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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

The Hospital will remove darkness from the lives of many people in Varanasi and the region, leading them towards light: PM

Kashi is also now becoming famous as a big health center and healthcare hub of Purvanchal in UP: PM

Today, India’s health strategy has five pillars – Preventive healthcare, Timely diagnosis of disease, Free and low-cost treatment, Good treatment in small towns and Expansion of technology in healthcare: PM

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 5:24PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh today. The hospital offers comprehensive consultations and treatments for various eye conditions. Shri Modi also took a walkthrough of the exhibition showcased on the occasion.

Addressing the occasion, the Prime Minister said that visiting Kashi during this auspicious period is an opportunity to experience virtue. He noted the gracious presence of the people of Kashi, saints and philanthropists and mentioned performing darshan and receiving prasadam and blessings with Param Pujya Shankaracharya ji. The Prime Minister emphasized that Kashi and Uttaranchal have been blessed with another modern hospital today and mentioned the dedication of RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in the land of Lord Shankar. Shri Modi congratulated the people of Kashi and Uttaranchal on the occasion.

Giving an analogy of a quote mentioned in the ancient scriptures of India, the Prime Minister remarked that RJ Sankara Eye hospital would wipe out the darkness and lead many people towards light. Shri Modi said that having just visited the eye hospital, he felt it was an amalgamation of spirituality and modernity and the hospital would serve both the old and young in giving eyesight. He added that the poor would be getting free treatment in the hospital in large numbers. Shri Modi noted that the eye hospital would also create new job avenues for many youths as well as job and internship opportunities for medical students along with jobs for the support staff as well.

The Prime Minister recalled his association with Sankara Eye Foundation during his time as the Chief Minister of Gujarat and mentioned inaugurating Sankara Eye Hospital in the presence of Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi’s guru. He said that it is a matter of great contentment to receive the blessings of Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peethadipathi, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Chandrashekharendra Saraswati Swamigal and mentioned accomplishing several tasks under the guidance of Param Pujya Jagadguru Sri Jayendra Saraswati Referring to today’s occasion, the Prime Minister said that it is a matter of personal satisfaction being associated with three different traditions of Gurus. The Prime Minister thanked Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi for blessing the occasion and welcomed him as the people’s representative of Varanasi.

Shri Modi also reminisced about the service and work of noted entrepreneur, Late Shri, Rakesh Jhunjhunwala. He also lauded the latter’s wife Smt Rekha Jhunjhunwala for continuing the heritage and legacy of Shri Jhunjhunwala. The Prime Minister recalled that he had requested both Sankara Eye Hospital and Chitrakoot Eye Hospital to set up their establishments in Varanasi and was thankful to both organizations that both had respected the request of people of Kashi. He noted that in the past, thousands of people from his parliamentary constituency had been treated at Chitrakoot Eye Hospital and now there were two new state-of-the-art eye hospitals within their reach in Varanasi.

Noting that from time immemorial, Varanasi was identified as the religious and cultural capital, the Prime Minister remarked that now Varanasi was becoming famous as UP and Purvanchal’s healthcare hub as well. Be it the BHU Trauma Center or superspeciality hospital or Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital or strengthening the facilities at Kabir Chaura Hospital or a speciality hospital for the senior citizens and government servants or medical colleges, Shri Modi said there was a lot of work done in the healthcare sector in the last decade. He added that there was a modern health facility even for the treatment of cancer patients in Varanasi. Shri Modi highlighted that the patients were getting good medical treatment in Varanasi itself today as against the visit to Delhi or Mumbai previously. He added that thousands of people from Bihar, Jharkhand and other places were coming to Varanasi for treatment. The Prime Minister remarked that the erstwhile “Mokshadayini” (Salvation giver) Varanasi was transitioning to a “NavJeevandayini” (New Life giver) Varanasi as well with new energy and resources.

Talking about previous governments, the Prime Minister remarked that healthcare facilities in Purvanchal including Varanasi were neglected. He added that the situation was such that 10 years ago, there were no block-level treatment centers for brain fever in Purvanchal leading to the death of Children causing hue and cry in the media. Shri Modi expressed satisfaction that in the last decade, there had been an unprecedented expansion of health facilities not only in Kashi but in the entire region of Purvanchal. He noted that today there were more than 100 such centers working to treat brain fever in Purvanchal and more than 10 thousand new beds have been added in the primary and community centers of Purvanchal in the last decade. He further noted that in 10 years, more than 5 and a half thousand Ayushman Arogya Mandirs were built in the villages of Purvanchal. The Prime Minister also said that there were more than 20 dialysis units working today which were providing free treatment to patients as compared to 10 years ago when there were no dialysis facilities in the district hospitals of Purvanchal.

The Prime Minister emphasized that India of the 21st century has shed the old mentality and approach pertaining to healthcare. He underlined the five pillars of India’s healthcare strategy namely preventive healthcare, timely diagnosis, free medicines and treatment, better healthcare facilities and adequate doctors in small towns and lastly expansive use of technology in healthcare services.

Underlining that preventing people from ailments is the highest priority and a first pillar of India’s healthcare policy, the Prime Minister pointed out that diseases tend to make people poorer. Noting that 25 crore people have risen out of poverty in the last 10 years, Shri Modi said that one serious ailment can push them back towards poverty. Therefore, said the Prime Minister, the Government is paying special attention to cleanliness, Yoga, ayurveda and nutrition. Highlighting the expansive reach of the vaccination drive, the Prime Minister pointed out that vaccination coverage remained only around 60 percent ten years ago when crores of children were left out. He lamented the scope of vaccination increasing at a rate of only one to one and a half percent every year and said that it would have taken another 40-50 years to bring every area and every child under the vaccination coverage. He said that the present government prioritized increasing the coverage of vaccination among children and mentioned Mission Indradhanush which involved many ministries working together resulting in an increase in vaccination coverage rate and taking the services to crores of pregnant women and children. He said that the benefits of the Government’s emphasis on vaccination were visible during the covid pandemic while today, this vaccination campaign is going on rapidly across the country.

The Prime Minister underlined the importance of early detection of disease and mentioned the establishment of lakhs of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs across the country to detect many diseases like cancer and diabetes at the very beginning. He said that a network of critical care blocks and modern labs are also being built in the country today. “This second pillar of the health sector is saving the lives of lakhs of people”, he added.

Explaining the third pillar of health being low-cost treatment and cheap medicines, the Prime Minister underlined that the average expenditure on the treatment of diseases has been reduced by 25 percent and also mentioned PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras where medicines are available at 80 percent discount. He informed that the price of heart stents, knee implants and cancer medicines have been significantly reduced while Ayushman Yojana provides free treatment for the poor up to Rs 5 lakh proving to be a lifesaver. He informed that more than 7.5 crore patients have so far availed the benefit of free treatment under Ayushman Yojana.

Elaborating the fourth pillar of the health sector. Shri Modi noted that it was going to reduce the dependence on big cities like Delhi-Mumbai for treatment. He added that the Government had established hospitals like AIIMS, medical colleges and super speciality hospitals in small cities in the last decade. The Prime Minister also noted that thousands of new medical seats were added in the last decade to overcome the shortage of doctors in the country. He added that the Government had decided to add 75 thousand more seats in the next 5 years.

The Prime Minister explained the fifth pillar of the health sector was to make health facilities more accessible through technology. He added that today digital health IDs were being created and patients were provided the facility of consultation at home through means like e-Sanjeevani app. Expressing happiness, Shri Modi noted that till now more than 30 crore people had been consulted with the help of e-Sanjeevani app. He added that India was also moving towards connecting health services with drone technology.

Concluding the address, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that a healthy and capable young generation will fulfill the resolve of a Viksit Bharat. Shri Modi conveyed his best wishes, especially to India’s doctors, paramedics and other staff.

Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath and Jagadguru Peethadipathi of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, Kanchipuram, Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi were present on the occasion among others.

Speaking at inauguration of RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi.https://t.co/kpDbp32Dk9

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 20, 2024

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आरजे शंकरा नेत्र अस्पताल वाराणसी और इस क्षेत्र के अनेकों लोगों के जीवन से अंधकार दूर करेगा, उन्हें प्रकाश की ओर ले जाएगा: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/EalXLdszX5

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 20, 2024

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अब काशी, यूपी के, पूर्वांचल के बड़े आरोग्य केंद्र, हेल्थकेयर हब के रूप में भी विख्यात हो रहा है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/CREvZYYnrW

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 20, 2024

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आज आरोग्य से जुड़ी भारत की रणनीति के पांच स्तंभ हैं… pic.twitter.com/gzSbbpie4F

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 20, 2024

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri J.P. Nadda inaugurates the “Medicine Update BJMFCON 2024”, organized by the Bihar & Jharkhand Medical Forum (BJMF)

Source: Government of India (2)

Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri J.P. Nadda inaugurates the “Medicine Update BJMFCON 2024”, organized by the Bihar & Jharkhand Medical Forum (BJMF)

Out of total 1.73 lakh high-quality Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in India, 10,716 are in Bihar with a footfall of 8.35 crore and 4.36 crore non-communicable disease (NCD) screenings, 3,825 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in Jharkhand with a footfall of 2.33 crore and 2.12 crore NCD screenings: Shri Nadda

“Infant Mortality Rate in Bihar came down from 42 to 27 in 2020, and in Jharkhand, from 34 to 25 in 2020”

“157 District hospitals converted to medical colleges in India, out of which 8 were in Bihar (in Purnia, Saran, Samastipur, Jhajharpur, Siwan, Buxar, and Jamui) and 5 in Jharkhand (in Dumka, Hazaribagh, Palamu, Chaibasa, and Kodarma)”

“The Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) is being redeveloped into Asia’s second-largest hospital”

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 4:49PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri J.P. Nadda inaugurated the “Medicine Update BJMFCON 2024”, organized by the Bihar & Jharkhand Medical Forum (BJMF), here today. As the chief guest at the event, Shri Nadda also released the ‘Souvenir and BJMF Directory’.

Bihar & Jharkhand Medical Forum (BJMF) is a socio-scientific organization of doctors from the states of Bihar & Jharkhand practicing in the Delhi NCR Region for long and serving the people of the region. The first Medicine Update was held in 2023. The 2^ndMedicine Update BJMFCON was held today.

Addressing the BJMFCON 2024, Shri Nadda stated that “I am delighted to know that BJMF takes its socio, academic and scientific program ahead. You all have not just become doctors for yourself but also have given back to society. United efforts have been made by you to ensure outreach to society while also enlightening yourself through such conferences, continued medical education, seminars, group discussions, and panel discussions conducted by the BJMF.”

Highlighting the government’s efforts in transforming the health landscape of the country, Shri Nadda stated that “under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the government is taking steps to ensure high quality and affordable healthcare facilities to all” and “is committed to implementing a comprehensive health policy that provides holistic, inclusive, preventive, promotive, curative, palliative and rehabilitative care to all.”

Underlining the government’s efforts on preventive aspects of healthcare and early detection of diseases in the country, he stated that, “there are 1.73 lakh high-quality Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in India that go through a digital high-quality assessment. Out of the total Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in India, 10,716 are in Bihar with a footfall of 8.35 crore and 4.36 crore non-communicable disease (NCD) screenings, while there are 3,825 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in Jharkhand with a footfall of 2.33 crore and 2.12 crore NCD screenings.”

Highlighting the strides made in mother and child health, he stated that “institutional deliveries increased from 78.9% to 88.6% in first 5 years of Modi Government”, Shri Nadda stated that “the infant mortality rate (IMR) has declined in the country. IMR in India was 28 per 1000 live births in 2020. In Bihar, it came down from 42 to 27 in 2020, and in Jharkhand, from 34 to 25 in 2020. The under 5 Mortality Rate was 32 per 1000 live births in India in 2020. In Bihar, it came down from 53 to 30 in 2020 and from 44 to 27 in 2020, in Jharkhand.”

He further added that “from 387 before 2014 to 766, an increase of 98% in the number of medical colleges has been ensured under the Prime Minister’s leadership. 157 District hospitals were converted to medical colleges out of which 8 were in Bihar in Purnia, Saran, Samastipur, Jhajharpur, Siwan, Buxar, and Jamui. 5 of these were in Jharkhand in Dumka, Hazaribagh, Palamu, Chaibasa, and Kodarma.” He emphasized that “the Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) is being redeveloped into Asia’s second-largest hospital.”

He added that “The number of MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) seats has seen an increase of 125% i.e. from 51,348 before 2014 to 1,15, 412. While there has been an increase of 134% in postgraduate (PG) seats from 31,185 before 2014 to 73,111.”

