Observer Research Foundation. The conference was attended by Hon'ble Minister of State for Home Affairs, Mr. Kiren Rijiju, Deputy National SecurityAdvisor, Dr. Arvind Gupta, and other distinguished speakers. On March 10, Ambassador Hiramatsu made a keynote address entitled “What is Certain in an Age of Uncertainty” at an international conference organized by the Delhi Policy Group (DPG).(For Ambassador's keynote address at DPG, please see: )http://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000286.html

Japan Calling6

Mr. Hiroshige Seko, Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, Government of Japan, visited India from January 8 to 10. He held meetings with H.E. Mr. Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, H.E. Mr. Vijay Rupani, Chief Minister of Gujarat, H.E. Mr. Piyush Goyal, Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines, and H.E. Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry. He also attended the India-Japan Energy Forum 2017 in Delhi, and the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2017 in Ahmedabad. For more information, please see (Website of METI): http://www.meti.go.jp/english/press/2017/0116_001.html

Mr. Hiroshige Seko, Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, Government of Japan, visits India

On January 18, Ambassador Hiramatsu participated in the launch ceremony of an experimental project initiated by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) to promote the use of cargo rail transportation in India. Ambassador Hiramatsu expressed his expectation that this experimental project would result in the reduction of transportation costs as well as environmental impact, by catalyzing the improvement of cargo rail transportation services in India, encouraging more companies in India, including Japanese companies, towards the use of rail cargo transportation.

Launch of an Experimental Project to Promote Cargo Rail Transportation in India

Ambassador Hiramatsu with Mr. Norifumi Idee, Managing Executive Officer, Nippon Express Co., Ltd.(far left), Mr. A.K. Behera, Executive Director, Ministry of Railways (2nd from left), and Mr. A. Vaasudeva Rao, Group General Manager, CONCOR (far right)

Ambassador Hiramatsu's speech at the launch ceremony of MLIT's project



Minister Seko with the Prime Minister, Mr. Modi Minister Seko with the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Mr. Rupani


On January 20, Ambassador Hiramatsu visited Kolkata, West Bengal, and participated in the Bengal Global Business Summit 2017, representing Japan as a Partner Country. He also paid a call on the Hon'ble Chief Minister, Ms. Mamata Banerjee.The event has been held every year since 2015, and this is its 3rd round. Participants included Hon'ble President of India, Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, Hon'ble Finance Minister of West Bengal, Dr. Amit Mitra, Hon'ble Industries Minister of Bangladesh, Mr. Amir Hossain Amu, and leading Indian industrialists.Ambassador Hiramatsu participated in the inauguration ceremony as a State Guest. During his remarks, he pointed out the importance of the State of West Bengal, which is located at the connecting point between India and South East Asia. He also touched upon the historic relationship between the State and Japan, efforts of development assistance by Japan in the State, possibility of cooperation in the field of tourism, and operations of Japanese companies in the State.Ambassador Hiramatsu paid a visit to the Hon'ble Chief Minister, Ms. Banerjee, and exchanged views on cooperation in the fields of tourism, cultural exchange, and infrastructure development.

Ambassador Hiramatsu 's visit to Kolkata, West Bengal

Japan Calling 7

The 9th Japan-India Joint Committee on Science and Technology Cooperation was held on January 30, in New Delhi, which was co-chaired by Mr. Takeshi Nakane, Ambassador for Science and Technology Cooperation of Japan, and Dr. Arabinda Mitra, Advisor and Head, International Bilateral Cooperation Division, Department of Science and Technology (DST) of India.Participants from Ministries and Institutes of both countries made presentations in various fields such as space, ocean, medical health, energy and human exchange. Both sides shared the progresses of their cooperation made so far and discussed new cooperation in the future.

The 9th Japan-India Joint Committee on Science and Technology Cooperation


Chief Minister of West Bengal, Ms. Mamata Banerjee, and Ambassador Hiramatsu

Ambassador Hiramatsu delivering his remarks at the Bengal Global Business Summit 2017

