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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 4:20PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government is taking necessary steps towards the prevention of illicit trafficking of cultural property. Besides regular watch and ward staff, Private Security Guards and Central Industrial Security Force have been deployed as per requirement at monuments, sites and museums. Whenever any theft of antiquity is reported, FIR is lodged and ‘Look Out Notice’ is issued to law enforcement agencies including Custom Exit Channels to keep vigil to trace stolen antiquity and prevent its export. A Cultural Property Agreement (CPA) has also been signed with USA on 26th July 2024 that will make easy retrieval of antiquities. 

    Exhibitions and workshops are organized for public awareness. Recently, exhibitions titled, “Re(ad)dress: Return of Treasures” was held during the 46th Session of World Heritage Committee Meeting at New Delhi and exhibition titled, ‘Journey beyond the Borders: Return of Treasures’ was organized in Chennai as a part of the workshop on ‘Antiquities Trafficking Prevention’. India was also represented during UNESCO Regional Capacity Building Workshop on ‘Fighting Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property’.

    Archaeological Survey of India is committed to the protection of cultural property. Government has retrieved 655 antiquities from foreign countries from the year 1976 to 2024, of which 642 antiquities have been retrieved since 2014.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    E-mail: – pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2099147) Visitor Counter : 66

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Guru-Shishya Parampara Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 4:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Culture implements a Central Sector scheme by the name of ‘Financial Assistance for Promotion of Guru-Shishya Parampara (Repertory Grant)’. Under this scheme, financial assistance is provided to eligible cultural organizations engaged in performing arts activities like music, dance, theatre, folk art, etc. for imparting training to artists/shishyas by their respective Guru on regular basis in line with Guru–Shishya Parampara across the country. The details of scheme are given at Annexure – I.

    As per the scheme guidelines of Guru-Shishya Parampara (Repertory Grant), the organizations seeking grants are required to submit their applications/proposals every year, for its renewal as well as fresh selection. The applications / proposals, complete in all respect are reviewed by the Expert Committee constituted by the Ministry for the purpose. The Expert Committee gives its recommendations taking the provisions of scheme guidelines, cultural performances / activities / resources of the organizations, justification for financial support, interaction with the Guru/representative of the organization, etc. into consideration.

    The Guru-Shishya Parampara (Repertory Grant) has been encouraging artists in the field of dance, music and theatre by providing financial assistance to shishyas of age 3 year and above. Further, every year, along with Renewal category, applications are also invited from new organizations under ‘Fresh category’ to encourage budding artists in the field of performing arts including traditional art styles.

    The state-wise details of number of Gurus and Shishyas provided with financial assistance including Uttar Pradesh and Haryana state under Guru-Shishya Parampara (Repertory Grant) scheme during last three years is given at Annexure – II.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    E-mail: – pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    Annexure – I

    Financial Assistance for Promotion of Guru-Shishya Parampara (Repertory Grant)

    Scheme: Financial Assistance for Promotion of Guru-Shishya Parampara (Repertory Grant) is a Central Sector Scheme of Ministry of Culture. This scheme is a sub-scheme of an Umbrella scheme ‘Kala Sanskriti Vikas Yojana (KSVY).

    Objective: The objective of this scheme is to provide financial assistance to cultural organizations working in the field of performing arts activities like dramatic / theatre groups, music ensembles, children theatre, Dance groups etc. for imparting training to shishyas by their respective Guru on regular basis in line with ancient Guru–Shishya Parampara.

    As per the scheme, financial assistance is provided to 1 Guru and maximum 18 Shishyas in the field of theatre and 1 Guru and maximum 10 Shishyas in the field of music & dance.

    Quantum of Assistance: Assistance for each Guru/Director is @ Rs.15,000/- (Rupees fifteen thousand only) per month whereas in respect of each Shishya/Artist the same is as under: –

     

    Sl.

    No.

    Categories of shishya/ artist

    Age Group

    Amount of assistance/ honorarium per month
     

    (a) Adult shishya/artist

    (18 years age and above)

    Rs.10,000/- (Rupees Ten thousand only)
     

    (b) ‘A’ category child shishya/ artist

    (12-<18 years age)

    Rs.7,500/- (Rupees seven thousand five hundred only)
     

    (c) ‘B’ category child shishya/ artist

    (6-<12 years age)

    Rs.3,500/- (Rupees three thousand and five hundred only)
     

    (d) ‘C’ category child shishya/ artist

    (3-<6 years age)

    Rs.2,000/- (Rupees two thousand only)

     

    Annexure – II

    Sl.

    No.

    State/UT

    Financial Year

    2021-2022

    2022-2023

    2023-2024

    Number of

    Guru

    Number of Shishya

    Number of

    Guru

    Number of Shishya

    Number of

    Guru

    Number of Shishya
    1.  

    Andhra Pradesh

    13

    30

    19

    38

    20

    51
    1.  

    Arunachal Pradesh

    –

    –

    –

    –

    1

    2
    1.  

    Assam

    35

    256

    37

    256

    44

    272
    1.  

    Bihar

    76

    488

    94

    516

    116

    582
    1.  

    Chandigarh

    5

    62

    7

    65

    11

    74
    1.  

    Chhattisgarh

    3

    19

    3

    19

    4

    16
    1.  

    Delhi

    95

    830

    105

    791

    125

    798
    1.  

    Gujarat

    8

    52

    12

    42

    13

    46
    1.  

    Haryana

    15

    90

    18

    93

    20

    97
    1.  

    Himachal Pradesh

    4

    52

    4

    52

    6

    57
    1.  

    Jammu & Kashmir

    25

    134

    29

    143

    44

    177
    1.  

    Jharkhand

    10

    69

    15

    78

    14

    80
    1.  

    Karnataka

    133

    801

    152

    822

    214

    954
    1.  

    Kerala

    22

    187

    23

    189

    27

    176
    1.  

    Madhya Pradesh

    61

    590

    96

    658

    110

    662
    1.  

    Maharashtra

    49

    414

    82

    465

    96

    509
    1.  

    Manipur

    149

    980

    172

    1017

    202

    1009
    1.  

    Mizoram

    1

    8

    2

    10

    2

    5
    1.  

    Nagaland

    4

    12

    3

    10

    6

    17
    1.  

    Odisha

    66

    353

    103

    415

    119

    477
    1.  

    Pondicherry

    3

    43

    4

    45

    3

    21
    1.  

    Punjab

    8

    59

    8

    60

    9

    64
    1.  

    Rajasthan

    15

    103

    22

    115

    26

    117
    1.  

    Sikkim

    1

    2

    1

    2

    1

    3
    1.  

    Tamil Nadu

    16

    91

    12

    82

    13

    84
    1.  

    Telangana

    18

    147

    16

    120

    20

    123
    1.  

    Tripura

    3

    26

    6

    31

    9

    36
    1.  

    Uttarakhand

    13

    80

    17

    87

    18

    91
    1.  

    Uttar Pradesh

    66

    419

    82

    436

    95

    448
    1.  

    West Bengal

    231

    1781

    348

    1991

    331

    1730
                       

     

    ***

    (Release ID: 2099145) Visitor Counter : 70

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special traffic arrangements for Hong Kong Marathon 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Police will implement special traffic arrangements on Hong Kong Island, Kowloon West and New Territories South to facilitate the Hong Kong Marathon 2025 on February 9 (Sunday).

    Hong Kong Island
    —————-
     
    A. Road closure and traffic diversions

         The following will be implemented by phases on February 9 until the roads are safe for reopening, except for vehicles with permit:

    Phase I (from 1.15am to about 10.30am)

    Road closure

          Eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel between Wan Chai and Island Eastern Corridor (IEC) will be closed, eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel between Central and Wan Chai will be reopened at about 1.30pm.

    Traffic diversions

          Traffic along eastbound Connaught Road West flyover heading for eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel, eastbound IEC and Eastern Harbour Crossing will be diverted via eastbound Connaught Road West at-grade, eastbound Connaught Road Central at-grade, Man Kat Street, Connaught Road Central, Gloucester Road, Victoria Park Road, Gordon Road, Electric Road and Java Road.

    Phase II (from 1.15am to about 1.30pm)

    Road closure

    – Eastbound Connaught Road West flyover between Shing Sai Road and Rumsey Street;
    – Man Po Street;
    – Yiu Sing Street;
    – Eastbound Lung Wo Road;
    – The slip road from Connaught Road West flyover to Man Po Street;
    – The slip road from Connaught Road West flyover to eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel;
    – The slip road from Man Kat Street to the exit at Wan Chai on eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel;
    – Eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel between Central and Wan Chai;
    – The exit at Expo Drive on eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel;
    – Expo Drive;
    – Expo Drive Central between westside Expo Drive and eastside Expo Drive;
    – Southbound Expo Drive East; and
    – Northbound Expo Drive East between Expo Drive and the northern cul-de-sac.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along northbound Hill Road flyover will be diverted via eastbound Connaught Road West at-grade;
    – Traffic along eastbound Shing Sai Road will be diverted via eastbound Connaught Road West;
    – Traffic along Lung Wo Road cannot turn to westbound Yiu Sing Street;
    – Traffic along Man Yiu Street cannot turn left to eastbound Lung Wo Road; and
    – Traffic along Man Yiu Street cannot turn left to eastbound Yiu Sing Street.

    Phase III (from 1.30am to about 10.30am)

    Road closure

    – Eastbound IEC between Victoria Park Road eastbound and Tung Hei Road slip road; and
    – The slip roads of Hing Fat Street, Man Hong Street and Taikoo Wan Road leading to eastbound IEC.

    Phase IV (from 1.30am to about 11.30am)

    Road closure

    – Westbound IEC between Tung Hei Road slip road and westbound Victoria Park Road;
    – The slip roads of Nam On Street, Chai Wan Road, Tai Hong Street, Oi Shun Road, Hong On Street, Taikoo Wan Road, westbound King’s Road junction with Healthy Street Central, Tong Shui Road and Wharf Road leading to westbound IEC;
    – The slip roads leading from the exit of Eastern Harbour Crossing to westbound IEC. The section up between the exit of Eastern Harbour Crossing and the down ramp slip road leading to Man Hong Street will be reopened at about 10.30am;
    – Westbound Oi Shun Road between Oi Tak Road and Tai On Street;
    – Westbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel between IEC and Wan Chai; and
    – The slip road leading from Tsing Fung Street vehicular flyover and Hing Fat Street to westbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along eastbound Victoria Park Road and Hing Fat Street heading for eastbound IEC and Eastern Harbour Crossing will be diverted via Gordon Road, Electric Road and Java Road;
    – Traffic along Java Road and Man Hong Street heading for eastbound IEC and Eastern Harbour Crossing will be diverted via King’s Road;
    – Traffic along Taikoo Wan Road heading for eastbound IEC will be diverted via King’s Road and Shau Kei Wan Road;
    – Traffic along Java Road and eastbound King’s Road can access Eastern Harbour Crossing via Hong On Street;
    – Traffic from the exit of Eastern Harbour Crossing heading for eastbound IEC will be diverted via Tai On Street and Shau Kei Wan Road;
    – Traffic along westbound IEC will be diverted via Nam On Lane and Shau Kei Wan Road;
    – Traffic along Nam On Lane and Nam Hong Street heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via westbound Nam On Street, Sun Sing Street and Shau Kei Wan Road;
    – Traffic along Chai Wan Road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Shau Kei Wan Road;
    – Traffic diverted to westbound Shau Kei Wan Road can access Eastern Harbour Crossing via Tai Ning Street, Sai Wan Ho Street and Tai Hong Street;
    – Traffic along Tai Hong Street will only be allowed for access to Eastern Harbour Crossing and Lei King Wan. Traffic heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Tai Hong Street, Hong Cheung Street, Tai On Street and Shau Kei Wan Road;
    – Traffic along westbound Oi Shun Road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Oi Tak Street, Oi Kan Road, Tai On Street and Oi Shun Street;
    – Traffic along Hong On Street will only be allowed for access to and from Eastern Harbour Crossing. Traffic heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via westbound Hong On Street and King’s Road. Except for vehicles heading for Eastern Harbour Crossing, traffic along Hong Yue Street will be diverted via westbound Hong On Street;
    – Traffic along Taikoo Wan Road slip road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Taikoo Shing Road and King’s Road;
    – Traffic from the exit of Eastern Harbour Crossing heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Man Hong Street and King’s Road (until 4am);
    – Traffic on the slip road at the junction of westbound King’s Road and Healthy Street Central heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via westbound King’s Road;
    – Traffic on the slip road at the junction of westbound King’s Road and Tong Shui Road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via westbound King’s Road;
    – Traffic along Tong Shui Road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Java Road, Kam Hong Street and King’s Road;
    – Traffic along Wharf Road slip road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via westbound Wharf Road, North Point Road, Java Road, Tong Shui Road and King’s Road; and
    – Traffic along Tsing Fung Street vehicular flyover and northbound Hing Fat Street heading for the slip road of westbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel will be diverted via the remaining lanes on Victoria Park Road.