He also highlighted that “under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) to correct regional imbalances in the availability of affordable/ reliable tertiary healthcare services and also to augment facilities for quality medical education in the country new All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) will be opened up in Patna and Darbhanga in Bihar and at Deoghar in Jharkhand.” He also added that “under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), the world’s largest health insurance scheme, Rs. 86,797 crores worth of treatment has been authorized. As part of its commitment to senior care, the government has extended Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY to all seniors aged 70 and above which facilitates them accessing up to ₹5 lakh of healthcare benefits.”

He commended the healthcare providers “for their relentless efforts to ensure the accessibility of healthcare services even in the remotest areas of the country” and highlighted their efforts and service during the COVID-19 pandemic. He concluded his remarks by thanking the doctors for their contribution to providing healthcare to the people and ensuring the achievements of the government in this direction and urged the participants of the programme to come up with concrete recommendations for improving healthcare facilities in the country.

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HFW/HFM inaugurates “Medicine Update BJMFCON 2024”/20^th October 2024/1

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Stealer here, stealer there, stealers everywhere!
Source: Securelist – Kaspersky

Headline: Stealer here, stealer there, stealers everywhere!

Introduction

Information stealers, which are used to collect credentials to then sell them on the dark web or use in subsequent cyberattacks, are actively distributed by cybercriminals. Some of them are available through a monthly subscription model, thus attracting novice cybercriminals. According to Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence, almost 10 million devices, both personal and corporate, were attacked by information stealers in 2023. That said, the real number of the attacked devices may be even higher, as not all stealer operators publish all their logs immediately after stealing data.

This year, we analyzed quite a few previously known and new stealers, which we described in detail in our private reports. You will find a few excerpts from these below. To learn more about our crimeware reporting service, contact us at crimewareintel@kaspersky.com.

Kral

In mid-2023, we discovered the Kral downloader which, back then, downloaded the notorious Aurora stealer. This changed in February this year when we discovered a new Kral stealer, which we believe is part of the same malware family as the downloader due to certain code similarities.

The Kral stealer is delivered solely by the Kral downloader. The downloader itself sneaks onto the user’s device when a potential victim visits an adult website that embeds malicious ads. These redirect the victim to a phishing page which offers them to download a file. That file is the Kral downloader. Back in 2023, the downloader was written in a combination of C++ and Delphi, which resulted in relatively large samples. These days, the downloader is solely written in C++, which has shrunk the size of the payload tenfold.

The Kral stealer has quite some similarities with the downloader. Both are signed and both use the same function for binary integrity verification ( WinVerifyTrust()). Also, they both use the same key for string encryption. Last but not least, the Kral name is used in the PDB paths to both binaries.

In terms of functionality, the stealer is particularly interested in cryptocurrency wallets and browser data. A random folder is created in C:ProgramData, where stolen data, as well as information about the system (local time, time zone, CPU, etc) are stored. The folder is then zipped and sent to the C2 via the COM interface of the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS). The stealer only collects data once. However, if the user launches it again, it will steal once more.

AMOS

The AMOS stealer targeting macOS was first identified in early 2023. In June 2024, we discovered a new domain delivering this malware. The website impersonated the Homebrew package manager. Following a deeper investigation, we found out that users ended up on this site through malvertising.

Homebrew fake website

As you can see from the image above, there are two options to install the malware. First, there is an option to download the infected DMG image directly, while the second option is to use an installation script.

The installation script is fairly simple. It downloads the malicious image and installs it, after which it downloads and installs the legitimate Homebrew package. In the other case, when the user downloads the image, the following screen is displayed:

DMG file with nested files

As can be seen, the user is tricked into thinking that they have launched the Homebrew app and opening the AMOS stealer. When the malware is executed, multiple instances of the Terminal and bash processes are started. These processes start collecting system information and creating new hidden session history files. The stealer also embeds a specific trick to collect the macOS user password. Instead of logging keystrokes, the malware displays deceptive dialog boxes requesting the user’s credentials.

Vidar / ACR

The actors behind Vidar spread it by adding comments on YouTube that contain links to a ZIP or RAR archive hosted on a file-sharing platform which is changing every week. The archive is password protected, but the password is found at the same URL as the archive.

Contents of the cloud storage

The downloaded archive contains another password-protected archive, which contains the following files:
1. converter.exe: legitimate ImageMagick application;
2. vcomp100.dll: malicious DLL used for DLL hijacking;
3. bake.docx: encrypted first stage loader;
4. blindworm.avi: IDAT loader, the second stage payload.
The legitimate converter.exe loads vcomp100.dll as the former is vulnerable to DLL hijacking. Next, the malicious DLL reads the encrypted “bake.docx” file, gets the payload and the key from a specified offset, and decodes the payload. That payload is a variant of the Penguish downloader containing an IDAT packed sample. This means we can use the IDAT loader extractor to extract the final payload, which is the Vidar stealer.

What is interesting here is that instead of stealing data, Vidar actually downloads the ACR stealer. The latter, like many stealers these days, is interested in browser data and wallets. Vidar, too, normally targets the same types of data, however in this case, it uses the ACR Stealer as an exfiltration module.

According to our telemetry data, most victims are found in Brazil.

Conclusion

Stealers are found everywhere, and they are popular among cybercriminals. Stolen data can be either leveraged for further attacks by the attackers themselves or sold on the dark web. Although stealers implement extensive support for snatching crypto-related data, the harvesting of credentials can be just as damaging – or even more so. This is especially true for credentials that provide access to corporate networks which can then be leveraged to deploy ransomware attacks.

Relatively simple measures, such as 2FA, choosing unique passwords, downloading software only from official websites, and double-checking the website before downloading, can complicate this kind of attacks.

If you would like to stay up to date on the latest TTPs being used by criminals, or if you have questions about our private reports, contact us at crimewareintel@kaspersky.com.

Indicators of compromise

Kral
02c168aebb26daafe43a0cccd85397b2
039bebb6ccc2c447c879eb71cd7a5ba8
0509cc53472b265f8c3fc57008e31dbe

Amos
ec7f737de77d8aa8eece7e355e4f49b9
dd2832f4bf8f9c429f23ebb35195c791

Vidar
6f9d3babdeea3275489589ee69bc3f31
MIL OSI Economics –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: AI-driven Attacks Targeting Retailers Ahead of the Holiday Shopping Season
Source: Thales Group

Headline: AI-driven Attacks Targeting Retailers Ahead of the Holiday Shopping Season

21 Oct 2024

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Imperva, a Thales company, the cybersecurity leader that protects critical applications, APIs, and data, anywhere at scale, warns that as generative AI tools and Large Language Models (LLMs) continue to proliferate and advance, cybercriminals are increasingly using these technologies to enhance the scale and sophistication of their attacks on eCommerce platforms.

With sales beginning as early as October and extending through late December, the holiday shopping season represents a critical time for online retailers. The surge in activity not only drives substantial revenue but also attracts malicious actors targeting retailers at a time when they can least afford downtime or a security incident. As this crucial period approaches, retailers must prepare for a range of AI-driven threats, including bots, distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, API violations, and business logic abuse.

“While cybersecurity threats are a concern year-round, they become even more pronounced during the holiday shopping season, when retailers often experience record-breaking sales,” says Nanhi Singh, General Manager of Application Security at Imperva, a Thales company. “Cybercriminals recognize this and are using generative AI tools and LLMs to capitalize on the increased volume of digital transactions, limited-time promotions, and the gift cards and loyalty points stored in customer accounts.”

In a recent 6-month analysis (April 2024 – September 2024), data from Imperva Threat Research reveals that, on average, retail sites collectively experience 569,884 AI-driven attacks each day. These attacks originate from AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, alongside specialized bots that are designed to scrape websites for LLM training data. An analysis of these attacks shows that cybercriminals are primarily using the AI tools to carry out the following types of attacks.
- Business Logic Abuse: The most common AI-driven attack (30.7%), business logic abuse involves exploiting the legitimate functionalities of an application or API to carry out malicious actions, such as manipulating prices, bypassing authentication, or abusing discount codes. AI enables attackers to automate these exploits at scale, making them harder to detect. To protect against these attacks, retailers should implement strict validation on all user inputs, employ anomaly detection systems to identify unusual activities, and regularly audit their business processes to identify functionalities that could be abused.
- DDoS Attacks: Representing 30.6% of all AI-driven threats to retailers, DDoS attacks aim to overwhelm a website’s resources, resulting in downtime that can lead to lost sales and reputational damage—especially during peak shopping periods. Cybercriminals are now leveraging AI to coordinate large botnets more efficiently, enhancing the effectiveness of these attacks. Retailers should invest in a DDoS protection solution that utilizes machine learning to identify and mitigate malicious traffic in real time, ensuring that legitimate customers are not impacted.
- Bad Bot Attacks: Attacks from bad bots account for 20.8% of AI-driven threats targeting retailers. These automated threats engage in disruptive activities such as scraping pricing data, credential stuffing, and inventory hoarding (scalping). The infamous Grinch bot, in particular, is notorious for its inventory hoarding during the holiday shopping season, making it increasingly difficult for consumers to purchase high-demand items. With advancements in AI, operators can now create bots that convincingly mimic human behavior, allowing them to evade traditional security measures. To combat this threat, retailers should implement bot management solutions that utilize behavioral analytics to differentiate between genuine users and sophisticated bots.
- API Violations: As eCommerce platforms increasingly expose APIs for mobile applications and third-party integrations, API violations are on the rise, accounting for 16.1% of AI-driven attacks on retailers. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in APIs to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or functionality. With the assistance of AI, attackers can quickly identify weak points in API implementations, making these threats particularly challenging to mitigate. To safeguard their APIs, retailers should enforce strict authentication and authorization protocols, implement rate limiting to prevent abuse, and regularly conduct comprehensive security assessments and penetration testing.
These AI-driven attacks pose significant risks not only for retailers but also for consumers. Cybercriminals are leveraging AI to conduct bot attacks, abuse business logic, and disrupt systems, putting sensitive personal information—including credit card details, addresses, and account information—at increased risk. Successful attacks can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and a loss of trust in eCommerce platforms, with fraudulent charges and unauthorized account access negatively affecting consumers’ shopping experiences.

“In previous years, we’ve seen security threats like Grinch bots and DDoS attacks cause major disruptions during the holiday shopping season, affecting both retailers and consumers alike. Now, with the widespread availability of generative AI tools and LLMs, retailers are contending with a new wave of sophisticated cyberthreats,” adds Singh. “Without robust defenses, retailers risk facing a perfect storm of AI-driven attacks that could disrupt operations, compromise customer data, and tarnish their reputations during the most critical time of the year. To effectively mitigate these threats, retailers must adopt a comprehensive strategy that not only defends against these attacks but also allows them to respond swiftly without disrupting the shopping experience.”

Additional Information:
- Read “Seven Cybersecurity Tips to Protect Your Retail Business This Holiday Season”.
- Learn how Imperva products and solutions help retailers protect their applications, APIs, and data from security risks.
- Read the Imperva Blog for the latest product and solution news, and threat intelligence from Imperva Threat Research.
About Imperva

Imperva, a Thales company, is the cybersecurity leader that helps organizations protect critical applications, APIs, and data, anywhere, at scale, and with the highest ROI. With an integrated approach combining edge, application security, and data security, Imperva protects companies — ranging from cloud-native start-ups to global multinationals—through all stages of their digital journey. Imperva Threat Research and our global intelligence community enable Imperva to stay ahead of the threat landscape and seamlessly integrate the latest security, privacy, and compliance expertise into our solutions.
MIL OSI Economics –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: World Iodine Deficiency Day
Source: Government of India (2)

World Iodine Deficiency Day

Strengthening Public Health through Awareness and Action

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 4:15PM by PIB Delhi

Introduction

World Iodine Deficiency Day, also known as Global Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day, is observed annually on 21st October. The day aims to raise awareness about the essential role of iodine in maintaining good health and to emphasize the consequences of iodine deficiency. This document outlines the importance of iodine in daily nutrition and its crucial significance in preventing iodine deficiency disorders.

What is Iodine?

Iodine is an essential component of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism and are crucial for fetal and infant development. Found in foods and iodized salt, iodine exists in several forms, including sodium and potassium salts, inorganic iodine (I2), iodate, and iodide. Iodide, the most common form, is quickly absorbed in the stomach and used by the thyroid for hormone production. Most excess iodide is excreted through urine.

What happens in Iodine Deficiency?

Iodine deficiency has multiple adverse effects on growth and development and is the most common cause of preventable intellectual disability in the world. Iodine deficiency disorders result from inadequate thyroid hormone production secondary to insufficient iodine. During pregnancy and early infancy, iodine deficiency can cause irreversible effects.
- If a person’s iodine intake falls below approximately 10–20 mcg/day,
hypothyroidism occurs, a condition that is frequently accompanied by goitre.

