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  • MIL-OSI USA: Lagniappe for November 2024

    Source: NASA

    Explore Lagniappe for November 2024 featuring:

    NASA Stennis Takes Key Step in Expanding its Range Operations Work
    NASA Stennis Plants Artemis Moon Tree
    NASA Employees Complete Agency Leadership Program

    The month of October is known for becoming cooler in these parts, and there sure were plenty of recent cool moments for NASA Stennis that set the tone for the future.
    Last month, the center marked a milestone for testing a new SLS (Space Launch System) rocket stage to fly on future Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond.
    Crews safely lifted and installed the interstage simulator component that will be used for future testing of NASA’s exploration upper stage on the B-2 side of the Thad Cochran Test Stand.
    Why does this matter?
    When the new upper stage is ready to fly following testing at NASA Stennis, it will allow NASA to send astronauts and larger payloads to the Moon on a single mission.
    It is expected to fly on Artemis IV when astronauts will live and work in humanity’s first lunar space station, Gateway.
    How exciting! This mission will make possible new opportunities for science and preparation for human missions to Mars.
    The massive interstage simulator component lifted and installed at NASA Stennis is 103 tons, or 206,000 pounds. When you learn about the exploration upper stage, and how it functions, it makes sense. The upper stage is powered by four engines and provides more than 97,000 pounds of thrust.
    Speaking of missions to the Moon, have you ever asked yourself why are we returning to the Moon?
    A few goals NASA has set for Artemis missions include: preparing for future exploration missions deeper into space – including Mars – by developing and proving new technologies and capabilities, while learning how to live and operate on the lunar surface; finding and using water and other critical resources needed for long-term exploration; and investigating the Moon’s mysteries to learn more about Earth and the universe for the benefit of all.
    These long-term plans build on more than 50 years of NASA’s experience and are reigniting everyone’s passion for discovery.
    I believe it because the grandgators have been talking NASA nonstop lately.
    All of this culminates with inspiring the Artemis Generation and encouraging young people to pursue studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
    Throughout the month of October, NASA Stennis representatives have been doing just that, sharing the cool ways NASA explores, innovates, and inspires all of humanity and the Artemis Generation.
    Such stops have included Congressman Bennie Thompson’s College and Career Fair in Greenville, Mississippi, located in the Yazoo-Mississippi Delta area, bordering the state of Arkansas; Cruisin’ the Coast, where car enthusiasts from over 37 states and Canada drive to the Mississippi Gulf Coast annually; and various college and career fairs throughout Pearl River County and Hancock County, areas where many NASA Stennis employees live.
    October indeed was a cool month, and November has started off that way, too. NASA Stennis representatives participated in the NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show Nov. 1-2, one of Pensacola’s largest events with more than 150,000 in attendance.
    It marked just the fifth time in history that the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and U.S. Navy Blue Angels have flown together. This event also celebrated the 55th anniversary of NASA’s lunar landing.
    Pretty cool, huh?
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    NASA Stennis Achieves Milestone in Preparation for Future Artemis Testing
    NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, achieved a key milestone this week for testing a new SLS (Space Launch System) rocket stage to fly on future Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond.

    NASA Stennis Takes Key Step in Expanding its Range Operations Work
    NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, has entered into an agreement with Skydweller Aero Inc. for the company to operate its solar-powered autonomous aircraft in the site’s restricted airspace, a key step towards achieving a strategic center goal.

    NASA Stennis Conducts Water Flush at Fred Haise Test Stand

    NASA Employees Complete Agency Leadership Program

    NASA Stennis Plants Artemis Moon Tree

    NASA Stennis Crews Continue Exploration Upper Stage Preparations

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    LSU Engineering Students Visit NASA Stennis

    U.S. Ambassador Visits NASA Stennis

    NASA Stennis Highlights Return to the Moon in Louisiana

    NASA Stennis Hosts Office of the Chief Information Officer Teams

    Start Your Engines: NASA Stennis Cruises on the Coast

    Stennis Hosts Family Day at INFINITY

    Java with John: Brewing Conversations and Connection with NASA Stennis Employees

    NASA Attends Blue Angels Airshow

    NASA Attends Picayune Street Fair

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    Every task at NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, is not simply work for Tessa Keating – it is a meaningful step toward a part of something great.

    > Back to Top

    Lagniappe is published monthly by the Office of Communications at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. The NASA Stennis office may be contacted by at 228-688-3333 (phone); ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov (email); or NASA OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS, Attn: LAGNIAPPE, Mail code IA00, Building 1111 Room 173, Stennis Space Center, MS 39529 (mail).
    The Lagniappe staff includes: Managing Editor Lacy Thompson, Editor Bo Black, and photographer Danny Nowlin.
    To subscribe to the monthly publication, please email the following to ssc-office-of-communications@mail.nasa.gov – name, location (city/state), email address.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: MEDIA ADVISORY: Senate Study Committee on Artificial Intelligence to Hold Seventh Meeting

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (November 4, 2024) — On Friday, November 8th,2024, at 10:00 a.m., the Senate Study Committee on Artificial Intelligence, chaired by Sen. John Albers (R–Roswell), will hold its seventh hearing, in conjunction with the House Technology and Infrastructure Innovation Subcommittee on AI.

    EVENT DETAILS:                      

    • Date: Friday, November 8th, 2024
    • Time: 10:00 a.m.
    • Location: Emory University, 1365 Clifton Road, Atlanta GA 30322
    • This event is open to the public and will be live-streamed on the Georgia General Assembly website here.

    ABOUT THE MEETING:         

    The committee is tasked with promoting responsible innovation, competition, and collaboration in public and private sectors will allow Georgia to be a leader in ensuring that such technology will advance in a way that enforces the existing consumer protection laws and principles for its citizens while enacting any additional appropriate safeguards against, fraud, unintended bias, discrimination, infringements on privacy, and other potential harms from AI.

    MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

    We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Jantz Womack at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov. 

    # # # #

    Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb, and North Fulton counties. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at john.albers@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Awarded American Farm Bureau Federation’s “Friend of the Farm Bureau” Award 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch Joins Vermont Farmers and Agriculture Leaders in Fairlee 
    FAIRLEE, VT – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Chair of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development and Energy, was awarded the American Farm Bureau Federation’s “Friend of the Farm Bureau” Award for the 118th Congress for his leadership and commitment to Vermont’s farmers and rural communities. Senator Welch accepted the award at the Vermont Farm Bureau’s annual dinner in Fairlee. 
    “Agriculture is at the heart of what makes Vermont special— our sense of community, our working lands, and neighbors feeding neighbors. But this important part of our State’s culture has been threatened by market pressures and back-to-back floods, which have made it tough for rural families to make ends meet and farmers to stay in business. I’m fighting in Washington to help and will keep working to support Vermont farmers, farmworkers, and families,” said Senator Welch. 
    View photos from the event below: 

    Senator Welch earned the “Friend of the Farm Bureau” award for his dedication and commitment to Vermont’s farmers, agricultural industry, and rural communities. He was nominated by the Vermont Farm Bureau.  
    At the event, Senator Welch highlighted the urgent need to pass a bipartisan Farm Bill to help farmers keep farming and put food on the table for families across America. The Senate’s draft Farm Bill, the Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act, includes several priorities championed by Sen. Welch that will strengthen Vermont’s farms, rural communities, and families, including: 

    The Farmland Access Act, legislation to improve Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) entity certification and buy-protect-sell provisions to help protect American farmland for its intended use and expand access to farming for the next generation. 

    The Future Farmers and Ranchers of Tomorrow Act, bicameral legislation to increase access to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs for young and new farmers by revising USDA’s “qualified beginning farmer or rancher” definition to allow non-related beginning farmers and ranchers in joint entities to be eligible for FSA loans. 

    The O DAIRY Act, legislation to improve collection of organic dairy market data. 

    The ReConnecting Rural America Act, bipartisan legislation that would codify and clarify components of USDA’s ReConnect Loan and Grant Program and, in so doing, reduce red tape, and speed broadband deployment. 

    The Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act contains more than 100 pieces of legislation that aim to support our farms, create jobs, improve rural infrastructure, expand access to childcare and health care, support rural education and skills training, build out high-speed rural broadband, help build more affordable housing in rural America, assist homeowners and farms transition to greener energy and lower their utility bills, clean up our drinking water, conserve our land, and more.  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Video: Thank YOU to all VETERANS

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    : DMA

    About the U.S. Army:

    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/ X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Shorts #VeteransDay #ThankYouForYourService

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSMKNSxMs_E

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Leadership for Peace Means ‘Living Up to UN Charter’, Says Secretary-General at Security Council Debate

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the Security Council’s high-level debate on “Leadership for peace:  united in respect of the UN Charter, in search of a secure future”, in New York today:

    I thank the Government of Slovenia for convening this high-level debate on Leadership for Peace.