    Phase V (from 3am to about 8.30am)

    Road closure

    – Eastbound Harbour Road between Harbour Drive and Tonnochy Road; and
    – Northbound Tonnochy Road between Hung Hing Road and Harbour Road.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along northbound Tonnochy Road flyover will be diverted via westbound Harbour Road;
    – Traffic along eastbound Harbour Road will be diverted via northbound Fleming Road; and
    – Traffic leaving from car parks along eastbound Harbour Road will be diverted via westbound Harbour Road.

    Phase VI (from 3am to about 1.30pm)

    Road closure

    – Man Kwong Street;
    – Man Fai Street;
    – The slip road between Rumsey Street and Man Kwong Street;
    – Southbound Man Yiu Street between Man Kwong Street and Lung Wo Road; and
    – Northbound Man Yiu Street between Man Po Street and Man Kwong Street.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along eastbound Chung Kong Road will be diverted via Connaught Road Central;
    – Traffic along eastbound Connaught Road Central cannot turn left to Man Kwong Street; and
    – Traffic along northbound Man Yiu Street will be diverted via westbound Finance Street.

    Phase VII (from 3am to about 2pm)

    Road closure

    – Eastbound Hung Hing Road between Expo Drive East and Wan Shing Street;
    – Westbound Hung Hing Road between Wan Shing Street and Tonnochy Road;
    – The fast lane of eastbound Harbour Road between Harbour Drive and Tonnochy Road;
    – The fast lane of northbound Tonnochy Road between Hung Hing Road and Harbour Road;
    – Southbound Tonnochy Road between Harbour Road and Gloucester Road;
    – Marsh Road flyover between Hung Hing Road and Lockhart Road;
    – Northbound Marsh Road between Hung Hing Road and Gloucester Road;
    – Eastbound Lockhart Road between Marsh Road and Percival Street;
    – Southbound Percival Street between Lockhart Road and Hennessy Road;
    – Percival Street (except the middle lane) between Jaffe Road and Lockhart Road;
    – Southbound Canal Road East between Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road;
    – Northbound Canal Road West between Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road;
    – Southbound Marsh Road between Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road;
    – Marsh Road between Hennessy Road and Lockhart Road;
    – Eastbound Hennessy Road between Percival Street and Yee Wo Street;
    – Eastbound Yee Wo Street;
    – Sugar Street;
    – Southbound Gloucester Road between Great George Street and Causeway Road. Access to the southbound Tai Hang Road flyover is allowed after 10.45am; and
    – Northbound Gloucester Road between the U-turn slip road beneath Tai Hang Road flyover and Great George Street.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along northbound Fleming Road cannot turn right to eastbound Hung Hing Road and will be diverted via southbound Fleming Road or westbound Lung Wo Road;
    – Traffic along northbound Wan Shing Street must turn right to Hung Hing Road flyover;
    – Traffic along northbound Marsh Road will be diverted via Gloucester Road service road or turn to southbound Marsh Road for access to Jaffe Road;
    – Traffic along eastbound Lockhart Road will be diverted via northbound Marsh Road at grade;
    – Traffic along eastbound Jaffe Road will be diverted via northbound Percival Street;
    – Traffic along southbound Percival Street will be diverted via eastbound Lockhart Road;
    – Traffic along eastbound Hennessy Road cannot turn left to Marsh Road;
    – Traffic along Tin Lok Lane cannot go straight to northbound Marsh Road, and must turn left or right to Hennessy Road;
    – Traffic along eastbound Hennessy Road heading for Causeway Road will be diverted via southbound Percival Street, Leighton Road, Pennington Street and eastbound Yee Wo Street;
    – Traffic along eastbound Yee Wo Street cannot turn left to Sugar Street;
    – Traffic along Great George Street heading for southbound Gloucester Road will be diverted via southbound Tai Hang Road floyover; and
    – Traffic along southbound Victoria Park Road flyover will be diverted via Gloucester Road service road. Access to southbound Tai Hang Road flyover is allowed after 10.45am.

    Phase VIII (from 3.45am to about 9am)

    Road closure

    – Hing Fat Street between Causeway Road and Victoria Park Road;
    – Electric Road between Yacht Street and Park Towers;
    – Lau Li Street between Hing Fat Street and Electric Road; and
    – Tsing Fung Street between Hing Fat Street and Electric Road.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along eastbound Causeway Road heading for Hing Fat Street will be diverted via eastbound King’s Road;
    – Traffic along westbound King’s Road heading for Hing Fat Street will be diverted via westbound Causeway Road;
    – Traffic along southbound Electric Road must turn left to Yacht Street (except for access to Park Towers);
    – Traffic leaving the Park Towers car park will be diverted via Electric Road and Yacht Street;
    – Traffic on Electric Road heading for Tsing Fung Street will be diverted via Yacht Street; and
    – Traffic along southbound Hing Fat Street must turn left to eastbound Gordon Road.

    Phase IX (from 4am to about 10.45am)

    Road closure

    – Part of the traffic lanes of westbound Victoria Park Road between the down ramp of westbound IEC and westbound Gloucester Road, except the slow lane leading to Gloucester Road service road and the second slow lane leading to westbound Gloucester Road; and
    – The flyover leading from northbound Gloucester Road to westbound Gloucester Road.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along Tsing Fung Street flyover will be diverted via the remaining lanes of westbound Victoria Park Road; and
    – Traffic along northbound Gloucester Road flyover heading for westbound Gloucester Road will be diverted via Gloucester Road service road.

    B. Pedestrian precincts

         The commencement time of the following pedestrian precincts will be postponed to 3pm on February 9, or when the major roads on Hong Kong Island are reopened:

    – Pedestrian precinct at Lockhart Road between Cannon Street and East Point Road;
    – East Point Road pedestrian precinct; and
    – Pedestrian precinct at Great George Street between East Point Road and Paterson Street.

    C. Suspension of parking spaces
     
    – 29 parking spaces in Hing Fat Street public car park (metered parking spaces No. 1619 to 1629 and 1641 to 1644) will be suspended from 3pm to 10pm on February 8;
    – All parking spaces in Hing Fat Street public car park will be suspended from 10pm on February 8 to 3pm of the following day, except for disabled parking spaces; and
    – The parking spaces at the following locations will be suspended from 00.01am to 3pm on February 9:
        – Pick-up/drop-off areas at Expo Drive East;
        – Coach parking spaces at Expo Drive;
        – Disabled parking spaces at Jaffe Road between Percival Street and Cannon Street;
        – Motorcycle parking spaces at Marsh Road between Lockhart Road and Hennessy Road;
        – Disabled parking spaces at Gloucester Road near Sugar;
        – Rumsey Street near Rumsey Street Multi-Storey Car Park;
        – Westbound Yiu Sing Street between Lung Wo Road and Man Yiu Street;
        – Goods vehicles parking spaces at westbound Man Kwong Street near Central Ferry Pier No. 3;
        – Goods vehicles parking spaces at westbound Man Kwong Street near Central Ferry Pier No. 8;
        – Disabled parking spaces outside Central Ferry Pier No. 4 and Central Ferry Pier No. 5;
        – Motorcycle parking spaces outside Central Ferry Pier No. 6 and Central Ferry Pier No. 7; and
        – Wan Shing Street opposite to Wanchai Station Building.

    Kowloon
    ——-

    A. Road closure and traffic diversions
     
           The following will be implemented by phases on February 9, until the roads are safe for reopening, except for vehicles with permit:
     
    Phase I (from 00.45am to about 1.15pm)
     
    Road closure

    – Southbound West Kowloon Highway between Mei Ching Road Roundabout and Western Harbour Crossing;
    – The slip road leading from northbound Lin Cheung Road near Civil Aid Service Headquarters to southbound West Kowloon Highway;
    – The slip road leading from northbound Nga Cheung Road elevated road to southbound West Kowloon Highway;
    – The slip road leading from westbound Jordan Road flyover to southbound Western Harbour Crossing;
    – The slip road leading from southbound Lin Cheung Road near Yau Ma Tei Interchange to southbound West Kowloon Highway; and
    – The slow lane of northbound Lin Cheung Road lowest level underpass between Austin Road West underpass and exit of Lin Cheung Road.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along northbound Lin Cheung Road cannot turn to the slip road leading from northbound Lin Cheung Road near Civil Aid Service Headquarters to southbound West Kowloon Highway;
    – Traffic along southbound Lin Cheung Road will be diverted to the slip road heading to Tsim Sha Tsui; and
    – Traffic along eastbound Mei Ching Road cannot turn to the slip road leading from southbound Lin Cheung Road to southbound West Kowloon Highway.

    Phase II (from 1am to about 9am)

    Road closure

    – Eastbound Salisbury Road between Star Ferry Pier and Canton Road; and
    – Westbound Salisbury Road between Star Ferry Pier and Kowloon Park Drive.

    Traffic diversions

         Traffic along westbound Salisbury Road will be diverted via northbound Kowloon Park Drive.

    Phase III (from 1.40am to about 10am)

    Road closure

    – Northbound Nathan Road between Austin Road and Salisbury Road;
    – Southbound Nathan Road between Kimberley Road and Middle Road;
    – Westbound Kimberley Road between Nathan Road and Carnarvon Road;
    – Westbound Granville Road between Nathan Road and Carnarvon Road;
    – Eastbound Cameron Road between Nathan Road and Cameron Lane;
    – Humphreys Avenue;
    – Westbound Carnarvon Road between Nathan Road and Bristol Avenue;
    – Mody Road between Nathan Road and Bristol Avenue;
    – Haiphong Road between Lock Road and Nathan Road;
    – Peking Road between Lock Road and Nathan Road;
    – Middle Road between Hankow Road and Nathan Road; and
    – Westbound Salisbury Road Underpass.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along southbound Nathan Road will be diverted to eastbound Kimberley Road;
    – Traffic along Salisbury Road cannot turn to northbound Nathan Road;
    – Traffic along northbound Carnarvon Road cannot turn left to westbound Granville Road and westbound Kimberley Road;
    – Traffic along eastbound Haiphong Road will be diverted to southbound Lock Road; and
    – Traffic along westbound Salisbury Road cannot enter westbound Salisbury Road Underpass near Chatham Road South.

    Phase IV (from 2.30am to about 10.45am)

    Road closure

    – The slip road leading from eastbound Lai Po Road to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
    – The slip road leading from westbound Tsing Sha Highway to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
    – Southbound Lin Cheung Road between Lai Po Road and Hoi Fai Road;
    – Southbound Lin Cheung Road between Tonkin Street West and Yau Ma Tei Interchange; and
    – Westbound Yen Chow Street West between Sham Mong Road and Lin Cheung Road.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along eastbound Lai Po Road cannot turn left to the slip road heading to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
    – Traffic along westbound Tsing Sha Highway will be diverted to the slip road leading from southbound Lin Cheung Road heading to Cheung Sha Wan;
    – Traffic along eastbound Tonkin Street West cannot turn right to southbound Lin Cheung Road heading to Yau Ma Tei;
    – Traffic along southbound Lin Cheung Road will be diverted to the slip road leading from southbound Lin Cheung Road to Sham Shui Po (near Tonkin Street West);
    – Traffic along westbound Tonkin Street West cannot turn left to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
    – Traffic along northbound Sham Mong Road cannot turn left to westbound Yen Chow Street West;
    – Traffic along southbound Sham Mong Road cannot turn right to westbound Yen Chow Street West; and
    – Traffic along westbound Yen Chow Street West cannot turn to the slip road leading to southbound Lin Cheung Road.