Goitre is usually the earliest clinical sign of iodine deficiency.
- In pregnant women, iodine deficiency of this magnitude can cause major
neurodevelopmental deficits and growth retardation in the fetus as well as

miscarriage and stillbirth.
- Chronic, severe iodine deficiency in utero causes cretinism, a condition
characterized by intellectual disability, deaf mutism, motor spasticity,

stunted growth, delayed sexual maturation, and other physical and

neurological abnormalities.
- In infants and children, less severe iodine deficiency can also cause
neurodevelopmental deficits such as somewhat lower than average intelligence

as measured by IQ.
- Mild to moderate maternal iodine deficiency has also been associated with an
increased risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children.
- In adults, mild to moderate iodine deficiency can cause goiter as well as
impaired mental function and work productivity secondary to hypothyroidism.
- Chronic iodine deficiency may be associated with an increased risk of the
follicular form of thyroid cancer.

National Efforts to Eradicate Iodine Deficiency

Recognizing the serious health implications of iodine deficiency, the Government of India initiated national efforts to combat the problem through the National Goitre Control Programme (NGCP) in 1962. This program marked a significant step toward addressing iodine deficiency, which was linked to conditions such as mental and physical retardation, cretinism, and stillbirths.

In 1992, the program was broadened and renamed the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP) to cover a wider range of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) and ensure its implementation across all States and Union Territories.

Primary goals of NIDDCP include:
- Reducing the prevalence of IDD to below 5% nationwide.
- Achieving 100% consumption of adequately iodized salt (with 15 ppm of iodine) at the household level.
To accomplish these goals, the programme focuses on several key objectives:
- Conducting surveys to assess the magnitude of IDD in different districts.
- Replacing common salt with iodized salt in affected regions.
- Conducting resurveys every five years to measure the impact of iodized salt on IDD.
- Monitoring iodized salt quality and urinary iodine excretion through laboratory testing.
- Promoting health education and public awareness about iodine’s role in preventing IDD.
A major policy decision was made in 1984 to iodize all edible salt in India, which became a phased initiative starting in 1986. By 1992, the country aimed to fully transition to iodized salt. Today, India produces 65 lakh metric tonnes of iodized salt annually, which is sufficient to meet the needs of its population. This ongoing national effort underscores the government’s commitment to eradicating iodine deficiency and improving public health.

Achievements of the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP)

The implementation of the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP) has led to significant achievements in the reduction of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) across India:
- Reduction in Total Goiter Rate (TGR): The programme has substantially reduced the Total Goiter Rate, a key indicator of iodine deficiency, across the country.
- Increased Iodized Salt Production & Consumption: The production of iodized salt has reached 65 lakh metric tonnes (MT) annually, which is sufficient to meet the dietary needs of the Indian population.
- Regulatory Measures: Under Regulation 2.3.12 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulation, 2011, the sale of common salt for direct human consumption is prohibited unless the salt is iodized, ensuring nationwide use of iodized salt.
- Establishment of Monitoring Laboratories: A National Reference Laboratory for monitoring iodine deficiency disorders has been established at the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Delhi, along with four regional laboratories at NIN, Hyderabad, AIIH&PH, Kolkata, AIIMS, and NCDC, Delhi. These laboratories conduct training, monitoring, and quality control of salt and urine testing for iodine levels.
- State-Level Implementation: 35 States/UTs have set up IDD Control Cells within their respective State Health Directorates, and an equal number have established State IDD Monitoring Laboratories to ensure effective implementation of the programme.
- Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) Activities: Extensive IEC campaigns have been carried out to raise public awareness about the importance of regularly consuming iodized salt to prevent IDD.
Global efforts to combat iodine deficiency

Global efforts to combat iodine deficiency have been significant, with initiatives like Iodine Deficiency Day focusing on raising awareness about the critical role iodine plays in thyroid function, growth, and development. Globally, an estimated 1.88 billion people are at risk of inadequate iodine intake, impacting nearly 30% of school-aged children. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have championed universal salt iodization since 1993, resulting in over 120 countries adopting iodization programs.

These concerted efforts have led to a significant reduction in iodine deficiency disorders across India, contributing to the improvement of public health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, World Iodine Deficiency Day serves as a reminder of the progress made in preventing iodine deficiency disorders through national initiatives like NIDDCP and global efforts spearheaded by WHO and UNICEF. Continued and monitoring will ensure sustained success, ultimately contributing to healthier populations and improved quality of life worldwide!

References

https://nhm.gov.in/images/pdf/programmes/ndcp/niddcp/revised_guidelines.pdf

Click here to download PDF

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Santosh Kumar/Sarla Meena/ Madiha Iqbal

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Advanced Trading System Group (ATS Group): BaFin warns consumers about the website advtradegroup.com

Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

The operators of the website refer to themselves only as Advanced Trading System Group (ATS Group) without stating the company’s legal form. They do not provide any information about their registered office and the website contains no legal notice.

Anyone conducting banking business and providing financial or investment services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. However, some companies offer these services without the necessary authorisation. Information on whether a particular company has been granted authorisation by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.

Theinformation provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).

Please be aware:

BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 – Pioneering Innovation and Global Collaboration
Source: Government of India (2)

ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 – Pioneering Innovation and Global Collaboration

Highest-ever number of paper received

Event underscores the India’s role in developing indigenous technologies for global markets

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 5:04PM by PIB Delhi

The 15th ITU Kaleidoscope Academic Conference, themed “Innovation and Digital Transformation for a Sustainable World”, will begin from tomorrow (October 21, 2024) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in global telecommunications research and standards development. Organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), this prestigious event runs from October 21 to 23, 2024, and brings together the brightest minds in academia, industry, and government to discuss cutting-edge developments in 5G, AI, IoT, quantum communications, and other transformative technologies.

Kaleidoscope 2024 stands out as a key platform for fostering innovation and collaboration in digital transformation and telecommunications. This year’s event has attracted the highest-ever number of paper submissions, reflecting the growing global interest in shaping the future of digital infrastructure and telecommunications standards. More than 140 papers have been received, a record-breaking number for the event, showcasing groundbreaking research that addresses global challenges, including sustainability, digital inclusion, and security.

Key Highlights of Kaleidoscope 2024:
1. Top Three Papers to Be Awarded with CHF 2000 Each
  The top three selected papers will receive a cash prize of CHF 2000 each, recognizing the most innovative and impactful research contributions in the field of telecommunications. These papers have been carefully chosen by a distinguished committee of experts from across the world. The winning papers explore pivotal advancements in areas like quantum communication, network security, and 5G applications.
2. Recognition for Young Authors
In a special effort to promote and encourage the next generation of researchers, ITU will also be recognizing young authors of the selected papers by awarding them with certificates of excellence. This initiative underscores ITU’s commitment to fostering young talent and advancing telecommunications research that contributes to global digital transformation.
1. Three Days of Thought Leadership
  The conference will feature a series of technical sessions and panel discussions covering a wide range of topics such as network architectures for 6G, AI’s role in healthcare, IoT for smart cities, and quantum cryptography. These sessions will see participation from leading experts and key stakeholders, who will address both the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies.
2. Focus on Global Standards
As part of the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA-24), Kaleidoscope 2024 will also emphasize the need for international collaboration in setting global standards for next-generation technologies. The event will highlight the critical importance of ensuring that these technologies are implemented in a way that is inclusive, secure, and sustainable for all.
1. Panel Discussions on Day 3 On October 23rd, the final day of the conference, two panel discussions will take place. The first will focus on “Connecting the remaining 3 billions”. The second will explore the role of youths in global standards development, with objective of enhancing participation & contributions from youths in telecommunications and technology standards.
India’s Role in the Global Telecommunications Ecosystem

Hosting this year’s Kaleidoscope, India continues to demonstrate its growing leadership in the global digital ecosystem. Through key initiatives like Digital India and Make in India, the country has positioned itself as a critical hub for innovation in digital infrastructure. Kaleidoscope 2024 not only highlights India’s advancements in 5G deployment but also underscores the country’s role in developing indigenous technologies for global markets.

As New Delhi becomes the focal point for global discussions on telecommunications, the city is poised to set the agenda for future collaborations that will drive innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in digital technologies worldwide.

About ITU Kaleidoscope

ITU Kaleidoscope is an annual event that has been instrumental in bridging the gap between academia and industry, promoting the exchange of ideas that contribute to the global standardization of telecommunications technologies. Since its inception in 2008, Kaleidoscope has become one of the most influential platforms for discussing the future of digital communications, providing a space where researchers and innovators can present their most promising work.

Visit the official ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 website at https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-T/academia/kaleidoscope/2024/Pages/default.aspx or simply type ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 in google and select the first displayed website for detailed information on the event program, speakers, and sessions.

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SB/DP/ARJ

(Release ID: 2066519) Visitor Counter : 36

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EPFO Adds 18.53 Lakh Net Members During August 2024

Source: Government of India (2)

EPFO Adds 18.53 Lakh Net Members During August 2024

9.3 Lakh New Members Enrolled with EPFO during August 2024

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 4:07PM by PIB Delhi

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has released provisional payroll data for August 2024, revealing a net addition of 18.53 lakh members in the month of August 2024. This represents a 9.07% year-on-year growth compared to August 2023, signifying increased employment opportunities and heightened awareness of employee benefits, bolstered by EPFO’s effective outreach initiatives.

New Membership:

EPFO enrolled around 9.30 lakh new members in August 2024, representing an increase of 0.48% in the new members from the previous year in August 2023. This surge in new memberships can be attributed to growing employment opportunities, increased awareness of emp1oyee benefits, and EPFO ‘s successful outreach programs.

Group 18-25 Leads New Membership:

A noticeable aspect of the data is the dominance of the 18-25 age group, constituting a significant 59.26% of the total new members added in August 2024. In addition, the net payroll data for the age group 18-25 for August 2024 is 8.06 lakhs. This is in consonance with the earlier trend which indicates that most individuals joining the organized workforce are youth, primarily first-time job seekers.

Rejoining Members:

The payroll data highlights that approximately 13.54 lakh members exited and subsequently rejoined EPFO. This figure depicts year-over-year growth of 14.03% compared to August 2023. These members switched their jobs and re-joined the establishments covered under the ambit of EPFO and opted to transfer their accumulations instead of applying for final settlement thus, safeguarding long-term financial well-being and extending their social security protection.

Growth in Female Membership:

Gender-wise analysis of payroll data unveils that out of the new members added during the month, around 2.53 lakhs are new female members. This figure exhibits year-over-year growth of 3.75% compared to August 2023. Also, the net female member addition during the month stood at around 3.79 lakh. It reflects a year over year growth of 10.41% compared to August 2023. The surge in female member additions is indicative of a broader shift towards a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

State-wise Contribution:

State-wise analysis of payroll data denotes that net member addition in the top five states/ UTs constitutes around 59.17% of net member addition, adding a total around 10.97 lakh net members during the month. Of all the states, Maharashtra is leading by adding 20.59% of net members during the month. The states/UTs of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Delhi, Gujarat, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh individually added more than 5% of the total net members during the month.

Industry-wise Trends:

Month-on-month comparison of industry-wise data displays significant growth in the members working in establishments engaged in the industries viz. Trading – commercial establishments, Engineers – engg. contractors, Building and construction industry, Agriculture farms, Beedi making etc. Of the total net membership, around 40.36% addition is from expert services (consisting of manpower suppliers, normal contractors, security services, miscellaneous activities etc.).

The above payroll data is provisional since data generation is a continuous exercise, as updating employee record is a continuous process. The previous data gets updated every month. From the month of April 2018, EPFO has been releasing payroll data covering the period October 2017 onwards. In monthly payroll data, the count of members joining EPFO for the first time through Aadhaar validated Universal Account Number (UAN), existing members exiting from coverage of EPFO and those who exited but re-joined as members, is taken to arrive at net monthly payroll.

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Himanshu Pathak

(Release ID: 2066506) Visitor Counter : 6

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Coal to Host Star Rating Awards Ceremony, Stakeholder Consultation on MDOs, and Release of Coal Directory on October 21, 2024

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 3:40PM by PIB Delhi

Ministry of Coal is organizing the Star Rating Awards Ceremony, Stakeholder Consultation on Mining Developers cum Operators (MDOs), and the Release of the Coal Directory of India on October 21, 2024 at Scope Convention Centre, Scope Complex, Lodhi road, New Delhi. These events aim to recognize the exceptional performance of coal and lignite mines, foster engagement with key stakeholders, and provide valuable insights into the coal sector. Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest, with Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, as the Guest of Honour.

The Star Rating Awards acknowledge the outstanding performance of coal and lignite mines, aiming to promote responsible mining practices, enhance industry standards, and ensure sustainable growth in the sector. The Ministry has established a comprehensive Star Rating mechanism that evaluates mines across seven key modules: Mining Operations, Environmental Factors, Adoption of Technologies-Best Mining Practices, Economic Performance, Rehabilitation & Resettlement, Worker-Related Compliance, and Safety & Security.