    The topic is rooted in a fundamental truth:  Peace is never automatic.  Peace demands action.  And peace demands leadership.

    Instead, we’re seeing deepening geo-political divisions and mistrust.  Impunity is spreading, with repeated violations of international law and the UN Charter.   Conflicts are multiplying, becoming more complex and deadlier. All regions are affected.

    And civilians are paying the steepest price.  From Gaza to Ukraine to Sudan and beyond — wars grind on, suffering grows, hunger deepens, lives are upended, and the legitimacy and effectiveness of the United Nations, and this Council, are undermined.

    Leadership for peace requires action in at least two key areas.

    First — leadership for peace means all Member States living up to their commitments in the UN Charter, in international law and in recent agreements such as the Pact for the Future.

    Among other things, the Pact calls for strengthening tools and frameworks to prevent conflict, sustain peace and advance sustainable development, with the full, equal and meaningful participation of women.

    It calls for updating our tools for peace operations to allow for more agile, tailored responses to existing, emerging and future challenges.

    It reinforces the commitment to all human rights — civil, political, economic, social and cultural.

    It includes initiatives around disarmament, peacebuilding, and managing threats posed by lethal autonomous weapons and artificial intelligence and in new domains, including outer space and cyberspace.

    It calls for measures to quickly address complex global shocks. And it contains a new push to reform key institutions of global governance, including the global financial architecture and this very Council.

    The Pact is a down-payment on these reforms.  But we will need strong political will to implement them and rebuild the legitimacy and effectiveness of this Council.  Which brings me to my second point about leadership for peace.

    Leadership for peace means ensuring that the UN Security Council acts in a meaningful way to ease global tensions and help address the conflicts that are inflicting so much suffering around the world.

    Geopolitical divisions continue to block effective solutions.  A united Council can make a tremendous difference for peace.  A divided Council cannot.  It is imperative that Council Members spare no effort to work together to find common ground.  And it has proven capable of doing so in some key areas.

    From currently overseeing 11 peacekeeping operations on three continents, involving nearly 70,000 uniformed peacekeeping personnel…

    To resolutions that help keep vital humanitarian aid flowing to the world’s hotspots…

    To the landmark resolution 2719 (2023), which provides for African-Union led peace support operations authorized by the Council to have access to UN assessed contributions…

    To the groundbreaking resolutions that recognized the clear implications of peace and security challenges on the lives of women and youth…

    To this Council’s growing ties to regional and subregional organizations to foster consensus and peace.  These examples — and more — prove that forging peace is possible.

    When we consider the most difficult and intractable conflicts on this Council’s agenda, peace can seem an impossible dream.

    But I strongly believe that peace is possible if we stick to principles.  Peace in Ukraine is possible.  By following the UN Charter and abiding by international law.

    Peace in Gaza is possible.  By sparing no effort for an immediate ceasefire, the immediate release of all hostages, and the beginning of an irreversible process towards a two-State solution.

    Peace in Sudan is possible.  By sending a clear message to the warring parties that all Members of this Council — including the five permanent Members — will not tolerate the horrific violence and desperate humanitarian crisis being unleashed on innocent civilians.

    The situations on this Council’s agenda are complex and do not have quick fixes.  But the scale of the challenge should not deter us.  Our only hope for progress on peace is active collaboration and unity among Council Members.

    Today, I call on all Members to live up to this great responsibility, and to the promise of the UN Charter.  Contribute to this Council’s success — not its diminishment.  Let’s ensure that this Council serves as an effective and representative forum for peace — today and in the years to come.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Hell Is Breaking Loose’ in Lebanon, All-Out War Must Be Avoided, Secretary-General Tells Security Council

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the Security Council meeting on Lebanon, in New York today:

    Hell is breaking loose in Lebanon.  As I told the General Assembly yesterday, we should all be alarmed by the escalation.  Lebanon is at the brink.

    Of course, the Blue Line has seen tensions for years. But, since October 2023, exchanges of fire have expanded in scope, depth and intensity.

    Hizbullah and other non-State armed groups in Lebanon and the Israel Defense Forces have exchanged fire on an almost daily basis — with Hizbullah indicating that they would require a ceasefire in Gaza to cease hostilities.

    The exchanges of fire have been in repeated violation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).  The daily use of weapons by non-State armed groups is in violation of Security Council resolutions 1559 (2004) and 1701 (2006).

    Lebanese sovereignty must be respected and the Lebanese State must have full control of weapons throughout Lebanese territory. We support all efforts to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces.

    Since October 2023, nearly 200,000 people within Lebanon and over 60,000 from northern Israel have fled their homes.  Many lives have been lost.  All this must stop.

    The communities of northern Israel and southern Lebanon must be able to return to their homes, and live in safety and security, without fear.

    Since the emergency Council session on Lebanon on 20 September — in the wake of the remote detonation of pagers and hand-held radios used by Hizbullah across Lebanon — hostilities have escalated dramatically.

    The past weekend saw heavy exchanges of fire endangering civilians on both sides of the Blue Line — with Israel Defense Forces striking approximately 400 Hizbullah targets in Lebanon, while Hizbullah launched hundreds of missiles, rockets and drones into northern Israel.

    Monday was the bloodiest day in Lebanon in a generation. The Israel Defense Forces said that it struck some 1,600 Hizbullah targets.  Many civilians were killed, and many, many more were injured.  Since then, Israel continued its deadly strikes across Lebanon, including in the southern suburbs of Beirut.

    Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health reported that 569 people were killed on Monday and Tuesday — including 50 children and 94 women.  Over 1,800 people were injured.  Lebanese authorities report a total of 1,247 deaths since October 2023. Two colleagues from UNHCR [Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] were among those killed in yesterday’s bombing.

    Today, further strikes killed at least another 50 people and injured more than 200.  Meanwhile, roads are clogged as families desperately seek safety. Many are stranded at the Beirut airport.

    The Ministry of Interior of Lebanon has reported that over 90,000 people have fled southern and eastern Lebanon towards Beirut and the north-west, with 30,000 people in shelters.

    At least $170 million is needed to respond to growing numbers of displaced and mounting humanitarian needs.  The people of Israel have endured also repeated attacks from Hizbullah and others.

    According to Israeli officials, since last October, more than 8,300 rockets, around 1500 anti-tank missiles and hundreds of explosive unmanned aerial vehicles have targeted Israel — with 49 Israeli deaths and hundreds injured.

    Hizbullah continues to launch drone and increasingly high calibre missile and rocket attacks on military targets and residential areas in Israel.

    Earlier today, they launched a ballistic missile targeting Mossad headquarters near Tel Aviv.

    The ongoing rocket attacks have injured several people in Israel, with homes and other structures damaged.

    Diplomatic efforts have intensified to achieve a temporary ceasefire — allowing for delivery of humanitarian relief and paving the way for the resumption of more durable peace.  We fully support these efforts.

    Earlier this week, the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon — Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert — travelled to Israel for consultations, underscoring that military escalation is in no one’s interest.

    The Head of Mission and Force Commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, UNIFIL — General Aroldo Lazaro — has continued his close engagement with the parties, supporting humanitarian access wherever possible and continuing to urge immediate de-escalation.

    Despite the dangerous conditions, our peacekeepers remain in position.  To mitigate the risk to Mission personnel, most civilian personnel have temporarily relocated north of the Litani River.  A few critical staff members remain in the Mission’s area of operations, together with the blue helmets.

    I want to reiterate our sincere gratitude to our peacekeepers — civilian and military — who serve along the Blue Line, as well as to all the troop-contributing countries.

    I implore the Council to work in lock-step to help put out this fire.  The parties must immediately return to a cessation of hostilities and take real action towards full implementation of resolutions 1559 (2004) and 1701 (2006).

    Civilians must be protected.  Civilian infrastructure must not be targeted.  The safety and security of all UN personnel and assets must be ensured. International law must be respected.

    To all sides, let us say in one clear voice:  Stop the killing and destruction.  Tone down the rhetoric and threats.  Step back from the brink.

    An all-out war must be avoided at all costs.  It would surely be an all-out catastrophe.  The people of Lebanon — as well as the people of Israel — and the people of the world — cannot afford Lebanon to become another Gaza.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Our health care system is dysfunctional: Here’s how to make America healthy again

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Chip Roy (R-TX)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Monday, Representative Chip Roy (TX-21) penned an op-ed in The Hill laying out a conservative vision for healthcare freedom as we enter 2025.