Japan Calling8

Ambassador Hiramatsu visited Jharkhand on February 15 to pay a courtesy call on Mr. Raghubar Das, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Jharkand, and to attend the maiden “Momentum Jharkhand: Global Investors' Summit 2017”.During the courtesy call on the Hon'ble CM, Ambassador Hiramatsu introduced Japan's development assistance projects in the State, Japanese companies' activities in Jamshedpur, and called for further support including infrastructure development from the State Government of Jharkhand. He also mentioned about promotion of tourism and students exchange. Mr. Das, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Jharkand, referred to the intended economic growth path of the State, tourist attractions in Jharkhand, and his expectation for Japanese investment.On the occasion of “Momentum Jharkhand”, several Union Ministers and leading industrialists from all over the world attended. From Japan, one of the Partner Countries of the event, apart from Ambassador Hiramatsu, Mr. Masayuki Taga, Consul General of Japan in Kolkata, as well as representatives of JICA, JETRO, and several Japanese companies, participated.In his remarks, Ambassador Hiramatsu mentioned further expanding the Japan-India relationship, long lasting Japan-Jharkhand ties, and the strategic importance in view of the connectivity of Jharkhand.For Ambassador's speech, please see: http://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/les/000231034.pdf

Ambassador Hiramatsu's Visit to Jharkhand

Ambassador Hiramatsu having a discussion with Mr. Das, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Jharkhand

Ambassador Hiramatsu delivering his speech in “Momentum Jharkhand: 2017”


On February 2, a reception for the Japan-India game industry was held at the Ambassador's residence, the Embassy of Japan in India. The guests from among members of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Japanese game companies, and students studying Japanese culture, participated in the reception and enjoyed Japanese video games, Cosplay show and Anime song performance.

Reception for Japan-India Game Industry

Ambassador Hiramatsu and the Cosplayers


Ambassador Hiramatsu trying to play a video game

On February 27, the Seminar on Quality Infrastructure was held by the CPR (Centre for Policy Research), in partnership with the Embassy of Japan, at Hotel Claridges, New Delhi. In the opening session, Ambassador Hiramatsu delivered his inaugural address, followed by speeches by Mr. Amitabh Kant, CEO of NITI Aayog, Dr. Koki Hirota, Chief Economist of JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency), and Mr. R.C. Bhargava, Chairman of Maruti Suzuki India. Subsequent to the opening speeches, issues including Japan's ODA (Official Development Assistance) and private investments to India were discussed in two sessions respectively, by panelists from the public and private sectors of both countries.For Ambassador's speech, please see: http://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/les/000234018.pdf

Seminar on Quality Infrastructure: Japanese Investment for Better Infrastructure in India

Japan Calling 9


On February 17, the Memorandum of Cooperation on Railway Safety was signed between the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) of Japan, and the Ministry of Railways (MOR) of the Republic of India, at the Ministry of Railways in New Delhi. India had requested support from Japan on railway safety, following the consecutive major railway accidents since last November. Responding to India's request, MLIT and MOR decided to sign and exchange the “Memorandum of Cooperation between the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan and the Ministry of Railways of the Republic of India on Railway Safety”. The Government of Japan will cooperate on the safety of railways, which is an important infrastructure for the economic development of India, with Japan's advanced railway expertise.

Japan and India sign Memorandum of Cooperation on Railway Safety

Exchange of MOC between Mr. A.K. Mital and Mr. Tabata


Mr. A.K. Mital, Chairman of Railway Board, and Mr. Hiroshi Tabata, Vice-Minister for International Affairs, MLIT

Japan Calling10

The 2nd STS Forum India-Japan Workshop was held on February 28, 2017. Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Minister of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Government of India, Ambassador Kenji Hiramatsu, and Mr. Koji Omi, Founder and Chairman, STS Forum, participated in the Forum. Policy makers, business leaders and scientists gathered and discussed innovation, science and technology cooperation between India and Japan.

The 2nd STS Forum India–Japan Workshop in New Delhi

(Photos: Embassy of Japan, New Delhi）

The signing ceremony of a new Grant Contract for “The Project for Construction of a Hostel for Underprivileged Girls in Udaipur, Rajasthan”, under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects (GGP), was held on March 3, 2017, at the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi.In this ceremony, the Grant Contract was signed between Ambassador Kenji Hiramatsu and the representative of the recipient organization, “Rajasthan Bal Kalyan Samiti”.This project, the amount of which totals 8 million Yen, will construct a female hostel, in order to provide safe and healthy educational environment to underprivileged girls in Udaipur, Rajasthan.

Signing Ceremony of GGP for Underprivileged Girls Hostel in Rajasthan

(Photos: Embassy of Japan, New Delhi

Two talk events on“Changes in China's Foreign Policy and Japan-China Relations”, by Prof. Shin Kawashima, University of Tokyo, were held on December 22, 2016, in New Delhi, by the Embassy of Japan in India. One of the events was held in association with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), and the other was done in collaboration with the Indian Association of Foreign Affairs' Correspondents (IAFAC).Prof. Kawashima also had interactions with some prominent think-tanks in Delhi, on December 23, 2016.