The Star Ratings are awarded on a scale from Five Star to No Star, based on the holistic assessment of each mine’s performance. The ratings cover three categories of mines: Underground Mines (UG), Opencast Mines (OC), and Mixed Mines. For the year 2022-23, total 380 mines have participated in star rating award and 43 mines have qualified for the prestigious Five Star Rating, scoring more than 91%. Among them, 4 mines have been ranked for 1st, 2 mines ranked 2nd, and 6 mines ranked for 3rd prizes. No mines have been qualified under the mixed category for this year.

The Ministry of Coal will also host a Stakeholder Consultation on Mining Developers cum Operators (MDOs), focusing on streamlining operations, enhancing productivity, and reducing mining costs. The primary objective of this consultation is to engage MDOs to significantly boost coal production, reduce the country’s reliance on imported coal, and introduce cutting-edge technology in the mining sector. Ministry of Coal is committed to advancing the coal sector through enhanced collaboration with key stakeholders, including Mining Developers cum Operators (MDOs). This consultation is a crucial platform for open dialogue between the Ministry and MDOs, ensuring that industry best practices are shared and adopted to achieve a more streamlined and productive coal-mining ecosystem. The stakeholders’ consultation aims to identify and address the operational challenges faced by MDOs, such as logistical bottlenecks, regulatory compliance, and the coordination between public and private stakeholders. By engaging with MDOs, the Ministry of Coal aims to build a robust and forward-looking coal sector that can meet the nation’s growing energy requirements while maintaining high standards of safety, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. This stakeholder consultation serves as a strategic initiative to harness the strengths of MDOs and ensure that India’s coal mining industry remains competitive and resilient in a dynamic global landscape.

Further, the event will feature the iGOT Awards (Integrated Government Online Training) under the Ministry of Mines. The Ministry of Coal will also release the Coal Directory of India, a comprehensive repository offering insights into coal and lignite production, sectoral dispatches, and other critical aspects of the coal industry. Additionally, Swachhata Awards will be presented during the event. These awards highlight the importance of maintaining high standards of cleanliness and sustainability in the coal industry, in alignment with the Swachh Bharat mission.

These events underscore the Ministry of Coal’s commitment to enhancing the performance of coal and lignite mines, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring the availability of accurate data for stakeholders. Through these efforts, the Ministry continues to drive the growth and development of the Indian coal sector.

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ST

(Release ID: 2066499) Visitor Counter : 61

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Khelo India has significantly increased the number of female athletes in national events : Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

Source: Government of India

Khelo India has significantly increased the number of female athletes in national events : Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

Union Minister inaugurates newly constructed 300-bedded girls’ hostel at SAI RC LNCPE

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 3:23PM by PIB Thiruvananthpuram

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya today said that Khelo India ASMITA Women league has significantly increased the number of female athletes participating in national events. The minister was inaugurating the newly constructed 300-bedded girls’ hostel at SAI RC LNCPE, Thiruvananthapuram. Union Minister also emphasized that this reflects a significant investment in the future of our young women athletes. He also noted that India is targeting a place in the top 10 of the medal tally at the 2036 Olympics.

The Minister urged athletes not to view sports as merely a path to a government job, stressing that they should play for the country, win medals, and bring glory to the nation. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Panch Pran underscoring that winning a medal brings honor not just to the individual and their loved ones but to the entire country, which collectively takes pride in such achievements.

The hostel is constructed under the Khelo India creation and up-gradation of Infrastructure projects. The project, awarded to M/s WAPCOS, was completed within the budget Rs. 32.88 Crores. Since 2014, the Khelo India scheme has successfully completed 202 infrastructure projects, with an additional 121 projects underway.

Designed in a pentagon shape, the hostel comprises five blocks, each featuring ground plus three storeys. This innovative architecture maximizes space while fostering a vibrant and welcoming environment. The facility includes a centralized kitchen capable of serving 108 dining guests, along with storage rooms, staff dormitories, and dedicated washing areas.

As part of the event, Union Minister felicitated sportspersons who have represented India in Olympics, Asiad and other international games. Arjuna awardees Padmini Thomas, S Omanakumari, Geethu Anna Jose, Saji Thomas and V Diju received the honour from the minister.

Dr. G. Kishore, Principal & Regional Head, SAI RC LNCPE and K.M. Beenamol were also present. Dr. G. Kishore explained about the campus and it’s achievements in the function.

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SK

(Release ID: 2066498) Visitor Counter : 56

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India to become one among the top 10 performing countries in sports : Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

Source: Government of India

India to become one among the top 10 performing countries in sports : Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

Union Minister inaugurates upgraded SAI Trivandrum Golf Course

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 12:50PM by PIB Thiruvananthpuram

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya today said that India is set to become one among the top ten performing countries in the world in the field of sports. The minister was inaugurating the upgraded SAI Golf Course at Kowdiar, Thiruvananthapuram. Union Minister also emphasized the significance of the Trivandrum Golf Club as a cherished community and a symbol of sporting excellence.

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya also said that Olympics 2036 in India will nurture the talent in the country. Minister stressed that healthy people will make healthy society, healthy society will be wealthy society. Sports will make people physically, mentaly and culturally fit. Keeping this in mind, we work out from district level through Khelo India programme.

Union Minister expressed immense pride in the establishment of SAI National Golf Academy, first of its kind in Kerala. The National Golf Academy is equipped with world-class facilities such as a nine-hole international-standard golf course, state-of-the-art fitness centre and modern recreational amenities.

The minister visited and examined the upgraded Golf Course after inauguration, and further explored the course by playing golf. The upgraded Golf Course has been established by the approval of the Ministry of Tourism in line with the Government of India’s commitment to enhancing sporting infrastructure, on March 31, 2017. An allocation of Rs. 9.27 crore was made to SAI’s Lakshmibai National College of Physical Education (LNCPE), and the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has successfully completed this ambitious project, further elevating the club’s standards to meet international benchmarks.

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya felicitated international athletes of SAI, Thiruvananthapuram, as part of the event. Shri Suresh Gopi, Minister of state for Tourism & Minister of state for Petroleum and Natural Gas, presided over the function. While addressing the audience, thr minister of state said that the Golf club and Tennis club of Trivandrum has brought real talents from the lowest strata of society.

Smt. Sarada Muraleedharan, Chief secretary, Government of Kerala, Shri. Suman Billa IAS, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and Shri S.N. Raghuchandran Nair, Secretary, SAI TGC attended the event.

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SK

(Release ID: 2066466) Visitor Counter : 110

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Chem 2024 concludes today in Mumbai

Source: Government of India (2)

India Chem 2024 concludes today in Mumbai

India’s chemical and petrochemical industry is projected to surpass $300 billion by 2028 and is on track to reach $1 trillion by 2040: Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 2:06PM by PIB Delhi

The three-day event ‘India Chem-2024’ which was inaugurated on 17^th concludes in Mumbai today.

Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, while addressing the keynote session in the august presence of the Chief Ministers of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, highlighted the key role of the chemical and petrochemical sector in the economy, contributing over 9% to manufacturing gross value added and 7% to total exports. Shri Nadda stipulated that India’s chemical and petrochemical industry is projected to surpass $300 billion by 2028 and is on track to reach $1 trillion by 2040. He added that the sector will play a key role towards Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s goal of ‘ViksitBharat@2047”. He emphasized the importance of reducing reliance on imported feedstocks and focusing on alternative feed stocks, while also ensuring that India leads the global shift toward greener technologies. He noted that sustainability is the future of the industry and that India must take the lead in the adoption of circular economy principles. Referring to the need for more emphasis on R&D, safety and skilling, he elaborated upon the various steps being taken by the Government to boost innovation and investment. He assured the industry that the Government shall leave no stone unturned in realizing the full potential of the Indian Chemical and Petrochemical industry.

Shri Bhupendra Rajnikant Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat, remarked on Gujarat’s leadership in exports of chemicals and petrochemicals, and referred to the Government’s efforts to establish India as a leading destination for the chemical industry, fostering collaboration and excellence for a prosperous future. Shri Mohan CharanMajhi, Chief Minister of Odisha, highlighted Odisha’s strategic position as a rising hub for the chemical industry. Alluding to the strong infrastructure and highly skilled workforce available in Odisha, he invited industry leaders to explore the vast opportunities offered by the State. Shri Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, while speaking about his State’s leadership in the sector, highlighted the efforts being made by the State Government to further boost the development of the sector and create more employment opportunities.

Ms. Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, formally inaugurated the exhibition, which brought together over 150 exhibitors, from different industry segments. In her address at the keynote session, she mentioned that India’s manufacturing sector has shown remarkable growth, fueled by progressive policy reforms and rising domestic demand and that FDI has played a pivotal role in enhancing the growth and competitiveness of India’s chemical sector, which includes petrochemicals and specialty chemicals. The country has become an attractive destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), allowing 100% FDI in manufacturing through the automatic route. Over the past decade, she mentioned that the sector has attracted US $12.48 billion in investments in this sector alone.

Ms. Nivedita Shukla Verma, Secretary, Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Government of India elaborated on the event theme of ‘Advantage Bharat’ and how the Indian Chemical and Petrochemical sector has been paving the future of the Indian economy towards the goal of Viksit Bharat@2047. She drew attention to the various measures undertaken by the Government towards boosting infrastructure, including railways, roads and ports, logistics infrastructure as well as digital infrastructure as also initiatives to promote green economy and circularity. All these measures would enhance productivity and boost exports. In this context, she referred to various policy initiatives undertaken by the Department such as the Scheme for Centers of Excellence, PCPIRs, Quality Control Orders etc.,

Shri Deepak Mehta, Chairman, FICCI National Chemical Committee, stated that India is at a pivotal point of growth, with the chemical industry set to expand significantly. Shri Nikhil Meswani, Executive Director, Reliance Limited, highlighted the importance of chemicals to modern life, stating that it is the backbone of future development in agriculture, electronics, and beyond.

This was followed by a Global CEOs’ Conclave, presided over by the Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers, wherein industry leaders from across the globe discussed the opportunities and challenges of the Indian chemical industry. The session witnessed insightful discussions and knowledge sharing, addressing key challenges and opportunities within the sector, with discussion on the meaningful discussion on the strengths of the Indian economy and possible interventions which may help propel the sector forward in the coming years.

The Petrochemicals Forum was presided over by Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Government of India. The session was participated in by leading Indian and global industry leaders including Exxon Mobil, Reliance Limited, IOCL and SABIC, amongst others. The Minister said India’s per capita petrochemical consumption is far below developed nations, offering significant opportunities for higher investment in the sector. Stating that Indian companies have committed investments of more than $ 50 billion in the near future, he opined that India’s petrochemicals production is projected to increase from 29.62 million tons to 46 million tons by 2030.

This event, organized jointly by the Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals and FICCI, provided a platform for brainstorming discussions amongst industry leaders and Government representatives on specific topics of relevance to the sector, facilitating dialogue on investment prospects, regulatory frameworks, and strategic challenges.

One of the largest exhibition cum conferences for chemical and petrochemical industries not just in India, but in Asia, this edition of India-Chem was held with the theme of “Advantage Bharat: Indian Chemicals and Petrochemicals Paving the Future”.

The exhibition consisted of pavilions from leading Indian and global companies in the sector, several Indian States including Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh, and also saw international participation from about 22 countries, including Belarus, Saudi Arabia, Germany and the Netherlands, with a footfall over more than 7,500 people across 3 days. Netherlands, with whom India shares a robust trade relationship, particularly in the chemical and petrochemical sector, was a partner country for the event.

There were several sessions on issues ranging from dyes, and agrochemicals, to petrochemicals, which saw discussions on the latest developments in the field, as well as on the importance of innovation and adoption of sustainable practices. Besides, there were dedicated sessions focusing on geography-specific issues including the India-EU, India-East Asia, and India-US Chemicals & Petrochemicals Forums, bringing together key stakeholders from each of these regions. These sessions enabled in-depth discussions on market insights, regulatory landscapes, and investment trends shaping the future of the sector, while also providing an opportunity to the participants to forge possible strategic partnerships which transcend geographical boundaries, thereby exploring new avenues to accelerate growth in the chemical and petrochemical sector.

On its third and final day, the event hosted an engaging job fair featuring 14 leading chemical companies from different sectors such as ABB Instruments Pvt Ltd., Aarti Industries, Dhanuka Agrotech, Atul Limited, Crystal Crop Care, etc. and students from CIPET – Central Institute of Plastic Engineering and Technology, which functions under the ambit of the Department of chemicals and petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers. Institute is responsible for providing skilling through various undergraduate and postgraduate courses to almost 65,000 students per year. During the job fair, the students of CIPET got an opportunity to interact with the industry to explore possible career prospects. This served as an exciting platform bringing together students and potential employers in the chemical industry, helping the students gain insights into the future of the sector.