    The full text of the op-ed is available at the link here; some key quotes are below:

    • “American healthcare is getting more expensive but Americans aren’t getting healthier… Spending more money on government programs is not the solution. What we need is a fundamental paradigm shift toward healthcare freedom.”
    • “We must end the crony capitalism ruining our healthcare system. We must be brave enough to overhaul the government bureaucrats at NIH, CDC, and the USDA – and to take on Big Insurance, Big Hospital, Big Pharma, Big Corporations, and Big Ag.”
    • “Government-manufactured unhealthiness seems to be by design. Pharma companies, insurance companies, pharmacy benefit managers, and hospitals rarely make money off gym memberships and higher fruit and vegetable sales. By abandoning the focus on health, this makes the cost of everything in healthcare more expensive, and people are discouraged from seeking the care they need.”
    • “Instead of allowing big corporations to dominate healthcare policy, we must empower Americans and reward them for making smarter healthcare decisions…”
    • “Enough is enough. We must embrace two steps to healthcare freedom. First, we must break the grip of the cronyism that feeds us poisoned food and makes a quick buck off the “cure.” Then, we must free the system using DPC and HSAs – among other things –  to destroy the third-party paper pushers’ power to deny us an affordable and personalized relationship with the healthcare provider of our choice.”
    • “Get the government bureaucrat and corporate America out of the way of you and your farmer and you and your providers so that we can make America healthy again.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Liberia

    Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

    • Reviewed: 22 November 2022, 14:57 NZDT
    • Still current at: 5 November 2024

    Related news features

    If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

    Exercise increased caution in Liberia due to the unpredictable security situation and violent crime (level 2 of 4).  

    Liberia

    Violent Crime
    Violent crime occurs throughout Liberia, and there is a high incidence of armed robbery, sexual assault, mugging and residential burglary. Most crime is opportunistic but there are also organised criminal groups. Criminals are often armed, typically with a knife or a machete. The level of crime is much higher after dark. 

    As foreigners may be targeted due to their perceived wealth, avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices and jewellery. Walking alone or travelling after dark should be avoided. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery or mugging, as this could lead to an escalation in violence. Avoid travelling alone or after dark.

    Liberian police and authorities have a very limited capacity to respond and provide effective protective services, particularly outside the capital Monrovia.  

    Terrorism
    There is no history of terrorism in Liberia; however, terrorist groups remain active across West Africa and attacks in other countries have targeted beach resorts, hotels, cafes and restaurants visited by foreigners.

    New Zealanders in Liberia are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising vigilance in public places.

    Local travel
    New Zealanders considering travel to Liberia are advised to make adequate security arrangements with a reliable organisation in advance of your arrival. 

    You should avoid local public transport. Pre-arrange transport for the duration of your stay, including to and from the airport, which is located some distance from downtown Monrovia. Taxis should be booked using a reputable company via a trusted friend or through your hotel. When travelling by road, keep doors locked and windows up at all times, as taxis have been occasionally targeted for robbery. Secure tourist facilities and accommodation are very limited and poorly maintained. Stay only in reputable accommodation with adequate guarding. Photo identification should be carried at all times.

    The security situation in Grand Gedeh and River Gee counties, which border Cote D’Ivoire, can be unstable. There are armed groups near the border and occasional cross-border attacks have occurred in the past.

    Civil Unrest
    The security situation in Liberia remains fragile. Sporadic demonstrations and local disturbances can turn violent and there is ongoing potential for unrest. Police may use tear gas and/or water cannons to disperse demonstrations.  New Zealanders in Liberia are advised to avoid all large crowds, political rallies and demonstrations as they have the potential to turn violent. 

    Scams
    Commercial and internet fraud is common in Liberia. New Zealanders should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams and Internet dating scams

    Ebola Virus Disease
    Following an Ebola outbreak in 2014, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared Liberia free of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) transmission in June 2016. For more information on Ebola, please see the Ministry of Health’s website and the WHO website. 

    General Travel Advice
    As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Liberia, the ability of the government to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Liberia should consider. 

    Modern medical services in Liberia are very limited, so we advise New Zealanders travelling or living in Liberia to have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

    Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

    Photography of government offices, airports, military establishments or officials, is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

    Authorities may ask for proof of your identity, so carry a colour photocopy of your passport and visa for Liberia at all times. Checkpoints operate throughout the country.

    New Zealanders in Liberia are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Travel tips

    See our regional advice for Africa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats show Medsafe accelerates approval assessments

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister David Seymour says that Medsafe’s annual performance statistics released today show that Medsafe are accelerating their approval process.  

    “The data produced in Medsafe’s annual statistics show that in 2023/2024 Medsafe expedited their assessment process for almost every category of medicine,” says Mr Seymour.  

    For innovative new medicines (the highest risk category), on average, Medsafe completed their evaluation 55 working days faster than the previous period.  

    For generic medicines (intermediate risk), on average, Medsafe completed their evaluation 45 working days faster than the previous period.   

    Medsafe has also adopted new categories for over-the-counter medicines (low risk) which includes pseudoephedrine. For this category Medsafe are meeting 100% of their timeframe targets.   

    “While faster assessment times is a good step in the right direction, to give Kiwis the medicine access they deserve, Medsafe’s approval process needs further streamlining”, says Mr Seymour.    

    “One-way Medsafe can streamline their process further is by continuing to go outside of the box and using bespoke processes for approval where suitable. 

    “An example of where a bespoke process was very successful, was in the approval process of pseudoephedrine following the law change to allow purchase from a pharmacist without a prescription. Medsafe used a risk-based process to determine whether the medicine met their standards for consented low risk medicines. That process saw Medsafe approve 11 low risk products in 15 working days, just in time for winter. We hope to see more of this speed. 

    “The ACT-National coalition document commits to further streamline approval processes by introducing a new verification pathway. These changes will require Medsafe to approve new pharmaceuticals within 30 days of them being approved by at least two overseas regulatory agencies recognised by New Zealand.  

    “We’re committed to ensuring that the regulatory system for pharmaceuticals is not unreasonably holding back access. We want it to lead to more Kiwis being able to access the medicines they need to live a fulfilling life, not less.”

    Note to editors: Please find a link to the Ministry of Health’s landing page for performance reports here: https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/regulatory/Performance.asp

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Pātaka summer season inspires, connects and provokes – Porirua

    Source: Porirua City Council

    Three new exhibitions opened on Saturday as part of Pātaka Art + Museum’s stunning new season.
    The provocative exhibition Diane Prince: Activist Artist showcases a selection of Diane’s works. Diane (Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Whatua and Ngāti Kahu) is a painter, weaver, installation art practitioner, set designer and educator, whose multimedia practice emphasises Māori rights, particularly Māori women’s rights.
    The artworks focus on the close relationship between activism and art, with both facets deeply significant to an understanding of Māori and New Zealand (art) history. As we head into 50 years since the Māori Land March, Prince re-creates many of her previous works for a new audience – with political messages connecting even the quietest of her artworks.
    The second exhibition Rangirua presents two takes on the two-person exhibition, connecting two pairings of two artists: jewellers Neke Moa with Rowan Panther and mark-makers Gabrielle Amodeo alongside Martin Thompson. Rangirua, which translates to “two minds”, celebrates the comparisons and conversations that emerge when artists are placed side by side.
    In Taku Hoe, artists reconnect across Te Moananui a Kiwa (the Pacific Ocean) in the third exhibition, which features works from artists from the Aotearoa delegation for the 2024 Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture (FestPAC).
    The artworks represented at Pātaka include Cry of the Stolen People – Black Birding of the Tokelau Islands by Porirua-based Tokelauan artists Jack Kirifi, Moses Viliamu, Matthew Lepaio and the late Zac Mateo. The audio-visual installation tells the little-known history of Pacific slavery.
    Mid-December those three exhibitions will be joined by Boro – Timeworn Textiles from Japan, celebrating textile art, and the unnamed women who created it. Boro is a method of hand-sewn, repeated repairs that use sashiko – a running stitch, ideally the size of a grain of rice – to beautifully preserve and recycle fabric with cherished textiles passed down through generations.
    Find out more: pataka.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Papakōwhai shared path open and proving popular

    Source: Porirua City Council

    The newly completed Papakōwhai shared path is a fantastic addition to this part of Porirua, according to one of the area’s school principals.
    The 1.7km shared pathway, along the eastern side of Papakōwhai Rd, improves the connections between key locations, including Aotea College, Aotea Lagoon, Paremata School and Paremata Railway Station. It forms part of the national Te Araroa Trail and was fully funded by the Government’s Transport Choices Fund, led by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.
    Construction began in November 2023 and it was officially opened on 21 October.
    Paremata School principal Bryce Coleman said it makes it safer for his pupils to get to school.
    “For our students to be able to cycle safely along a busy stretch of road is a real bonus,” he said.
    “Congratulations to the Council and the pathway team for all their hard mahi – it’s just what was needed for the local community and has improved road safety.”
    The shared path supports the Council’s objectives to reduce emissions and focus on moving towards a more climate-resilient way of life.
    The new path includes:
    – 1.7km of shared path – which is 2.5m-3m wide
    – Seven pedestrian crossings to make it safer and easier to get around
    – 50 new streetlight poles with LED lights
    – 5000+ plants to enhance the path past the wetland and to reduce construction impact.
    A key add-on for the project was the installation of the pump track at Aotea Lagoon last December. The loop of mounds and curves provides a riding experience for those on bikes, scooters, roller blades, roller skates and skateboards.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Emergency Management – World Tsunami Awareness Day: Long or strong, get gone – but where to?