Talks held on “Changes in China's Foreign Policy and Japan-China Relations”

Talk event in collaboration with IAFACProf. Shin Kawashima at ORF

Japan Calling 11


On February 3, Ambassador Hiramatsu hosted a ceremony to celebrate the conferment of “The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays” at the 2016 Autumn Imperial Decorations, on Mrs. Manorama Jafa, Secretary-General of the Indian Section of the International Board of Books for Young People (IBBY), in recognition of her contribution to promoting friendly relations and mutual understanding between Japan and India, in the field of children's literature.

Conferment of 2016 Autumn Imperial Decoration on Mrs. Manorama Jafa, Secretary-General of IBBY


Japan Calling12

As a part of the series of events of “2017 The Year of Japan-India Friendly Exchanges”, a Lecture-cum-Demonstration of Calligraphy, Tea Ceremony and Kimono & Exhibition of “Cherry Blossoms and Tale of Genji” was held, at the Ambassador's Residence on February 7, 2017, and at the India International Centre on February 8, 2017, inviting Dr. Kyoko Horie, Executive Director of the Research Institute for Traditional Art of Japan, as well as calligraphy masters and tea masters from Japan.During the event, the masters gave demonstrations of calligraphy, tea ceremony and Kimono, while an exhibition of Genji Monogatari (Tale of Genji) picture scrolls and calligraphy works themed on Sakura (Cherry Blossoms) by modern calligraphy masters, was held simultaneously.

Lecture-cum-Demonstration of Calligraphy, Tea Ceremony and Kimono & Exhibition of “Cherry Blossoms and Tale of Genji”

Calligraphy demonstration by Dr. Kyoko Horie at the India International Centre on February 8

Tea Ceremony demonstration at the Ambassador's Residence on February 7


Professor P.A. George of JNU awarded by Japanese Foreign Minister

On February 14, Ambassador Hiramatsu hosted a conferment ceremony of the 'Foreign Minister's Commendation for 2016' upon Dr. P. A. George, Professor, CJS, SLL&CS, JNU.

Dr. George is so far the only Indian recipient of the 'Miyazawa Kenji Shoreisho Award' and has been making continuous efforts to promote mutual understanding between Japan and India through research about Miyazawa Kenji's work and its translations into the Malayalam Language. Also, as one of founding members of the Japanese Language Teachers' Association of India, his contribution to Japanese language education is significant.

We are grateful for Dr George's long-standing contribution to solidifying Japan-India ties in the fields of literature and education!

(Photo: Embassy of Japan, New Delhi)

Japan Calling 13

On February 18, the 15th Graduation ceremony of MOSAI Institute of Japanese Language (MIJL) was held, and Ambassador Hiramatsu attended this ceremony to felicitate 188 graduates and present the graduation certificate to the students of Advanced Japanese Course, as well as to the prize winners from each course. On this occasion, 17 graduates from JFND-MOSAI Teachers Training course, including 5 Japanese ladies, received their certificate. We hope all the graduates will become a bridge between Japan and India and bring the two countries closer!

Congratulations to newly-graduated students of MOSAI Institute of Japanese Language

Fabulous performance in Table Tennis by Team Japan- ITTF World Tour India Open 2017

On February 19, the final matches of ITTF (International Table Tennis Federation) World Tour India Open 2017 were held at the Thyagaraj Indoor Sports Complex, New Delhi. Japanese pair of Mr. Yuya Oshima and Mr. Masataka Morizono won the title of Men's Doubles, with no games lost except for only one game in the final match. Ms. Sakura Mori, who is also the winner of U-21 Women's singles tournament held on February 14-15, again won the Women's singles title. Mr. Tomokazu Harimoto, the '13 year old sensation' who is the youngest champion of World Junior Championship, was the runner-up at Men's Singles event. And at the U-21 tournament, Mr. Asuka Sakai won the Men's Singles title.Ambassador Hiramatsu watched the Finals at the venue and participated in the commendation ceremony as presenter for the Men's Doubles Winners.

(Photos: MOSAI Institute of Japanese Language, New Delhi)


Japan Calling14

The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme is an opportunity for young college graduates to assist with international exchange and foreign language education throughout Japan, as either Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) or Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs).