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MV/AKS

(Release ID: 2066478) Visitor Counter : 21

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Health – WHO welcomes health ministers to Manila to consider a new vision and actions to improve health in the Region

Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Western Pacific today welcomed ministers, other senior health officials and key partners from across the Western Pacific to the seventy-fifth session of its Regional Committee. WHO’s governing body for the Region convenes every year to formulate policies, adopt resolutions and make decisions to improve the health of more than 1.9 billion people living in the Western Pacific.

WHO’s Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala – the first Pacific islander to be elected to the position – welcomed health leaders to the first Regional Committee under his tenure.

“As the first Regional Director from the Pacific, the challenges we’re discussing – such as rising sea levels and increasingly frequent disasters – are realities that my loved ones and fellow Pacific islanders live with every day,” said Dr Piukala. “I’m keenly aware of the enormity of the work ahead of us, but with mutual trust and support we can meet these challenges.”

Dr Piukala’s address covered key updates on WHO’s work with countries and partners across the Region from July 2023 to June 2024. He also introduced a draft vision for improving health in the Region, to guide WHO’s work with Member States over the coming five-year period.

“This vision, jointly developed by WHO and Member States, is a testament to the beauty, strength and diversity of this Region,” said Dr Piukala. “Guided by this vision, we will work together and with our partners to build a sustainable, resilient and healthy future for all people in the Western Pacific.”

Cook Islands Minister of Health, the Honourable Vainetutai Rose Toki Brown, was elected Chairperson of this year’s session of the Regional Committee. Viet Nam Vice Minister of Health, Associate Professor Nguyen Thi Lien Huong, was elected Vice-Chairperson.

Hon. Toki Brown thanked the delegates for their trust and confidence in electing her as Chairperson, and she added: “This is a special year. It is the first Regional Committee meeting with the new Regional Director, Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, at the helm, and we have a lot of important ground to cover.”

She went on to say, “I know that you are all committed to the health of this Region, and I know you agree on the value of us convening here as members of the World Health Organization. The success of our new regional vision relies upon the mutual accountability of Member States and WHO. Thank you again for your confidence in electing me as Chair of this important meeting. I am very much looking forward to our discussions.”

A new vision for health in the Region

The new vision, Weaving Health for Families, Communities and Societies in the Western Pacific Region (2025−2029): Working together to improve health, well-being and save lives, is being presented to Member States for their endorsement. The vision centres on the analogy of the weaving of a mat − a traditional activity across Asia and the Pacific – symbolizing the collaborative efforts required by WHO, governments and partners to improve the health and well-being of the people of the Region. The vision comprises five vertical strands of action led by governments, interwoven with three horizontal strands of action by WHO over the coming five years.

The five vertical strands of action led by governments, working with WHO and other stakeholders, include:

1. Transformative primary health care for universal health coverage

2. Climate-resilient health systems

3. Resilient communities, societies and systems for health security

4. Healthier people throughout the life course

5. Technology and innovation for future health equity.

The three horizontal strands of action by WHO are:

1. Country offices equipped with skills for scaling up and innovation

2. Nimble support teams in the Regional Office

3. Effective communication for public health.

Action frameworks and panel discussions on priority issues

The Regional Committee will also consider new regional action frameworks on digital health and on health financing to achieve universal health coverage and sustainable development. There will be panel discussions on climate resilient health-care facilities, transformative primary health care and oral health. In addition, there will be side events on topics including One Health, tobacco control and the Investment Round to resource WHO’s work over the next four years.

Building climate-resilient health-care facilities

Countries in the WHO Western Pacific Region are at risk from climate change and climate-related disasters. The health impacts of these vary depending on the resilience of communities and the health facilities that serve them.

During a panel discussion at the Regional Committee today, delegates from Fiji, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Viet Nam emphasized the need to protect health by ensuring hospitals and clinics are climate resilient. The benefits of joining the Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health (ATACH) were highlighted as it provides a platform for countries to accelerate transformative action in building climate-resilient and low-carbon health systems by leveraging the collective expertise and resources of WHO Member States and other stakeholders.

WHO is working with countries and areas across the Western Pacific to track progress in protecting health from climate change, helping with vulnerability assessments, developing and updating adaptation plans, and implementing climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable health facility initiatives.

Exhibitions to highlight health issues and WHO’s work

Outside of the main agenda, a series of seven exhibitions was unveiled today on themes relevant to health and WHO’s work in the Region.

An exhibit on health equity profiles allows delegates to view information on a particular country’s health indicators and explore their intricate association with social and geospatial factors. This should give users a better understanding of how to prioritize and implement strategies to achieve health for all.

A special exhibit features collaborative art pieces made by staff at the WHO Western Pacific Regional Office to mark World Sight Day 2024 and World Mental Health Day 2024. The paintings, representing an eye and a heart, symbolize what people most love to see in their lives and the importance of promoting mental health at work. WHO’s ongoing efforts to improve both eye health and mental health for all rely on an integrated approach, a theme central to the draft regional vision.

The future of health museum exhibit showcases 15 “future artefacts” such as the “morning mat”, where communities would be encouraged to gather each morning to talk about their health and well-being, and the climate-controlled tuk-tuk, a futuristic three-seater electric vehicle that emits clean air rather than toxic exhaust. These were co-created through foresight activities involving WHO staff and partners. There are also 15 historical artefacts that celebrate public health milestones from the past 75 years.

A series of models of climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable health-care facilities will inform a panel discussion enabling delegates to explore innovative solutions to make health facilities more climate resilient and environmentally sustainable.

An exhibit about strengthening health emergency response capacities shows WHO’s support for health emergency responses in the Region. It depicts operations support and logistics, emergency medical teams that can be deployed with field hospitals, the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network of experts, and public health emergency operations centres.

The reaching the unreached map explorer in the Western Pacific Region features an interactive web-based map app that helps users find geographically underserved populations across the Region, shedding light on the health inequities they face. This exhibit emphasizes the critical role of data-driven health interventions to reach unreached populations.

Finally, an exhibit about the dangers of new and emerging tobacco and nicotine products showcases examples of these products, describing the tactics used by the tobacco and related industries to entice children and young people to take up smoking and undermine tobacco control efforts. The exhibition also offers information on how countries and partners can prevent uptake of these products.

Notes:

The seventy-fifth session of the Western Pacific Regional Committee will run from Monday, 21 October, through Friday, 25 October, at the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific in Manila, Philippines. The agenda and timetable are available online. A livestream of proceedings and all other official documents, as well as fact sheets and videos on the issues to be addressed, can be accessed here. For real-time updates, follow @WHOWPRO on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube and the hashtag #RCM75.

Working with 194 Member States across six regions, WHO is the United Nations specialized agency responsible for public health. Each WHO region has a regional committee – a governing body composed of ministers of health and senior officials from Member States. Each regional committee meets annually to agree on health actions and to chart priorities for WHO’s work.

The WHO Western Pacific Region is home to more than 1.9 billion people across 37 countries and areas: American Samoa (United States of America), Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia (France), Guam (United States of America), Hong Kong SAR (China), Japan, Kiribati, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Macao SAR (China), Malaysia, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Mongolia, Nauru, New Caledonia (France), New Zealand, Niue, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (United States of America), Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Pitcairn Island (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), the Republic of Korea, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Viet Nam, Wallis and Futuna (France).

Related links:

Report of the Regional Director The work of WHO in the Western Pacific Region, 1 July 2023 – 30 June 2024
Draft vision Weaving health for families, communities and societies in the Western Pacific Region (2025−2029): Working together to improve health and well-being and save lives
Building climate resilience in health-care facilities (fact sheet, video)
https://www.who.int/westernpacific/publications/m/item/building-climate-resilience-in-health-care-facilities

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Japan: African Development Bank Celebrates Three Decades of Japan-Backed Trust Fund

SOURCE: African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

Over the past three decades, Japan has contributed JPY 5.3 billion ($ 37.4 million) to the PHRDG, supporting 107 projects, with 96 completed and 11 ongoing as of September 2024

TOKYO, Japan, October 21, 2024/

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Health – Viet Nam eliminates trachoma as a public health problem – WHO

Source: World Health Organization

In a significant health milestone, Viet Nam has successfully eliminated trachoma. This remarkable achievement was validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and a plaque was presented to the Vice Minister of Health of Viet Nam, Associate Professor Nguyen Thi Lien Huong, during the seventy-fifth session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific, which opened today in Manila.

Trachoma is the leading infectious cause of blindness globally. It is a preventable disease of the eye caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. Trachoma is spread by flies and people can also become infected through direct contact with discharge from the eyes or nose of an infected person. With repeated infections, the eyelashes may be drawn in so that they rub on the surface of the eye, causing pain and damaging the cornea. Some affected individuals must undergo surgery to prevent blindness from the disease.

Decades of concerted efforts

Over the past 70 years, Viet Nam has worked tirelessly to combat trachoma, treating hundreds of thousands of people and implementing rigorous control measures. These efforts were significantly strengthened with the implementation of WHO’s SAFE strategy, which stands for surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness and environmental improvement.

Past surveys indicated that trachoma was a public health problem in four provinces in Viet Nam. Thirty years ago, 1.7% of people living in these high-risk provinces required surgery to prevent blindness from trachoma. However, by 2023 the proportion of adults with the blinding form of the disease had fallen below 0.2%, which is the threshold required for WHO validation of elimination of trachoma as a public health problem. Continuous monitoring and the focused implementation of the SAFE strategy in the country, starting in 1999, have been instrumental in this decline.

Trachoma elimination in Viet Nam was made possible through collaboration among several government agencies including the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education and Training and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, with the support of WHO and international health partners including the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Fred Hollows Foundation, the International Trachoma Initiative (ITI), RTI International, UNICEF and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Viet Nam was one of the first group of countries to receive Pfizer-donated azithromycin for trachoma elimination purposes through ITI, a donation that has been critical to global progress against trachoma.

“Elimination of trachoma as a public health problem in Viet Nam is a monumental achievement for the country and for the global fight against the disease,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This milestone is a testament to the unwavering dedication of Viet Nam’s health workers, including many working at community level. It underscores the power of collective action, innovative thinking and a shared commitment to a healthier future for all. I commend Viet Nam for its dedication and success in safeguarding the vision of millions.”

“The elimination of trachoma in Viet Nam demonstrates the commitment of the Government, health workers and communities across the country,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, praising the achievement. “It is a shining example of how targeted interventions, strong partnerships and sustained effort can bring about real change in the health of populations.”

A trachoma-free future

WHO Representative to Viet Nam, Dr Angela Pratt, described trachoma as a disease of poverty. “Communities in remote areas without good access to safe water and sanitation were the worst affected. But Viet Nam has demonstrated that it is possible to reach the hardest-to-reach populations, make the right investments to protect people’s health and ensure a trachoma-free future.”

Reflecting on this historic achievement, Associate Professor Nguyen Thi Lien Huong said that the elimination of trachoma was a proud moment for Viet Nam. “The combined efforts of many agencies and communities, with the support of WHO and partner organizations, have saved thousands of people from lifelong blindness and economic disadvantage. Our children can now grow up safe from this painful and potentially blinding disease. This is a wonderful achievement for our people, which will pay dividends for decades to come. In this happy moment, on behalf of the Vietnamese people, I want to express our sincere thanks to all international partners who contributed great support to trachoma elimination in Viet Nam.”

In 2018, Viet Nam eliminated lymphatic filariasis. The country has also made tremendous progress on combating malaria, which is now only found in pockets of areas and is close to being eliminated.

Viet Nam’s success is part of broader progress in disease prevention in the WHO Western Pacific Region. Since the launch of WHO’s first road map for the prevention and control of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in 2012, the Region has made significant strides in eliminating trachoma. Between 2016 and 2022, four out of the Region’s 11 trachoma-endemic countries were validated for trachoma elimination. Viet Nam becomes the fifth, joining Cambodia, China, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Vanuatu in recording this achievement, highlighting the importance of sustained efforts in tackling NTDs.

WHO continues to support countries in the Region to eliminate trachoma and other NTDs as part of the global effort to improve health and well-being for all.

Notes

A certificate and plaque were presented to Viet Nam in recognition of this achievement during the seventy-fifth session of the Western Pacific Regional Committee taking place from Monday, 21 October, through Friday, 25 October, at the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific in Manila, Philippines. The agenda and timetable of the Regional Committee meeting are available online. A livestream of proceedings, all other official documents, as well as fact sheets and videos on the issues to be addressed can be accessed here. For real-time updates, follow @WHOWPRO on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube and the hashtag #RCM75.

Working with 194 Member States across six regions, WHO is the United Nations specialized agency responsible for public health. Each WHO region has its regional committee – a governing body composed of ministers of health and senior officials from Member States. Each regional committee meets annually to agree on health actions and to chart priorities for WHO’s work.