    Phase V (from 3.30am to about 10.30am)

    Road closure

    – Westbound Argyle Street between Nathan Road and Tong Mi Road, except the following lanes:
         – The first lane of westbound Argyle Street between Portland Street and Shanghai Street;
         – The first lane of westbound Argyle Street between Reclamation Street and Tong Mi Road; and
         – The fifth lane of westbound Argyle Street between Shanghai Street and Reclamation Street.
    – Westbound Cherry Street between Tong Mi Road and Lin Cheung Road, except the following lanes:
         – The first lane of westbound Cherry Street between Tong Mi Road and Hoi Wang Road; and
         – The third and fourth lanes of westbound Cherry Street between Hoi Wang Road and Cherry Street Underpass.
    – Southbound Lin Cheung Road between Hoi Fai Road Roundabout and southbound West Kowloon Highway;
    – Southbound Hong Lok Street between Argyle Street and Fife Street; and
    – Northbound Hoi Wang Road between Hoi Ting Road and Cherry Street.
     
    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along westbound Argyle Street must turn to southbound or northbound Nathan Road;
    – Traffic along the first lane of westbound Argyle Street must turn left to southbound Shanghai Street;
    – Traffic along southbound Shanghai Street must turn right to the fifth lane of westbound Argyle Street;
    – Traffic along the first lane of westbound Argyle Street must turn left to southbound Tong Mi Road;
    – Traffic along southbound Tong Mi Road must turn left to eastbound Argyle Street;
    – Traffic along northbound Reclamation Street must turn left to the first lane of westbound Argyle Street;
    – Traffic along northbound Tong Mi Road must turn left to westbound Cherry Street;
    – Traffic along westbound Cherry Street must turn left to southbound Hoi Wang Road;
    – Traffic along eastbound Hoi Ting Road cannot turn left to northbound Hoi Wang Road;
    – Traffic along westbound Hoi Ting Road cannot turn right to northbound Hoi Wang Road;
    – Traffic along northbound Hoi Wang Road must turn left to westbound Hoi Ting Road;
    – Traffic along southbound Tai Kok Tsui Road cannot go straight to southbound Hoi Wang Road;
    – Traffic along westbound Cherry Street cannot turn to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
    – Traffic along westbound Hoi Fai Road cannot turn left to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
    – Traffic along Hoi Fai Road Roundabout cannot turn to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
    – Traffic along southbound Hong Lok Street must turn right to westbound Fife Street;
    – Traffic along southbound Tong Mi Road must turn left to eastbound Bute Street;
    – Traffic along eastbound Anchor Street must go straight to eastbound Mong Kok Road; and
    – Traffic along southbound Oak Street must turn left to eastbound Anchor Street.

    Phase VI (from 3.45am to about 9.15am)

    Road closure

    – The fast lane of northbound Kowloon Park Drive between Peking Road and Middle Road;
    – Ashley Road;
    – Hankow Road;
    – Lock Road;
    – Haiphong Road between Canton Road and Lock Road;
    – Ichang Street;
    – Peking Road between Kowloon Park Drive and Lock Road;
    – Middle Road between Kowloon Park Drive and Hankow Road;
    – Southbound Nathan Road between Salisbury Road and Middle Road; and
    – Middle Road between Nathan Road and Salisbury Road.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along southbound Canton Road cannot turn left to eastbound Haiphong Road;
    – Traffic along eastbound Salisbury Road cannot turn left to northbound Hankow Road and northbound Middle Road; and
    – Traffic along northbound Kowloon Park Drive cannot turn right to eastbound Peking Road.

    Phase VII (from 4.15am to about 10am)

    Road closure

    – Southbound Nathan Road between Gascoigne Road and Kimberley Road;
    – Northbound Nathan Road between Austin Road and Argyle Street;
    – Eastbound Kimberley Road between Nathan Road and Carnarvon Road;
    – Eastbound Austin Road between Pilkem Street and Cox’s Road;
    – Westbound Austin Road between Cox’s Road and Nathan Road;
    – Hillwood Road;
    – Pine Tree Hill Road;
    – Tak Shing Street between Nathan Road and Tak Hing Street;
    – Tak Hing Street;
    – Bowring Street between Pilkem Street and Nathan Road;
    – Westbound Jordan Road between Cox’s Road and Pilkem Street;
    – Eastbound Jordan Road between Parkes Street and Chi Wo Street;
    – Chi Wo Street between Gascoigne Road and Nanking Street;
    – Ning Po Street between Parkes Street and Chi Wo Street;
    – Mau Lam Street;
    – Eastbound Pak Hoi Street between Woosung Street and Nathan Road;
    – Westbound Pak Hoi Street between Chi Wo Street and Nathan Road;
    – Kansu Street between Nathan Road and Temple Street;
    – Westbound Gascoigne Road between Jordan Road and Nathan Road;
    – Public Square Street between Nathan Road and Arthur Street;
    – Wing Sing Lane between Arthur Street and Nathan Road;
    – Man Ming Lane between Nathan Road and Arthur Street;
    – Eastbound Waterloo Road between Portland Street and Nathan Road;
    – Hamilton Street between Portland Street and Nathan Road;
    – Dundas Street between Portland Street and Nathan Road; and
    – Changsha Street between Portland Street and Nathan Road.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic along northbound Carnarvon Road must turn right to eastbound Kimberley Road;
    – Traffic along westbound Austin Road must turn right to northbound Cox’s Road;
    – Traffic along eastbound Austin Road must turn left to northbound Pilkem Street;
    – Traffic along southbound Cox’s Road must turn left to eastbound Austin Road;
    – Traffic along northbound Cox’s Road must turn right to eastbound Jordan Road;
    – Traffic along northbound Pilkem Street cannot turn right to eastbound Bowring Street;
    – Traffic along westbound Jordan Road must turn left to southbound Cox’s Road;
    – Traffic along eastbound Jordan Road must turn left to northbound Parkes Street;
    – Traffic along northbound Parkes Street cannot turn right to eastbound Ning Po Street;
    – Traffic along eastbound Pak Hoi Street must turn right to southbound Woosung Street;
    – Traffic along southbound Woosung Street cannot turn left to Pak Hoi Street;
    – Traffic along westbound Gascoigne Road must turn left to southbound Cox’s Road;
    – Traffic along southbound Queen Elizabeth Hospital Road cannot turn right to westbound Gascoigne Road;
    – Traffic along southbound Nathan Road must turn left to eastbound Gascoigne Road;
    – Arthur Street between Public Square Street and Wing Sing Lane will be re-routed one-way southbound;
    – Traffic along Arthur Street must turn right to westbound Public Square Street;
    – Traffic along southbound Arthur Street cannot turn left to eastbound Wing Sing Lane;
    – Traffic along westbound Waterloo Road must turn left to southbound Nathan Road;
    – Traffic along eastbound Waterloo Road must turn left to Portland Street;
    – Traffic along eastbound Hamilton Street must turn left to northbound Portland Street;
    – Traffic along northbound Portland Street cannot turn right to eastbound Hamilton Street;
    – Traffic along eastbound Dundas Street must turn left to northbound Portland Street;
    – Traffic along northbound Portland Street cannot turn right to eastbound Dundas Street; and
    – Traffic along northbound Portland Street cannot turn right to eastbound Changsha Street.

    B. Suspension of on-street parking spaces

    – The on-street parking spaces at Kimberley Road between Carnarvon Road and Observatory Road will be suspended from 00.01am to 10am on February 9; and
    –  The on-street parking spaces at Arthur Street between Wing Sing Lane and Public Square Street will be suspended from 00.01am to 10am on February 9.

    C. Temporary closure of Western Harbour Crossing (Hong Kong bound tube)

         The Hong Kong bound tube of the Western Harbour Crossing will be closed from 00.45am to about 1.15pm on February 9, or until the reopening of all connecting roads after the marathon. The Kowloon bound tube will maintain open to normal traffic.

    New Territories
    —————

        The following will be implemented by phases between February 8 and 9, until the roads are safe for reopening, except for vehicles with permit:

    Phase I (from 11.30pm on February 8 to 1.15pm of the following day)

         The slip road leading from Tuen Mun Road to southbound Ting Kau Bridge will be closed.

    Phase II (from 11.45pm on February 8 to 1.15pm of the following day)

    Road closure

    – Southbound carriageways of Tsing Kwai Highway, Cheung Tsing Tunnel, Cheung Tsing Highway and Ting Kau Bridge;
    – All exits from Lantau Link to southbound Cheung Tsing Highway;
    – The slip road leading from Tsing Yi South Bridge, Kwai Chung Road and Tsuen Wan Road to southbound Tsing Kwai Highway;
    – Eastbound carriageways of Tsing Sha Highway between the access road of Cheung Tsing Tunnel and West Kowloon Highway, Stonecutters Bridge and Nam Wan Tunnel;
    – The slip road leading from Tsing Yi Hong Wan Road to eastbound Stonecutters Bridge;
    – The slip road leading from Container Port Road South to eastbound Tsing Sha Highway (Ngong Shuen Chau Viaduct);
    – The slip road from Mei Ching Road leading to southbound West Kowloon Highway, except for vehicles leaving Container Port via Roundabout 6 to Mei Ching Road and Tsing Kwai Highway (New Territories bound);
    – The North West Tsing Yi Interchange U-turn slip road leading from eastbound Tsing Yi North Coastal Road to westbound Tsing Yi North Coastal Road; and
    – The slip road leading from southbound Cheung Tsing Highway to Tsing Yi Road West.

    Traffic diversions

    – Traffic from Lantau to Kowloon will be diverted via North West Tsing Yi Interchange, Tsing Yi North Coastal Road, Tsing Tsuen Road, Tsuen Wan Road, Kwai Chung Road, Cheung Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road;
    – Traffic from Ma Wan to Kowloon will be diverted via North West Tsing Yi Interchange, Tsing Yi North Coastal Road, Tsing Tsuen Road, Tsuen Wan Road, Kwai Chung Road, Cheung Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road;
    – Traffic from Tuen Mun Road and Tai Lam Tunnel intending to use Ting Kau Bridge to go to the Airport, Lantau and Ma Wan will be diverted via Tuen Mun Road, Tsuen Wan Road, Tsuen Tsing Interchange, Tsing Tsuen Road, Tsing Yi North Coastal Road and the slip road leading to Lantau Link before reaching Lantau Link (airport bound);
    – Traffic from Tuen Mun Road and Tai Lam Tunnel intending to use Ting Kau Bridge to go to Kowloon will be diverted via Tuen Mun Road, Tsuen Wan Road, Kwai Chung Road, Cheung Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road;
    – Traffic from Tsing Yi South intending to use Tsing Sha Highway to go to Kowloon will be diverted via Tsing Yi Road, Kwai Tsing Road, Kwai Tsing Interchange, Tsuen Wan Road, Kwai Chung Road, Cheung Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road; and
    – Traffic from Kwai Chung Container Port intending to use Tsing Sha Highway to go to Kowloon will be diverted via Container Port Road South, Hing Wah Street West and Lai Po Road.

         The above measures will not affect traffic from Kowloon or New Territories East via Route 3 or Route 8 to destinations including the Airport, Lantau, Ma Wan and New Territories West.

         All vehicles parked illegally during the implementation of the above special traffic arrangements will be towed away without prior warning, and may be subject to multiple ticketing.  

         Depending on the actual traffic and crowd conditions, appropriate traffic arrangements and crowd safety management measures will be implemented. Members of the public are advised to use public transport to visit the above areas and exercise tolerance and patience, and to take heed of instructions of the Police on site.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: Progress in achieving Climate Goals

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 3:43PM by PIB Delhi

    The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Paris Agreement does not subscribe to financial year wise reporting. India subscribes to its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), submitted in 2022, as per the Paris Agreement under the UNFCCC.

    As per India’s 4thBiennial Update Report (BUR-4) submitted to the UNFCCC on 30thDecember, 2024, between 2005 and 2020, India’s emission intensity of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reduced by 36% as against the NDC target of 45% to be achieved by 2030. Regarding status on achievement of target under NDC related to the share of non-fossil fuel-based sources, the share in India’s total installed electricity generation capacity is 47.10% in December 2024 as against the target of 50% to be achieved by 2030. As compared to the base year of 2005, India has reached 2.29 billion tonnes of additional carbon sink as against the target of 2.5 to 3.0 billion tonnes by 2030 through additional forest and tree cover.

    The Government of India amended the Energy Conservation Act, 2001 (52 of 2001) in the year 2022 to facilitate the development of carbon market in the country. Subsequently under the act, the Government has notified the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) vide notification S.O. 2825(E), dated 28th June 2023 and amendment notification S.O. 5369(E), dated 19thDecember 2023.