This year, the Japanese Government is under the process of recruiting JET participants from India as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) and a Coordinator for International Relations (CIR), after the last recruitment that was held in 2010.

The applicants who applied by the deadline (7 March 2017) will go through the first and the second rounds of screening process in March and April 2017, and the successful participants will travel to Japan and start their term of appointment from 31 July 2017.

For more information on the JET Programme, please refer to the website of The Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR): . http://jetprogramme.org/en/

For more information on the experiences of the Former JETs from India, please refer to the website of the Embassy of Japan in India: http://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000247.html

JET Programme Reopened After 7 Years for Participants from India

The Embassy of Japan invited Mr. Seigo Tono, Film Director of the 'Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia' (SSFF & Asia), and held the Screening Events of Japanese Short Films, on March 1 at the Japan Foundation New Delhi, and on March 2 at the Ambassador's Residence, as one of the projects under the “Japan Brand Program” as well as the “2017 The Year of Japan-India Friendly Exchanges”. During the events, Mr. Tono showed 4 Japanese short films, with brief explanations, to the Indian audience, and introduced them to the charms of Japanese culture and society, which were reflected in the films.

Screening Events of Japanese Short Films

Screening event at the Ambassador's residenceMr. Tono delivers a lecture at the Ambassador's residence


(Photo: Consulate General of Japan in Kolkata)(Photo: Consulate General of Japan in Kolkata)

(Photo: Consulate General of Japan in Kolkata)

Mrs. Junko Bhattacharya, Origami expert, demonstrating Origami in front of children at the Origami Workshop organised in a school called 'Deeksha Vidyalaya' at Sonarpur, on March 1, 2017. Around 24 children participated in the workshop. Mrs. Junko Bhattacharya explicated about Origami and taught the enthusiasts how to transform a flat sheet of paper into a finished sculpture through folding techniques. The workshop was highly appreciated by the students and received a good round of applause.

Mr. Masayuki Taga, Consul General of Japan in Kolkata, making an address during the inauguration of Japanese Film Festival – Modern Japanese Women: Finding The Strength Within - in front of the other dignitaries, on February 23, 2017, organised at Dr. Triguna Sen Auditorium, Jadavpur University, from February 23 to February 25, 2017. The films screened on all the three days highlighted the emotions, aspirations, struggle, courage and determination of the modern women of Japan.

KOLKATA

Children and enthusiasts looking at the displayed Japanese Dolls during an exhibition – Dolls of Japan: Shapes of Prayer, Embodiments of Love - held at Nehru Children's Museum, from December 10 to December 25, 2016. The exhibition, which showcased more than 60 Representative Dolls from Japan, reflected the various customs of Japan and the aspirations of Japanese people. The exhibition generated huge interest in Kolkata, with a footfall of around 8,000 people including children, men and women.

(Photo: Chandra Sekhar Academy, Odisha)

Ms. Manami Kato, Vice Consul, interacting with the students of Chandra Sekhar Academy during the School Visit programme at Balighai in Odisha, on January 30, 2017. The event was aimed at generating some basic awareness about Japan and its culture. Around 80 students participated ardently in the session. The Cultural Section also visited KiiT International School and Utkal University at Bhubaneswar as a part of the said programme.

Updates from Consulates

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Special meeting on “New Dimensions in India-Japan Relations”, organized by the Indo-Japan Chamber of Commerce & Industry, was held on February 25, 2017, at Savera Hotel, Chennai, Tamilnadu. Mr. Seiji Baba, Consul-General of Japan in Chennai, delivered a special address on the occasion. Mr. B.S. Raghavan, Former Chief Secretary to the Government of West Bengal-Tripura, and Dr. Sridhar Krishnaswami, Special Assistant to Vice Chancellor of SRM University, talked about the India-Japan relationship.

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG)'s banking entity, The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd. (MUFG: Bank), in partnership with the Government of Tamilnadu, presented a cheque of 5 million rupees at a ceremony to build an overhead tank for integrated water supply system, on February 11, at the Chennai Museum. This donation marked the Bank's 20th anniversary in the city of Chennai. In the photo (from left to right): Mr. Shinichi Kimijima, General Manager of Chennai and Sri Lanka Branch of MUFG; Mr. Ryoichi Shinke, Executive Officer and Regional Executive for India and Sri Lanka, MUFG; Mr. K. Shekar, Assistant Director of Government Museum, Chennai; and Mr. Seiji Baba, Consul-General of Japan in Chennai.