    Source: National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)

    New Zealanders know the catchphrase “If an earthquake is Long or Strong, Get Gone” – but do you know where to “get gone” to?

    Today is World Tsunami Awareness Day, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)’s Chief Science Advisor Professor Tom Wilson is urging people across Aotearoa New Zealand to take a few minutes to check their tsunami zone and plan their evacuation route.

    NEMA’s annual emergency preparedness survey shows awareness of the need to self-evacuate in a long or strong earthquake near the coast has risen from 75% to 86%.

    “It’s really encouraging to see high awareness of our Long or Strong, Get Gone advice,” Dr Wilson says.

    “However, many people may not know if they’re in an evacuation zone, and where they should evacuate to.

    “The National Tsunami Evacuation Zone Map lets you look up the address of anywhere you live, work or play, and it will tell you straight away if you’re in a tsunami evacuation zone.

    “Give it a go now, and practice your route. It’s a nifty tool that could save your life.

    “All of New Zealand’s coastline is at risk of tsunami, and we have a lot of coastline. In a local-source tsunami – like one caused by an earthquake on the Hikurangi fault along the North Island’s East Coast – immediate self-evacuation is key to survival.”

    Professor Wilson says research into the 5 March 2021 tsunami sequence shows that people often wait for an official warning before evacuating, when they should leave straight away.

    “Awareness may be high, but the science tells us that people aren’t always doing the right thing in the heat of the moment.  The more we plan and practice now, the easier it will be when we have a real tsunami event.

    “To mark World Tsunami Awareness Day, take a few moments with your whānau today – and find out what to do if a tsunami strikes.”

    Dr Wilson says 2024 marks twenty years since the Boxing Day Tsunami, which claimed 230,000 lives across India, Indonesia, Thailand and Sri Lanka on 26 December 2004.

    “The Boxing Day tsunami is a tragic reminder of the devasting power of tsunamis, and a reminder that we need to learn and plan.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOD Announces New Director for Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Pete Nguyen provided the following statement:

    The Department of Defense is pleased to announce Maj. Gen. Suzanne Puanani Vares-Lum as the new director of the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (DKI APCSS), effective early 2025.

    Maj. Gen. Vares-Lum’s leadership as President of the East-West Center and her 34 years of service in the U.S. Army provide her with the vision and experience needed to be a transformational leader at this vital DoD institution in the Indo-Pacific region.

    Retired Rear Adm. Pete Gumataotao departed the Center this last summer after more than six years of distinguished service as director of DKI APCSS.

    DKI APCSS is the department’s premier institution dedicated to scholars and practitioners focused on the Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: McKeesport Felon Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Firearm and Ammunition

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on October 31, 2024, to 33 months in prison for violating federal firearm laws and conditions of his federal supervised release, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

    Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Jared Abraham Ogrosky, 26, also ordering Ogrosky to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term.

    Ogrosky previously pleaded guilty in this case to possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon on March 12, 2024. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Additionally, Ogrosky admitted to violating several conditions of his supervised release following his earlier convictions for trafficking in heroin and fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    Assistant United States Attorney V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    United States Attorney Olshan commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Allegheny County District Attorney Narcotics Enforcement Team; and U.S. Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ogrosky.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by Vice President Harris at a Campaign Event | Scranton,  PA

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Montage Mountain ResortScranton, Pennsylvania
    1:52 P.M. EST
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Scranton!  (Applause.)  Hey, everybody! 
    Can we hear it for Glen?  (Applause.)  Let’s hear it for Glen.
    Hi, Scranton.  Good afternoon, everyone.  Good afternoon.  It is so good to be with everyone.  (Applause.)  Thank you. 
    Are we ready to do this? 
         AUDIENCE:  Yes!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT: We- — we’re ready to get out the vote? 
         AUDIENCE:  Yes!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  We’re ready to win?
         AUDIENCE:  Yes!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  All right.  Okay.  So, first, let me thank Glen.  I was — I was telling him when we were just hanging out backstage, so when I — my first office that I ran for was district attorney, and the Carpenters were the first union to endorse me.  (Applause.)  And — and I — and I’ve always — I mean, even before, but always — I will always and always have stood with labor. 
    And so, I’m very proud to stand with you, Glen, with your members, with all the members of labor, as we do this together.  (Applause.) 
    And as he pointed out, there’s a huge difference between me and the other guy, which everybody here knows, which is why you are here to help us get out the vote.  (Applause.) 
    But I thought I would share with you — so, I was — when I was coming in, someone reminded me of — of a story I’ve shared, which is when I first ran for office as DA.  So, I — I started out at six points in the polls, right?  So, you kn- — for anyone who knows, that’s 6 out of 100.  (Laughter.)  No one thought we could win.  And I used to campaign with my ironing board.  (Laughter.)  Okay.  You are wondering, “Now, what is she talking about?”  (Laughter.)
    So, I would grab my ironing board, a roll of duct tape, my pois- — my posters and my flyers, and I’d put them all in my car, and I’d drive to the local grocery stores.  And I’d pull out my ironing board and my duct tape and my posters and my flyers, and I’d walk to the front of the grocery store outside, and I’d stand up my ironing board, because, you see, an ironing board makes a really great standing desk.  (Laughter.)
    And I’d use the duct tape to tape my posters on the outside of the thing, and I’d put my flyers on top of the ironing board.  And I would require people to talk to me as they walked in and out of the grocery store.  (Laughter.)
    And I will tell you, that is how I love to campaign.  I don’t do it as much anymore, obviously.  But what you all are signing up to do today and what you’ve been doing, like, let’s enjoy it.  You know, and I know you do.  I can feel the mood in here.  Because it’s the best of who we are as a democracy. 
    And I think we’ve kind of — (applause) — right?
    And that’s what our campaign has been about.  We are a people-driven campaign, and we love the people.  And we see, in the face of a stranger, a neighbor — right? — and that’s the spirit of what we are doing. 
    And over these last — you know, this whole era of this other guy, you know, it —  but it — what it’s done with all that talk that’s been about trying to have us point fingers at each other and divide each other, it makes people feel alone.  It makes them feel like there’s nobody standing with them. 
    And so, the way I have always been thinking about our campaign and these next 24 hours is as we are getting out the vote, as we are canvassing, let’s be intentional about building community — about building community, about building coalitions, about reminding people we all have so much more in common than what separates us.  There is power in that.  There is power in that.  (Applause.)  And there’s lasting power in that, right?
    It’s about the win, and it is about more.  It is about more.  It is about just strengthening our country and reminding each other we are all in this together.  We rise and fall together.  And that is the strength of who we are and everyone here. 
    That’s the strength of Bob Casey.  We’ve got to get him back in the United States Senate.  (Applause.) 
    That’s the strength of Mayor Cognetti and all that she has been doing.  Right?  (Applause.)
    It’s about leadership that is the kind of leadership that we want.  Right?  They are leaders, we are leaders who understand that the measure of our strength is not based on who we beat down.  It’s based on who we lift up.  Right?  (Applause.)  And so, that’s what we’re going to do.  
    And so, over these next 24 hours, I know everyone is here, including our youngest leaders — I see you over there.  I know you’re not ready to vote because you look like you’re about eight, but — (laughs) — but you tell the adults in your life why it’s important they vote.  Okay?  (Laughs.)  (Applause.)
    But over these next 24 hours, let’s — let’s enjoy this moment to knock on a neighbor’s door and in their face, even if we’ve not met them, know that we have a lot that we care about in common and that we are optimistic about the future of our country, that we love our country, and that that’s what this fight is about, and about the promise of America — and the promise of America being represented by everybody who is here.  
    So, I thank you all for the time that you have taken out of your busy lives.  There are a number of things that each one of you could be doing right now and — but you’re here, and we’re all here together, under this one roof, as a community of people who care and who are dedicated to the hard work that it requires.  
    You know, I — I like to say that you — you know, when you love something, you fight for it.  (Applause.)  And that’s what we’re doing.  And that’s what we’re doing.  We love our country, and we are fighting for the best of who we are.  And —
    AUDIENCE MEMBER:  We love you!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And I love you.  (Applause.)  Thank you.  I love you.
    So —
    AUDIENCE:  Kamala!  Kamala!  Kamala!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you.
    AUDIENCE:  Kamala!  Kamala!  Kamala!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Let’s vote.  Let’s get out the vote.  Let’s get out the vote.  Let’s get out the vote. 
    AUDIENCE:  Let’s get out the vote!  Let’s get out the vote!  Let’s get out the vote!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Let’s get out the vote.  Let’s get out the vote.  Let’s get out the vote.   Let’s win. (Laughs.)  (Applause.)
    All right, let’s get to work.  Twenty-four hours to go.  And I — I so — I — I’m so grateful for everyone here.  I — I just — I’ll end with this point.  You know, I have the — I have the privilege, I have the blessing of being able to travel around our country.  And I’m telling you guys, we’re good.  We’re good.  We’re good.  (Applause.)  We really are.  
    I mean, every — I s- — I go into rooms with people who s- — again, seemingly have nothing in common and have everything in common — rooms of people of all kinds of different backgrounds, of ages coming together in this sense of just the — the collective.  We’re good.
    And so, we’re going to keep doing this work with the optimism that it requires to be strong.  Everyone here knows, in the context of your family, in your life, when you believe something is possible, you put in the hard work, and you know it’s good work — hard work is good work, it’s joyful work — and we get the job done.  
    Let’s get this done.  Thank you all.  (Applause.)
    END                 2:00 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Hearing of Commissioner-designate Apostolos Tzitzikostas

