NewzIntel.com

Blog

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘This Girl Moves’ inspires young leaders to get more girls active

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon (ABC) Borough Council and the Southern Health and Social Care Trust (SHSCT) have teamed up once again to host the ‘This Girl Moves’ Leadership Day to inspire and motivate teenage girls to get active!

    Funded by the Public Health Agency, the programme is designed to inspire female students to create positive change within their schools by encouraging and supporting their peers to become more active, irrespective of age, ability and shape.

    Twenty-four female pupils aged 13-15 years representing Brownlow Integrated College, Craigavon Senior High School, Lurgan Junior High School and Killicomaine Junior High School attended the recent event at Dromore Community Centre.

    Through a series of interactive workshops, physical activity sessions and team-building exercises, the girls explored the factors impacting on girls’ participation in sport and creative ways to help get more girls involved in exercise and sport.

    The participants will return to their schools as ambassadors tasked with promoting physical activities and encouraging more girls to get active and stay active. Over the coming months, they will continue to work with the ABC Council and SHSCT teams to fulfil their roles, whilst also working towards the ‘I Can Lead’ Award, developed by the Leadership Skills Foundation.

    Speaking at the ‘This Girl Moves’ Leadership Day, Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Kyle Savage said, “The research shows that girls are more likely to disengage from sport and physical activity, experience more barriers and drop out of sports in their teenage years. I am therefore delighted that we can continue to support this campaign to inspire young girls across the borough to create positive change together and among their peers. I wish all the girls every success with their leadership journeys and their campaigns to get more girls active.”

    Southern Health and Social Care Trust Physical Activity Lead, Clare Drummy, added, “Children here have the lowest physical activity levels throughout the UK. For this reason, we’re committed to supporting girls to become more active in a way that suits them, so this can be sustained into adulthood.

    “We know that peer support has the greatest influence on teenage girls, which is why we are recruiting physical activity ambassadors to support and encourage girls in their schools to be active.”

    The ‘This Girl Moves’ programme will run across the SHSCT area with further events to take place in the coming weeks. For further information, contact

    *protected email*

    or

    *protected email*

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Free bus travel on offer for up to two thousand Spectra visitors

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    First Bus has teamed up with Scotland’s Festival of Light for the second year running to offer free bus travel to Spectra visitors.

    With an apt festival theme of Journeys this year, up to two thousand two-trip tickets have been made available, allowing visitors to claim free travel for First Bus services, as they make their way to and from Spectra on their chosen date.

    The festival, owned and commissioned by Aberdeen City Council, will return from February 6 to February 9, with a packed programme of 15 art light installations, and a wide range of supporting activations, from fire street performances to dancers and musicians.

    From a giant moon apparently removed from its orbit and lassoed to a boat, to a dreamy inflatable light castle, and an enormous illuminated slinky toy installation, there’ll be a wide range of artworks for people of all ages to enjoy.

    Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s Culture spokesperson, said: “Spectra draws in thousands of visitors to the city centre each year. It’s fantastic to be partnering with First Bus again, after the free travel offer proved so popular in 2024, to allow visitors to travel to and from the festival in a sustainable way.

    “We’re looking forward to the festival getting underway, as it truly shines a spotlight on everything Aberdeen has to offer. We hope that visitors take advantage of this offer and enjoy both the fantastic artworks and other performances, as well as the hospitality of our city centre businesses.”

    David Adam, Operations Manager for First Bus in Aberdeen, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Spectra once again to offer sustainable travel to up to two thousand visitors going to-and-from the festival. 

    “Events like Spectra, which bring so many people to Aberdeen city centre, are fantastic for everyone and captures the imagination while showing off some of Aberdeen’s most iconic buildings in a new, exciting way.”

    Now in its 11th year, the celebration of light, art and creativity is now firmly established in Scotland’s event calendar, having grown in the past decade, from an initial audience of 10,000 at a single site to attracting over 100,000 visits over four days in 2024 and contributing £2.6 million in visitor spend to the local economy.

    Those interested in claiming the free travel offer are encouraged to sign-up to the Spectra mailing list by 12pm on Monday 3 February. Details will then be shared with instructions on how to claim a two-trip ticket which will be redeemable through the First Bus app, per app user during the festival dates from 6 to 9 February. More information on how to claim the offer is available at: http://www.spectrafestival.com/

    Check out the full line-up for Spectra here: http://www.spectrafestival.com/ 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland growth opportunities showcased to international audience

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Whilst in attendance at the Scottish Cities Week the Council Leader had the opportunity to meet with the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland making representation on a number of matters that are important to the whole of the Highland Council area . Pictured is The Highland Council Leader, Councillor Raymond Bremner with the Secretary of State for Scotland, The Rt Hon Ian Murray MP and Allan Maguire, the Council’s Head of Development and Regeneration.

    The Highland Council’s Leader Councillor Raymond Bremner attended Scottish Cities Week in London (20-22 January) to promote investment opportunities in Inverness, the Highlands and the Highland Council area.  Scottish Cities Week aims to provide a focused opportunity to create and develop long-term strategic partnerships, with a wide array of investors and developers.

    Its success is rooted in the cities working in collaboration with the Scottish and UK Government, via the Scottish Cities Alliance, to boost investor confidence and deliver a programme of activity promoting the benefits of investing in Scotland’s smart and sustainable cities. It also provides opportunities for Highland Council representatives to meet with government Ministers and Cabinet Secretaries and discuss matters of importance to the Highlands.

    The multi-day event is attended by national and international investors together with representatives from the Scottish Government, Scottish Development International and the Department of Business and Trade.  This year’s event programme focused on seizing the unique opportunities related to our contribution towards the transition to net zero and other high growth businesses and sectors, driving place-based investment and innovation and enabling infrastructure.  

    The event coincides with the council’s recent launch of the new Invest Highland brand which is aimed at promoting the Highlands’ wealth of investment opportunities.

    Council Leader Cllr Raymond Bremner said: “The Highland region is really coming into its own and is attracting interest from all over the world.  We have so much to offer inward investors and Scottish Cities Week is a great platform for showcasing the world class opportunities which exist throughout our area. Attracting investors to the region is essential to address societal challenges and unlock transformational change. 

    “With representatives also attending from Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, it helps demonstrate the successful partnerships we have in Highland and shows our ambition for the future.”

    30 Jan 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Winter Road Conditions Report – Thursday 30 January 2025

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The information provided is a summary of reports from operational staff and is intended to give a general indication of typical conditions in each area at a point in time.  It is not intended to imply that any individual route is entirely snow and ice free and drivers must be aware that conditions can change rapidly and make their own assessment of conditions for travelling.

    Maps of the Council’s gritting routes by priority and policy are available online. 

    The Met Office’s yellow warning for Ice over the Highlands expired at 10am today.

    Highland Road Conditions Report for Thursday 30 January 2025 are as follows:   

    Skye and Raasay 07:28 – Treatment is ongoing on all routes. Road conditions are reported as having icy patches. There are no known overnight issues.

    Nairn 07:42 – Treatment is ongoing on all routes and footpaths. Road conditions are damp on lower routes with ice and snow/sleet on higher routes. There are no known overnight issues.

    Badenoch and Strathspey 07:43 – Treatment is ongoing on all routes as well as footpaths, as resources permit. Road conditions have snow/sleet affecting the North of the area with damp and icy roads in the South. There are no known overnight issues.

    East Ross-shire 07:56 – All routes and footpaths have received treatment. Road conditions have widespread black ice across the area and caution is advised on all routes.

    Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh 06:58 – Road conditions are very icy due to a cold snap overnight. Extreme caution is advised when travelling across the ward. Road conditions in the East are reported to be very icy around Strathpeffer/Contin/Garve areas as well as Marybank through to Strathconnon. Snow is present on the A832 around The Fain. On the mountain passes, there is a covering of frozen snow on the Belach na ba and a covering of frozen hail on the Mam Ratagan. There are no known overnight issues.

    Caithness 06:49 – Road conditions are frosty especially on inland routes, with sleet showers continuing in the morning. Negative road surface temperatures were reported in the am. Weekend routes are being treated due to resource availability as well as footpaths. There are no known overnight issues.

    Lochaber 08:41 – All priority and secondary roads have received treatment. Treatment is ongoing on other routes as needed. Road conditions are damp/wet and some have a lot of sparkle sections. There are no known overnight issues.

    Sutherland 08:19 – All routes have received treatment. Road conditions are icy with a light dusting of snow on high ground. Conditions are milder to the North and West of the county.

    Inverness 06:32 – Treatment is ongoing on all routes and footpaths. Road conditions are damp with some snow on higher ground. There are no known overnight issues.

    No schools are currently closed today due to the weather.  For details visit www.highland.gov.uk/schoolclosures – please note that this page is cleared at 4pm each day.