CHENNAI

Consulate-General of Japan in Chennai, The Japan Foundation, Lalit Kala Akademi - Regional Centre, Chennai, and ABK-AOTS Dosokai, Tamilnadu Centre, jointly organized a Japanese dolls exhibition "The Dolls of Japan" from November 14 to 26, 2016, at the Lalit Kala Akademi - Regional Centre, Chennai, Tamilnadu. Mr. Seiji Baba, Consul-General of Japan in Chennai, inaugurated the exhibition on November 14, 2016. More than 5,000 visitors from all walks of life came to the exhibition.

Opening Ceremony of a new school building for Underprivileged Girls of St. John Vianney's Girls' Higher Secondary School, run by the Society of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Kanyakumari District, Tamilnadu, was held on January 20, 2017. It was constructed under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects (GGP) of the Government of Japan. Mr. Seiji Baba, Consul-General of Japan in Chennai, attended the function.

(Photo: ABK-AOTS Dosokai, Tamilnadu Centre) (Photo: Consulate General of Japan in Chennai)

(Photo: The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd., Chennai Branch) (Photo: Indo-Japan Chamber of Commerce & Industry)

Mr. Yoshiaki Ito, Consul-General of Japan in Mumbai (right), and Dr. Col. Madan Deshpande, Chief Medical Director of The Poona Blind Men's Association, at the Grant Contract Signing Ceremony held at H.V. Desai Eye Hospital in Pune, on February 6, 2017. The Grant Contract was signed in respect of the grant assistance extended by the Government of Japan for provision of medical equipment to H.V. Desai Eye Hospital being run by The Poona Blind Men's Association.

Mr. Yoshiaki Ito, Consul-General of Japan in Mumbai (4th from right), inaugurated the 6th Japan Festival organised by the Indo-Japan Friendship Association, Gujarat, and the Ahmedabad Management Association, on January 27, 2017, at the AMA, Ahmedabad. Mr. Rohitbhai Patel, Minister of State for Industries, Government of Gujarat (3rd from right), graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.

MUMBAI

Students of The Department of Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), displayed the Japanese dolls lent by the Consulate-General of Japan in Mumbai, at the festival cum exhibition “Vividha Bahuli: Dolls Across the Globe”, held on January 11 & 12, 2017.

Mr. Yoshiaki Ito, Consul-General, staff members of the Consulate-General of Japan in Mumbai, and members of the Japanese Association of Mumbai, cheered runners of the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon held on January 15, 2017, and displayed the banners of forthcoming 'Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympic Games'.

(Photo: Consulate General of Japan in Mumbai) (Photo: Consulate General of Japan in Mumbai)

(Photo: Consulate General of Japan in Mumbai) (Photo: Consulate General of Japan in Mumbai)

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(Photo: Consulate General of Japan in Bengaluru) (Photo: Consulate General of Japan in Bengaluru)

Japan Habba 2017 Guest performance: Taiko and Shinobue by Wadaiko performer, Mr. Ryutaro Kaneko, and Shinobue performer, Mr. Yasukazu Kano. They have gained a high reputation both at home in Japan and abroad. They enthralled the audience at the Japan Habba 2017 for two days.

Japan Habba 2017 (Indo-Japan Cultural Exchange Program) was held at the St. Joseph College Auditorium in Bengaluru, on February 11 & 12, 2017. Mr. Kenji Hiramatsu, Ambassador of Japan to India, gave a keynote address on the theme “Greeting the year 2017, the Year of Japan-India Friendly Exchanges - Japan-India Friendship Relations, Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” in the inauguration on the 11th.For Ambassador's speech, please see http://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/les/000228175.pdf

BENGALURU

Japan Introduction Workshop was organized by Asahi Travel Service, at the Fortune Select JP Cosmos in Bengaluru, on January 9, 2017. Mr. Junichi Kawaue, Acting Consul-General of Japan in Bengaluru, greeted the guests. Movies about Japanese culture and traditions were shown. The participants got much information about travelling to Japan.