    Source: European Parliament 3

    On Monday evening, the Transport and Tourism Committee questioned Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Greek candidate for the sustainable transport and tourism portfolio.

    The committee chair and political group coordinators will meet without delay to assess the performance and qualification of the Commissioner-designate.

    Competitive transport, which respects environment

    In his introductory speech, Mr Tzitzikostas stressed that if confirmed as Commissioner for sustainable transport and tourism he will focus on enhancing the competitiveness of the EU’s transport sector, sticking to the agreed timetable for its green and digital transitions, completing the Trans-European Transport (TEN-T) network by the established deadlines, enhancing transport safety, and ensuring the enforcement of current EU rules. To push for transport decarbonisation solutions, such as the production of sustainable fuels and the development of charging infrastructure, he committed to presenting a sustainable transport investment plan in 2025, while on competitiveness he pledged to develop an EU industrial action plan for automotive sector.

    On the modal shift, the Commissioner-designate said he would present a plan to connect EU capitals and large cities by high-speed rail, including night trains. In addition, Mr Tzitzikostas committed to presenting a single digital booking and ticketing option for rail in the first year of his mandate.

    On tourism, he said the EU must maintain its number one destination raking in the world. He committed to a strategy for sustainable tourism, to support the industry and preserve the well-being of local communities.

    European solutions, working conditions, modal shift

    Several MEPs asked the Commissioner-designate to support the EU’s transport and tourism sectors and look for solutions at the EU level. Cutting red tape, less reporting requirements and a pause on new proposals without undertaking an impact assessment were some of the demands presented by MEPs to Mr Tzitzikostas.

    MEPs also asked questions on working conditions in the transport sector, especially in aviation and maritime, and secured a commitment from Mr Tzitzikostas for a comprehensive evaluation of the situation in this area within his first 100 days.

    Members questioned Mr Tzitzikostas on the review of aviation service and air passenger right rules, the modal shift from road to rail, concrete proposals to encourage high-speed and night trains, the development of clean corporate fleet as well as additional measures to ensure transport safety.

    Mr Tzitzikostas was also quizzed on specific measures to rescue the EU’s automotive industry, on financial support needed to complete the TEN-T network as well as plans to ensure maritime security and the disruption of Russia’s shadow vessels fleet.

    You can watch the video recording of the full hearing here.

    Press point

    At the end of the hearing, the Chair of the Transport and Tourism Committee, Ms Elissavet Vozemberg, held a press point outside the meeting room: watch it here.

    Next steps

    Based on the committee recommendations, the Conference of Presidents (EP President Metsola and political group chairs) is set to conduct the final evaluation and declare the hearings closed on 21 November. Once the Conference of Presidents declares all hearings closed, the evaluation letters will be published.

    The election by MEPs of the full college of Commissioners (by a majority of the votes cast, by roll-call) is currently scheduled to take place during the 25-28 November plenary session in Strasbourg.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Video: Clean Energy Shift Risks Widening Inequalities – UN Vice Chief | Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed today (4 Nov) said, “there is a danger that the clean energy transition could reproduce and amplify inequalities of the past: With developing countries – rich in the renewables critical to the transition – banished to the bottom of those value chains, their people are exploited, and their environment in jeopardy as others grow wealthy on their resources.”

    Presenting the report of the Secretary-General’s Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals, Mohammed said, “we are in the midst of a quiet revolution. The way we power our economies and societies is changing. Renewables have never been cheaper or more accessible, and the acceleration in their roll-out is staggering but uneven.”

    Mohammed said, “the Panel’s report identifies ways governments, industry, and the United Nations can work to embed justice and equity in critical energy transition mineral value chains and ensures that they spur sustainable development, respect people, protect the environment, and power prosperity in resource-rich developing countries.”

    She said the report, “outlines seven guiding principles that prioritize human rights, environmental protection, and inclusive development while also insisting on responsible trade and investment.”

    One of the Panel’s Co-chairs, Ambassador Nozipho Mxakato-Diseko of South Africa, said, “these minerals are so essential to the transition of the world to a low carbon economy, that it’s important that there’s understanding amongst member states, there’s understanding among countries that are producing and endowed with these minerals and countries that consume these minerals that tend to be very strong.”

    Above all, Mxakato-Diseko said, there is need for cooperation and understanding and trust between big powers.”

    The South African Ambassador said, “this is an area where one country cannot benefit alone to the detriment of other countries. We either all do something to address climate change together or we don’t, and we sink together. We either act together to save the world and address climate change, or we don’t together, and we perish. And history will not be kind on us.”

    The report indicates that effective climate action and the global deployment of renewable energy technologies relies on the sufficient, reliable and affordable supply of critical energy transition minerals (CETMs). For the energy transition to be just, these minerals must be extracted, processed, transformed and recycled sustainably and equitably.

    According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), reaching net-zero globally by 2050 would require the demand for CETMs to increase three and a half times by 2030, with even steeper demand for key commodities such as lithium (8 times), graphite (7 times), and nickel (7 times).

    The report states that countries with large reserves of CETMs could, with careful action-orientated planning, have an opportunity to transform economies, create green jobs, and foster sustainable local, regional and global development, especially for developing countries and communities.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80-fMeKTZF0

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Reassessing Policy Tools for Current and Future Challenges | 25th Jacques Polak ARC

    Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

    Join us for an engaging policy panel discussion at the 25th Annual Research Conference on reassessing policy tools for current and future challenges. Moderated by Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, this discussion will feature insights from distinguished panelists Şebnem Kalemli-Özcan, Ricardo Reis, Isabel Schnabel, and Nathan Sheets. Join us on November 14 at 1:30 PM ET. https://imf.org/ARC

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HI3RDdhEvNc

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: 2024 Mundell-Fleming Lecture: Do Cash Transfers Stimulate the Macroeconomy?

    Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

    Join us as Stanford University’s Valerie Ramey delivers the 2024 Mundell-Fleming Lecture: ‘Do Cash Transfers Stimulate the Macroeconomy?’ at the Annual Research Conference. November 15 at 1:30 PM ET. https://www.imf.org/en/News/Seminars/Conferences/2024/11/14/2024-jacques-polak-annual-research-conference

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K73qDh55I3Q

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Opening Remarks | 25th Jacques Polak Annual Research Conference

    Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

    Join us for an engaging policy panel discussion at the 25th Annual Research Conference on reassessing policy tools for current and future challenges. Moderated by Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, this discussion will feature insights from distinguished panelists Şebnem Kalemli-Özcan, Ricardo Reis, Isabel Schnabel, and Nathan Sheets. Join us on November 14 at 1:30 PM ET. https://imf.org/ARC

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RwRSIuVN7zg

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: Occupied Palestinian Territory, Ukraine, Lebanon & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (4 Nov 2024)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    -Occupied Palestinian Territory
    -Lebanon/Israel
    -Lebanon/Humanitarian
    -Ukraine
    -Ukraine/Humanitarian
    -Security Council
    -Rosemary DiCarlo/Japan
    -West and Central Africa
    -Democratic Republic of the Congo
    -Deputy Secretary-General
    -World Urban Forum
    -Counter-Terrorism
    -Resident Coordinator – Honduras
    -NY marathon
    -Briefings today

    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    In Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is deeply concerned about persistent reports of mounting casualties, with the number of Palestinians being killed and injured especially high in North Gaza Governorate, where the Israeli military operations are continuing.
    In a statement on Saturday, Catherine Russell, the UNICEF, Children’s Fund head, said that more than 50 children had reportedly been killed in Jabalya over the previous two days alone, after strikes leveled two residential buildings sheltering hundreds of people.
    Meanwhile, our humanitarian colleagues tell us that, for the past month, Israeli authorities have only allowed humanitarian access to Jabalya, Beit Lahia and Beit Hanoun on an exceptional basis, leaving us unable to confirm the conditions of people inside and we worry for their safety.
    OCHA warns that the already limited humanitarian supplies entering Gaza have dwindled even further since October. Private imports are virtually banned, and Israeli authorities are only allowing the use of three entry points – Kerem Shalom, Gate 96, which is near Deir Al-Balah and Erez West. Furthermore, humanitarian colleagues can only access these border areas by highly dangerous routes. The use of most roads leading to these entry points has either been banned by the Israeli authorities or rendered unsafe due to the ongoing hostilities.
    The routes available are often in poor condition and prone to armed looting fueled by the breakdown in public order and safety.
    Our humanitarian colleagues note that supplies reaching the northern crossing at Erez West can only be sent to Gaza city, as requests to deliver them to besieged areas in North Gaza governorate are being consistently denied and rejected.
    For its part, the World Food Programme warns that as winter approaches, the lack of food and other vital humanitarian supplies entering the Gaza Strip could soon escalate into famine unless immediate action is taken. In October, the World Food Programme has only been able to reach 42 per cent of the 1.1 million people targeted for food assistance in Gaza, with reduced rations due to dropping aid levels.

    Lebanon/Israel
    An update from UNIFIL, who is noting with continued concern the airstrikes by the Israel Defense Forces across Lebanon over the weekend, including in the South, in Sidon, Baalbek and Beirut, resulting in several casualties. In southern Lebanon, the peacekeepers report that IDF operations have continued, involving clashes with Hizbullah. Meanwhile, they also report that Hizbullah has continued to launch drones and dozens of rockets South, into Israel.
    The increasing impact on civilians is of grave concern and we condemn the loss of civilian lives. All actors must adhere to international law and protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. UNIFIL premises also continue to be impacted. On 2 November, a UN position near Markaba, in Sector East, sustained damage to its prefabricated containers and perimeters caused by demolition operations being undertaken by the IDF.
    A nearby explosion also damaged a UN vehicle at the [UNIFIL] Naqoura Headquarters, with no injuries reported. We once again remind all actors of the inviolability of the UN premises and their responsibility to protect UN peacekeepers.
    We urge the parties to halt the violence immediately. The United Nations continues to support efforts towards a ceasefire and a diplomatic solution.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=04%20November%202024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHC60gr1Lo8

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: UN Chief on World Urban Forum 12th Session | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    I am pleased to take part in the World Urban Forum.
    It is fitting that you are gathering in Cairo – an enormously vibrant megacity and a magnet for
    innovation and creativity for over a thousand years.
    I thank the Government of Egypt for hosting the 12th Forum.
    Dear Friends,
    You represent urban areas which are home to more than half of humanity.
    You are on the frontlines of shaping a more inclusive, connected and resilient world.
    And you are at the heart of where lasting change happens.
    As your theme rightly puts it: “It all starts at home”.
    Real progress begins at the local level.
    On the ground.
    In communities and people’s lives.
    World leaders have just adopted the Pact for the Future.
    It is an important new tool to advance our vital work, accelerate the SDGs, and address
    inequalities.
    It calls for ensuring adequate, safe and affordable housing for all — and supporting developing
    countries to plan and implement just, safe, healthy, accessible, resilient and sustainable cities.
    We need this more than ever.
    Cities generate 70 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions. And municipal waste is set to rise by
    two-thirds within a generation.

    2

    Not only are cities powerful engines of social and economic development, they are also catalysts
    of sustainable solutions.
    I see local and regional authorities as a crucial part of the answer on so many issues and at every
    level, including at the United Nations.
    We can all benefit from your insights and ideas.
    That’s why I created the UN Advisory Group on Local and Regional Governments.
    I know over the next five days this Forum will have the chance to delve into the complexities and
    opportunities of sustainable urban development.
    I invite you to seek innovations and inspiration and take them back to your communities.
    And to help develop infrastructure and public services for all, including women and girls.
    Local actions are the building blocks for future green, just and resilient cities.
    Together, let’s make sustainable urbanization a reality.
    And let’s ensure that no one and nowhere is left behind.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCMY9xtiPak

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: FEMA Administrator Holds Press Conference – November 4, 2024

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell holds a press conference in Charlotte, North Carolina outside a Disaster Recovery Centers. Criswell gave updates on the recovery process across the state impacted by Hurricane Helene.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UetXkD8k1Lo

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Canada: West Coast ports work stoppage: Joint statement

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    “Alberta’s government is disappointed and dismayed that yet another work stoppage is occurring in Canada’s transportation sector that has the potential to create widespread damage to Canadians, our country’s economy and our reputation as a reliable trading partner.

    “Alberta is a landlocked province that relies on the safe, dependable movement of goods to and from West Coast ports. These ports export about $50 million worth of Alberta’s key commodities every day including agricultural, energy and manufacturing-related products. A prolonged work stoppage will disrupt the movement of these products, backlog other transportation networks such as rail and trucking and damage the economies of Alberta and Canada.

    “Our government respects the collective bargaining process and encourages the employers and the ship and dock forepersons union to continue working with federal mediators towards an agreement to ensure there are minimal disruptions at West Coast ports.

    “We also call on the federal government to take whatever steps are necessary to maintain critical port operations. Going forward, we encourage the federal government to respond proactively and more effectively to labour disputes affecting essential components of our transportation and supply chain networks, especially those with a limited number of service providers wherein disruptions lead to severe and widespread consequences due to the lack of alternative options.

    “We are calling on the federal government to urgently intervene with binding arbitration, and improve its strategy for managing labour relations, especially within federally regulated transportation sectors. The work stoppages we are seeing every year are a clear indication of the breakdown in these relations and require immediate attention to re-establish stability in our supply chains.”

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Political Attacks – Appalling attack on public service official by Minister crosses the line – PSA

    Source: PSA

    Associate Health Minister Casey Costello’s attack on the neutrality of a health official is outrageous and shows again how this Government is fearful of advice it doesn’t like.
    “Publicly attacking a public servant for giving advice that you disagree with is unacceptable within our democratic system,” said Kerry Davies, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “Officials are there to give robust advice so Ministers can carefully weigh all the evidence and make good decisions.
    “In this case, the official with expertise in this matter was simply doing the job expected of her by taxpayers. She was pointing out the flaws in evidence the Minister herself provided to justify a $200 million tax break for tobacco companies.
    “Taxpayers rightly expect officials to provide robust advice and evidence and challenge Ministers. It’s how our system works.
    “Of course, Ministers have a right to reject that advice, but publicly attacking an official undermines a core principle that officials must be able to give free and frank advice to enable good decision-making.”
    The Public Service Act 2020 makes that principle for officials very clear – ‘when giving advice to Ministers, to do so in a free and frank manner’, so that the public service can deliver on its purpose of supporting ‘constitutional and democratic government’.
    “The Minister talks about the need for officials to hold to ‘public sector standards of integrity and political neutrality’ – that is exactly what this official was doing,” said Kerry Davies.
    “Here we have an inexperienced Minister intimidating officials because she is simply unhappy with their advice. That is wrong.
    “The Government promised to base decisions on evidence, but it has consistently ignored the advice and evidence presented to it by officials when Ministers didn’t like it.
    “But this Minister has now gone a step too far and her public attack will have a chilling effect on officials. How is that good for our democracy?
    “The PSA will be writing to the incoming Public Service Commissioner to express our strong concerns.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Nation-first Information Standard for lithium-ion e-bikes and e-skateboards

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Nation-first Information Standard for lithium-ion e-bikes and e-skateboards

    Published: 4 November 2024

    Released by: Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Minister for Transport


    In an Australian first, NSW Fair Trading is set to introduce an Information Standard for lithium-ion battery-powered e-micromobility products, as it powers up its nation-leading effort to protect consumers from safety risks posed by the increasingly popular devices. 

    Information Standards regulate what guidance and warnings are provided to consumers about goods and services, with an aim to keep purchasers informed of the risks products carry and how they should be used to avoid those risks.