    Follow our social media channels to keep up-to-date with all Highland Council road issues – X @HighlandCouncil and Facebook

    Information and flooding advice is available on our website

    Information on weather warnings is available on the Met Office website

    For information on Trunk Roads follow @trafficscotland

    For information on power cuts, visit SSEN website

    SEPA are the Scottish Environment Protection Agency – SEPA

    Ready Scotland’s aim is to make Scotland more resilient to emergencies. We know that disruptions can happen at any time and we’re here to help – Ready Scotland

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘Gujarat Governance Model’ offers several best practices to be replicated elsewhere too, says Dr Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India (2)

    ‘Gujarat Governance Model’ offers several best practices to be replicated elsewhere too, says Dr Jitendra Singh

    Highlights Modi’s ‘ Maximum governance, minimum government ‘ mantra;

    Advocates for Central-State Collaboration to Propel India as a Global Governance Model

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 4:56PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, speaking at the National Conference on Good Governance at the capital township of Gandhinagar here, observed that the “Gujarat Governance Model” offers several best practices which can be successfully replicated elsewhere too.

    The Minister recalled that many of the governance innovations successfully implemented at the Central level were first introduced in Gujarat under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership as Chief Minister.

    Addressing a pan-India audience of policymakers, senior bureaucrats, and governance experts, Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the transformation in governance over the last decade. “This transformation did not happen overnight. Many of the reforms introduced at the national level were first tested and perfected in Gujarat, and today they are being replicated across the country,” he remarked.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the fundamental shift in governance culture under Prime Minister Modi, which has taken policymaking beyond the traditional administrative strongholds of Delhi and into various regions of the country. He cited the Prime Minister’s directive to decentralize governance by ensuring that major policy discussions, conferences and outreach programs are held in different parts of the country and not necessarily in New Delhi. “By moving governance dialogues beyond Delhi, we are ensuring that reforms are more inclusive and reflective of the aspirations of people from all corners of the country,” he said.

    Union Minister of State,  Dr.Jitendra Singh speaking after inaugurating two-day “National Conference on Good Governance” at Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

    The Minister also referred to the evolution of India’s administrative framework, recalling how Sardar Patel envisioned a robust bureaucracy as the ‘steel frame’ of India, a vision that has been further refined through the Modi government’s approach of ‘Maximum Governance, Minimum Government.’ He pointed to landmark reforms, such as the scrapping of nearly 2,000 obsolete laws, the elimination of the requirement for attested documents and the removal of interviews for junior-level government jobs as measures that have streamlined bureaucracy and enhanced transparency.

    One of the standout examples of governance innovation, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted, was Gujarat’s early implementation of the 24-hour rural electrification scheme in the early 2000s. “At a time when electricity supply was erratic across the country, Gujarat pioneered uninterrupted rural electrification, a model that was later scaled up at the national level,” he said. Recounting the scale of transformation, Dr. Jitendra Singh spoke about how electricity shortages used to be commonplace in many parts of India. “There was a time when people clapped when the lights came back on after an outage. Today, power cuts are rare, and uninterrupted electricity is an expectation, not a luxury. This is the scale of governance transformation achieved,” he remarked.

    The Minister also outlined India’s progress in digital governance, emphasizing major technological interventions in public administration. Initiatives such as online RTI applications, digital life certificates for pensioners using facial recognition technology, and AI-driven administrative decision-making have positioned India as a leader in governance innovation. He stated that the use of emerging technologies will be central to governance in the coming years, making administration more efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also spoke about the impressive strides made in grievance redressal mechanisms, particularly the CPGRAMS (Centralized Public Grievance Redressal and Monitoring System), which has now become a model for citizen-centric governance worldwide. He highlighted CPGRAMS 7.0 as a transformative leap in public grievance redressal, showcasing the power of technology and citizen-centric policies in governance. He emphasized that AI-driven reforms, including semantic search and predictive analytics, have made governance more responsive, bridging the gap between the administration and citizens. With over 19 lakh feedbacks collected and a 50% rise in satisfaction levels, CPGRAMS reflects growing public trust. He urged stakeholders to further strengthen the system, positioning it as a global model of innovation, transparency, and efficient grievance redressal.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that between 2019 and 2024, India has witnessed a transformative shift in governance, with e-governance streamlining citizen-government interactions and enhancing transparency. He noted that the widespread adoption of e-Office version 7.0 has enabled paperless administration across Ministries, ensuring efficiency and accountability in governance. The Minister emphasized that India’s commitment to e-governance has been reinforced through platforms like the National Conference on e-Governance (NCeG), which has fostered collaboration between the Centre and States since 1997.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the success of the fourth Sushasan Saptah—Good Governance Week—held from December 19 to 25, 2024, as a significant step toward transformative governance. He emphasized the Prashasan Gaon ki Ore campaign, which aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of next-generation reforms by bringing governance closer to citizens through streamlined procedures and technology-driven service delivery. With over 36,000 camps organized across 700+ districts, resolving nearly 2.89 crore service applications, the campaign demonstrated the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment at every level.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh further highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring that governance is responsive and attuned to the needs of the people. He reiterated that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the emphasis remains on making government services more accessible, accountable, and technology-driven. He praised Gujarat for setting a benchmark in administrative efficiency and urged other states to adopt similar governance models to enhance service delivery and public administration.

    The National Conference on Good Governance, attended by senior officials and experts, provided a platform to discuss best practices and develop strategies for further strengthening governance mechanisms across India.

    While addressing the conference, Secretary, DAR&PG, Shri V. Srinivas described the Gandhinagar Conference as a milestone moment. He emphasized that the conference aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of leveraging Artificial Intelligence to enhance service delivery and explore emerging technologies in governance. Highlighting the transformative role of technology in bridging the gap between the government and citizens, he informed the gathering that the Gandhinagar event marks the 28th conference since 2014, held under the guidance of MoS Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed confidence that continued collaboration between the central and state governments would lead to more impactful reforms, ultimately driving India towards becoming a global model of effective governance.

    ****

    NKR /PSM

    (Release ID: 2097631) Visitor Counter : 60

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of Vice-President’s address to students from North-East India participating in the Rashtriya Ekatmata Yatra 2025 and Winners of Mann Ki Baat Quiz Competition (Season 4) (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India

    The ground impact of Mann Ki Baat is amazing, it’s a great learning for young boys and girls, for politicians, for bureaucrats, for entrepreneurs and it dotes every part of this country. Mann Ki Baat concept is motivational, inspirational and highly informative.

    I would urge every young person to seriously go into the earlier episodes of Mann Ki Baat, you’ll find your knowledge level will go up. You will be stead to believe in nationalism. You will be fired by the zeal to always keep nation first.

    Mann Ki Baat, when it was a concept, there was no realization of its impact. Now, people wait for Mann Ki Baat and Mann Ki Baat has gone beyond politics. It has become a platform to connect with the executive head of the country, who for the first time in 60 years has created history to be third term Prime Minister in continuation after Pandit Nehru.

    Therefore I appeal to all of you, examine the information you have in Mann Ki Baat. Examine the inspirational quotes in Mann Ki Baat. Examine the people, historical figures whom we had forgotten. He rekindled in us an urge of nationalism to really worship our real heroes.

    Shri Ashish Chauhan, National Organising Secretary ABVP, I have had the occasion to interact with Sunil Ambekar Ji before I became Governor, State of West Bengal, and I know their commitment, passion, mission and execution is all driven by only one facet, and facet is national welfare, inclusivity, togetherness promulgating brotherhood and sisterhood. 

    As a matter of fact, this reminds me of what Vivekananda Ji said at Chicago address.

    A greatest message to the world at large at that point of time at a conference of Congress of Religions and India’s rich heritage, inclusivity was declared there. I congratulate him but I would say, आपके लंबे चौड़े परिवार में आशीष जी उपराष्ट्रपति का परिवार भी जुड़ गया है और कुछ लोगों को, आप बच्चों को, हमें भी सौभाग्य दो कि हमारे साथ भी चार दिन बिताएं, and this can be a continous program every month.

    As Chairman Rajya Sabha, I have developed a mechanism to train young people to handhold members of Parliament. I have a concept of teenage interns who for seven days have the occasion to keep their eyes open, ears open, mouth shut and see what I do and they look around and gain their way. It is heartening together from Muraleedharan ji, Republic Day and Independence Day. I would make a suggestion to both of you at two more days. We now have for last about a decade celebration of Constitution Day, 26th November, when India go to the Constitution, a very important milestone, make that day also the third day.

    Then our constitution was challenged. Young boys and girls, you do not know, Indira Gandhi as a Prime Minister imposed emergency. The constitution was shut down, people had no fundamental rights. Lakhs of people were sent to jail, many of them have become Prime Ministers, they spent 18 months in jail.