    The CCTS provides for two mechanisms namely, compliance mechanism and offset mechanism. In the compliance mechanism, the obligated entities are required to comply with the prescribed GHG emission intensity reduction norms in each compliance cycle of CCTS. The obligated entities which reduce their GHG emission intensity below the prescribed GHG emission intensity are eligible for issuance of Carbon Credit Certificates. ln the offset mechanism, the non-obligated entities can register their projects for GHG emission reduction or removal or avoidance for issuance of Carbon Credit Certificates.

    The Government of India has also developed a plan to smoothly shift energy-intensive sectors and Designated Consumers (DCs) from the Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) Scheme to the compliance mechanism under the CCTS. This plan ensures continuity, consistency, and alignment with national climate goals while avoiding duplication of targets. To initiate the transition, the Government has identified nine energy-intensive sectors for inclusion under compliance mechanism of the CCTS, namely, Aluminium, Cement, Steel, Paper, Chlor-Alkali, Fertiliser, Refinery, Petrochemical, and Textile. Under the offset mechanism, ten sectors have been approved, which include energy, industries, waste handling & disposal, agriculture, forestry, transport, construction, fugitive emissions, solvent use and Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage.

    The Government has also notified the National Designated Authority for the Implementation of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement (NDAIAPA), vide Gazette Notification, dated 30thMay, 2022. The Authority has updated and finalized the list of 14 activities under Green House Gas (GHG) mitigation activities, alternate materials, and removal activities, which are eligible for trading of international carbon credits under bilateral/ cooperative approaches, under Article 6.2 and Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement.

    The Government collaborates with other countries in the field of Renewable Energy sector and mitigating the environment degradation through mechanisms such as Memorandums of Understanding, Letters of Intent, Joint Declarations of Intent, Energy Dialogues and Partnerships.

    The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), at its Sixth Session held in Nairobi, Kenya, on 1stMarch, 2024, unanimously adopted the resolution on sustainable lifestyles. The resolution based on the precepts of Mission LiFE was moved by India and co- sponsored by Sri Lanka and Bolivia and is a significant step forward in the globalisation of the concept of Mission LiFE or Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE).

    India hosted the 3rdVoice of Global South Summit on 17thAugust, 2024 with the overarching theme “An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future”. In the Environment Ministers’ Session, 18 countries and 1 bank from Global South participated. India emphasized the importance of encouraging sustainable consumption and production patterns, promoting sustainable lifestyles, reducing waste, and fostering a culture of conservation and respect for natural resources. The deliberations highlighted the call for climate justice and developing countries’ demand for climate finance, technology transfer and capacity building.

    Presently, India has cross border interconnections with Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar. An Agreement between India and Bhutan concerning Cooperation in the field of Hydroelectric Power was signed on 28thJuly, 2006. India and Nepal signed an agreement on 04.01.2024 which will facilitate export of 10,000 MW of electricity from Nepal to India in the next 10 years.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE, SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    VM

    (Lok Sabha US Q134)                                                                     

                 

    (Release ID: 2099131) Visitor Counter : 57

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: Compliance of End-of-Life Vehicles Rules, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 3:42PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) notified the Environment Protection (End-of-Life Vehicles) Rules, 2025 vide S.O. 98(E) dated 06th January, 2025 for environmentally sound management of end-of-life vehicles. The rules are based on the principle of extended producer responsibility (EPR) where producers of vehicles are given mandatory EPR targets for scrapping of end-of-life vehicles. The rules cover all types of transport and non-transport vehicles, except agricultural tractor, agricultural trailer, combine harvester and power tiller.

    Under the said rules, producers have been mandated to fulfil the obligation of Extended Producer Responsibility for the vehicles that the producer has introduced or introduces in the domestic market, including vehicles put to self-use to ensure the specified scrapping targets. Producers have been provided annual targets for scrapping of End-of-life vehicles starting from the year 2025-26 for the vehicles put in the market 15 years ago in case of transport vehicles and 20 years ago in case of non-transport vehicles.

    Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSFs) have been mandated to receive unfit vehicles or End-of-Life vehicles for scrapping and must carry out treatment, depolluting, dismantling, segregation and scrapping activities. They are required to send all the recovered and segregated materials from End-of-Life vehicles to the registered recyclers or refurbishers, co-processors for recycling and reuse of components or materials, in case RVSF does have recycling or refurbishing facility. They are further required to send all non-recyclable or non-refurbishable materials and non-utilizable hazardous materials to Common Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facility authorised under Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016.

    Designated Collection Centres by producers are required to handle the End-of-Life Vehicles in an environmentally sound manner and send them to Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility. Registered owner of the vehicle or bulk consumer is required to deposit the End-of-Life vehicle at any of the producer’s designated sales outlet or designated Collection Centre or Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility within a period of one hundred and eighty days from the date the vehicle becomes the End-of-Life vehicle.

    Under the rules, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in case of producer and State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) in case of RVSF and bulk consumer may, after giving an opportunity of being heard, suspend or cancel their registration, in case of violation or non-compliance of any provisions of these rules. Returns in respect of obligations provided under the rules are required to be filed by producer, bulk consumer and RVSF on centralised online portal.

    CPCB has been mandated to undertake periodic inspection and audit of the producer to ensure that such facility is complying with the requirement under the provisions of these rules. CPCB may undertake or cause to be undertaken by an authorised agency the periodic inspection and audit of the Registered Vehicle Scrapping facility. CPCB may take necessary actions against violations or for non-fulfilment of obligations under these rules against a producer or Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility or any other person.

    Similarly, SPCB has been mandated to undertake periodic inspection and audit, or cause to be inspected by an authorised agency, of the RVSF to ensure compliance of the rules. SPCB is required to undertake periodic inspection and audit, or cause to be inspected by an authorised agency, of the Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility to ensure the compliance of these rules and may take necessary actions against violations or for non-fulfilment of obligations under these rules against a Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility or bulk consumer or any other person.

    In case, producer or Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility or bulk consumer fails to comply with the provisions relating to handling and scrapping of End-of-Life vehicles in environmentally sound manner under these rules, are liable to pay environmental compensation for causing loss, damage or injury to environment or public health.

    Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has formulated the Vehicle Scrapping Policy for creation of an ecosystem to phase out older unfit and polluting vehicles. The policy targets scrapping of unfit and polluting vehicles strictly based on their fitness. Under this policy, a network of Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSFs) is envisaged across the country. As on January 2025, 84 RVSFs are operational in the country.

    MoRTH notified the Motor Vehicles (Registration and Functions of Vehicle Scrapping Facility) Rules, 2021 prescribe for registration of Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF), criteria for scrapping vehicles, scrapping procedure, audit and certifications for functioning of RVSFs. In addition, RVSF is required to comply with the guidelines ‘Environmentally Sound Management of End-of-Life Vehicles’ issued by CPCB.

    MoRTH notified the Central Motor Vehicles (Twenty Third Amendment) Rules, 2021 vide GSR 714 (E) dated 04.10.2021, which provide that if a buyer of a new vehicle submits ‘Certificate of Deposit’ of an end-of-life vehicle then the Registration fee on the new vehicle will not be levied. Further, MoRTH under the Central Motor Vehicles (Twenty fourth Amendment) Rules, 2021 vide GSR 720 (E) dated 05.10.2021 provides for concession in the motor vehicle tax upto twenty five percent in case of non-transport vehicles and fifteen percent in case of transport vehicles.

    In addition, MoRTH has issued the following notifications or advisories to promote adoption of Electric Vehicles and eco-friendly alternatives:

    1. Vide S.O. 5333 (E) dated 18.10.2018, granted the exemption to the Battery-Operated Transport Vehicles and Transport Vehicles running on Ethanol and Methanol fuels from the requirements of permit.
    2. Vide GSR 525 (E) dated 2.8.2021 exempted the Battery-Operated Vehicles from the payment of fees for the purpose of issue or renewal of registration certificate and assignment of new registration mark.
    3. Vide GSR 302 (E) dated 18.4.2023 to issue All India Tourist permit for Battery Operated Vehicles without payment of any permit fee.
    4. Vide GSR 749 (E) dated 7.8.2018 to issue registration mark for the Battery-Operated Vehicles to be in Yellow colour on Green background for the transport vehicles and for all other cases, in White in colour on Green background.

     

    Further, Ministry of Heavy Industries launched ‘PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme’ on 29th September, 2024 for promotion of electric mobility in the country with and outlay of Rs 10,900 crore over a period of two years. The scheme provides subsidies or demand incentives worth Rs.3,679 crore to e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-ambulances, e-trucks and other emerging EVs. It will support 24.79 lakh e-2Ws, 3.16 lakh e-3Ws, and 14,028 e-buses.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE, SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

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    VM

    (Lok Sabha US Q3)

    (Release ID: 2099130) Visitor Counter : 43

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: Nano Bubble Technology

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 3:41PM by PIB Delhi

    Nano bubble technology is a method of water treatment that uses tiny bubbles to improve water quality. The important ecological benefits are to remove contaminants, increase dissolved oxygen content, help in the removal of phytoplankton (algae), reduce biofilm, and ultimately improve the properties of water suitable for aquatic animals. The nano bubble technology can lead to a more homogeneous distribution due to the minuscule size and persistence of the bubbles in the water bodies. On the other hand, traditional systems may exhibit less uniformity in distribution, which can result in variable oxidation and disinfection performance across the water volume.

    The Management of National Parks and Sanctuaries, including those Protected Areas having aquatic animals, is done as per the Management Plan prepared under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. These include maintaining water level, water circulation and dilution, silt removal, aeration, establishing STP along the water bodies and aquatic weed removal through mechanical and manual methods.  The Central Zoo Authority, in fulfilment of the functions assigned, implemented the standard and norms, inclusive of proper hygiene and health of all captive animals in zoos including aquatic animals, as prescribed in the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 notified by the Central Government under section 63 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. Further, the Central Zoo Authority has issued guidelines to zoos time to time for proper hygiene and health of all captive animals in zoos.

    As nano bubble technology has been used in India for water treatment recently only on a pilot basis, the long-term impact of this technology on water quality and animal health can be known in due course of time.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE, SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    VM

    (Lok Sabha US Q24)

    (Release ID: 2099129) Visitor Counter : 37

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: Changes in Environmental Clearances Policy

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 3:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The Central Government has amended Section 21 of Air (Prevention and control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Section 25 of Water (Prevention and control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and exempted certain categories of industries from obtaining consents. Consequently, notifications [G. S. R. 702 (E) dated 12-11-2024 under section 21(1) of the Air Act and G. S. R. 703 (E) dated 12-11-2024 under section 25(1) of the Water Act] have been issued to exempt white category of industries completely from consent mechanism and other categories from Consent to Establish if the project or activity has obtained environmental clearance under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986. In view of the above, the project / activities requiring prior EC as per the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 (as amended from time to time) under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 are exempted from obtaining previous Consent To Establish (CTE) separately.

    Subsequently, the Ministry has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) dated 14thNovember 2024, which has been partially modified vide OM dated 14thJanuary 2025, for implementing the notifications mentioned above.  In the SOP, it has been, inter-alia, directed that, for the projects / activities requiring prior EC, the exemption provided from obtaining CTE is subject to obtaining necessary EC and the environmental safeguards related to the establishment of industries, as may be required, will be integrated in the conditions of EC itself. The above-mentioned OMs provide for seeking the comments of the respective SPCBs on the project site, the feasibility of the project and the environmental safeguards for the concerned project, which will be integrated in the conditions of EC. Further provision for payment of requisite fees to the SPCBs has also been made.  

    The Ministry has undertaken systemic and policy reforms to streamline and expedite the Environment Clearance process by taking into account the imperative need for development while balancing the same with due environmental safeguards in line with the concept of sustainable development. This exemption will not only reduce compliance burden on industries but also promote Ease of Doing Business by reducing duplication of approvals since the criteria for environmental clearance and consent were overlapping. 