    E-micromobility products include e-scooters, e-bikes, e-skateboards, self-balancing hoverboards and their associated chargers.

    If retailers in NSW do not provide product guidance mandated by an Information Standard, they could be subject to penalties of up to $5,500 for each breach.

    NSW Fair Trading’s proposed Information Standard for lithium-ion battery-powered e-micromobility devices will provide consumer advice and warnings on: 

    Fire safety and emergency procedures – identifying signs of a fire and procedures to be followed in case of an emergency.  

    Electrical safety – warnings for consumers about lithium-ion batteries, battery charging and warnings against modification of the device. 

    Product storage – information on safe storage and protection from environmental hazards. 

    Use, service and repair – information about safe use practices, what to do if there is any damage to the device, and details about service and repair centres.  

    Road rules – information urging consumers to check the road rules applicable to their device.

    End of life – best practices for disposal of devices and lithium-ion batteries. 

    The forthcoming Information Standard, which is expected to be introduced in early 2025, will support the new product safety standards for lithium-ion e-micromobility devices.

    The safety standards announced in early August require e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards and e-skateboards to meet new testing, certification, and marking requirements, and will be introduced in a staged process from 1 February 2025.

    The product safety standards are intended to curb the fire-risks associated with lithium-ion e-micromobility devices by ensuring low quality and dangerous versions of these products cannot enter the market and be sold on to unwitting consumers.  

    Retailers, manufacturers and suppliers will face fines of up to $825,000 for not complying with the new safety standards.

    E-micromobility products were the single largest group of lithium-ion battery-powered devices associated with fires in 2022 and 2023, with Fire and Rescue NSW recording 90 incidents related to the products in those years. There have been 72 fire-incidents connected with e-micromobility products in 2024. 

    This work by NSW Fair Trading complements the regulatory work for batteries being undertaken by the NSW Environment Protection Authority – showing that NSW is leading the way when it comes to protecting consumers, workers and the environment from battery risks now and into the future.

    NSW Fair Trading is consulting with industry stakeholders and Government agencies to determine what should be included in the Information Standard. The public can have their say at: https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/lithium-ion-battery-powered-micromobility-vehicles until 6 December 2024.

    For more information on the new lithium-ion battery powered e-micromobility product standards, please visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/safety-home/electrical-safety/lithium-ion-battery-safety/new-safety-standards-for-lithium-ion-batteries-e-mobility-devices 

    Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said:  

    “We need to ensure we have a robust regulatory framework to keep consumers safe from the potential harms posed by some lithium-ion battery-powered products.

    “This Information Standard is another step in building that framework and will provide consumers with the information they need to stay safe when using e-micromobility devices.

    “The NSW Government looks forward to working with, and hearing from stakeholders and the public, about what they think consumers need to know before they buy an e-bike or other e-micromobility product.”

    Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said:

    “As we move towards legalising the use of e-scooters and other micro-mobility devices on NSW roads, it’s vital we ensure these devices are up to standard and pass strict safety standards.

    “Ensuring that high quality lithium-ion battery-powered devices are the only ones available on the shelves will keep people safe.”

    Quotes attributable to Commissioner of NSW Fair Trading, Natasha Mann:  

    “NSW Fair Trading has been working closely with consumers, industry, and other Government agencies to ensure people are protected from the risks posed by lithium-ion e-micromobility products. 

    “While new product standards for manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers are set to come into effect from 1 February next year, an Information Standard will give people access to the guidance they need when purchasing one of these products.

    “These changes are about empowering consumers to make informed decisions when they first buy a product and knowing how to use it safely through the product’s life.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Consumers and Tech – Revealed: the WiFi routers to rent, upgrade to or buy outright – Consumer NZ

    Source: Consumer NZ

    Find out which routers offer the best home WiFi performance.

    In partnership with the Commerce Commission, Consumer NZ has tested a number of WiFi routers and reveals that some broadband companies now provide devices as good as off-the-shelf options

    “This work builds on the Commission’s monitoring, including our RealSpeed report, which shows the importance of having a good in-home set-up to make the most of your broadband speeds,” says Tristan Gilbertson, Telecommunications Commissioner.

    Consumer’s expert testers put a selection of models from broadband providers and popular retail brands through their paces.

    “Your router is your gateway to the internet, and the better the router, the better the performance of your connectivity,” says Mr Gilbertson.

    As Nick Gelling, Consumer product test writer, says, “With a growing number of households relying on stable internet connectivity to stream TV, work remotely or play games, understanding the differences in router performance, ease of use and security features is crucial.

    “Nearly all New Zealanders use WiFi to connect multiple devices throughout their homes to the internet, yet many are unaware of how to optimise their set-ups for the best performance.”

    Find a reliable router

    Consumer’s rigorous testing revealed that many routers provided by telcos are now on a par with, and in some cases outperform, popular third-party options.

    “This is promising news for people who are hesitant to invest in their own equipment,” said Gelling, “because, these days, many telcos offer routers for rent at about $4 to $5 per month.

    Standout performers in Consumer’s testing

    Consumer’s test experts found that the best off-the-shelf options were the TP-Link Deco X55 and XE75 mesh systems. Some of the top performing routers provided by broadband providers included the TP-Link Deco X53 (fibre and copper-based DSL) and X58-4G (4G broadband), as well as Spark’s Smart Modem 2 (fibre and 4G).

    Visit the Consumer website for a full breakdown of the results: https://consumernz.cmail19.com/t/i-l-fjtuddt-iyhupdhli-y/

    Consumer insights: When to upgrade

    Consumer NZ’s Gelling emphasised the importance of knowing when to upgrade your router.

    “While many broadband providers are now offering quality hardware, it’s sensible to update your router every few years.

    “If you’re still using an outdated model, you might be missing out on significant improvements in speed and security.”

    The Commission advises New Zealanders to assess their current internet performance to check if they should upgrade to a faster plan or connection type, before deciding to switch providers or purchase a new router.

    Simple steps like repositioning your router or connecting devices to the 5GHz band can often yield noticeable improvements.

    The Cost of Connectivity

    As more telcos begin to implement monthly rental fees for routers, with costs typically around $4 to $5 per month, Consumer urges people to consider their options carefully.

    “While these fees might seem nominal, investing in your own quality router gives you the freedom to swap providers more often, which could save you money in the long run,” Gelling added.

    “With the rising cost of internet services, which have increased by 11% over the past two years, understanding your options for obtaining a reliable router can help mitigate some of these costs.”

    Tips for Consumers

    Evaluate your current setup: Ensure your router is positioned centrally in your home, ideally where you can see it.
     
    Consider a mesh system: For larger homes, investing in a mesh network (linking up two or more routers) can significantly improve connectivity.
     
    Stay updated on technology: Look for routers that support at least the WiFi 6 standard for now. The cost of WiFi 7 is still high and it’s not yet compatible with most phones and computers.
     
    Don’t hesitate to buy: If your telco’s offerings are lacking, don’t be afraid to invest in a high-quality third-party router.
     
    Explore options to change provider: There can be advantages to switching providers particularly at the time of your contract ending or if your router is over four years old.

    For detailed test results and a comprehensive buying guide, visit Consumer NZ’s website: https://consumernz.cmail19.com/t/i-l-fjtuddt-iyhupdhli-y/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New rules mean faster payment times for small businesses

    Source: New Zealand Government

    New requirements for government agencies to pay their invoices faster and adopt labour-saving technology are an important part of our plan to rebuild the economy and support small businesses, Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Andrew Bayly and Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee say.

    “The Government is ambitious about lifting New Zealand’s economic productivity and improving public sector efficiency, which means adopting smarter ways of working,” Mr Bayly says.

    “Government agencies are a large client for businesses up and down the country, supplying everything from stationery and furniture, through to services such as software, security and research. 

    “The 33 central government agencies send and receive 1.6 million invoices annually, with the total number for all 135 government agencies likely many more millions.

    “Prompt payment is especially important for small businesses which have limited cash reserves – an unpaid or late invoice can be the difference between being able to pay staff on time or not.

    “Given 97 per cent of all businesses in New Zealand are small businesses, it is crucial for our broader economic success that government agencies pay their invoices quickly.

    “There are also significant productivity gains from adopting eInvoicing, instead of paper or emailed PDF invoices. eInvoicing allows invoices to be processed digitally, reducing instances of human error and fraud. Estimates suggest that adopting eInvoicing could generate productivity savings of $4.4 billion over the next 10 years.”

    Having invoices paid on time can mean a world of difference to small and medium sized businesses, Ms Lee says.

    “Government agencies should be leading by example, and that’s why I’m rewriting Rule 51 of the Government Procurement Rules so more government agencies adopt eInvoicing and pay their suppliers promptly. 