    The doors of judiciary were shut down, for you it is history, but imagine and look around what happened during that period and therefore, I urge both of them, V. Muraleedharan and Ashish Chauhan to add Samvidhan Hatya Divas of 25th June, 1975. Because unless you read history, unless you know the perils we have suffered, unless you know the dangers that are there. Therefore, we have to ensure how democratic roots go deep and democratic roots go deep only when people interact, people communicate, people have occasion to have expression with others and meaningful dialogue

    This is a unique gathering of young boys and girls of 9 states, Meghalaya, Tripura, Sikkim, Nagaland, Arunachal, Mizoram, Manipur, Assam-Ashtalakshmi !

    I have been to each of the states. I have seen your rich culture, cuisine, tribal traditions and the talent which is there. I have had the occasion to spend time both as governor the state of West Bengal because I was heading Eastern Zone Cultural Centre.

    All these are absolutely amazing states, they are gold mine for tourism, they are treasure of culture, ethnicity, variety and imaginable on the planet. We must decide to travel East, receive people from the East.

    That interaction has to take a very high level of interaction. I have had the occasion to invite artists and students from North-East to Upa-Rashtrapati Nivas.

    In early 1990s, the government thought wisely, Look East but Prime Minister Modi has taken it to the next level ‘Act East’ and that ‘Act East’ is being conversed, furthered by Ashish Chauhan and his worthy team.

    Rashtriya Ekatmata Yatra is not an expression, it is our tribute to those who made supreme sacrifice to gain freedom to us. It is our tribute to founding fathers of the Constitution who brought about this nation into existence. It is our tribute to Sardar Patel that he could integrate the princely states and this teaches us one thing, no matter what the challenges are, we will always keep nation first.

    Our nationalism can never be compromised, no gain whatsoever can be a justifiable ground to overlook national interest. The spirit of nationalism should be 24×7 in us.

    The nation for the first time is having an atmosphere of hope and possibility. No nation in the world has grown as fast as exponentially in economic terms, in infrastructure terms, in digitalisation terms, in technological penetration as Bharat. India today, the youth are bubbling with aspiration because they have tested everything is achievable.

    When there will be celebration of Independence centenary at 2047, you will be in your prime, you will be driving the engine, you will be feeling the progress. It is your time, you are the greatest system, stakeholders.

    I’m reminded what Vajpayee Ji said, mark what he says he was a great poet a great prime minister Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji. He was the first non-congress prime minister of this country, “निज हाथों में हँसते-हँसते, आग लगाकर जलना होगा, कदम मिलाकर चलना होगा|” Understand the meaning of it that you will face all trials and tribulations, but we’ll be marching ahead in togetherness for our nation and we must march together.

    Act East policy has done wonders.

    ●     Airports have gone to 17 from , five states of North East are connected by air. There are three international airports.

    ●     Digital connectivity, I gather 95% is by 4G so far.

    ●     Road connectivity and efforts are for rail connectivity.

    The number of visits the Prime Minister has made there is remarkable. All I am suggesting is, and through you to every Indian, there is no more attractive tourist destination in the world than the Northeast. We Indians, all of us in togetherness must make it a habit to travel east, tour east and contribute for development of the east.

    The number of tourists going to the North-East every year is now over 1.25 crores, it’s a great development.

    India is changing and the world is changing because the world is recognizing India as a power. In 1990, when I was a minister, as Lok Sabha member and went to Jammu and Kashmir Srinagar not 20 people were on street, and mind you, for the last 2-3 years, more than two crore tourists are going to Jammu and Kashmir, look at the big change.

    India in the world because of the seminal cultural contribution of the North East is a place unrivaled in the world. Let us share our thoughts, I commend to Mr. Chauhan, you must expand now not arithmetically but geometrically.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Signing of Memorandum of Understanding between Data Informatics and Innovation Division, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) and Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology (IIIT-Delhi) on 30.01.2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 4:31PM by PIB Delhi

    A Memorandum of Understanding was signed under the Data Innovation lab initiative between Data Informatics and Innovation Division, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) and Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology (IIIT-Delhi) on 30.01.2025. 

    The Ministry has initiated several reforms to modernise the National Statistical System in the last one year. In July 2024, MoSPI embarked on the scheme for Data Innovation (DI) Lab initiative as to infuse innovation, and build an ecosystem for research-driven solutions. The DI Lab is designed to serve as a platform to harness emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Big Data Analytics to enhance data collection, processing, and dissemination.

    As part of the Outreach Activities, the Lab has been engaging with premier academic institutions. More than 100 academic institutions have been approached. MoU with several reputed institutions including IITs and IIMs have been signed.

    A key objective of this partnership is to leverage academic expertise to tackle real-world challenges in official statistics by creating a link between academia and practitioners.. The statistical landscape is evolving, and new methodologies are needed to address issues like data integration, real-time analytics, and predictive modeling.

    In this collective endeavour and collaborative approach towards improving Official Statistics, the partnership was formalised through this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MoSPI and IIIT Delhi. Collaboration with IIIT Delhi is a crucial step in creating an ecosystem for innovation. With the signing of this MoU, MoSPI is reinforcing its commitment to fostering long-term collaboration between Government and Academia and infusing fresh ideas in the system. This is expected to lead to impactful innovations that will significantly enhance the functioning of MoSPI and strengthen the statistical ecosystem of the country.

    *****

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

    (Release ID: 2097621) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Rural Development announces major infrastructure boost for Maharashtra under Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Rural Development announces major infrastructure boost for Maharashtra under Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN)

    Ministry of Rural Development sanctions 27 roads measuring 50.13 km of roads with an estimated investment of Rs. 50.35 crore

    PM-JANMAN projects set to boost growth and prosperity in Maharashtra

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 4:16PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant move to strengthen rural connectivity and accelerate economic growth in the Maharashtra, the Ministry of Rural Development has sanctioned 27 roads measuring 50.13 km under Connectivity component of PM-JANMAN, with an estimated investment of Rs. 50.35 crore, to the State of Maharashtra.

    This landmark initiative will:

    – Provide all weather road connectivity to 27 PVTG habitations in the State.

    – Improve socio-economic condition of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) living in the State.

    – Enhance connectivity in rural areas, bridging the gap between remote villages and urban centers.

    – Foster economic development, trade and commerce in the region

    – Improve access to essential services like healthcare, education and markets

    – Create employment opportunities and stimulate local economies

    The projects under PM-JANMAN will have a transformative impact on the region, contributing to the growth and prosperity of the Tribal Groups in Maharashtra and cementing the government’s commitment to inclusive development.

    *****

    MG/KSR

    (Release ID: 2097617) Visitor Counter : 30

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chairs a review meeting on the implementation of new criminal laws in the presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chairs a review meeting on the implementation of new criminal laws in the presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel in New Delhi

    Gujarat government should ensure the implementation of the new criminal laws in all commissionerates by April 30, 2025, and across the entire state at the earliest

    Gujarat has done a commendable job by timely filing charge sheets in over 92 per cent of cases involving sentences of more than 10 years

    There should be a video conferencing cubicle for every court in the prisons

    Other states should also adopt Gujarat’s initiative of the Forensic Crime Manager

    Gujarat government has done a commendable job in converting Zero FIRs into 100 per cent regular FIRs

    Gujarat High Court has made a great initiative by issuing directives to all subordinate courts to implement e-processes

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 4:16PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah chaired a review meeting on the implementation of the three new criminal laws in Gujarat in the presence of the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel, in New Delhi today. The meeting reviewed the implementation and present status of various new provisions relating to police, jail, courts, prosecution and forensics in Gujarat. The meeting was attended by Gujarat’s Minister of State for Home, the Union Home Secretary, Gujarat’s Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, the Director General of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), and several senior officials from the Union Home Ministry and the State Government.

    During the discussion, the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Minister said that the essence of the three new criminal laws introduced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lies in the provision of delivering justice within three years, from the filing of an FIR till the Supreme Court’s verdict in any case. Appreciating the work done so far by the Gujarat government in implementing the new criminal laws, Shri Shah said that the Gujarat government should ensure the implementation of the new criminal laws in all commissionerates by April 30, 2025, and across the entire state at the earliest. He said it should be reviewed monthly by the Chief Minister of Gujarat, fortnightly by the State Home Minister and weekly at the level of Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) and Director General of Police.

    Shri Amit Shah stated that Gujarat has commendably achieved timely filing of charge sheets in over 92 per cent of cases involving sentences of more than 10 years. He emphasized that for the remaining cases, a review should be conducted to ensure the utilization of the provision in the Act that allows seeking permission from the court. The Home Minister said that Gujarat has done a commendable job in converting Zero FIRs into 100 per cent regular FIRs. He emphasized the need to establish a system where FIRs can be transferred between two states through the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS). He also suggested that Gujarat should adopt CCTNS 2.0.

