Improve weak links in key sectors

The State Council’s executive meeting on Sept 5 decided to step up efforts to improve weak links in key sectors for better livelihoods. Measures will be rolled out to advance crucial infrastructure projects, carry out innovation in financing, and utilize foreign capital.

Roll out measures for disability prevention

On Sept 6, the State Council issued a circular for a national action plan on disability prevention (2016-20) in a bid to lower disability rates and risks.

Efforts will be made to strengthen prenatal and pre-pregnancy checks and survey of newborns’ illnesses, and to prevent diseases that can lead to disabilities. Measures will also be taken in management of production safety, traffic safety, food and drug safety, pollution and disaster prevention and relief.

Start second batch of pilot public pension institutions

The Ministry of Civil Affairs and the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) decided on Sept 6 to carry out the second batch of pilot public pension institutions, with focus on expanding, standardizing, and enhancing regulation and facilities at nursing homes built with public funds and run by private enterprises.

Clarify qualifications for food inspection

The Food and Drug Administration and Certification and the Accreditation Administration issued requirements for qualification accreditations for food inspection agencies. Eligible agencies should meet basic requirements concerning organization, management, inspection capacity, personnel, environment, facilities and reference materials.

Curb arbitrary holiday charges

NDRC issued a notification recently asking local pricing watchdogs to enhance regulation on market prices during Mid-Autumn Festival and the National Day holidays. It urged efforts to strengthen supervision in tourism, traffic and retail businesses, and take strict measures against arbitrary charges at scenic spots.

Publish 12th batch of unqualified NGOs

The Ministry of Civil Affairs on Sept 7 made public the 12th batch of 86 “offshore” NGOs — organizations registered abroad by Chinese operators — and other unqualified Chinese organizations.

Anti-cheating measures in adult college entrance exams

As the Adult College Entrance Examination will be held on Oct 29-30, the Ministry of Education called for colleges to maintain openness, fairness and impartiality in entrance examination and enrollment.

The ministry urged different papers for one subject and enhancing technical anti-cheating measures. Criminal sanctions will be issued to people who are caught organizing cheating methods, providing cheating devices, selling papers and answers, or taking exams for other people.