Bengaluru (PTI): Australia would open a Consulate in Bengaluru next year, the country's Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Tim Watts said here on Wednesday.

Speaking at the inaugural function of the Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS), he also said the Australian government is deeply committed to advancing its technology partnership with India in the context of broad based comprehensive strategic partnership.

Watts, who is leading a delegation of over 40 Australian technology companies and policy thinkers to the 25th edition of Asia's largest technology event, said when it comes to critical technology, no partner matters more to Australia than India.

"That is why we are committed to opening our new joint Australia India Centre of Excellence for critical and emerging technology policy right here in Bengaluru", he said.

"We will also open a new Consulate General in Bengaluru in 2023, our fifth diplomatic office in India to support connections and growth opportunities with this dynamic part of south India", he said.

Noting that the new direct flight between Bengaluru and the Australian city of Sydney has been solidly booked since its launch in November, Watts, using a Cricketing analogy, said: "the Australia-India technology relationship has now entered the powerplay."

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Bengaluru, Sep 13: Karnataka's minister for Medical Education & Skill Development Sharan Prakash Patil on Friday suggested integration of AI technology in the security system to ensure safety of women healthcare personnel across Karnataka, an official release said.

The minister chaired a high-level meeting at Vikasa Soudha to discuss measures aimed at strengthening security at medical colleges, hospitals and hostels. This follows a previous meeting led by Patil to review the current security systems and propose enhancements.

During the meeting, Patil also emphasised the importance of integrating feedback from women healthcare professionals and other stakeholders. “Directors of medical institutions must gather feedback in writing and take concrete steps to implement necessary measures."

Patil suggested that a security audit committee should be formed with monthly meetings to review the safety protocols. Additionally, thorough background checks must be conducted for all security personnel, according to the release.

“To further ensure safety, 24/7 canteen facilities should be available so that women healthcare staff do not need to leave the premises,” the minister said.

Patil also announced that a panel will be formed at the State Secretariat to oversee the implementation of these measures.

B L Sujatha Rathod, Director of Medical Education, provided a detailed presentation on the current security initiatives. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Mohammad Mohsin, Principal Secretary of Medical Education, Mission Director of National Health Mission Y Naveen Bhat and Venkateshmurthy, Joint Secretary.

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