    Exempting certain categories of industries will not have any adverse impacts on environment, since the above notification effectively integrates the two procedures.  As mentioned above, the SPCBs will have opportunity to put forth their comments/conditions during environmental appraisal process, which will be included in the EC conditions. Also, the existing mechanism of ‘Consent to Operate’ will continue as such and the SPCBs will continue to regulate and monitor the potential environmental implications by projects through the mechanism of Consent to Operate.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE, SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    VM

    (Lok Sabha US Q50)

    (Release ID: 2099128) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NATIONAL METADATA STRUCTURE (NMDS 2.0) is designed to uniformly represented data and information

    Source: Government of India

    NATIONAL METADATA STRUCTURE (NMDS 2.0) is designed to uniformly represented data and information

    NATIONAL METADATA STRUCTURE (NMDS 2.0) is to provide clarity on data sources and collection methods

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 3:31PM by PIB Delhi

     

    The National Metadata Structure (NMDS 2.0) is designed with the objective that data and information are uniformly represented, provide clarity on the data sources, collection methods and enhance discoverability of data sets. It is to bring in improved understanding of various data sets in public domain such as census, surveys, administrative and those from other sources.

     

    The NMDS 2.0 has been shared with Ministries/Departments for implementation. The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation regularly interacts with the Statistical Advisors of Ministries/Departments on various issues, including this.

    This information was given by the Minister of State (I/C) for the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Ministry of Planning and Minister of State in the Ministry of    Corporate Affairs, Rao Inderjit Singh in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

     

    ********

    Samrat/Dheeraj@: pibmospi[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2099124) Visitor Counter : 65

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Law Enforcement Plan Crack Down Through Super Bowl

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that State Police and local law enforcement agencies will participate in the national enforcement initiative on impaired driving in the week leading up to this year’s Super Bowl. The campaign which runs from Monday, February 3, 2025 through Sunday, February 9, 2025, is funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and targets underage drinking enforcement, along with increased patrols and sobriety checkpoints to deter, identify and arrest impaired drivers.

    “As football fans gather across our state to watch the game on Sunday, I’m directing State Police and local law enforcement to elevate their enforcement action to protect New Yorkers from the dangers of impaired and reckless driving,” Governor Hochul said. “We have no tolerance for anyone endangering themselves or others on the road, and I encourage everyone to take the responsible steps necessary to keep our communities safe.”

    During the 2024 Super Bowl weekend campaign, law enforcement officers arrested 262 people for impaired driving and issued 8,388 total tickets.

    New York State DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “The easiest path to victory is planning for a safe ride home during Super Bowl celebrations. We’re asking all drivers to plan for a sober ride home, watch their speed and avoid distractions behind the wheel. When you follow these basic rules and expectations, everybody wins.”

    New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “During this campaign, drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints, dedicated DWI enforcement patrols, and operations targeting underage drinking and illegal sales to minors across New York State. Our Troopers will also focus on keeping motorists and pedestrians safe by identifying drivers illegally using handheld devices. Partnering with local law enforcement is essential to saving lives and keeping drunk drivers off our roads.”

    Whether you are hosting or attending a celebration, the New York State Police, the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offer these tips to help your guests get home safely:

    • Always drive 100 percent sober. Even one alcoholic beverage could be one too many.
    • Plan ahead: You have options to get home safely. Designate a sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare. Getting home safely is always worth it. Ask all of your guests to designate their sober drivers in advance or help them arrange ridesharing with sober drivers. If you don’t drink, offer to drive guests home.
    • If it’s your turn to be the designated driver, take your job seriously and don’t drink.
    • If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact local law enforcement.
    • If you have a friend who is about to drink and drive, take the keys away and let a sober driver get your friend home safely.
    • The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation “Have a Plan” mobile app, is available for Apple, Android and Windows smartphones. The app enables New Yorkers to locate and call a taxi service and program a designated driver list. It also provides information on DWI laws and penalties, and a way to even report a suspected impaired driver.
    • Remember, if you serve a guest alcohol and he or she gets in a crash that night, you could be held liable.

    New York State Association of Chiefs of Police President and City of Batavia Police Department Chief Shawn Heubusch said, “As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, we want to remind everyone that there is no excuse for impaired driving. Law enforcement agencies across New York will be increasing STOP-DWI patrols and enforcement efforts to keep our roads safe. If you’re celebrating, make the right call—plan for a designated driver, use a rideshare, or take public transportation. Let’s work together to prevent tragedies and ensure everyone gets home safely. Don’t fumble with impaired driving—your choices save lives.”

    Chautauqua County Sheriff and President of the NYS Sheriffs’ Association James Quattrone said, “There will be some big plays during the Super Bowl. The biggest play you can make is driving safe and sober. If you drive impaired the penalty won’t be a loss of 10 yards; it may be the loss of your license, fines, and even jail time. The Sheriffs of New York State want you to enjoy the big game and have a plan to get home safely and not drive impaired.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lake Region State College receives grant to expand Renewable Energy Program

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The North Dakota Department of Commerce announced today that a total of $420,176 of the State Energy Program grant funds were awarded to Lake Region State College’s (LRSC) Devils Lake Solar/Renewable Energy Initiative. The initiative is a collaboration between LRSC and NextEra Energy, expanding the college’s existing renewable energy program.

    “Lake Region State College already provides wind energy to its entire campus,” says Doug Darling, President of LRSC. “These funds will enable us to not only add solar energy as a back-up power source, but also help create related courses, work-based training, and certification opportunities for our students.”

    A supporter of the LRSC Devils Lake Solar/Renewable Energy Initiative, NextEra Energy Resources is the nation’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun, and a world leader in battery energy storage. The company currently operates 16 wind projects in the state with additional projects in development. These projects have helped fuel the state’s economic growth and quality of life, with hundreds of jobs during construction and millions in tax revenue provided to local counties once operational.

    “NextEra Energy Resources recognizes the critical need for a skilled workforce with a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” says James Auld, NextEra Energy’s director of external training initiatives. “We’re proud to have been working with local communities throughout the state for more than two decades and are working closely with academic leaders in North Dakota to raise awareness of careers in renewable energy occupations and support training opportunities.”

    The grant funding is part of the North Dakota State Energy Program (SEP), which promotes energy efficiency and conservation and is supported by financial and technical assistance through the U.S. Department of Energy. Commerce’s Division of Community Services receives an annual allocation to implement SEP.

    “We’re thrilled to help support this private/public partnership,” Commerce Community Services Director Maria Effertz said. “This investment will help advance an ‘all of the above’ energy position for the state while also developing a valuable training resource for our future workforce.”

    More information about the State Energy Program and other resources provided by Commerce’s Division of Community Services can be found at www.commerce.nd.gov/community-services.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AI Action Summit

    Source: France-Diplomatie – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development

    From February 6 to 11, 2025, Paris will become the artificial intelligence (AI) capital of the world on the occasion of the AI Action Summit. This event will bring together heads of State and Government, international organizations and companies of all sizes, representatives from academia, researchers, non-governmental organizations, artists and other members of civil society from across the globe.

    Check on a roundtable discussion on artificial intelligence that will take place at the Embassy of France in the US on February 5, 2025.

    Artificial intelligence, which is developing faster and faster, is completely transforming our societies and economies. This breakthrough technology is opening up unprecedented opportunities that could revolutionize key sectors, including health, education and labour. Its rapid deployment also creates major challenges in terms of the reliability of information, the protection of basic rights and accessibility. It is the international community’s responsibility to maintain balance in our societies and to craft AI that respects universal values.

    France, a global leader in artificial intelligence

    France has emerged as a major artificial intelligence player thanks to:

    A national strategy deployed in 2018, built on the excellence of French research, the development of computing capacities (Jean Zay and Alice Recoque supercomputers) and the massive adoption of AI in the economy;

    • An ecosystem of 600 start-ups specialized in AI, which receive increasing amounts of financing;
    • A fully mobilized diplomatic apparatus, France being one of the seven countries participating in all landmark international AI initiatives;
    • Albert, an administrative model designed for government employees.

    What is the AI Action Summit?

    The AI Action Summit, to be held on February 10 and 11, 2025 at the Grand Palais in Paris, aims to collectively establish scientific foundations, solutions and standards for more sustainable AI working for collective progress and in the public interest.

    Co-chaired with India, the event builds on the advances made at the Bletchley Park Summit in November 2023 and the Seoul Summit in May 2024 and will draw on the expertise of a steering committee bringing together some 30 countries and international institutions to ensure inclusive and diverse contributions.

    The Summit, together with the AI Action Week, will be an important opportunity to showcase ecosystems fostering the development and deployment of AI and to promote concrete initiatives by a wide range of actors who contribute to this collective effort.

    The participants will seek to achieve three major objectives:

    • Provide access to independent, safe and reliable AI to a wide range of users
    • Develop AI that is more environmentally friendly
    • Ensure global governance of artificial intelligence that is both effective and inclusive

    A programme based on 5 strategic focuses

    Summit discussions will focus on five major themes:

    • Public Service AI
    • Future of Work
    • Innovation and Culture
    • Trust in AI
    • Global Governance of IA

    More information on the AI Action Summit

    More than 800 participants (public and private sector partners, researchers, NGOs from around the world) have taken part in contact groups, meeting regularly from summer 2024.

    AI Action Week

    A series of Road to the Summit events helped prepare this major event. At some 100 events around the world, participants took part in discussions on the Summit’s themes.

    These international efforts will come to fruition in an AI Action Week in Paris from February 6 to 11, culminating in the Summit.

    February 6 and 7: International AI, Science and Society Conference at the Institut Polytechnique de Paris (IP Paris)

    Find the Conference programme on the AI, Science and Society Conference website

    February 8 and 9: A series of events dedicated to culture and AI in Paris, open to the general public

    Find the programme for the AI Cultural Weekend on the Ministry of Culture website

    February 10: The Summit will begin in the Grand Palais with a forum bringing together many stakeholders from around the world (including representatives of governments, businesses and civil society, researchers, artists and journalists).

    February 11: Summit of the heads of State and Government on the major common AI actions on the occasion of the plenary session

    February 11: More than 100 events will be held in the margins of the Summit, including a Business Day at Station F, with participants from businesses and companies of all sizes, financial institutions, and investors.

    Side events to be held on the closing day of AI Action Week in Paris will include events dedicated to artificial intelligence and democracy and the environmental impact of these technologies at the École Normale Supérieure (ENS) and the Ministry for the Ecological Transition, respectively.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Hassan Recognizes Celma Silveira of Atkinson as January’s Granite Stater of the Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan recognized Celma Silveira of Atkinson as January’s Granite Stater of the Month. Celma has offered free house cleanings to cancer patients and disabled veterans across New Hampshire.

    After she and her son experienced domestic violence and homelessness, Celma started cleaning homes to earn money, which eventually grew into her business, Cleaning by Celma. Years later, Celma has successfully grown and expanded Cleaning by Celma and it now serves an array of clients. Inspired to give back to her community, Celma partnered with Cleaning for a Reason, a national non-profit organization, to provide free cleanings for cancer patients, and Celma donates cleanings to disabled veterans as well. Celma makes sure every recipient of a donated cleaning comes away with the comfort and relief that a clean home can provide. Celma’s dedication to helping Granite Staters who are struggling is a beautiful example of the Granite State spirit of going above and beyond to uplift others.

    Senator Hassan launched the “Granite Stater of the Month” initiative in 2017 to recognize outstanding New Hampshire citizens who go above and beyond to help their neighbors and make their communities stronger. To nominate a New Hampshire citizen to be a “Granite Stater of the Month,” constituents can complete the nomination form here.

    To read Senator Hassan’s statement for the Congressional Record, see below.

    I am honored to recognize Celma Silveira of Atkinson as January’s Granite Stater of the Month. Celma regularly helps Granite Staters in need by providing them free house cleanings.

    Celma started her small business, Cleaning by Celma, after she and her son experienced domestic violence and homelessness. After spending time in a shelter for survivors of domestic violence, she started cleaning homes to earn money to support herself and her son, and eventually started her own cleaning business. Celma faced challenges both big and small while starting her own business, but she has successfully grown and expanded it over the years and now enjoys a healthy base of clients. 

    And while her business has blossomed, Celma has also always made sure that she supports Granite Staters in need. She has partnered with Cleaning for a Reason, a national nonprofit organization, to provide house cleaning to cancer patients, and in her own time, Celma donates house cleanings to disabled veterans. When Celma first meets the recipients of one of her donated cleaning services, she takes care to ensure that their biggest concerns are addressed and that they come away with the comfort and relief that a clean home can provide. Celma believes that every person has goodness in their heart and wants to spread her own goodness by providing these cleanings.