    Regarding the provision of electronic evidence in the new laws, the Home Minister mentioned that the state’s Home and Health Departments should hold meetings to ensure that post-mortem and other medical reports from hospitals are received electronically. Shri Shah also emphasized the need to establish a system for recording evidence via video conferencing in prisons, government hospitals, banks, forensic science laboratories (FSL), and other premises. He said that there should be a video conferencing cubicle for every court in the prisons.

    The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the police should provide the details of people detained for questioning on the electronic dashboard, along with the seizure list and the cases to be forwarded to the courts. He also directed the state Director General of Police for continuous monitoring of these cases. Shri Shah asked to increase the network connectivity speed in police stations to 30 mbps over the prescribed standards.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the state government should issue circulars to ensure that provisions of organised crime, terrorism, mob lynching, are not misused. For this, strict provisions should be made for permission from the highest level. He highlighted that the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) includes a provision for Trial in Absentia, which allows legal action against absconding criminals. He emphasized that Trial in Absentia should be initiated against fugitives who have been evading the country for a long time in cases related to national security.

    The Home Minister emphasized ensuring the availability of at least two forensic science mobile vans in every district. He also stated that efforts should be made to ensure that all 12 kits used in mobile forensic vans are manufactured in India. Shri Shah said that other states should also adopt Gujarat’s initiative of Forensic Crime Manager. He emphasized the need to clear pending forensic cases through a special campaign. Highlighting the importance of forensic experts, he urged for the prompt recruitment of vacant positions in the forensic department.

    The Union Home Minister stated that the Gujarat High Court has issued directives on January 22, 2025, for all subordinate courts to implement e-processes, which is a commendable initiative. He emphasized that other states should also make efforts in this direction. Shri Shah urged for the prompt recruitment of vacant positions in the Directorate of Prosecution. He also stressed that judicial officers should be included in training programs, and training sessions should be conducted in coordination with Judicial Academies.

    *****

    Raj Kumar/Vivek/Ashutosh/Priyabhanshu/Pankaj

    (Release ID: 2097618) Visitor Counter : 18

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Two-Day National Conference with Labour Ministers and Secretaries of States & UTs in New Delhi, chaired by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports Concluded Today

    Source: Government of India (2)

    The Two-Day National Conference with Labour Ministers and Secretaries of States & UTs in New Delhi, chaired by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports Concluded Today

    Labour Welfare for Building & Construction Workers, along with Gig & Platform Workers, is a Top Priority for the Government of India, said Dr. Mandaviya

    Chintin Shivir Provides Collaborative Platform for Cross-Learning and Sharing Best Practices Demonstrated by States/UTs

    Three Committees Formed to Develop Sustainable Model for Comprehensive Social Security Coverage

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 3:53PM by PIB Delhi

    The two-day Workshop with Hon’ble Labour Ministers and Labour Secretaries of States & UTs, concluded today under the Chairmanship of Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports. Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, Hon’ble Minister of State for the Ministry of Labour and Employment, along with Hon’ble Labour Ministers from various States/UTs, Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment, and senior officials from States/UTs, were present during the workshop. These meetings marked a successful culmination of the six regional workshops and several other consultations, held over the last year with all 36 States and UTs. Over ten subjects during the five sessions spread over two days, were extensively discussed and inputs gathered, with the objective to design targeted action items. Three Committees comprising five States each were formed. Building on the discussions during the workshop, these Committees will hold consultations and develop a sustainable model for comprehensive social security coverage for workers, to be presented in March 2025.

    Taking note of the deliberations and suggestions made during the two-day workshop, the Union Minister during his address laid out a comprehensive action plan for all stakeholders. He urged States to assess the feasibility of adopting best practices showcased by different States/UTs during the last two days. He emphasized that the Ministry is committed and would continue to work closely with State Governments to design various reforms and initiatives to ensure welfare of organized and unorganized workers. Holistic and sustainable welfare programmes providing pension, healthcare, life and accident insurance, etc. are being discussed.

    Social security for unorganized sector workers, such as the ones in Building and Construction work, in the gig & platform economy, and other sectors was extensively discussed. The Union Minister emphasized developing sustainable social security models for these workers. Further, the welfare of contract labour and the transformation of the role of the inspector to inspector-cum-facilitator were the other main agenda items for day two.  

    States showcased the progress made in utilizing BOCW cess funds in giving social security coverage, besides developing education and skill development institutions for children of Building and Construction Workers. Innovative ways of utilizing these resources for providing various social welfare initiatives like pension were widely deliberated.  

    Progress made in onboarding unorganized workers onto the eShram portal showcased the Government’s efforts towards strengthening the last-mile delivery of benefits to these workers. So far over 30 crore unorganized workers are registered on the eShram portal. The Ministry is also working on designing a dedicated Social Security and Welfare Scheme for Gig & Platform workers. Modalities of funding, data collection, and administration of the Scheme were discussed and States were urged to prioritize the sharing of data of unorganized workers, with a focus on gig & platform workers and support in their registration on eShram on mission mode. Integration of eShram and Government portals like NCS, and SIDH are contributing to promoting employment generation, employability, skill development, etc.

    Shift from inspector to inspector-cum-facilitator model was another major reform discussed with State/UT administrators. The overall objective of this reform is to reduce the compliance burden and promote ease of doing business, along with ensuring decent working conditions, equal opportunities at work and improved employee-employer relationships.

    Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, Hon’ble Minister of State for Ministry of Labour and Employment during her closing remarks, underscored the important contribution made by India’s workforce in achieving the goal of becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Maximizing social security coverage and ensuring labour welfare of both organized and unorganized workers was the main goal of all the consultations held over last year and this two-day Chintin Shivir. She reiterated the whole-of-Government approach needed to take all the initiatives to a logical conclusion in a time-bound manner.

    Engaged in the spirit of cooperative federalism, the two-day meetings displayed the Government’s commitment towards promoting labour welfare and facilitating ease of doing business and promoting industrial growth across States/UTs. 

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

     

    (Release ID: 2097602) Visitor Counter : 87

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister pays homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 2:48PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary at Rajghat.

    The Prime Minister posted on X;

    “Paid homage to Pujya Bapu at Rajghat earlier today. We reiterate our commitment towards realising his vision for our nation.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2097579) Visitor Counter : 35

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Critical Minerals Mission aims to reduce import dependence, strengthen domestic value chains and support India’s ‘Net Zero by 2070’ goal: Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 1:12PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi said that National Critical Minerals Mission aims to reduce import dependence, strengthen domestic value chains and support India’s ‘Net Zero by 2070’ goal.

    Responding to an article written by Union Minister G Kishan Reddy on National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM), Shri Modi wrote;

    “Union Minister Shri @kishanreddybjp elaborates on how the National Critical Minerals Mission aims to reduce import dependence, strengthen domestic value chains and support India’s ‘Net Zero by 2070’ goal.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2097558) Visitor Counter : 93

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Non-conventional approach to measure the radial dimension of CMEs can help predict adverse effects on Earth

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 3:44PM by PIB Delhi

    A novel method has been found to determine the instantaneous expansion speed and radial size of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) from the Sun when it passes over a spacecraft at a single-point in the interplanetary medium.

    The radial dimension of CMEs governs the longevity of the CMEs and their associated geomagnetic storms on the Earth and hence it is important to determine it, to predict the influence of the CMEs on the Earth’s communication system.

    CMEs are magnetized plasma bubbles ejected from the Sun and evolve in the interplanetary medium. They are the major drivers of perturbations in the Earth’s magnetic field, known as geomagnetic storms. Such storms can cause severe impacts on ground and space-based technological systems, such as communication disruptions, deorbiting satellites, and power grid failures.

    The duration over which the Earth experiences such a magnetic perturbation is influenced by the radial dimension of a CME, along with other parameters, during its passage over the Earth. The changes in the radial dimension of CME depend on its expansion in the interplanetary medium, which has yet to be adequately understood. CMEs expand during their journey due to the pressure difference between CME and ambient solar wind. Limited efforts have been made to investigate the evolution of radial sizes of CMEs so far.  

    The measurements of expansion speeds of CMEs have been done mostly utilizing single-point in situ measurements, which are known to be insufficient to estimate the instantaneous expansion speed of CMEs. 

    In order to overcome this challenge, Astronomers at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), devised a novel method to estimate a CME’s instantaneous expansion speed even using a single-point in situ spacecraft and will be helpful for sub-L1 monitors.

    They found a method to first infer the accelerations of CME substructures (leading edge, center, and trailing edge) even from single-point in situ observations that are used to estimate their propagation speeds at an instant. This can be used for estimating the instantaneous expansion speed. 

    “Our non-conventional approach utilizes the propagation speed of any two CME substructures at the same instance to determine the instantaneous expansion speed,” said Wageesh Mishra, a faculty at IIA and a co-author of the study.