The WHO Western Pacific Region is home to more than 1.9 billion people across 37 countries and areas: American Samoa (United States of America), Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia (France), Guam (United States of America), Hong Kong SAR (China), Japan, Kiribati, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Macao SAR (China), Malaysia, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Mongolia, Nauru, New Caledonia (France), New Zealand, Niue, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (United States of America), Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Pitcairn Island (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), the Republic of Korea, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Viet Nam, Wallis and Futuna (France).

Related links:

Fact sheet on trachoma: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/trachoma
Global road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240010352

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – SHAFDB Wins Pan-African Development Bank Leadership Award

Source: Media Fast

Zanzibar, Tanzania: 21 October 2024 – Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB), a leading Pan-African multilateral development bank, dedicated to financing and promoting housing, urban & related infrastructure development across the African continent, has been honored with the prestigious “Pan-African Development Bank Leadership Award – A Pioneer in Housing Finance” for its outstanding contributions to the development of the continent.

The award, presented during the 40th Anniversary Gala of the African Union for Housing Finance (AUHF) and the International Secondary Mortgage Market Association (ISSMA), recognized Shelter Afrique Development Bank for its pioneering leadership and 42 years unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable development in Africa’s housing sector. This prestigious honor was conferred by Ambassador Sharon Trail, founder of the AUHF 40 years ago, who was also honored with a lifetime achievement award at the same event.

Receiving the award, Shelter Afrique Development Bank Managing Director, Thierno-Habib Hann expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “This honor is a testament to our mission of transforming Africa’s housing and urban landscape. We are proud of the work we’ve done in collaboration with governments, development finance institutions (DFIs), private developers, and financial institutions across Africa to provide affordable housing solutions.”

The award highlights the transformative changes taking place at ShafDB, driven by its visionary leadership and the ‘New Dawn’ strategy now coming to light.

Last month, ShafDB was designated as the anchor resource mobilization partner at the African Union’s Inaugural Africa Urban Forum in its Addis Ababa Declaration, further solidifying the Bank’s central role in shaping Africa’s urban development and housing landscape.

Shaping the housing agenda

Over the past four decades, ShafDB has spearheaded various affordable housing projects in over 40 African countries, playing a crucial role in shaping the housing agenda by providing long-term financing solutions, promoting green building initiatives, and supporting the construction of inclusive communities.

Going forward, the institution aims to build on its success by leveraging its expertise and resources to address Africa’s housing and urban challenges, focusing on scalable, sustainable, inclusive, and impactful solutions.

“We dedicate this award to our shareholders, partners, clients, and the communities we serve. It is through these collaborations that we will continue to make a lasting impact on Africa’s development. My thanks go to our esteemed Board Members who have shown relentless support to our transformation, and to our bold staff at Shelter Afrique Development Bank. They are the reason for our success. For it is only through teamwork, passion, and dedication that we can elevate ShafDB to fulfill its mission for Africa,” Mr. Hann concluded.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PIRA and Army Council still raising questions for Sinn Fein coalition partners

Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

Statement by TUV leader and North Antrim MP Jim Allister:

“It is quite clear that the 2015 assessment of the Provisionals has not changed. That assessment found that the PIRA:

Retained an “Army Council” which members believed oversaw both the PIRA and Sinn Fein with an overarching strategy;
Retained “departments” with specific responsibilities and
Still had weapons which had not been decommissioned.
“Over the weekend there has been a politically motivated attempt to kick up dust about the issue. Why? Because some clearly want to spare the blushes of those Unionist parties who sustain Sinn Fein in government.

“It is simply an intolerable situation for the lead party in the Executive to be controlled and directed by an illegal terrorist organisation with the blood of over 1,700 people on its hands. Yet it seems that that is precisely what the political establishment has decided to tolerate.

“Little wonder that support for the Protocol implementing Stormont Executive headed by a Sinn Fein party mired in scandal after scandal is at rock bottom among ordinary loyalists.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New affordable homes to be available in the district

Source: City of Winchester

Winchester City Council’s cabinet has agreed the purchase of 10 new affordable homes in the village of Twyford.

Winchester City Council is committed to providing homes for all and delivering 1000 new homes across the district. The scheme in Hazeley Road, Twyford will be developed by Alfred Homes. The 10 homes that the city council has agreed to buy, will provide a mix of affordable rented and shared ownership homes which will be offered first to people who have a connection with the local area.

The homes are part of a 22 unit scheme which falls within the South Downs National Park (who are also the Local Planning Authority.) It is a site that is allocated for housing in the Twyford Neighbourhood Plan. Planning permission was granted on 10th October this year and it is expected they will be completed in late 2026.

Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Chris Westwood said

‘This is a really good example of how the city council is exploring different ways of ensuring delivery of new affordable council homes for local people across the district. I’m especially pleased to see these new homes in Twyford, where we know from speaking to local people that they would like their families to be able to remain living in the immediate area. I’d like to thank district and parish councillors for their support in getting us here. We’re confident the homes will be built to a high standard and will be energy efficient which will result in both reduced carbon emissions and save people money on running costs – these properties will make lovely homes and I look forward to people moving into them.’

Last Updated: Monday 21 October 2024

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow Healthcare Workers Get Access to Innovative Online Tracking Tool

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Center for Diagnostics and Medicine

Moscow medical workers have gained access to a modern online service for tracking the use of diagnostic equipment. Developed by specialists from the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine, this tool will be available to all outpatient departments. It allows analyzing the dynamics of medical equipment use, assessing the efficiency of work and redistributing the workload more effectively. This was reported by Yuri Vasiliev, Senior Consultant in Radiology, General Director of the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine at the Moscow Department of Health.

“In recent years, Moscow has seen transformative progress in the field of healthcare digitalization. We continue to expand our portfolio of digital services. Our team at the Diagnostics and Telemedicine Center has created a dashboard that allows us to analyze and track the use of diagnostic equipment. This dashboard combines data from all digital diagnostic equipment connected to the Unified Radiological Information Service EMIAS, which is accessible to 155 medical organizations of the Moscow Department of Health. Now, specialists from outpatient and polyclinic departments can independently receive real-time data on the load of both their equipment and the equipment of other medical centers, which helps improve planning, redistribution of workload, patient flow management, and informed decision-making. This initiative increases the availability of radiological diagnostics,” said Yuri Vasiliev.

The service includes customizable filtering options by medical organization, type of research, region, and type of device. Data is processed by more than 20 parameters, including the percentage of equipment usage, number of studies, shift details, as well as information about the medical organization and specific devices. Users can also view equipment usage data in tabular form for specific periods, with updates occurring regularly. Feedback from users is provided to ensure optimal operation of the service.

The new tracking service was developed by the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine at the Moscow Department of Health. Currently, radiologists conduct more than 100,000 studies weekly, and in the first half of 2024, the number of studies will increase by 11% compared to the same period last year. Due to the increase in the volume of studies, various analytical panels are being developed, about 75 of which have already been put into operation.

The Diagnostics and Telemedicine Center is a leading scientific organization within the Moscow Department of Health. It specializes in image interpretation, coordinates the management of radiology departments, and improves the quality of diagnostic studies by standardizing them. In addition, the Center plays an important role in disseminating advanced medical experience and introducing innovative technologies in medical institutions not only in Moscow, but throughout Russia.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya to Launch ‘eShram-One Stop Solution’ for Unorganized Workers on October 21, 2024

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 1:29PM by PIB Delhi

In keeping with the vision of the recent Budget Announcement on developing eShram as a One-Stop-Solution for unorganized labour to have access to various social sector schemes, Union Minister of labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports will launch the ‘eShram-One Stop Solution’ on 21.10.2024.

eShram-One Stop Solution will act as a mediator to ensure that unorganized workers have easy access to a variety of Government schemes/programs. This initiative will help unorganized workers become aware of the schemes designed for them.

eShram-One Stop Solution aims to integrate information of beneficiaries of all social security and welfare schemes meant for unorganised workers in an effective manner through a single platform. eShram as a One-Stop-Solution will help to facilitate in identification and implementation of the Social Security & Welfare Schemes for the unorganised worker and to help saturation of the schemes in the fast and effective manner. Consequently, 12 schemes of different Central Ministries / Departments have already been integrated/ mapped with the eShram.

Since the launch of e-Shram on August 26, 2021, it has achieved significant milestones with over 30 crore unorganized workers enrolled and it has demonstrated its widespread appeal among unorganized labour. This achievement underscores the social impact of the initiative and the Government’s commitment to supporting the nation’s unorganized workers.

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Himanshu Pathak

(Release ID: 2066470) Visitor Counter : 40

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Over 500 Cadets to embark on a 1,200 kms voyage along the Ganges and Hooghly rivers in a run-up to NCC Republic Day Camp-2025
Source: Government of India

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 12:55PM by PIB Delhi

In a maiden initiative, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) is set to embark on its first-ever special sailing expedition, a flagship event leading up to the Republic Day Camp 2025. The expedition will involve 528 Naval Wing cadets from across India, sailing approximately 1,200 kms along the Ganges and Hooghly rivers through Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal. The event, themed ‘Bharatiya Nadiya – Sanskritiyon ki Janani,’ will be flagged off from Kanpur on October 21, 2024 and conclude in Kolkata on December 20, 2024.

The aim of this pioneering expedition is to celebrate India’s rich maritime traditions while inspiring the youth towards adventure and a life of service in uniform. The cadets representing all State Directorates, will participate in this six-phase event. They will be accompanied by nearly 40 Associate NCC Officers. The key phases of the expedition include:
- Phase I: Kanpur to Prayagraj (260 KM)
- Phase II: Prayagraj to Varanasi (205 KM)
- Phase III: Varanasi to Buxar (150 KM)
- Phase IV: Buxar to Patna (150 KM)
- Phase V: Patna to Farakka (230 KM)
- Phase VI: Farakka to Kolkata (205 KM)
During the journey, cadets will engage with local NCC groups and contribute to the ‘Swachh Bharat’ initiative by cleaning riverbanks and reducing plastic waste. They will also perform ‘Nukkad Nataks’ to promote India’s rich cultural traditions and raise awareness about environmental conservation.

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SR/MR/KB

(Release ID: 2066465) Visitor Counter : 7

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Reaches Staff-Level Agreement on an Extended Credit Facility Arrangement with São Tomé and Príncipe
Source: IMF – News in Russian

October 21, 2024

End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.
- IMF staff and the São Toméan authorities have reached staff-level agreement on economic policies and reforms to be supported by a new 40-month arrangement under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), updating the agreement reached last year. This renewed staff-level agreement is subject to IMF Management approval and IMF Executive Board consideration, contingent on the implementation of the agreed prior actions and the timely confirmation of the necessary financing assurances from the country’s development partners.
- The authorities’ ambitious reform program aims at restoring macroeconomic stability while laying the foundations for faster and more inclusive growth. This includes a sizable and front-loaded fiscal adjustment while protecting the vulnerable. The program includes decisive near-term reforms in the electricity sector and medium-term structural reforms to facilitate the green energy transition and unleash the country’s growth potential.
Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Slavi Slavov, Mission Chief for São Tomé and Príncipe, visited São Tomé during May 23 – June 5, 2024, and held virtual discussions in the recent months, to discuss with the São Toméan authorities IMF support for their policies and reform plans.

At the end of the mission, Mr. Slavov issued the following statement:

“The São Toméan authorities and the IMF team have reached a renewed staff-level agreement to support the authorities’ economic adjustment and reform policies with a new 40-month program supported by an arrangement under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF). The agreement is subject to approval by IMF’s Management and Executive Board in the period ahead, and is contingent on the implementation of prior actions by the authorities and the timely confirmation of the necessary financing assurances from the country’s development partners to cover the external financing gap.

“São Tomé and Príncipe faced a very challenging 2023 and continues to struggle with high fuel import needs and depleted international reserves. Over the past few years, the country has been hit by multiple shocks, whose impact on the economy continues to reverberate. This includes the massive external shock in early 2023 when a major fuel exporter stopped supplying fuel on credit, opening a large external financing gap.

“These factors, along with energy shortages, contributed to a slowdown of real GDP growth to 0.2 percent in 2022 and 0.4 percent in 2023. Inflation accelerated to 19.2 percent in April 2024 before declining to 12 percent in August, year-on-year. International reserves fell sharply.

“The authorities’ program aims to restore macroeconomic stability, improve the living conditions of the population, foster the economic recovery, and promote sustainable and inclusive growth. The necessarily ambitious and front-loaded fiscal adjustment is crucial to lowering the high public debt and rebalancing the economy under a pegged exchange rate, but is designed with care to protect the vulnerable.

“The authorities have already implemented significant reforms. They launched the Value-Added Tax in June 2023 and implemented a large fiscal adjustment in 2023. Fuel prices were adjusted, and explicit fuel subsidies have been eliminated in the aggregate. The central bank (Banco Central de São Tomé e Príncipe or BCSTP) ended monetary financing of the budget and implemented tightening measures.