    Celma’s dedication to helping Granite Staters who are struggling is a beautiful example of the Granite State spirit of going above and beyond to uplift others. Her passion for sharing her work with her community is why I am proud to name her January’s Granite Stater of the Month.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Urges Trump to Halt Planned Tariffs on Canada and Mexico, Citing Likelihood of Increasing Energy and Food Prices for Families in the Middle of Winter

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), are sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging him not to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canada, the Granite State’s largest trading partner, and Mexico. Sweeping tariffs would dramatically increase costs for families in New Hampshire and around the nation. Home heating oil is New Hampshire’s largest import from Canada, and these tariffs are estimated to drive up energy prices for families in the middle of winter. It would also increase costs for essential items like groceries, housing, cars and more. Click here to read the full letter.

    In part, the delegation wrote: “During your campaign, you promised to ‘bring down the price of everything.’ Despite that promise, sweeping tariffs would be a tax on Americans that raises the cost of everything from cars and gas to housing and groceries. Tariff costs would be passed on to our consumers and businesses through higher costs for goods and services.”

    They continued: “For the more than 350,000 households in New Hampshire who rely on heating oil, propane and wood to keep their homes warm and comfortable, adding these costs would be particularly cruel in the middle of a winter that has seen recent temperatures reach 20 below zero. Home heating oil is New Hampshire’s largest import from Canada, not because we don’t produce enough in the United States, but because it makes logistical and economic sense. The National Energy & Fuels Institute (NEFI), which represents wholesale and retail liquid heating fuel distributors throughout the Northeast, estimates that tariffs could increase heating costs by at least $375 per winter for a home in New Hampshire.”

    They concluded: “These taxes would raise families’ grocery bills, too. The type of broad tariffs you’ve proposed could raise food costs by $200 per year for the average household. That’s because the U.S. imports 38 percent of our fresh vegetables, 60 percent of our fresh fruit, and more than 99 percent of our coffee. This is the last thing families need when they’re already struggling with record high prices for eggs or coffee […] We urge you to focus on bringing down prices and reconsider the wisdom of placing sweeping tariffs on imports that would raise prices for our constituents.”

    Earlier this year, Shaheen introduced new legislation with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) to shield American businesses and consumers from rising prices imposed by tariffs on imported goods into the United States. The Senators’ legislation would keep costs down for imported goods by limiting the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—which allows a President to immediately place unlimited tariffs after declaring a national emergency—while preserving IEEPA’s use for sanctions and other tools. 

    After the November election, a multitude of business leaders verified that, if the President placed sweeping tariffs as promised, they’d be forced to raise prices on consumers. The CEO of Best Buy said, “the vast majority of that tariff will probably be passed on to the consumer as a price increase.” The CFO of Walmart said, “there will probably be cases where prices will go up for consumers.” The CEO of Columbia Sportswear said, “we’re set to raise prices” and “it’s going to be very, very difficult to keep products affordable.” The CEO of AutoZone said, “if we get tariffs, we will pass those tariff costs back to the consumer.” The President of a Texas-based Lipow Oil Associates  said, “The prices at the pump are going to go up.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Garage and Garage Sites 2025/26 rent increases agreed for Inverness Area

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Highland Council owned garage rents for the Inverness area will increase by 8% for 2025/26 as agreed at today’s City of Inverness Area Committee.

    Leader of Inverness and Area, Cllr Ian Brown said: “Highland Council garage rents remain low in Inverness when compared with other renting alternatives. A consultation with tenants was carried out in November last year. The increase agreed today will enable the Council to carry out ongoing repairs and improvements to the tenants’ garage estate.”

    Tenant consultation on the general rent increase for Council house rents for 2025/26 was based on options for 8%, 9% and 10% rent increase.

    Councillors agreed that for Council tenants:

    • Garage Rents will increase from £7.41 to £8.00 per week.
    • Garage Sites weekly rents will increase from £1.23 to £1.33 for Ward 13.

    …and for non-tenants:

    • Garage Rents will increase from £8.89 to £9.60 per week.
    • Garage Sites weekly rents will increase from £1.47 to £1.59 for Ward 13.

    As a result of the 8% garage rent increase, total annual income will rise to £151,449.52.

    3 Feb 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inverness Area roads capital programme approved for 2025/26

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Members of the City of Inverness Area Committee agreed a list of proposed prioritised roadworks which will be funded out of Highland Council’s Capital Budget allocation for 2025/26.

    The local allocations capital budget for 2025/26 remains to be established, which will be calculated from the approved capital budget allocation.

    The estimated local allocation for the City of Inverness Area (based on 2024/25) is £1,660,302.50 comprising £1,504,962.50 for overlay/inlay works and £155,340.00 for surface dressing works.

    Leader of Inverness and Area Cllr Ian Brown said: “Members welcomed the opportunity to review and agree the proposed resurfacing and surface dressing programmes at their Ward business meetings and I am pleased that today we have agreed a number of programmed schemes that can be prioritised for capital funding works.”

    Councillors have agreed funding allocations for 31 specified locations for roads resurfacing works including 7 footpaths reconstruction/resurfacing works which can be funded from the capital allocation. Another 53 locations have been prioritised for resurfacing works subject to any finalised increase in capital budget allocation and any potential underspend being carried forward. A budget of £200,000 for major patching for all Inverness Wards was also agreed.

    In addition, 12 locations were prioritised for surface dressing works within the capital allocation with another 20 locations agreed upon – should funds become available.

    Details of the prioritised road works schemes for the Inverness area can be viewed in the budget report appendices 2 and 3 at the following link.

    Members noted that where future variation may be experienced in the area roads capital programme this will be agreed with Members at Ward business meetings to maintain a dynamic roads programme.

    3 Feb 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inverness Common Good Fund awards for Inverness BID projects

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Inverness Councillors have reinforced The Highland Council’s partnership working with Inverness BID by approving Inverness Common Good Funding to the organisation for a range of projects.

    At the City of Inverness Area Committee today, Members approved 6 grant applications to Inverness BID from the Inverness Common Good Fund 2025/26 budget.

    The six projects that were awarded funding are:

    • City of Inverness Annual Floral Displays 2025 – £54,272
    • Wider City of Inverness Annual Floral Displays 2025 – £22,872
    • Operation Respect Easter/Summer/Autumn 2025 – £14,804
    • Safe Inverness Project 2025/26 – £10,750
    • Coach and Visitor Ambassador Project 2025 – £23,847
    • Inverness Gull Project 2025 – £16,798

    Regarding the application for City of Inverness Annual Floral Displays, Members agreed to move 6 of the hanging basket locations from Bridge Street to outside the Victorian Market.

    Members were informed that a site visit to the Bught Nursery is being arranged this May to view the works of the Grow Project and High Life Highland that currently deliver the annual city floral displays.

    Following a motion from the Committee Chair, Leader of Inverness and Area Cllr Ian Brown, the Committee voted to award the 2025 Inverness Gull Project the full application sum of £27,050 (which includes £9,663 granted exceptionally from this year’s 2024/25 budget). and to:

    • acknowledge the commitments made by the Council, Inverness BID, and the city’s population, to limit the problems caused by the growing and increasingly aggressive bird population.
    • recognise the overall vulnerability of several natural bird species, the expectations placed on NatureScot in its conservation goals, and the consequent reduction in granting licence applications for egg and nest removal.
    • support the range of preventative and non-lethal measures proposed, and would also seek to maintain egg and nest removal.
    • urge NatureScot to expedite the licensing process, working closely with Inverness BID and local conservation groups.
    • write to the Minister responsible to highlight the situation here with the purpose of creating more constructive relations with NatureScot
    • seek to enhance community involvement, and to increase public awareness through educational campaigns, events, and local partnerships, highlighting the programme’s environmental and community benefits.
    • Implement with partners a regular monitoring system to track the programme’s success, identifying the positive impacts for future support.

    Another meeting to discuss Gulls in the City of Inverness and Area will be arranged for a future date.

    3 Feb 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Interim Community Council elections – Deadline for candidates approaches

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Issued on behalf of the Returning Officer

    Anyone interested in wishing to stand as Candidate for the Community Council’s listed below have until 12noon on Monday 10 February to complete and submit the online nomination which is available on the Council’s website 

    • Bower
    • Carrbridge
    • Conon Bridge
    • Kilmuir and Logie Easter
    • Lochalsh
    • Portree and Braes
    • Resolis
    • Smithton
    • Sinclairs Bay
    • Tannach and District

    To help explain more about the important role community councils play please visit the council’s website 

    For any questions or candidates experiencing issues with accessibility or the nomination process itself, please contact to the Election Office by Email: ccelection@highland.gov.uk or Tel: 01349 886657.

    The statements of persons nominated for each Community Council will be published on the Council’s website by Tuesday 11 February 2025.  A postal ballot will be held in instances where the number of nominations exceeds the maximum membership.

    The deadline for anyone who wishes to withdraw their candidacy have until 12noon on Monday 17 February 2025 and statements will thereafter be updated accordingly on the council’s website and a press release will be issued.    

    3 Feb 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Local Development Plan – Have Your Say

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Highland Council is preparing a new and important planning document called the Highland Local Development Plan. The plan will ultimately be used to determine planning applications and steer future development and investment in your area. Three documents have just been published which will shape the plan and Highland’s future.

    First, we are inviting new development site suggestions to be considered for inclusion in the new plan.

    Speaking about the Call For Development Sites, Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “This is an important part of the evidence consultation and feedback is particularly encouraged from landowners, developers and communities that have land or building opportunities that they wish to promote for housing, industry or mixed-use development.”

    Nominated sites will need to be accompanied by sufficient supporting evidence in order to be fairly assessed. The Council will also be considering options for where Masterplan Consent Areas could be prepared.

    Second, we seek views on the evidence we’ve collated so far to inform preparation of the new plan. Scotland’s revised planning system now requires each council to prove the sufficiency and assess the implications of its evidence before preparing a plan for its area. Our Evidence Papers are now available for comment. We are asking if we’ve missed anything relevant and for views on the implications of that evidence.

    Finally, we have published our 2025 Development Plans Newsletter which provides more detail on how and when we will consult and engage on the new plan.

    Councillor Gowans added: “The approach we are taking in preparing a new single LDP for Highland is very much a collaborative one. We are encouraging the public, stakeholders, and organisations to provide us with their input and have a say on what evidence they think we should use before we get in to drafting the Plan itself.”

    “We want to engage people on the issues facing Highland communities right now so we can create a single strong, place based, people-focused and deliverable Local Development Plan that captures the distinct issues and priorities across our communities. I hope as many people as possible take up this invitation to get involved and help to shape the new Highland Local Development Plan.”

    Feedback from the consultation will help the Council prepare an ‘Evidence Report’, which will be submitted for independent review later in 2025, before a draft plan is prepared.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ScienceBase Data Release Metadata 101 Training

    Source: US Geological Survey

    ScienceBase Data Release Metadata 101 Training

    The USGS Science Analytics and Synthesis’ ScienceBase Data Release Team will be hosting a virtual training event that will provide an overview of the who, what, where, when, and how of metadata creation.

    ScienceBase Data Release Metadata 101 Training 

    Thursday, February 20, 2025 @ 12:00 pm ET / 10:00 am MT 

    Presented by: Emily Chapin & Ricardo McClees-Funinan, Science Data Management 

    Is this your first foray into metadata creation and don’t know where to start? Do you want to refresh yourself on USGS metadata requirements and recommendations before your next data release? 

    The USGS Science Analytics and Synthesis’ ScienceBase Data Release Team will be hosting a virtual training event that will provide an overview of the who, what, where, when, and how of metadata creation. We will also showcase a walkthrough of an application for creating, editing, and validating metadata, the Metadata Wizard. 

    This, and other SBDR trainings, are available to sign up for on DOI Talent, which can be found by searching “USGS ScienceBase Data Release (SBDR) Trainings”. If you are outside of the USGS, you can sign up by emailing the ScienceBase data release team.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Key Considerations for Incorporating Indigenous Knowledge into Climate Adaptation Planning

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Key Considerations for Incorporating Indigenous Knowledge into Climate Adaptation Planning

    In a recent article, North Central CASC scientists and collaborators share lessons-learned from a collaboration with the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe incorporating Indigenous Knowledge into climate adaptation planning efforts. 

    Climate adaptation practitioners are increasingly incorporating broader sources of knowledge into planning efforts. This allows resulting decisions to consider the most complete data and information available. Yet engaging with knowledge holders, particularly those from Tribal and Indigenous communities, requires special considerations to be ethical and effective.   