    This approach also computes the radial size and the distance traveled by the CME substructures at various instances as well.

    “This study has implications for understanding the longevity of perturbations on the Earth’s magnetosphere caused by CMEs,” said Anjali Agarwal, a Ph.D. student at IIA and the first author of the paper published on this work.

    The novel method is demonstrated in a case study of a CME that erupted from the Sun on 2010 April 3, using remote and in situ observations from the NASA and ESA SOHO (SOlar and Heliospheric Observatory), STEREO (Solar TErrestrial RElation Observatory), and Wind spacecraft. The researchers noted that the accurate estimation of CME’s expansion speed is essential for predicting its arrival time at Earth, especially its substructures such as center and TE, which are crucial for space weather.

    “The instantaneous expansion speed of a CME derived from our proposed non-conventional approach using a single-point in situ spacecraft provides a substantial outcome — CME substructures evolve differently in the ambient medium, possibly because of different forces acting on them,” said Wageesh Mishra IIA.

    Unlike earlier studies, the authors suggest, a CME, during its journey, experiences a change in the aspect ratio — a measure of the radial dimension of CME with respect to its increasing distance from the Sun. They found that the aspect ratio of CME first increases and then remains constant up to a certain height, followed by a systematic decrease in the IP medium.

    Wageesh Mishra said, “We are looking forward to utilizing single-point in situ observations from the Aditya Solar wind Particle EXperiment (ASPEX) onboard the Aditya-L1 spacecraft, India’s first space-based solar observatory, with implementing our non-conventional approach, to understand CMEs expansion.”

     

    Figure caption: The left panel shows the CME observed in STEREO/HI-1 (top) and the evolution of its kinematics and the dimension (bottom). The right panel shows the in situ measured speed of CME substructures across their identified thickness (top) and the evolution of its size and expansion speed corresponding to different aspect ratios, compared with that measured from in situ observations near the Earth (bottom).

    ***
     

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2097599) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister pays tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 9:06AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary. Shri Modi also paid tributes to all those martyred for our nation and recalled their service as well as sacrifices.

    The Prime Minister posted on X;

    “Tributes to Pujya Bapu on his Punya Tithi. His ideals motivate us to build a developed India. I also pay tributes to all those martyred for our nation and recall their service as well as sacrifices.” 

     **********

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2097511) Visitor Counter : 71

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Removal from the Polish sanctions list of a company linked to Russia – E-000260/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000260/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Piotr Müller (ECR)

    Under current EU rules, Member States are required to update the lists of sanctioned companies on the basis of the EU’s common rules and regulations on sanctions. There are serious concerns about the decision taken by the Polish Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs to remove Omne Energia – a company linked to Gazprom – from the Polish sanctions list. The company was removed from the Polish sanctions list on the basis of a bogus transaction – the sale of shares for only PLN 3 – to managers working with the Russians.

    • 1.What is the Commission’s position on the fact that a company linked to Gazprom will receive PLN 26.7 million from the Warsaw city authorities for the supply of gas to the municipal bus operator (Miejskie Zakłady Autobusowe)?
    • 2.Was the Commission consulted about the decision to remove the company from the sanctions list on the basis of a bogus act?
    • 3.Is the Commission aware of similar action taken by Member States to circumvent sanctions against Russia?

    Submitted: 22.1.2025

    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Non-discrimination of diabetic pilots in the EU – E-000259/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000259/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Peter Agius (PPE)

    For many commercial pilots in the EU, a diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes leads to the loss of their pilot licence, and hence their flying careers. This is not the case in the United States, Canada and Australia. It should not be in the EU, either!

    The medical assessment protocol of the EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for pilots with diabetes, ARA.MED.330, provides for well-controlled diabetics to obtain aero-medical certification. This has, however, been adopted by only a few of the Member States and relies on outdated technology like finger-prick glucose monitoring.

    Beyond the EU, several countries have adopted updated protocols enabling diabetic pilots to fly safely. Advances in diabetes management, such as continuous glucose monitoring and insulin-delivering technology have transformed the lives of diabetics globally. Yet EU pilots remain unfairly grounded, facing barriers and discrimination.

    With the EASA’s research due in October 2025, action is urgently needed to update the protocol, integrate modern tools and ensure equal opportunities for diabetic pilots across the EU.

    Could the Commission:

    • 1.Provide an update on the EASA’s research and how it plans to incorporate technological advancements on diabetes into the protocol?
    • 2.Explain the steps taken to ensure all of the Member States adopt a standardised approach?
    • 3.Address how it will tackle the professional and emotional toll on diabetic pilots and ensure fair treatment across the EU?

    Submitted: 22.1.2025

    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Processes leading to fines for car manufacturers exceeding emissions targets – P-000402/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000402/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Matthias Ecke (S&D)

    In light of the challenging situation faced by the European automotive industry and the upcoming Strategic Dialogue on its future, discussions have increasingly turned to potential fines for manufacturers. Regulation (EU) 2019/631 on CO2 emission performance standards establishes penalties for manufacturers whose average specific CO2 emissions exceed their designated targets (Article 8). Although Article 8 defines various terms and calculation formulas, it does not outline the procedural steps. Article 9, however, specifies the publication date for a list detailing each manufacturer’s emissions targets and actual emissions.

    • 1.Clarification on the process and timelines: Could the Commission provide a detailed explanation of the process? Specifically, when are manufacturers required to submit their emissions data, and what are the subsequent steps and timelines within the Commission leading to the final assessment of fines?
    • 2.Steps following fine calculation: In cases where the Commission determines that a fine is necessary, what procedural steps and timelines follow this decision? Do manufacturers have an opportunity to respond or contest the assessment, and when do the fines become final and payable?

    Submitted: 29.1.2025

    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – German version of Russia Today back on X despite EU sanctions – P-000391/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000391/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Bart Groothuis (Renew)

    On 23 January 2025, EUvsDisinfo, a project of the European External Action Service’s East StratCom Task Force, published a news item about Russian interference in the German elections, claiming that the German version of Russia Today (RT DE) is back on the social media platform X[1]. Russia Today is subject to EU and international sanctions, which means that the EU has suspended all broadcasting of it (including the German and other European language versions) in the EU or directed at the EU[2].

    • 1.Is RT (DE) accessible on X to users in the EU, or to users outside the EU but still directed at the EU, thus constituting a violation of EU sanctions?
    • 2.What measures can and will the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy take to respond to this violation and to bring it to a halt, and to what extent can she urge our international partners to take similar action?
    • 3.What consequences will X face for violating EU and international sanctions by allowing RT DE back on its platform?

    Submitted: 29.1.2025

    • [1] https://euvsdisinfo.eu/another-election-another-kremlin-interference-attempt/.
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2022/03/02/eu-imposes-sanctions-on-state-owned-outlets-rtrussia-today-and-sputnik-s-broadcasting-in-the-eu/.
    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Repatriation of Syrians – E-000218/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000218/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR), Galato Alexandraki (ECR)

    It was believed that the Assad Government was the reason why many Syrians fled to the EU. Between 2015 and 2023, around 1.3 million Syrians are estimated to have been accepted into the EU after seeking a safe home/asylum as ‘Syrian refugees’. Following recent attacks by the jihadist organisations Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the Syrian National Army, a large part of Syria was captured, resulting in the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s government. The end of al-Assad’s rule was celebrated by Syrians all across Europe.

    Given that their reason for seeking asylum has ceased to exist, there is no reason why procedures for returning Syrians to Syria should not be initiated right away, so that they can benefit from the implementation of a jihadist regime.

    In view of the above, can the Commission say:

    • 1.Does it have a registry of Syrians in Europe or does it intend to request this data from the Member States and NGOs that have been the driving force behind their movement and that have provided them with asylum?
    • 2.How does it intend to coordinate mass returns from the EU and transport to Syria safely, quickly and efficiently, guaranteeing that former ‘refugees’ from Syria will not be forgotten in the EU?
    • 3.Will it propose sanctions for NGOs that do not cooperate with identifying Syrians to enable their effective repatriation?

    Submitted: 20.1.2025

    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Group increases investment in Austria for growth, innovation and climate action by nearly a third

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • In 2024, the EIB Group reached a funding volume of €1.7 billion in Austria
    • Focus on countercyclical investment promotion in energy-intensive industries such as steel production
    • The expansion of renewable energies remains a priority goal

    The European Investment Bank Group (EIB Group) can look back on a successful year 2024 in Austria.  With a total lending volume of nearly €1.7 billion, it granted around 30% more loans than in the previous year. Funding applications were submitted to the EIB by public and private sector firms, primarily for energy projects that reduce CO2 emissions and promote the transition to renewable energy.