    “Government agencies spend approximately $51.5 billion a year on procurement. We can leverage this purchasing power to drive innovation and productivity, and boost our economy.

    “From 1 January 2026, agencies that send or receive more than 2,000 domestic invoices a year must have eInvoicing systems in place. These agencies will be required to pay all domestic eInvoices within five business days.

    “To facilitate faster payments in the meantime, I am setting an explicit requirement for around 135 government agencies to pay 90 per cent of all domestic invoices within 10 business days, from 1 January 2025. This will increase to 95 per cent from 1 January 2026. 

    “These changes will help to move money faster around our economy and drive significant economy-wide productivity improvements.”

    Notes to editor

    • A list of agencies required to apply the Government Procurement Rules is available here: www.procurement.govt.nz/about-us/mandate-and-eligibility/.  
    • A wider review of the Government Procurement Rules is currently underway. MBIE will provide recommendations on updated Government Procurement Rules in 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arts – NZSA Laura Solomon Cuba Press Prize 2025 Opens

    Source: NZSA Laura Solomon Cuba Press Prize

    Award for fresh writing with a ‘unique and original vision’

    The NZSA Laura Solomon Cuba Press Prize celebrates the life and work of the writer Laura Solomon. As set by Laura, the main criteria for the exciting prize is for new writing with a ‘unique and original vision’. Published and unpublished writers are invited to enter with completed manuscripts written across all genres i.e. fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, drama or children’s writing.
    The NZSA Laura Solomon Cuba Press Prize:

    paves the way for new and exciting writing to make its way into the market place
    awards the winner an ‘advance’ of $1000 and a publishing contract supplied by The Cuba Press
    pays for the book production and printing. The Cuba Press will edit, design, print, market, distribute and promote the book and e-book and pay standard author royalties

    The prize is open to writers holding New Zealand citizenship or who are permanent residents of New Zealand.

    Applications are open from 5 November 2024 to 13 March 2025
     
    The application form and  terms & conditions for the NZSA Laura Solomon Cuba Press Prize are available on the NZSA website, authors.org.nz

    Previous winners of this prize are Lizzie Harwood (inaugural winner 2021), Rachel J Fenton with Between the Flags (2022), Lee Murray with Fox Spirit on a Distant Cloud (2023), Tracy Farr with Wonderland (2024).

    History of the Prize

    In July 2019, NZSA received a bequest from the estate of writer Laura Solomon to establish a new annual literary prize. The Solomon family wanted the NZSA Laura Solomon Cuba Press Prize to honour the creative legacy of a beloved daughter, sister and aunt.  

    “Laura’s passion for writing was a constant through her life, and for many years she expressed a desire to make a bequest that would support other writers,” says family spokesperson Nicky Solomon.

    “She has created something positive to help other people, which she would be really proud of,” says Nicky. “It will give her an ongoing presence – not just for us as a family but for the writing community, which was so important to her.  We were so delighted with the outcome of the inaugural prize – we can’t wait to see what talent emerges this year.”

    Laura Solomon was a longstanding and active member of the New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc), and she is much missed by the society. Laura kept writing novels and plays throughout her life, despite being affected by a brain tumour that was discovered while she working at a high-end IT job in London.

    In her review of Laura’s short story collection Alternative Medicine, Jessica Le Bas wrote: “The hallmark of Solomon… was to pull no punches and aim for the jugular when it came to working up the surreal, and the macabre.”

    Right up until her death, Laura was planning new writing projects and pursuing her dream of being a full-time writer. In a 1996 interview, Laura said, “I’ve always written and I’ll continue to write. I wrote my name when I was three and never looked back.”

    The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa PEN NZ Inc is the principal organisation representing writers in Aotearoa. Founded in 1934, it advocates for the right to fair reward and creative rights, administers prizes and awards, works closely with the literary sector liaison and runs professional development programmes for writers.
    authors.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri C.R. Patil Highlights Prime Minister’s Commitment to Ganga Conservation while inaugurating Ganga Utsav 2024 at Haridwar

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri C.R. Patil Highlights Prime Minister’s Commitment to Ganga Conservation while inaugurating Ganga Utsav 2024 at Haridwar

    Minister of State Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary underscores Ganga Utsav’s role in promoting conservation and reverence for Maa Ganga

    Ganga Utsav is Organized by NMCG to Celebrate Ganga River’s National Status and Promote Conservation Efforts

    Posted On: 04 NOV 2024 8:37PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Jal Shakti Shri C R Patil inaugurates Ganga Utsav 2024 at Chandi Ghat in Haridwar today in august presence of Minister of State for Jal Shakti Shri Raj Bhushan Chaudhary and Uttarakhand Minister for Women & Child Welfare Smt. Rekha Arya.  The Secretary of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Mrs. Debashree Mukherjee was also present on the occasion. Ganga Utsav 2024 is organised by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) to mark the anniversary of declaring the Ganga River as the National River. The primary aim of this festival is to promote the conservation of the Ganga River, emphasize its cultural and spiritual importance, and raise public awareness about cleanliness. This eighth edition of the event was the first to be held on the riverbank, with celebrations extending across 139 districts in the Ganga basin states. Each state hosted a main event organized by District Ganga Committees.

    Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister for Jal Shakti Shri C R Patil shared the Prime Minister’s message that the Ganga benefits 600 million people of this country and revered as a mother, it gives selflessly without taking. Sh. Patil emphasized that revering rivers as mothers is deeply rooted in our culture and conserving the river is a noble initiative that we all must ensure. Shri Patil recalled that, upon becoming Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi expressed that “Maa Ganga has called me.” Since then, the Prime Minister has shown unwavering commitment to raising awareness and rallying public support for the conservation of Maa Ganga.

    Union Minister Shri Patil noted that Prime Minister’s Jal Sanchay, Jan Bhagidari initiative has gained widespread support, with people actively participating in the cause. Rainwater harvesting structures are being constructed across states to store water. He emphasized that Jan Samarthan (public support) is essential for conserving Maa Ganga, as it requires a collective, holistic effort from everyone.

    Sh. Patil also interacted and had a discussion with spiritual leaders and gurus present in the Utsav under a session titled Ganga Samvad. Speaking at the session, Sh. Patil emphasized for river conservation and rejuvenation and urged everyone to spread awareness about this to save Maa Ganga.  Sh. Patil flagged off Ganga Women Rafting Expedition. The 50-day long expedition will conclude at Ganga Sagar traversing through 9 major cities & towns across the Ganga River. This historic expedition will coincide with various activities organized across several districts in the five key states of the Ganga basin. He also felicitated BSF River Rafting team on the occasion.

    Speaking at the event, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, highlighted that Ganga Utsav is a unique festival dedicated to river conservation, with many activities planned to promote the conservation and cleanliness of the Ganga. He emphasized that rivers are not just sources of water but are also sacred and deeply significant, especially Maa Ganga, which unites us all. He affirmed that, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, efforts are underway to ensure the cleanliness and conservation of Maa Ganga.

    Sh. Raj Bhushan Chaudhary said that through the Namami Gange initiative, ₹7,144 crore has been sanctioned in Bihar for 39 Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), with 17 already completed. Conservation efforts are also focused on Ganga’s tributaries. These projects are essential for conserving Maa Ganga, a river with rich historical and cultural significance and help in driving national development through conservation of rivers, he added.

    Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami had also conveyed through Video message for conservation of Maa Ganga.

    Union Minister of State Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary flagged off National Book Trust (NBT) Bus as part of Ganga Utsav 2024. The NBT bus with literature regarding river Ganga carries out ‘Ganga Pustak Parikrama’ with the theme ‘Ganges through the ages: A Literary Bioscope’. The bus will travel through major 10 cities in the 5 riparian states along the Ganga River basin.

    This year’s event saw participation from several river cities under the River City Alliance, an organization that now includes 145 river cities nationwide. The alliance’s main objective is to promote healthy urban rivers through an integrated approach to river-sensitive urban planning. This approach aims for pollution-free, continuously flowing rivers that are cherished by all, contributing to water-secure cities and fostering inclusive, sustainable urban development. The festival serves as a key platform to underscore the cultural and spiritual importance of rivers in our society.

    The festival featured a “Ghat Par Haat” market along with stalls from local departments to highlight various aspects of the Namami Gange initiative. A range of engaging activities for children, including quizzes, film screenings, magic shows, puppet shows, and drawing and painting competitions, promoted their involvement in river conservation. Additionally, Nukkad Nataks (street plays) focused on raising awareness about river conservation among the youth. The event also included an exhibition on Namami Gange, showcasing the diverse facets of this important initiative.

    Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary and other dignitaries also participated in Ganga Arti at Haridwar.

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