    In 2020, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe developed a Climate Action Plan (CAP) to protect the health and livelihood of communities experiencing increased warming and droughts. The Tribal Nation then partnered with the North Central CASC on forward-looking climate adaptation efforts, cumulating in a climate change scenario planning workshop held in the fall of 2023. Workshop participants worked together to incorporate remote sensed data, climate modeling, and Indigenous Knowledge, gathered through Tribal-led interviews, to consider how climate change could impact current and future resource management practices within the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. 

    A new perspective article led by North Central CASC scientists shares reflections on the ongoing collaboration and climate change scenario workshop. The authors discuss the key considerations for collecting and integrating IK into decision-making processes and how these processes played out in their work with the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. These considerations may also support other climate adaptation practitioners and researchers who would like to incorporate Indigenous Knowledge and foster ethical collaboration that benefits tribes, federal agencies, and environmental managers. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Warns Federal Employees about Questionable Buyout Offer

    Source: US State of California

    Monday, February 3, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    Latest attempt to sow chaos amid federal workforce and for Americans that rely on a functioning government

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a coalition of 12 attorneys general warning federal employees about the Trump Administration’s questionable “deferred resignation” program, which purports to offer federal employees pay through September 30, 2025, if they resign by February 6, 2025. Following the Trump Administration’s proposal, unions representing federal employees warned their members against accepting the offer, adding that employees who accepted the offer were not guaranteed its benefits. California is home to nearly 150,000 federal workers who provide vital services to Americans nationwide. 

    “Federal employees provide vital services that Americans rely on every day, and are an essential part of the California economy and communities across the state,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The Trump Administration’s so-called buyout offer is a pointed attack aimed at dismantling our federal workforce and sowing chaos for Americans that rely on a functioning government. I urge federal employees to heed warnings from their unions to be very cautious of any buyout offers.” 

    On January 28, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sent an email to millions of federal employees detailing a new deferred resignation program. Employees were told that if they accept the offer and resign, they would continue receiving all pay and benefits, and be exempt from in-person work requirements until September 30. OPM sent another email to federal employees on January 30 reiterating the offer and urging them to find “higher productivity” jobs outside of government. The OPM emails instructed employees that they have until February 6 to decide to remain in their position or resign under the deferred resignation program and warned that those who did not resign were not guaranteed to keep their jobs. 

    Immediately following OPM’s email, unions representing federal employees warned their members against accepting the offer. The American Federation of Government Employees, the largest federal employees union, released information for its members warning them that employees who accepted the offer were not guaranteed its benefits. The National Federation of Federal Employees similarly warned its members against accepting the offer. 

    Joining Attorney General Bonta in issuing the warning to federal employees are the attorneys general of Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, and Washington.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Secretary Kristi Noem Rides with Border Patrol Agents on the Southern Border

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    DEL RIO, TX – Yesterday, Secretary Kristi Noem visited the Southern Border to meet with Border Patrol agents and see firsthand how the Department can best support their efforts. She pledged to ensure that Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) has the resources it needs to stop the flow of criminals and drugs into the United States. 

    Already under President Trump’s leadership, daily encounters at our southern border have plunged 93 percent.  

    Secretary Noem and Border Patrol agents in Del Rio, TX. 

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    Secretary Noem and Border Patrol agents in Del Rio, TX.  | View Original
    Secretary Noem took an aerial tour to survey the southern border flying from Del Rio to Eagle Pass, TX. 

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    Secretary Noem took an aerial tour to survey the southern border flying from Del Rio to Eagle Pass, TX.  | View Original
    Secretary Noem pledged to ensure that CBP has the resources it needs to secure the border. 

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    Secretary Noem pledged to ensure that CBP has the resources it needs to secure the border.  | View Original

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How universities can help make our cities more accessible for people with disabilities

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Carmela Cucuzzella, Dean, Faculty of Environmental Design, Université de Montréal, Full Professor School of Design, Université de Montréal

    Those designing university courses should ensure issues of universal accessibility are embedded throughout a student’s academic journey. (Shutterstock)

    People living with disabilities, ranging in severity, regularly face barriers. Oftentimes, built environments are designed in ways that fail to consider the needs of those in situations of disability. That can include improperly sized ramps for wheelchair users or public spaces that are not sensory friendly.

    One 2024 study found that most buildings in Canada are not accessible for people with disabilities.

    This lack of accommodation can have a serious impact on a person’s quality of life. For example, people with disabilities report challenges in their workplaces, such as a lack of automatic door openers and poor signage and way-finding.

    If our public spaces are not accessible to all, then they cannot be truly public. The first step in changing our built environment is to bring awareness to the different forms of disabilities that people in Canada experience.

    The number of people in Canada living with disabilities increased by about five per cent from 2017 to 2022. In 2022, the Canadian Survey on Disability showed that 27 per cent of Canadians aged 15 years and older had one or more disabilities that impacted their daily activities.

    As a professor in a school of design and the dean of the Faculty of Environmental Design at the Université of Montréal, I believe it’s urgently important to explore how faculties of architecture, design, landscape architecture and urbanism can inform design practices through the way we teach and conduct research.

    Our objective must be to teach students how to make our built environment more inclusive and universally accessible through creative means rather than basic technological add-ons.

    In 2022, the Canadian Survey on Disability showed that 27 per cent of Canadians aged 15 years and older had one or more disabilities that impacted their daily activities.
    (Shutterstock)

    Solutions remain cumbersome and stigmatizing

    In 2022, 72 per cent of people with disabilities reported that they experienced one or more barriers to accessibility due to their condition. The Canadian government has recognized these challenges by setting ambitious nationwide accessibility targets for 2040.

    Standards exist for accessibility and inclusivity in Canada, but they are not systematically applied. Furthermore, when designing for universal accessibility, the emphasis is on conformity rather than experience, on separation rather than integration, and on functionality rather than fulfillment.

    Take, for example, a multi-storey office building that provides separate entrances and facilities for people with disabilities. The building complies with the minimum accessibility requirements set by local building codes, but does so in a way that isolates people with disabilities rather than integrating their needs into the overall design. This building does not provide the same experience to all people and therefore separates rather than includes diverse populations.

    The universal accessibility of public spaces and buildings is a complex design problem. It is especially difficult for retrofits, since solutions can quickly become costly, particularly in heritage buildings.

    But if changes are managed carefully, costs can become manageable. Universal accessible design is also challenging for new buildings and spaces, but if universal design is prioritized right from the outset of a project, architects and developers can create inclusive environments that accommodate diverse needs without incurring substantial additional expenses.

    Universities that offer teaching and research programs in universal accessible design can make a real difference.
    (Shutterstock)

    How universities can help

    Universal accessible design is not just a question of following a set of codes, but rather a question of designing for an equitable, qualitative accessible experience. This means ensuring that all people, regardless of their physical or mental situations, are offered equivalent spatial experiences.

    Universities that offer teaching and research programs in a universal accessible design can make a real difference. But it’s integral that teaching is developed alongside the research, as understanding of needs and best practices are in continual renewal.

    Faculties with such programs and courses could achieve this by enabling students through creative engagement of this difficult subject. Furthermore, being in these design environments allows students to understand these societal issues as leverage for innovative solutions, rather than just satisfying building codes.

    Those designing university courses should ensure issues of universal accessibility are embedded throughout a student’s academic journey, and included in a way that helps empower the graduating students.

    Students graduating from these programs will become the young professionals in the fields of design, architecture, urbanism or landscape architecture.

    Unfortunately, the exact likelihood of students specializing in universal accessibility — and applying their knowledge in their careers — is challenging due to limited specific data. But there is an increasing recognition of the importance of accessibility in various sectors, leading to more roles that require expertise in universal design and inclusive practices.

    For instance, in Québec, efforts are being made to integrate and retain people with disabilities in the workforce, highlighting the need for professionals trained in inclusive access and universal accessibility.

    Accessiblity in the classroom

    Incorporating more discussion on universal accessibility in the classroom and in university research environments can help students apply their expertise in the design of our built environment throughout their careers.

    Yet, higher education institutions are still not giving enough attention to courses related to universal accessibility and design. Institutions in Canada often struggle with how to provide students living with disabilities with barrier-free environments.

    A national research project led by the Université of Montréal called Quality in Canada’s Built Environment is bringing together research groups from universities across the country to develop solutions based on the lived experiences of people living with diverse conditions. This is a key research approach to help sensitize students across the many programs touching the built environment that is also having an impact on student learning experiences.

    In 2020 alone, more than 77,000 students graduated in the fields of architecture and related studies in Canada. If every graduate is sensitized to the barriers faced by people living with disabilities, we could begin to see a shift in how our built environments are imagined and constructed by those who design them.

    By fostering dialogue between research, education and practice, universities can ensure a future where accessibility is seamlessly integrated into the every day.

    Carmela Cucuzzella receives funding from FRQSC and SSHRC.

    – ref. How universities can help make our cities more accessible for people with disabilities – https://theconversation.com/how-universities-can-help-make-our-cities-more-accessible-for-people-with-disabilities-245639

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/NIGERIA – Poverty, food insecurity, inadequate health care and high cost of living

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Monday, 3 February 2025

    Abuja (Agenzia Fides) – In addition to the serious waves of violence that are affecting the Nigerian population, including kidnappings, clashes, terrorist attacks and brutal murders, there is poverty, food insecurity, inadequate health care and a disproportionate increase in the cost of living.”We are suffering greatly. We have almost nothing to eat and for more than four years we have not been able to dedicate ourselves to agricolture because the bandits have driven us out of our communities. We urgently need the government’s support,” says a statement from residents of a refugee camp in Zamfara state, in northwest Nigeria.In this region of the country, armed groups are driving farmers off their land, closing markets and extorting money from communities. More than 2.2 million people have been forced to flee, many of them now living in overcrowded camps without any resources. According to local press reports, the ongoing conflicts are also affecting agriculture and food production in the northeast. Families returning to their land are reluctant to farm away from militarized cities, risking starvation. Food shortages are so severe that some families are forced to eat cassava husks to survive.In 2020, the Nigerian government launched the so-called “National Multisectoral Action Plan for Food and Nutrition”, an initiative for the period 2021-2025 to combat food security and malnutrition, with a focus on increasing food production through agricultural investments. Unfortunately, so far, the funds have not been sufficient.Agriculture generates 24% of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employs more than 30% of the total workforce, but the funding for the sector remains well below the 10% target set by the African Union in the 2003 Maputo Declaration, which calls for at least 10% of national budgets to be allocated to agriculture and rural development within five years (see Fides, 21/9/2006).Africa’s most populous country, with around 225 million inhabitants, has one of the highest rates of childhood stunting in the world: 32% of children under five are affected.According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), two million children in Nigeria, mainly in the north of the country, are affected by malnutrition, which kills around 2,400 children under five every day. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 3/2/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/DR CONGO – “In Bukavu, young people are joining self-defense militias”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – “The situation in Bukavu is calm at the moment, but young people are flocking en masse to the recruitment centers of the self-defense groups of the so-called ‘Wazalendo’ militias,” report Fides sources from the capital of the Congolese province of South Kivu, which is now also threatened by the advance of the rebel movement M23, after it has already taken Goma (capital of the province of North Kivu).”The M23 seems to have stopped its advance on Bukavu,” say the observers. “So we are living from day to day without really knowing what to expect. The army has also launched a campaign to recruit civilians to join self-defense groups. Many young people have answered the call of the authorities and are now strengthening the ranks of the so-called ‘Wazalendo’ militias.” The observers report that “life is slowly recovering in Goma too. Electricity has returned to some neighborhoods and, since yesterday evening, internet connections have also been restored. Schools have reopened today, at least those that were not intended to accommodate displaced people.” “As for the displaced people, the various refugee camps around the city have meanwhile been dismantled; those who were able to do so have returned to their places of origin; the others have been forced to take shelter in schools and other public buildings,” the observers continue.According to the Congolese Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO), the health situation in the city is very serious. “Several health facilities are working beyond their capacity: there is a lack of beds, medicines, medical equipment, emergency kits, blood donations, fuel, surgical supplies and other equipment,” says a report dated January 30, sent to Fides. “The morgues are overflowing (more than 770 lifeless bodies have already been collected, others are still scattered in the streets of the unsafe districts and are in an advanced stage of decomposition)”. According to the report, 2,800 injured people are in the city’s hospitals. Many of the injured remain at home without adequate medical care, while the risk of epidemics remains high.At the political level, the Heads of State of the member states of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) reaffirmed their “unwavering commitment to continue to support the Democratic Republic of Congo in its efforts to preserve its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity” at the end of their extraordinary summit on 31 January in Harare (Zimbabwe). There is therefore a fear that the conflict will expand into a confrontation that goes beyond the Great Lakes region, as the President of Burundi explained in a video published on his YouTube channel: “If there is no peace in eastern Congo, there will be no peace in the region. The conflict does not only affect Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya, but the entire region”. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 3/2/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – Jubilee in exile: Catholics in Loikaw do not want to lose hope