    2024 brought a rise in the construction of solar plants and wind farms in Austria – supported by the national government, which has set the objective of generating all of the country’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030. As in the two previous years, in 2024 the EIB exceeded its goal of allocating at least 50% of funding to climate action. In Austria, 64% of total investment went to climate.

    The EIB co-finances wind and solar projects together with partner banks. In Burgenland, it is providing €80 million to fund six solar parks by Püspök. They will supply 71 000 households with electricity, and the farmland they will be built on can continue to be used to grow crops.

    Burgenland Energie AG will also receive EIB financing of up to €620 million to build solar and wind parks. With a generation capacity of 1.3 GW once complete, they will be able to meet one-sixth of Austria’s electricity needs. The EU bank is also co-financing the Spannberg wind park in Lower Austria, with four wind turbines and a further seven in the planning phase.

    The EIB Group, consisting of the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF), seeks to be a reliable partner in making European industry more competitive – especially in difficult economic times, by promoting countercyclical investment. In the steel and construction industries, the EIB Group finances projects in Austria that support their green transition: for example, with a €300 million grant issued to Voestalpine for research and development.

    “The EIB is a strong partner for Austria’s future,” EIB Vice-President Thomas Östros stated. “Our investments make it easier for firms to expand and become more innovative, to use renewable energy and to cut energy consumption. We invest countercyclically and promote the long-term competitiveness of Austrian industry. We will continue to support the development of wind, solar and hydro power plants.”

    To increase the housing supply, the EIB is continuing to back affordable housing projects. In Salzburg and Tyrol, it is working with regional savings banks to finance the construction of 1 750 rental units in non-profit housing with low-cost framework loans.

    As in previous years, the EIF – whose shareholders include the EIB, the European Commission and several national and regional promotional banks – continued to support specialised funds targeting startups and innovative technologies, investing €66 million in Austria.

    In 2024, in view of the EIB Group’s policy priorities, projects in Austria in the field of sustainable energy and natural resources received the most support, with €765 million, followed by innovation, digital and human capital, with €462 million. Sustainable cities and regions received €329 million, and SMEs and mid-caps received €112 million.

    EIB Group investment in Austria in 2024 supported investment of in total €4.3 billion. Thus, each euro of EIB Group financing raised investment of around €2.60.

    Background information

    EIB 

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the EU, and the Capital Markets Union.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 projects in 2024. These commitments are expected to mobilise around €350 billion in investment, supporting 400 000 companies and 5.8 million jobs.  

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Accord and the EIB Group does not fund investments in fossil fuels. We are on track to deliver on our commitment to support  €1 trillion in climate and environmental sustainability investment in the decade to 2030 as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment. 

    Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average. This underscores the Bank’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and the convergence of living standards. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Group financing in Slovenia totals €284 million in 2024, driving the energy transition and business innovation

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB Group provided €284 million of new financing in Slovenia last year, boosting the energy transition, business innovation and capital markets.
    • Funding of €154 million from EIB and €130 million from EIF in the country in 2024.
    • Investments strengthened Slovenia’s electricity grid, early-stage companies and venture-capital markets.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group  provided €284 million of fresh financing in Slovenia last year, bolstering the energy transition, business innovation and capital markets in the country. The total for 2024 includes €154 million from the EIB and €130 million from the European Investment Fund (EIF), which targets micro companies and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Europe.

    EIB financing in Slovenia last year focused on energy projects, fostering sustainable energy and energy efficiency, while the EIF investments supported venture capital and private equity to boost entrepreneurship and innovation.

    “We are committed to fostering a sustainable, innovative and inclusive Slovenian economy,” said EIB Vice-President Kyriacos Kakouris. “Our investments in Slovenia last year not only strengthen the country’s energy resilience and competitiveness but also ensure that businesses and communities can thrive in a rapidly changing environment.”

    Over the past five years, the EIB Group has invested over €1 billion in Slovenia, focusing on sustainable transport, energy infrastructure and capital markets. Its financing of local electricity distribution covers four out of five distribution companies, which supply around nine out of 10 Slovenian households.

    Grid upgrades and business innovation

    The EIB last year signed agreements with three power companies to upgrade Slovenia’s electricity grids. It committed €36 million to Elektro Maribor, €50 million to Elektro Ljubljana and €58 million to Elektro Celje.

    These loans will reinforce regional energy infrastructure, enabling the integration of renewable energy, expanding capacity for electric vehicle charging and climate-proofing critical systems. The projects align with Slovenia’s 2050 climate targets and the European Union’s REPowerEU strategy.

    Additionally, the EIB provided advisory services to municipalities, public institutions and private companies to ensure comprehensive support for sustainable growth across Slovenia.

    For its part, the EIF pressed ahead in 2024 with its long-standing support for Slovenian SMEs and Mid-Caps, focusing on innovation and early-stage businesses. A highlight last year was a €40 million EIF pledge to the Vesna Deep Tech Venture Fund to build up technology transfer in Slovenia as well as Croatia. The fund prioritises early-stage businesses, fosters innovation and protects intellectual property, strengthening Slovenia’s venture-capital ecosystem.

    Since 1996, the EIF has facilitated €531 million in financing for approximately 8,000 Slovenian enterprises, supporting 78,000 jobs.

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It finances sound investment that contributes towards EU policy goals, including social and territorial cohesion, competitiveness, innovation, sustainable development and the just, swift transition to net zero. The EIB has committed €7.78 billion in total financing for projects in Slovenia since the start of its operations in the country.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Group annual figures for 2024: €3 billion for competitiveness, strategic autonomy and SMEs in the Netherlands

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • In 2024, the EIB Group mobilised nearly €3.1 billion, primarily for small and medium businesses (SMEs) and innovation.
    • The EIB financed social infrastructure and increased support for innovative Dutch firms and those in the growth phase, promoting strategic autonomy.
    • The EIF also granted nearly €634 million in financing, in the form of guarantees and equity.

    Last year the EIB Group, made up of the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF), invested nearly €3.1 billion in projects implemented in the Netherlands. Of that, €2.45 billion were granted by the EIB in the form of loans and venture debt. The EIF also mobilised some €634 million in the form of guarantees and equity contributions. Worldwide, the EIB Group granted a record amount of almost €89 billion, with no less than €50.7 billion going to help fight climate change and protect the environment.

    EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot remarked, “If Europe wishes to remain strong and competitive, it must invest more in technology, energy and manufacturing. In the long run, it cannot afford to depend on others in these areas. That is why the EIB Group is fully committed to fostering innovation in the Netherlands, especially through venture capital lending. And of course, we are also continuing to support projects that have a positive impact on the daily lives of people, like hospitals, flood control and better access to financing for SMEs. Sustainability will also remain a core principle in 2025.”

    In 2024, nearly a third of EIB Group investments in the Netherlands were linked to innovation in different areas, in particular those backed by the European Commission’s InvestEU programme. For example, companies such as Samotics, LUMICKS and Resato received EIB venture debt targeted to growing firms.

    In the realm of innovation, the chip manufacturer NXP also signed a financing agreement that will allow it to increase investment in research and development, in particular for next-generation semiconductors for the automotive sector.

    The EIF was also very active in the Netherlands in 2024. In addition to guarantees provided to SMEs by ABN Amro and microloans issued by Qredits, Dutch venture capital funds such as 4impact Fund, Innovation Industries and European Cyber Security Tech Fund also received support from the EIF.

    In 2024, sustainability remained a dominant factor for EIB Group investments in the Netherlands, especially in its support for SMEs. Along with a financing agreement with ABN Amro for €450 million, part of which targeted sustainable SMEs, the EIB and Rabobank signed a ninth impact loan providing reduced interest rates for SMEs certified under a sustainable development label.

    Background information

    The EIB is the EU’s long-term financing institution, owned by the Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. The Netherlands’ shareholding in it is 5.2%. Over the past decade, the EIB has lent more than €27 billion to support Dutch projects in a variety of sectors, including research and development, transport, clean water, healthcare and SMEs.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Use of artificial intelligence and social scoring by Danish social security authority – P-002847/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act[1] aims to ensure a high level of fundamental rights protection and gives special consideration to the use of AI in relation to essential public services and benefits, acknowledging the vulnerability of those dependent on such services and benefits[2].

    To that end, the AI Act prohibits[3] AI-enabled ‘social scoring’ practices that assess or classify individuals based on their social behaviour or personal characteristics and lead to detrimental or unfavourable outcomes for the affected persons, when the data comes from unrelated social contexts or the punishment is disproportionate to the gravity of the social behaviour.

    Moreover, AI used by public authorities to evaluate the eligibility of persons for essential public assistance benefits and services is deemed high-risk under the AI Act[4].

    High-risk AI systems need to comply with strict requirements and public authorities who deploy them must conduct a fundamental rights impact assessment.