(Photos: Consulate General of Japan in Bengaluru)

Exploring Japan: Cherry Blossoms in Tohoku and Hokkaido

Springtime in Japan is nothing less than magical. From late March to mid-April, or even early May, the counrty's iconic sakura (cherry blossoms) capture the attention of visitors and locals, as their beautiful pink flowers blanket the country in soft, colorful splendor. The cherry blossom blooming season in the Hokkaido and Tohoku [including Akita Prefecture, Iwate Prefecture] areas is later than in the Kanto region, with visitors able to enjoy the blossoms as late as during the Golden Week holidays (around first week of May) in some areas, allowing those who live in the Tokyo metropolitan area to enjoy hanami cherry blossom viewing two or even three times in a single season.To see more pictures or find information about travelling in Japan, visit the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website .http://www.jnto.go.jp/

The Visa Application process was simplified for Indian University students, with effect from February 1, 2017. Visa Application Centers (VAC) are being opened in the following 13 major cities across India: ● Gurgaon ● Jaipur ● Kolkata ● Mumbai ● Pune ●Ahmedabad ●Goa ● Bengaluru ● Kochi ●Thiruvananthapuram ● Chennai ● Puducherry ● HyderabadFor further information, please visit the Embassy's website: http://www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/Visa.html

Good News for Visa Applicants!

Samurai residences in Kakunodate [Akita Prefecture]

©Akita Prefecture/©JNTO

Cherry Blossoms and horse cart in Kitakami [Iwate Prefecture]

©Iwate Prefecture/©JNTO©Takinoue Town/©JNTO

©JNTO

Mt. Yotei and Cherry trees [Hokkaido]

Moss Phlox [Hokkaido]

Japan Calling 19

Key in “www.in.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_en/index.html” to access the website of the Embassy of Japan, New Delhi.

Issued by:

Japan Information Centre, Embassy of Japan, 50-G, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi-110021, Ph: 24122970~73 Fax: 24106976.

Consulate General of Japan, 55, M.N. Sen Lane, Tollygunge, Kolkata-700040, Tel: 24211970 Fax: 24211971.

Consulate General of Japan, No. 12/1 Cenetoph Road, 1st Street, Teynampet, Chennai-600018, Tel: 24323860-3 Fax: 24323859.

Consulate General of Japan, 1, M.L. Dahanukar Marg, Cumbala Hill, Mumbai-400026, Tel: 23517101 Fax: 23517120.

Consulate General of Japan, 1st Floor, ‘Prestige Nebula’, 8-14, Cubbon Road, Bengaluru-560001, Tel: 40649999 Fax: 41660114.

Printed at Amar Ujala Publications Limited, C-21 & C-22, Sector 59, Noida-201301, India

FOR SUBSCRIPTION OR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

For West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha: The Consulate General of Japan in Kolkata

For Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: The Consulate General of Japan in Chennai

For Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Daman & Diu, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Chhattisgarh and M.P.: The Consulate General of Japan in Mumbai

For Karnataka: The Consulate General of Japan in Bengaluru

For remaining states and territories: Japan Information Centre, Embassy of Japan, New Delhi

FOR CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please communicate the old as well as new address.

ORGANIZATIONS AFFILIATED WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF JAPANJapan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)

2nd Floor, Dr. Gopal Das Bhawan28, Barakhamba RoadNew Delhi 110 001

Tel: 4768-5500, 2371-4362 ~ 63Fax: 4768-5555http://www.jica.go.jp/india

/english/

Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC)

1st floor, The Metropolitan Hotel New DelhiBangla Sahib RoadNew Delhi 110 001

Tel: 4352-2900Fax: 4352-2950http://www.jbic.go.jp/en/about/office/new-delhi/

Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)

4th Floor, Eros Corporate TowerNehru PlaceNew Delhi 110 019

Tel: 4168-3006Fax: 4168-3003http://www.jetro.go.jp/en/jetro/worldwide/asia/

The Japan Foundation New Delhi

5A, Ring RoadLajpat Nagar 4Near Moolchand Metro StationNew Delhi 110 024

Tel: 2644-29672644-2968/71/72Fax: 2644-2973http://www.jfindia.org.in/

New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)9th Floor, Hotel Le Meridien Commercial TowerRaisina RoadNew Delhi 110 001

Tel: 4351-0101Fax: 4351-0102http://www.nedo.go.jp/english/india_office_index.html

FEEDBACK: Please send us your comments on and inquiries about the articles in this issue to: [email protected]

20 Japan Calling

Embassy of Japan in India

Officially on Facebook

Come and our Facebook Page!

（https://www.facebook.com/

Embassy-of-Japan-in-India-956032147863673/）

(The Consulate of Japan has been upgraded to Consulate General of Japan in Bengaluru, with effect from January 1, 2017)

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