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Loikaw (Agenzia Fides) – Displacement, hunger, cold, the fatigue of a daily life in refugee camps or in makeshift settlements in the forests cannot stop the Catholic faithful of Loikaw, a diocese in the Burmese state of Kayah in the east of the country, from celebrating the Holy Year. As Fr. Paul Pa, diocesan representative for the Holy Year 2025, tells Fides, the Catholic community of Loikaw, with about 90,000 members scattered in an area marked by clashes and fighting between the army and the opposition forces, is striving for unity and has found the spiritual strength to celebrate its “Jubilee in exile” since the Christ the King Cathedral and the Pastoral Complex in Loikaw were seized and occupied by the military in November 2023.It is a deep wound for the local church, which, however, “does not lose hope,” says the priest: “Since we could not use the cathedral church as the Jubilee church, we have designated the Mother of God parish church in Sondu, where our Bishop Celso Ba Shwe currently resides, as the co-cathedral,” he says. “This church is one of our Jubilee pilgrimage centers, together with the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Yusamoso, St. Joseph’s Church in Hoya, the Sacred Heart Church in Dorokhu and the church in the Mese region.” All were provided with the “guide” for the celebration of the Jubilee, the pilgrimage and the petition for indulgence by the “itinerant priests” from Loikaw, who are constantly traveling in the area.At the opening service of the Jubilee, the bishop encouraged the faithful to “hold on to hope” because “the Lord is with us, he supports us, he is the source of our hope.” “Moreover,” he continued, “hope comes from solidarity and mutual charity in this time of desert, darkness, suffering, displacement,” “a time of exile when everyone longs to return home but cannot because of the widespread violence.”Like the other priests and religious of the diocese, Father Paul Pa is constantly on the move, visiting the Jubilee churches and refugee camps, noting the piety of the pilgrims who “arrive after long marches on foot, stop to pray, are moved, ask God for help, receive the sacraments, gain indulgences.” The priest stresses that the service of the priests of Loikaw “today is above all a service of consolation and support for the afflicted.” In the midst of this painful condition, the faithful also sing songs of praise, as they have been provided with a “Jubilee song” and a special prayer that they recite with faith. The ministry of priests in Loikaw has become, above all, a ministry of consolation: “We say to the faithful: may a special shower of graces be upon you all, and we bless you,” the priest recounts.In addition to human and spiritual consolation, it is also about providing humanitarian aid to those most in need, especially displaced persons, children, the elderly and the sick, in a situation in which even the private health centers and clinics of the Catholic Church are facing serious difficulties and shortages. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 3/2/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Operation Waitangi well underway

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Operations for a memorable and safe Waitangi Day are well underway in Northland, with Police and partner agencies gathering for one of the biggest events of the year.

    Together, Police are working with a number of communities and partners as annual events take place in the lead up to 6 February.

    Northland District Commander, Superintendent Matt Srhoj, says planning for Waitangi involves a massive effort, which takes place over a number of months.

    “Police have been working with Iwi and the Waitangi National Trust to ensure they are able to deliver safe and enjoyable Waitangi celebrations.

    “Planning involves understanding the environment and sentiment and ensuring we have appropriate contingencies in place.”

    “We are expecting large numbers of people to attend the week’s commemorations.”

    Waitangi Ltd Chief Executive, Ben Dalton, says the atmosphere ahead of Waitangi Day is relaxed as people from near and far make their way to the area.

    “A lot of work goes into strengthening and building key relationships and interactions with Iwi and other partners prior to Waitangi, including Police.

    “All these teams are integral in an event of this size and it’s great to have everyone’s support.”

    Superintendent Srhoj says Police are reminding people to be safe and patient on the roads and within Waitangi as it gets busier during the lead up.

    “With people travelling around this beautiful region, we are asking everyone to take care and to take extra steps to mitigate risks while driving by wearing seatbelts, driving to the conditions and following speed limits.

    “There will be an increase in traffic, so please be patient.

    “Our aim is for the community to arrive and get home safely and to celebrate Waitangi 2025 in a safe and respectful manner.”

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Operation Waitangi well under way

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Operations for a memorable and safe Waitangi Day are well under way in Northland, with Police and partner agencies gathering for one of the biggest events of the year.

    Together, Police are working with a number of communities and partners as annual events take place in the lead up to 6 February.

    Northland District Commander, Superintendent Matt Srhoj, says planning for Waitangi involves a massive effort, which takes place over a number of months.

    “Police have been working with Iwi and the Waitangi National Trust to ensure they are able to deliver safe and enjoyable Waitangi celebrations.

    “Planning involves understanding the environment and sentiment and ensuring we have appropriate contingencies in place.”

    “We are expecting large numbers of people to attend the week’s commemorations.”

    Waitangi Ltd Chief Executive, Ben Dalton, says the atmosphere ahead of Waitangi Day is relaxed as people from near and far make their way to the area.

    “A lot of work goes into strengthening and building key relationships and interactions with Iwi and other partners prior to Waitangi, including Police.

    “All these teams are integral in an event of this size and it’s great to have everyone’s support.”

    Superintendent Srhoj says Police are reminding people to be safe and patient on the roads and within Waitangi as it gets busier during the lead up.

    “With people travelling around this beautiful region, we are asking everyone to take care and to take extra steps to mitigate risks while driving by wearing seatbelts, driving to the conditions and following speed limits.

    “There will be an increase in traffic, so please be patient.

    “Our aim is for the community to arrive and get home safely and to celebrate Waitangi 2025 in a safe and respectful manner.”

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Supercharging literacy & numeracy achievement through te reo Māori

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is driving better outcomes for Māori students by providing kura and schools high-quality structured literacy and numeracy resources in te reo Māori.

    “My aspiration is for all tamariki Māori to flourish and be successful in their learning. This is the first time children learning through te reo Māori are being taught using structured approaches in a way designed specifically for them. We’re ensuring tamariki and their teachers have access to the tools they need to succeed and learning isn’t left to chance,” Education Minister Erica Stanford says.

    From Term 1, all 310 kura and schools from Years 0 to 8 using Te Marautanga o Aotearoa will begin receiving Rangaranga Reo ā-Tā (structured literacy) kits and Poutama Pāngarau (numeracy) workbooks and Pāngarau resources. These resources have been purposely created based on the science of learning and will benefit 27,000 students across the country.

    “Packs have a book for each phase of learning that provides yearly guidance, lesson plans and activities. Digital versions of the resources will also be available online to ensure flexibility for schools and parents. Professional learning and development will continue to be available for teachers throughout 2025, ensuring they have the confidence to teach in a structured way.”

    Schools can also use Hihira Weteoro, a purpose-built phonics check to understand how a child’s reading and oral language learning through te reo Māori. Checks will happen at 20, 40 and 55 weeks of schooling and will help identify those who need extra support earlier.

    “Parents can have confidence this Government is putting the foundations in place so their children can strive to do their best at school. I am committed to lifting achievement for Māori learners and close the equity gap that has persisted for too long. We will ensure every child gets the very best start so they can grow the New Zealand of the future,” Ms Stanford says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Legacy of MLK Jr. Carried On at UConn Health’s Inaugural Service and Advocacy Summit

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    On Jan. 30 the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. was celebrated at the first Service and Advocacy Summit at UConn Health.

    The summit’s keynote speaker was Linda Sprague Martinez, Ph.D., director of the Health Disparities Institute.

    She kicked off her address with the famous words of MLK: “Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and inhuman.”

    “We see inequities in health care and in health outcomes across a spectrum of chronic conditions,” she stressed in her address to faculty, students, and staff about the benefits of “Community Based Participatory Research Advancing Health Equity.”

    “Participatory research is a collaborative approach to research,” she says. “Advancing health equity requires conducting research with the community. Working in partnership facilitates an environment in which we are co-learning.”

    She adds, “People in the community know what they need to be healthy,” and recommends research priorities originate in the community, building trust relationships with the community members, and then co-designing research protocols based on community identified priorities.

    “If we are not translating knowledge generated in community settings in partnership with community members, we are not going to bring about meaningful change,” reports Sprague Martinez.

    Student showcase on Jan. 30 (UConn Health Photo/Tina Encarnacion).

    As a strong example of participatory research, Sprague Martinez shared how her UConn Health Disparities Institute is collaborating with the state of Connecticut’s Commission on Racial Equity for Public Health to launch a community-based research project recruiting citizens from across the state as community research advisors and faculty to advance health equity.

    Sprague Martinez serves UConn School of Medicine as professor in the Department of Medicine and Department of Public Health Sciences, and faculty affiliate at UConn School of Social Work.

    At the event student organization’s such as UConn School of Pharmacy Diversity Committee, Pathway Scholars Foundation, Student National Medical Assoc (SNMA), Latin Medical Student Assoc (LMSA), Medial Students for Choice (MSFC), and the Student Diversity Equity & Inclusion Committee (SDEIC) also showcased their community outreach efforts.

    Class of 2027 medical student Uma Mehta was one of the student organizers of MLK Week, along with Cailyn Regan and Jenn Casparino, and attended the Summit’s student showcase.

    Medical student Uma Mehta visiting the LMSA table at the MLK Week student showcase.

    “When I think of MLK I envision hope, symbols of resistance, and expression of ideals,” shared Mehta. “For our patients things are at times uncertain, especially after a diagnosis. But as providers we can help give them a sense of hope, autonomy, and power over their diagnosis. This can be really helpful, healing, and powerful.”

    MLK week festivities also celebrated the health care disparities research of medical and dental students in a research poster showcase outside the Academic Rotunda lobby.

    All medical students are required as part the curriculum to complete a Public Health Certificate in Social Determinants of Health and Disparities. In fact, UConn medical school was the first in the nation to require students to complete a certificate curriculum in social determinants of health.

    Final projects for the second-year students were displayed in the Rotunda Lobby for over a week with live poster session presentations.

    Medical student Uma Mehta also had the opportunity to share her student research team project to School of Medicine Dean Dr. Bruce T. Liang.

    For example, Joseph Chopra of Bedford, New Hampshire is a second-year medical student. He presented his research team’s project focused on solving the issues of the underserved COPD population in Connecticut’s census. His research team is proposing a community-driven initiative and inexpensive intervention tool to improve indoor air quality thru DIY air filters.

    “Our COPD populations are underserved. COPD is associated with more sickness and poorer outcomes overall. COPD leads to worse outcomes for older people too,” said Chopra. “We wanted to find an intervention that helped.”

    Chopra has been inspired by MLK’s legacy and also the community outreach efforts he has witnessed while in medical school at UConn.

    Second-year UConn medical student Joseph Chopra presenting his student team’s poster on COPD and how to help the underserved community with its health disparities.

    “I have found a lot of inspiration from the people inside the community. Community outreach is very important and its wonderful to have the opportunity to learn from them about health disparities,” he says.

    Second-year medical students Samantha Mae Mallari of Milford and Ethan Knapp of Ridgefield were presenting their research project for their student team.

    It was about “Evidence-Based Strategies to Address Coronary Heart Disease in Norwalk, CT” and how a soda tax, produce prescription program, and Farmer’s Market could potentially lead to a healthier city.

    “Coronary artery disease and diabetes are big issues and we need to address their root causes,” shared Knapp. “We need to focus on diet.”

    They have both really enjoyed UConn School of Medicine’s teachings about health disparities and the certificate program.

    Second-year medical students (both right) Ethan Knapp and Samantha Mae Mallari presenting their student team research outside the Academic Rotunda on Jan. 30.

    “It’s a good way to teach us all the social factors that go into medicine, and for a well-rounded curriculum,” says Knapp. “A lot of our medical school graduates stay in Connecticut to serve underserved populations, so it’s good for us to learn how to address all their social determinants of health.”

    Mallari concludes, “We have MLK Day, but we should be thinking about health disparities always, especially in the medical field.”

    MIL OSI USA News –