    The AI Act’s prohibitions apply as of 2 February 2025 and the rules for high-risk AI systems as of 2 August 2026. The supervision and enforcement of the prohibitions and rules for high-risk AI systems will be the responsibility of national market surveillance authorities, which Member States are required to designate by 2 August 2025.

    It will be the task of the competent Danish market surveillance authority to assess whether the system used by the Danish social security authority complies with the AI Act, once it applies.

    To provide guidance on the AI Act’s interpretation and to support its effective and uniform application, the Commission will adopt guidelines, including on the prohibitions and rules for high-risk AI systems.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 laying down harmonised rules on artificial intelligence and amending Regulations (EC) No 300/2008, (EU) No 167/2013, (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1139 and (EU) 2019/2144 and Directives 2014/90/EU, (EU) 2016/797 and (EU) 2020/1828 (Artificial Intelligence Act), OJ L, 2024/1689.
    • [2] See Recital 58 of the AI Act.
    • [3] Point (c) of Article 5(1) of the AI Act.
    • [4] Article 6(2) and point 5(a) of Annex III.
    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Possible conclusion of an agreement between Türkiye and Syria establishing an EEZ – P-003085/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has a strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Türkiye.

    In this context, the EU continues to expect Türkiye to respect the sovereignty and the sovereign rights of all Member States, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos)[1], and to unequivocally commit to and promote good neighbourly relations and the peaceful settlement of disputes, having recourse, if necessary, to the International Court of Justice.

    The European Council Conclusions of 12 December 2019[2] clearly stated that the Türkiye-Libya memorandum of understanding on the delimitation of maritime jurisdictions in the Mediterranean Sea infringes upon the sovereign rights of third states, does not comply with the Law of the Sea and cannot produce any legal consequences for third states.

    • [1] https://www.un.org/depts/los/convention_agreements/texts/unclos/unclos_e.pdf
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/41768/12-euco-final-conclusions-en.pdf
    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Use of discriminatory algorithms in social protection systems in France and the Netherlands – E-002437/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Artificial Intelligence Act (‘AI Act’)[1] introduces proportionate rules for AI systems in the EU, following a risk-based approach.

    Certain AI practices that pose an unacceptable risk are prohibited[2]. AI systems classified as ‘high-risk’ include, among others, AI systems intended to be used to evaluate the eligibility of natural persons for essential public assistance benefits and services as well as to grant, reduce, revoke, or reclaim such benefits and services[3].

    These systems will have to comply with a set of requirements[4] and be assessed for their conformity prior to their placement on the market and use.

    In addition, deployers of high-risk AI systems will also have obligations, such as to implement the human oversight, monitor for risks and inform affected persons about the use. Deployers who are public authorities or provide public services must also carry out a fundamental rights impact assessment.

    Market surveillance authorities under the AI Act are empowered to investigate AI systems for their compliance with the AI Act, including to request corrective measures and withdrawal of the AI system from the market.

    Natural and legal persons can also submit complaints that will enable rapid intervention. In addition, the AI Act strengthens the role of authorities supervising existing EU legislation on fundamental rights, such as equality bodies and data protection authorities, empowering them to effectively investigate and address potential violations, including cases of discrimination.

    The Commission will cover social rating systems and discriminatory profiling practices in the guidelines on the application of the AI Act[5].

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 laying down harmonised rules on artificial intelligence and amending Regulations (EC) No 300/2008, (EU) No 167/2013, (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1139 and (EU) 2019/2144 and Directives 2014/90/EU, (EU) 2016/797 and (EU) 2020/1828 (Artificial Intelligence Act) (Text with EEA relevance), PE/24/2024/REV/1, OJ L, 2024/1689, 12.7.2024.
    • [2] This includes AI practices that produce a social score that leads to detrimental or unfavourable treatment of certain natural persons or groups of persons in social contexts that are unrelated to the contexts in which the data was originally generated or collected or that is unjustified or disproportionate to their social behaviour or its gravity. As per Article 5(8) of the AI Act, this Article shall not affect the prohibitions that apply where an AI practice infringes other EU law.
    • [3] Annex III point 5(a) of the AI Act.
    • [4] E.g. risk management system, data governance to ensure data quality and avoid discrimination, transparency, documentation, human oversight, accuracy and robustness.
    • [5] E.g. for prohibited practices under Article 5 of the AI Act and for high-risk AI systems under Article 6 of the AI Act.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Possible location drawbacks in Member States as a result of the Sustainability Directive – E-002253/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS)[1] will benefit companies by improving access to sustainable finance and reducing the burden caused by multiple overlapping voluntary reporting standards and frameworks.

    They will help European companies to identify and manage their sustainability impacts and risks, enhancing their resilience and international competitiveness in the medium and long term.

    The Commission acknowledges that the new rules create costs, especially in the short term. To address this the Commission has: i) agreed with the Parliament and the Council to postpone by two years the deadline for adoption of sector standards; ii) raised the monetary thresholds to define large companies, thus reducing the number of companies in scope by 14%; iii) required EFRAG[2] to provide additional guidance for companies; iv) published Question & Answers to clarify key questions[3]; v) written to Member States to urge them to adopt a proportionate approach to enforcement; vi) and mobilised EU funds for the provision of technical support to companies at national level.

    In addition, the Commission is working towards adopting an Omnibus Simplification package, that will look, among other legislation, at the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive ( CSRD)[4].

    The Commission estimated at EUR 1 700 million the total annual recurring costs of reporting[5]. It is a significant reduction compared to the estimates in the 2021 CSRD impact assessment[6] which was published before the adoption of the ESRS.

    Assuming that about 49 000 groups are in scope, the estimated average recurring costs would be approximately EUR 35 000 per group.

    With the increase of the monetary thresholds for ‘large undertakings’, the total costs should be even lower.

    • [1] https://finance.ec.europa.eu/news/commission-adopts-european-sustainability-reporting-standards-2023-07-31_en
    • [2] Commission’s advisory body on ESRS
    • [3] https://finance.ec.europa.eu/publications/frequently-asked-questions-implementation-eu-corporate-sustainability-reporting-rules_en
    • [4]  OJ L 322, 16.12.2022, p. 15-80.
    • [5] According to the ESRS for companies within its scope.
    • [6] SWD/2021/150 final.
    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Serious disruptions to Member States’ control systems and food sovereignty – E-002563/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Since Regulation (EU) 2017/625 of the European Parliament and of the Council on official controls on the agri-food chain[1] does not define what constitutes a ‘serious disruption’ of a Member State’s control system, the Commission uses a wide range of evidence on the implementation of Union legislation by Member States to evaluate their official control systems. Such evidence includes the reports of the Commission’s audits, data from information technology (IT) systems managed by the Commission and from Member States’ annual reports, and information related to financial support for actions carried out by Member States. So far, a serious disruption has only been found in the specific situation of the COVID-19 pandemic[2].

    2. Consignments entering the Union from non-EU countries are subject to a robust system of official controls based on harmonised EU legislation, notably Regulation (EU) 2017/625, which aims to ensure that only safe commodities may enter the EU. In cases of identified ‘trade risks’, a number of effective measures are available which include intensified official controls at entry into the Union for products of animal origin[3], the imposition of treatments to ensure the absence of health risks, sampling and testing and controls performed by the country of origin, emergency measures including the suspension of entry of commodities[4] and the de-listing of non-EU countries’ establishments, regions or of whole non-EU countries, so that import of concerned agri-food products is to be restricted.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/625/oj
    • [2] No longer in force, date of end of validity: 01/09/2021: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2020/466/oj
    • [3] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2019/1873/oj
    • [4] Example: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2022/478/oj
    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Paediatric transplants – E-002682/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In accordance with Article 168 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, the EU’s competence regarding organ donation and transplantation is limited to setting high standards for safety and quality. This is done through a dedicated directive[1].

    The recently adopted Council conclusions on enhancing organ donation and transplantation[2], also call on the Commission to support national organisations of transplant services.

    The Commission will continue supporting Member States for knowledge sharing, training and collaboration, building on the achievements and insights gained from the 2009-2015 action plan[3].

    To that end, the Commission has initiated discussions on the Council conclusions between the 27 national competent authorities on organ transplantation, to identify the way forward and possible actions and deliverables.

    While this could possibly include actions focusing specifically on paediatric transplants, many horizontal actions are also expected to benefit these.

    For example, the FOEDUS Joint Action[4], which among others delivered an exchange platform for ‘difficult-to-match’ organs, regularly allows for the exchange of organs for paediatric transplants.

    In addition, a specific European Reference Network (ERN)[5] was established in 2017 for paediatric transplants, namely ERN TRANSPLANT-CHILD[6].

    It thus benefits from funding dedicated to the 24 ERNs and their registries under the EU4Health Programme. It is also involved in EU-funded research projects such as PROTECT-CHILD[7] and benefits there from funding from the EU research and innovation framework programme Horizon Europe.