“The authorities will make further efforts to strengthen tax and customs administration and to rationalize budgetary expenditures. These efforts will create the fiscal space for implementing growth-enhancing development programs that will help put public debt on a downward trajectory. In addition, the authorities will strengthen social safety nets and reinforce the existing targeted cash-transfer program for vulnerable households. Given the country’s high public debt, ensuring that new financing takes the form of highly concessional loans or ideally grants will be vital to ensure sustainability and also meet vital spending needs.

“Moreover, the program will urgently implement near-term reforms to address the crisis in the electricity sector. This would alleviate pressures on public debt and foreign exchange reserves. To prevent implicit fuel subsidies and contain fiscal risks, the authorities will apply the fuel price adjustment mechanism in a truly automatic way on a monthly basis. The government will strengthen transparency and address governance weaknesses to reduce vulnerabilities to corruption. Finally, the authorities will strengthen the BCSTP, ensuring its autonomy and appropriate governance arrangements.

“Over the medium term, structural reforms will unleash the country’s growth potential. These include the reform strategy for the energy sector with a focus on shifting towards renewable sources, encouraging domestic food production, fostering the tourism sector, adapting to climate change, and empowering women.

“During the visit and subsequent virtual discussions, the mission met with President Carlos Vila Nova; Prime Minister Patrice Émery Trovoada; Minister of Planning and Finance Ginésio Valentim Afonso da Mata; Minister of Economy Disney Leite Ramos; Governor of the Central Bank Américo D’Oliveira dos Ramos; President of the Court of Auditors Ricardino Costa Alegre; other government officials; representatives of the private sector including banks; and development partners. The mission expresses its deep appreciation to the authorities for their cooperation and constructive policy dialogue.”

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

PRESS OFFICER: Pavis Devahasadin

Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

@IMFSpokesperson

https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/18/pr-24382-sao-tome-and-principe-imf-reaches-staff-level-agreement-on-an-ecf-arrangement

MIL OSI
MIL OSI Russia News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIAN NAVY – ROYAL NAVY OF OMAN MARITIME EXERCISE (NASEEM AL BAHR)

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 12:03PM by PIB Delhi

INS Trikand and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft, participated in the Indo-Oman bilateral naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr with the Royal Navy of Oman Vessel Al Seeb off Goa from 13 to 18 October 24.

The exercise was conducted in two phases: with harbour phase from 13 to 15 October 24, followed by the sea phase. As part of harbour activities, personnel from both Navies engaged in professional interactions, including Subject Matter Expert Exchanges and planning conferences. In addition, sports fixtures and social engagements were also held.

During the sea phase of the exercise conducted from 16 to 18 Oct 24, both ships carried out various evolutions, including gun firings at surface inflatable targets, close-range anti-aircraft firings, manoeuvres, and Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS). The integral helicopter operated from INS Trikand and undertook cross-deck landings and vertical replenishment (VERTREP) with RNOV Al Seeb. Additionally, the Indian Navy’s Dornier aircraft provided Over-the-Horizon Targeting (OTHT) data with the participating ships. To further enhance interoperability, Indian Navy Sea Riders embarked on RNOV Al Seeb for a day. The exercise helped strengthen interoperability and enhanced understanding of each other’s best practices.

The exercise was a resounding success, achieving its aims of enhancing interoperability, fostering mutual understanding, and strengthening cohesion between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman.

This exercise further reaffirms India’s commitment to constructive collaboration and mutual growth with like-minded nations in the Indian Ocean Region.

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VM/SKY 216/24

(Release ID: 2066452) Visitor Counter : 29

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Journey of UDAN: Soaring Towards Inclusivity in Indian Aviation
Source: Government of India

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 11:35AM by PIB Delhi

“A common man who travels in slippers, should also be seen in the aircraft. This is my dream.”

– Prime Minister Narendra Modi

In a country where the sky often symbolizes hope and aspiration, the dream of flying has remained an elusive luxury for many. This dream began to take shape with the launch of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – UDAN, or “Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik,” on October 21, 2016. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), UDAN aims to enhance regional air connectivity from unserved and underserved airports across India, making air travel affordable for the masses. As it celebrates its seventh anniversary, UDAN stands as a testament to the commitment of the Indian government to improve infrastructure and connectivity, especially in remote regions.
The Dream Takes Flight

The story of UDAN is deeply rooted in the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, who in a pivotal meeting before the National Civil Aviation Policy was announced, emphasised the need to democratize air travel. He famously remarked that he wanted to see people wearing slippers boarding planes, a sentiment that ignited the vision for a more inclusive aviation sector. This commitment to the common man’s dreams led to the birth of UDAN.

The first UDAN flight took off on April 27, 2017, connecting the serene hills of Shimla to the bustling metropolis of Delhi. This inaugural flight marked the beginning of a transformative journey in Indian aviation, one that would open up the skies to countless citizens.

UDAN operates on a market-driven model, where airlines assess demand on specific routes and submit proposals during bidding rounds. The scheme incentivizes airlines to connect underserved regions by offering them support through Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and various concessions provided by airport operators, the Central Government, and State Governments.

The government has implemented several supportive measures to attract airlines to operate flights in less lucrative markets:
- Airport Operators: They waive landing and parking charges for RCS flights, and the
Airports Authority of India (AAI) does not levy Terminal Navigation Landing Charges (TNLC) on these flights. Moreover, a discounted Route Navigation and Facilitation Charge (RNFC) is applied.
- Central Government: For the first three years, excise duty on Aviation Turbine Fuel
(ATF) purchased at RCS airports capped at 2%. Airlines are also encouraged to enter code-sharing agreements to expand their reach.
- State Governments: States have committed to reducing VAT on ATF to 1% or less for ten years and providing essential services such as security, fire services, and utility services at reduced rates.
This collaborative framework has fostered an environment where airlines can thrive while serving regions that have long been overlooked.

The RCS-UDAN scheme has played a pivotal role in revitalising the civil aviation industry in India. Over the past seven years, it has catalysed the emergence of many new and successful airlines. Regional carriers such as Flybig, Star Air, IndiaOne Air, and Fly91 have benefited from the scheme, developing sustainable business models and contributing to a burgeoning ecosystem for regional air travel.

The incremental expansion of the scheme has also generated a rising demand for new aircraft of all sizes, broadening the spectrum of planes deployed on RCS routes. This includes a diverse fleet, featuring the Airbus 320/321, Boeing 737, ATR 42 and 72, DHC Q400, Twin Otter, Embraer 145 and 175, Tecnam P2006T, Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX, Dornier 228, Airbus H130, and Bell 407. Notably, Indian carriers have placed orders for over 1,000 aircraft slated for delivery in the next 10-15 years, significantly augmenting the existing fleet of approximately 800 planes.

RCS-UDAN is not solely dedicated to offering last-mile connectivity to tier-2 and tier-3 cities; it also stands as a prominent contributor to the burgeoning tourism sector. Initiatives like UDAN 3.0 have introduced tourism routes connecting several destinations in the Northeast region, while UDAN 5.1 is focused on expanding helicopter services in hilly areas to stimulate tourism, hospitality, and local economic growth.

Significant destinations like Khajuraho, Deoghar, Amritsar, and Kishangarh (Ajmer) are now more accessible, catering to the religious tourism segment. Furthermore, the introduction of airports in Pasighat, Ziro, Hollongi, and Tezu has spurred growth in the Northeast’s tourism industry. Notably, Agatti Island has also been included in the Indian aviation map, enhancing tourism in Lakshadweep.
From Mundra in Gujarat to Tezu in Arunachal Pradesh, and Kullu in Himachal Pradesh to Salem in Tamil Nadu, RCS-UDAN has connected 34 states and Union Territories across the country. A total of 86 aerodromes have been operationalized under UDAN, including ten in the Northeast region and two heliports. Airports like Darbhanga, Prayagraj, Hubli, Belgaum, and Kannur are becoming increasingly sustainable, with many non-RCS commercial flights operating from these locations.
- Darbhanga Airport (Civil Enclave): Once off the aviation map, Darbhanga celebrated the arrival of its first flight from Delhi on November 9, 2020. This airport now serves as a gateway for 14 districts in North Bihar, connecting to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata, and handling over 5 lakh passengers in FY 2023-24.
- Jharsuguda Airport (AAI Airport): Previously a dilapidated WWII airstrip,
Jharsuguda became operational in March 2019, serving as the second airport in Odisha. It now connects the region to Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Bhubaneswar, with over 2 lakh passengers in FY 2023-24.
- Pithoragarh Airport: Nestled in the Himalayas, this airport was identified for RCS
operations in 2018 and began service in January 2019. Currently, it connects to Dehradun and Pantnagar, showcasing its strategic importance.
- Tezu Airport: Known for its scenic beauty and religious significance, Tezu airport
commenced RCS operations in August 2021. It connects Guwahati, Jorhat, and Dibrugarh, accommodating approximately 12,000 passengers in FY 2023-24.

The Indian aviation landscape has undergone a significant transformation under the UDAN scheme. 601 routes, including helicopter routes, have been operationalized, effectively connecting states and Union Territories. Notably, around 28% of these routes serve the remotest locations, enhancing accessibility across challenging terrains.
The number of operational airports in the country has doubled from 74 in 2014 to 157 in 2024 and the aim is to increase this number to 350-400 by 2047. The domestic air passengers have more than doubled in the past decade, with Indian airlines significantly expanding their fleets.

A total of 86 aerodromes—comprising 71 airports, 13 heliports, and 2 water aerodromes— have been operationalized, facilitating the travel of over 1.44 crore passengers across more than 2.8 lakh flights. Since its inception, fixed-wing operations have cumulatively covered approximately 112 crore kilometres, roughly equivalent to circumnavigating the globe around 28,000 times.

UDAN is not just a scheme; it is a movement aimed at empowering every Indian with the gift of flight. Enhancing regional connectivity and ensuring affordability has fulfilled countless citizens’ aspirations while stimulating economic growth and job creation. As UDAN continues to evolve, it holds the promise of transforming India’s aviation landscape, ensuring that the sky truly is everyone’s limit. With its ongoing commitment to connecting underserved regions and promoting tourism, the UDAN scheme remains a game changer for Indian aviation, contributing significantly to India’s vision of a connected and prosperous nation.

Reference:

h t t p s : / / p i b . g o v . i n / P r e s s R e l e a s e I f r a m e P a g e . a s p x ? PRID=2004057#:~:text=Ministry%20of%20Civil%20Aviation%20(MoCA,is%20a%20market%20dri ven%20scheme.

https://http://www.civilaviation.gov.in/sites/default/files/migration/Udaan_Eng.pdf https://pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=152143&ModuleId=3&reg=3&lang=1 Press Release: Press Information Bureau (pib.gov.in)

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan to inaugurate International Workshop on Modern Technologies in Survey-Resurvey for Urban Land Records on 21st October 2024 in New Delhi

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 11:26AM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan will inaugurate International Workshop on Modern Technologies in Survey-Resurvey for Urban Land Records on 21^st October 2024 at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC), New Delhi. The Department of Land Resources is organising this workshop. The inaugural session will include addresses from Union Minister of Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Secretary, Department of Land Resources Shri Manoj Joshi will deliver the keynote address during inaugural session.

The workshop will unfold over two days. The first day will feature an inaugural session led by the Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan followed by presentations from experts from countries like Singapore, Korea, the UK, Spain, and the Netherlands, highlighting best practices in digital land records. There will also be a technology showcase and exhibition by leading Indian and international firms. On the second day, the agenda includes two plenary sessions: the first focusing on case studies of state urban land records and management from Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, and the second examining case studies from various schemes and departments in survey techniques and spatial data, including AMRUT, SMART CITIES, SVAMITVA, Haryana Space Applications Centre, IT & Communication (Jaipur), and Directorate General Defence Estates.

Expected outcomes from the workshop include the formulation of a national program for urban land record modernization, design plans for pilot projects in selected cities, and strategies for capacity building among urban local bodies (ULBs) and state officials. Furthermore, the workshop aims to generate policy recommendations for integrating modern technologies into urban land governance, ensuring improved efficiency and transparency in land management systems. This concept note sets the stage for collaboration and innovation in improving urban land records through the application of cutting-edge technology.

Urban land records in India face significant challenges due to fragmentation, outdated information, and maintenance across multiple agencies. These issues hinder effective urban planning, land management, and service delivery. In response, the Government of India is exploring innovative technological solutions to modernize urban land records, building on progress achieved in rural areas. Key technologies such as geospatial tools, satellite imagery, drone surveys, and GIS integration are essential for creating comprehensive, spatially enabled land ownership records. The modernization of urban land records is expected to enhance transparency and efficiency, supporting sustainable development and reducing land-related disputes.

The workshop aims to bring together relevant stakeholders, including Ministries and Departments of the Government of India, Revenue and Urban Development Secretaries from States/UTs, International experts, and Technology Providers. The primary objectives of the workshop are to showcase global best practices in urban land record modernization, present applicable technological solutions, and facilitate pilot project planning for selected urban areas. Additionally, the workshop will address challenges such as lack of standardization, data security, and capacity building for stakeholders, while promoting collaboration among government officials, experts, and technology providers to develop actionable policy recommendations.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hon’ble President of India to confer the 5th National Water Awards 2023

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 11:19AM by PIB Delhi

The Hon’ble President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu will confer the 5th National Water Awards 2023 on October 22^nd2024 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The Department of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD &GR), under the Ministry of Jal Shakti announced the 38 winners, including joint winners, for the 5th National Water Awards, 2023, in 09 categories viz Best State, Best District, Best Village Panchayat, Best Urban Local Body, Best School or College, Best Industry, Best Water User Association, Best Institution (other than school or college), and Best Civil Society on 14th October 2024.

In the category of Best State, the first prize has been conferred upon Odisha, with Uttar Pradesh securing the second position, and Gujarat and Puducherry jointly securing the third position. Each award winner will be conferred with a citation and a trophy as well as cash prizes in certain categories.

Under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister, the Ministry of Jal Shakti has been undertaking a comprehensive campaign to spread awareness about water management and water conservation on a national level. From this standpoint and to create awareness among the people about the importance of water and to help motivate people to adopt the best water usage practices, the 1st National Water Awards were launched in 2018 by the DoWR, RD & GR. The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th National Water Awards were given for the years 2019, 2020 and 2022. The awards were not given in the year 2021 due to CoVID pandemic.

The National Water Awards (NWAs) focus on the good work and efforts made by individuals and the organizations across the country in attaining the government’s vision of a ‘Jal Samridh Bharat’. The awards are for creating awareness among the people about the importance of water and motivating them to adopt best water usage practices.

Details of winners under various categories for 5th National Water Awards

5TH NATIONAL WATER AWARDS, 2023

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: G7 countries agree new plan to dismantle migrant smuggling gangs
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

The Home Secretary has today (4 October 2024) agreed a major international plan to smash criminal gangs responsible for smuggling illegal migrants into G7 nations.
The G7 Anti-Smuggling Action Plan will deliver a boost to UK law enforcement by fostering closer cooperation with G7 partners to bolster border security, combat transnational organised crime, and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation by migrant smugglers.

New joint investigative actions will be carried out by law enforcement teams to target criminal smuggling routes, while intelligence sharing between G7 nations will ensure faster identification and disruption of these dangerous networks.

This approach will enhance the capabilities of the Border Security Command and its new Commander Martin Hewitt CBE QPM in coordinating investigations with international partners to reduce illegal migration to the UK.

Other measures announced in the plan include:

sharing best practice, including disrupting supply chains that facilitate people-smuggling, such as small boat parts, seizing the illegal financial assets of criminals, and improving cooperation across global transport routes

working with social media platforms and internet providers to remove harmful content that promotes illegal migration services or advertises fake job opportunities

strengthening capabilities to monitor and anticipate irregular migration flows at both global and regional levels

The agreement comes after discussions by the Home Secretary at the G7 Interior and Security Ministers’ meeting in Avellino, Italy, this week. It marks another step in the UK’s reset of relations with key allies and affirms a shared commitment to working together to tackle complex cross-border issues.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

Criminal smuggling gangs who organise small boat crossings undermine our border security and put lives at risk. Our new government is rapidly accelerating cooperation with other countries to crack down on these dangerous gangs.

Today’s newly agreed G7 action plan provides an important focus on international law enforcement and reflects our determination to work with global partners on these shared challenges. New international joint investigative teams will help coordinate cross-border action and supplement the measures we have already taken to set up the UK Border Security Command and back it with new funding.

The plan will help to increase both voluntary and enforced returns of migrants to countries of origin. It aims to offer migrants more choices and improve the overall management of migration flows.

Instrumental to delivery of this plan in the UK is the new Border Security Command, under the leadership of Martin Hewitt CBE QPM, which will be armed with enhanced powers and coordinate the work of law enforcement and intelligence agencies. It will coordinate investigations with European counterparts and will benefit from a £75 million investment in cutting-edge technology, additional officers, and new covert capabilities.

In July, the government committed a further £84 million to addressing the root causes of irregular migration. This funding will go towards programmes aimed at tackling the drivers of migration at their source, reducing the need for dangerous and irregular journeys.

Since taking office, the Home Secretary has increased efforts to work with international partners to tackle the challenges posed by irregular migration. This has included engagement with the United States Attorney General, Merrick Garland, European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, and Executive Director of Europol, Catherine De Bolle.

The UK will continue to drive focus on tackling migrant smuggling with the G7 under Canada’s presidency next year, and at next month’s INTERPOL General Assembly in Glasgow.

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MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Panchayat Sammelan”: A Step Towards Better ‘Ease of Living’ for Rural India to be organized in Hyderabad on 22nd October 2024

Source: Government of India

“Panchayat Sammelan”: A Step Towards Better ‘Ease of Living’ for Rural India to be organized in Hyderabad on 22nd October 2024

Workshop Aims at Capacity Building for Enhancing Service Delivery at the Grassroots

Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 9:47AM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj is organizing a Panchayat Sammelan on “Ease of Living: Enhancing Service Delivery at the Grassroots” on 22nd October 2024 at National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRD&PR), Hyderabad. The Panchayat Sammelan will be inaugurated in the august presence of Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; Dr. G. Narendra Kumar, Director General, NIRD&PR; Shri Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; and Shri Lokesh Kumar D. S., Secretary, Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Department, Government of Telangana.

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj is organizing four regional workshops as part of the Panchayat Sammelan on ‘Ease of Living: Enhancing Service Delivery at the Grassroots’. The first workshop in this series of four is scheduled for 22nd October 2024 in Hyderabad. Representatives from seven States viz. Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Odisha and Telangana will participate in the event. This workshop will provide a platform to Panchayat functionaries and elected representatives directly associated with service delivery at the grassroots to discuss their experiences, challenges and opportunities in service delivery. Sessions will cover topics like using digital public tools such as Bhashini for language translation, UNICEF’s RapidPro platform for communication, and configuring ServicePlus for online service delivery.

The Panchayat Sammelan is a significant step towards achieving better ease of living through improved grassroots service delivery. The workshop aims to share State-specific strategies, best practices and ideas to improve last-mile service accessibility and accelerate efficient governance with key focus being on benchmarking and improving the quality-of-service delivery in rural areas. The National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRD&PR) will present insights on benchmarking rural services while the Wadhwani Foundation will showcase case studies on leveraging emerging technologies for enhanced service delivery.

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Read this release in: Hindi

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar inaugurates the 21st Divya Kala Mela in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh

Source: Government of India (2)

Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar inaugurates the 21st Divya Kala Mela in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh

The Event – based on Prime Minister’s Vocal for Local vision – is a unique initiative towards Empowering Divyang Entrepreneurs

Last 20 editions of the Mela generated a combined income exceeding ₹15 crore and facilitated loans worth over ₹12 crore for participating Divyangjans till date

Posted On: 19 OCT 2024 8:47PM by PIB Delhi

The 21^st Divya Kala Mela, a monumental fair dedicated to the economic empowerment of persons with disabilities (PwDs), is being held at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, from 17^th to 27^th October 2024. The fair was officially inaugurated today by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, alongside Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Madhya Pradesh, Shri Narayan Das Kushwaha and Shri Ashok Rohani, MLA of Jabalpur.

Other dignitaries present at the event included senior officials from the Government of India and Madhya Pradesh, graced the occasion, with active participation from Shri Rajeev Sharma, Joint Secretary, DEPwD, Shri Naveen Shah, Managing Director of National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC), and Shri Deepak Kumar Saxena, District Collector of Jabalpur.

The grand event is a shining example of India’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth, as it offers an exceptional platform for differently abled entrepreneurs to showcase their products, talents, and skills. With around 100 stalls, the fair has been meticulously organized to promote self-reliance, encourage business ventures, and amplify the impact of PwDs in line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s ‘Vocal for Local’ vision.

Addressing the event, Dr. Virendra Kumar informed about the tremendous success of the Divya Kala Mela since its inception in 2022, with over 20 fairs organized across the Nation, generating a combined income exceeding ₹15 crore for participating Divyangjans. He further announced a special job fair for PwDs, to be held on 25^th October 2024, providing new employment avenues and reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all.

It was further informed that a special highlight of the event is the distribution of loans worth ₹1.21 crore by Madhya Pradesh Gramin Bank, Union Bank, and IDBI Bank to disabled entrepreneurs, a crucial step in bolstering their businesses. To date, the Divya Kala Mela initiative has facilitated loans worth over ₹12 crore, promoting business expansion and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship among PwDs. Moreover, the distribution of essential aids and assistive devices like hearing aids, motors, and lifts has further empowered the differently abled community, he added.

In his keynote address, Shri Narayan Das Kushwaha praised the Divya Kala Mela as a transformative initiative by the Government of India, which has paved the way for economic empowerment, recognition, and self-reliance for Divyangjan artisans and entrepreneurs. He highlighted that this platform serves not only as an economic catalyst but also as a beacon of awareness and skill recognition for PwDs across India.

Adding a festive touch, a vibrant cultural programme titled ‘Divya Kala Shakti’, showcasing the talents of Divyang artists from across India, will be held alongside the fair. With performances already having taken place in 15 cities, ‘Divya Kala Shakti’ has become a national platform for the creative expression of PwDs, bringing their talents to the forefront.

In his address, Shri Sandeep Rajak, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, urged the Government to host a World Art Fair in Jabalpur, envisioning a grand collaboration between the public sector, private companies, and NGOs, united by the common goal of empowering the Divyangjans.

CMD of NDFDC, Shri Naveen Shah, also extended a warm invitation to the citizens of Jabalpur, encouraging them to visit the fair, support the talented Divyang artisans, indulge in delectable local food, and enjoy the colorful cultural programmes. He emphasized that the fair is free and open to the public, making it a not-to-miss event for everyone.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Improved recording of A&E activity

Source: Scottish Government

New method backed by Royal College of Emergency Medicine.

A new methodology to accurately capture all emergency care activity in weekly and monthly Public Health Scotland statistical publications will be applied from 4 February 2025.

The move, backed by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, means published statistics will now include ‘planned’ A&E attendances. This is where a patient is given a specific time slot to attend a minor injury unit or A&E department to receive emergency care.

The update follows recommendations from an expert working group, that was asked to consider how to improve the consistency in the recording of A&E activity nationally. The inclusion of ‘planned’ attendances in Scottish A&E statistics aligns with the inclusion of booked ‘new’ appointments in A&E statistics reported in England.

In a published analysis of the new methodology, Public Health Scotland have confirmed the changes will have a minimal impact on performance figures.

National Clinical Lead for Quality & Safety NHS Scotland Dr John Harden said:

“On behalf of the Scottish Government, I thank the expert working group for their work to explore how we can improve the consistency in the recording of A&E activity.

“As we strive to improve A&E performance, it is vital that we have a clear picture of emergency care across the country, and that the data we collect reflects the hard work of staff on the ground, so we have accepted the group’s recommendation to include planned A&E attendances in published stats.

“This means weekly and monthly stats will now provide a more accurate and consistent reading of the levels of emergency care being provided by our Health Boards.”

Vice President of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine Dr John Paul Loughrey said:

“The Royal College of Emergency Medicine welcomes the Scottish Government’s ‘Four Hour Emergency Access Standard: Expert Working Group Recommendations Report’. Accurate and consistent performance monitoring is crucial for improving Emergency Care in Scotland.

“The working group formed to assess performance data has provided recommendations that will significantly enhance data collection and prevent variations across health boards. The measures will help provide a clearer representation of the pressures faced by A&Es and ways for Policy Makers to work with clinical experts and RCEM to resuscitate emergency care.”

Clinical Director of Emergency Medicine at NHS Lothian Dr David McKean said:

“This revision of the Emergency Access Standard demonstrates a further commitment to providing safe, timely care to patients across Scotland. It should help to remove variation and ensure that all patients requiring emergency care are treated consistently across services.”

Background

Four Hour Emergency Access Standard: Expert Working Group Recommendations Report – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

The Scottish Government, along with Public Health Scotland, established the Four Hour Emergency Access Standard Expert Working Group to consider how to improve the consistency in the recording of A&E performance across NHS Scotland.

The Working Group was formed of: clinical experts from across Scotland’s Health Boards; information and data representatives from Boards; Data Management and Analytical Teams from Public Health Scotland; representation from the Royal College of Emergency Medicine and officials from the Scottish Government’s Health and Social Care Directorate.

Overview – Accident and emergency – Urgent and unscheduled care – Acute and emergency services – Our areas of work – Public Health Scotland

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 24, 2025