    • [1] Directive 2010/45/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 July 2010 on standards of quality and safety of human organs intended for transplantation (OJ L 207, 6.8.2010, p. 14-29).
    • [2] Council conclusions on enhancing organ donation and transplantation approved by the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (Health) at its meeting on 3 December 2024: https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-16568-2024-INIT/en/pdf
    • [3] Action plan on Organ Donation and Transplantation (2009-2015): Strengthened Cooperation between Member States. COM(2008) 819 final https://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=COM:2008:0819:FIN:EN:PDF
    • [4] https://www.foedus-eoeo.eu/#/public
    • [5] https://health.ec.europa.eu/rare-diseases-and-european-reference-networks/european-reference-networks_en
    • [6] https://transplantchild.eu/
    • [7] A PRivacy-prOTecting Environment for Child Transplants health-related and genomic data integration in the European Reference Network: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101137423
    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Lithuania financing from EIB Group totals €449 million in 2024, boosting business and green investments

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB Group financing in Lithuania last year totalled €449 million, bolstering business and green investments nationwide.
    • Funding supported 1,200 Lithuanian companies and sustained 19,000 jobs.
    • Energy storage and clean railways among key 2024 projects.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group’s financing in Lithuania last year amounted to €449 million, spurring business investments and accelerating the country’s green transition. The total for 2024 includes €240 million from the EIB and €209 million from the European Investment Fund (EIF), which targets small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

    The EIB Group pledges last year in Lithuania supported 1,200 SMEs and Mid-Caps, sustained 19,000 jobs and covered 21 investment projects across the country.  Top operations included EIB loans of €105 million to Lithuanian utility Ignitis Group for expanding a pumped storage hydroelectric power plant and €100 million to national railway service LTG Link for buying electric and battery trains.

    “Lithuania’s commitment to sustainability is inspiring,” said EIB Vice-President Thomas Östros. “Our investments in the country in 2024 underscore our dedication to supporting Lithuania’s green transition and economic resilience. We are helping to build a sustainable future for all Lithuanians.”

    The level of EIB Group financing in Lithuania in 2024 was broadly in line with the organisation’s average annual commitments of €562 million in the country over the past five years. For example, EIB Group financing in Lithuania totalled €654 million in 2023 and €219 million in 2022. 

    Energy and transport projects

    The €105 million EIB loan last year to Ignitis Group is for expanding the Kruonis Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Power Plant and making it one of Europe’s largest energy-storage facilities. The goal is to increase Lithuania’s energy independence and help the country achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2030.

    The €100 million EIB loan to LTG Link is for replacing a third of the company’s train fleet. The aim is to reduce carbon-dioxide emissions from trains, shorten rail-travel times and improve passenger accessibility.

    Also in the area of energy, the EIB last year signed a €35 million loan to district utility Kauno Energija for upgrading the heating and hot water system of the city of Kaunas by refurbishing pipelines, adding heat storage tanks and integrating renewable sources. This project will boost energy efficiency, diversify the energy mix and reduce reliance on imported natural gas, benefiting around 400,000 residents and businesses.

    Supporting small companies

    The EIF’s pledges in Lithuania last year included nearly €129 million to businesses through deals with various banks and financial institutions including AB Mano Bankas, AB SEB Bankas, Swedbank Bank Lithuania, UAB SME Bank, Lithuanian Central Credit Union, Taurus Fondas UAB and UAB Heavy Finance.

    These agreements unlock loans to Lithuanian SMEs at preferential terms to support growth, create jobs and speed up the transition to a carbon-neutral economy.

    In 2024, the EIF also invested €50 million in IAM CEE Student Housing Fund, an infrastructure fund committed to building housing for up to 3,500 students in Central-Eastern European countries including Lithuania, and €30 million in INVL Private Equity Fund II, a private equity fund dedicated to boosting investments in high-growth SMEs mainly in Lithuania.

    Background information     

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed a total of €88 billion in new financing for over 900 projects in 2023. These commitments are expected to mobilise around €320 billion in investment, supporting 400 000 companies and 5.4 million jobs.  

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Accord. The EIB Group does not fund investments in fossil fuels. We are on track to deliver on our commitment to support  €1 trillion in climate and environmental sustainability investment in the decade to 2030 as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Over half of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.  

    Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower. This underscores the Bank’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and the convergence of living standards. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Finland financing from EIB Group more than doubles in 2024 to €2.3 billion

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB Group investments in Finland rose to €2.3 billion in 2024 from €992 million the year before.
    • Financing boost of 132% supported 1,800 Finnish SMEs and Mid-Caps and sustained 40,000 jobs in the country.
    • Most funding went to green projects and business innovation.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group’s financing in Finland more than doubled to €2.3 billion in 2024, with the bulk of funds aimed at accelerating the green transition and business innovation in the country. The EIB Group’s pledges last year represent a 132% increase from €992 million in 2023.

    The financing in Finland last year included €1.7 billion from the EIB and €606 million from the European Investment Fund (EIF) arm, which focuses on supporting Europe’s micro companies and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

    The EIB Group’s funding in Finland in 2024 supported 1,800 SMEs and Mid-Caps, sustained 40,000 jobs and covered 21 investment initiatives across the country. The amount is expected to trigger €5.1 billion of total investment, equivalent to 1.9% of Finnish gross domestic product (GDP).

    “Our significant investments in 2024 underscore our unwavering commitment to Finland’s economic growth and resilience,” said EIB Vice-President Thomas Östros. “By financing a diverse array of projects from cutting-edge healthcare to pioneering renewable-energy solutions, we are not just supporting Finland’s present needs but also building a brighter, more sustainable future. “

    Driving innovation and sustainability

    In 2024, half of the EIB Group’s funding in Finland was allocated to the green transition and a third to business innovation. This marks a 215% rise in support for Finnish sustainability and innovation compared with the previous year.

    “Finland stands as a leading example of innovation and sustainability in Europe,” said Östros.

    The EIB Group’s financing in Finland last year targeted a range of sectors including industrial investments, energy, education and healthcare.

    Key green transition and innovation projects

    Green transition and innovation projects backed by the EIB last year included a €168 million investment in the Keliber lithium project to enhance the EU’s battery material supply for electric vehicles and high-tech industries. Additionally, Prysmian’s factory in Pikkala received more than €221 million in EIB funding to expand its production of extra-high-voltage submarine power cables, supporting the EU’s clean energy-transmission goals.

    Furthermore, the EIB invested €150 million to replace Helsinki’s fossil-based heating plants with renewable energy, supporting the city’s sustainability and carbon-reduction efforts as part of REPowerEU. In addition, the EIB provided a €435 million loan to Stora Enso for producing sustainable packaging at the Oulu factory, promoting a circular economy with renewable materials.

    Lastly, Swappie received a €14 million venture-debt loan to refurbish and resell iPhones, reducing electronic waste and extending the lifecycle of devices, making high-quality technology more accessible.

    Empowering SMEs and Mid-Caps

    The EIB Group’s support for Finnish SMEs and Mid-Caps last year included a €200 million partnership with Finnvera. This initiative aimed to tackle barriers to accessing finance by sharing risks associated with economic uncertainties such as inflation, high interest rates, limited external growth opportunities, and unpredictable energy supplies.

    For its part, the EIF collaborated with leading Finnish banks to provide over €560 million in loan guarantees last year. This substantial financing empowers SMEs, small Mid-Caps and housing associations to advance Finland’s climate goals, promote environmental sustainability and invest in innovation and digitalisation. In addition, the EIF made two new commitments in Finnish venture capital and private equity funds.

    Investing in public infrastructure

    The EU bank prioritised healthcare and education infrastructure in 2024, making significant investments in Finland’s public sector. A €100 million loan will upgrade Helsinki’s Laakso hospital, providing state-of-the-art medical services. Thousands of children in Tuusula will benefit from modern schools funded by a €105 million EIB loan. Additionally, the EIB is financing water-infrastructure projects in the Helsinki area, promoting sustainable water management, one of the key priorities of the bank.

    Over the past five years, the EIB Group has provided nearly €8.6 billion in financing for Finland, highlighting the organisation’s dedication to the country’s economic growth and development.

    For more information on EIB Group results in 2024, please click here.

    Background information     

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality. 

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed a total of €88 billion in new financing for over 900 projects in 2023. These commitments are expected to mobilise around €320 billion in investment, supporting 400 000 companies and 5.4 million jobs.  

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Accord. The EIB Group does not fund investments in fossil fuels. We are on track to deliver on our commitment to support  €1 trillion in climate and environmental sustainability investment in the decade to 2030 as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Over half of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.  

    Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower. This underscores the Bank’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and the convergence of living standards. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –