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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Adjustment to early childhood education in the consumers price index

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Adjustment to early childhood education in the consumers price index – The FamilyBoost early childhood education (ECE) rebate scheme began on 1 July 2024. The September 2024 quarter consumers price index (CPI), to be released on Wednesday, 16 October at 10:45am, will include an adjustment to reflect the introduction of the rebate scheme.

    An adjustment has been made to the ECE subgroup in the CPI to reflect the rebate households will receive through the FamilyBoost scheme.

    Inland Revenue has provided data about the anticipated fall in household expenditure on ECE in 2024/25 due to FamilyBoost. A fall of about $174 million is expected in CPI expenditure on ECE.

    The movement for the ECE subgroup in the September 2024 quarter will incorporate the regular price changes for ECE, and this adjustment.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Humanitarian assistance to Myanmar

    Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs

    Australia will provide $9 million to Myanmar through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership to support communities and conflict-affected populations. 

    Australia remains deeply concerned by the worsening political, security and humanitarian situation in Myanmar, which has serious implications for regional peace and security. 

    This brings Australia’s total humanitarian commitment to the crises in Myanmar and Bangladesh since 2017 to $880 million. 

    Over 3.4 million people are internally displaced within Myanmar, and 18.6 million people need humanitarian assistance. Our assistance will support community organisations and target vulnerable people and communities that need it most.  

    Australia does not provide any direct funding to the military regime and takes proactive steps to ensure our assistance does not legitimise the military regime in Myanmar. 

    In addition to today’s announcement, Australia welcomes the release of $17.8 million (US$12 million) to respond to the crisis in Myanmar from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). Australia is a longstanding donor to the CERF, contributing $11 million each year. 

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong: 

    “Australia is deeply concerned by the conflict in Myanmar.  

    “The people of Myanmar continue to demonstrate great resolve in the face of unspeakable violence and human rights abuses, and Australia remains resolute in our support for them. 

    “Australia reiterates our call for the regime to cease violence against civilians, release those unjustly detained, allow access for aid and return Myanmar to the path of inclusive democracy.” 

    Quotes attributable to Minister for International Development and The Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP: 

    “Australia’s support will help the most vulnerable in Myanmar including women, children and persons with disabilities access lifesaving humanitarian assistance.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Amherd visits Poland in the run-up to Polish presidency of the Council of the EU

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

    Bern, 14.10.2024 – President Viola Amherd will travel to Warsaw this week. During her visit, she will meet with Polish President Andrzej Duda on 17 October and also hold talks with the heads of Poland’s parliamentary chambers, Marshall of the Sejm Szymon Hołownia and Marshall of the Senate Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska. Poland will assume the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2025.

    With a view to Poland assuming the presidency of the Council of the EU at the beginning of 2025, talks during Ms Amherd’s visit will focus on bilateral relations between Switzerland and Poland, the security situation in Europe and the ongoing negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union. Other topics will include bilateral cooperation on the second Swiss contribution to selected EU member states. With overall funding of CHF 320.1 million, Poland will be the largest beneficiary of the 15 countries receiving funding from the second Swiss contribution. This cooperation programme aims to reach socially disadvantaged regions while also supporting research and innovation at Polish universities.

    Switzerland and Poland maintain close political, economic and cultural ties. Poland is Switzerland’s most important Central European partner, with a trade volume of CHF 6 billion (2023, excluding gold) and Swiss direct investment of around CHF 6.4 billion (2022). Talks on education, research, innovation and migration have intensified between the two countries as well. Switzerland and Poland also work closely in multilateral contexts such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    Address for enquiries

    DDPS Communications
    +41 58 464 50 58
    kommunikation@gs-vbs.admin.ch

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports
    http://www.vbs.admin.ch

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK “It humanises politics” hear what members had to say about Learn with the Lords Day | House of Lords

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Members help students engage with the work of the House of Lords through our Learn with the Lords programme.

    Hear from Baroness Finlay of Llandaff, Lord Haskel, Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle and Baroness Fookes about why they take part in the programme and why they feel it’s important for young people to get involved with @UKParliament and democracy.

    Find out more about Learn with the Lords https://learning.parliament.uk/en/learn-with-the-lords/

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament #LearnWithTheLords #Education #Schools

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4LcHgnnciA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Pedagogical Start”: Intern Training Begins at Polytechnic University

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important task of the university’s personnel policy is the development and systematic implementation of fundamentally new tools and mechanisms for the professional development of the teaching staff. Starting from this academic year, the Polytechnic University Four career paths have been introduced: teacher-researcher, teacher-mentor, teacher-practitioner and intern.

    Last week, the training of interns under the Pedagogical Start program began. 75 young specialists began studying the basics of pedagogical activity and teaching methods with subsequent practice. The interns included final-year students and postgraduates who have been working at the university since the beginning of this academic year as educational and auxiliary or engineering personnel. The allocation and financing of full-time positions for interns is carried out from the university’s centralized fund. Each intern is assigned a mentor – an experienced teacher.

    At the organizational meeting with interns and their mentors, the Vice-Rector for Educational Activities, Chairperson of the Selection Committee of the Faculty of the Faculty, Lyudmila Pankova, spoke about the specifics and features of training interns.

    Formation of the career trajectory of interns is aimed at creating additional conditions for attracting, retaining and developing young promising specialists with high potential at our university. Through planned training of interns through the system of training and mentoring, in a year the university receives a formed young specialist, ready for teaching and research activities, possessing pedagogical experience and planning his professional development at the university, – noted Lyudmila Vladimirovna.

    During this academic year, interns will undergo a special professional retraining program and enter the classroom with their mentors. Interns will also undergo an assessment of universal competencies on the presidential platform of the ANO “Russia – Country of Opportunities”.

    The retraining program “Pedagogical Start” includes several thematic modules devoted to the history and development trends of higher education, regulatory framework for educational activities, psychological and pedagogical training, visualization technologies, design of educational resources in a digital educational environment, rhetoric, as well as practices of using artificial intelligence as a teaching tool.

    An important element of the training program for interns is their internship, which includes attending classes with leading teachers of the structural unit where the intern works, developing and conducting practical classes with subsequent discussion of the results with their mentor, and creating an electronic educational resource for their course.

    The modules of the “Pedagogical Start” program are designed so that interns can quickly integrate into the Polytechnic’s teaching community. For example, the first classes include an introduction to the history of our university and a visit to the museum, and the basics of public speaking will be mastered using a specialized VR complex, explained Elena Zima, head of the retraining program and director of the Education Quality Center.

    In the second part of the organizational meeting, representatives of the PPS competition committee discussed topics of interest to interns, their mentors and those responsible for the implementation of personnel policy at the institutes. The employment procedure was covered by the Head of the Personnel Department Maria Pakhomova. Secretary of the PPS competition committee Olga Kalinina answered questions regarding the specifics of the entry conditions and the planned results of the intern’s career trajectory.

    After the organizational meeting, Lyudmila Pankova gave the interns the first lecture under the retraining program on the topic of “Modern trends in education.”

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/education/pedagogical-start-at-the-polytechnic-training-trainees-has begun/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Minister Anandasangaree on the Introduction of legislation to establish a new Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, issued the following statement today to mark the introduction of legislation to establish a new Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation

    Ottawa, Ontario, Unceded Algonquin Traditional Territory (October 10, 2024)

    The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, issued the following statement today to mark the introduction of legislation to establish a new Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation:

    “For decades, Indigenous partners have called for an independent oversight body to hold the federal government accountable for its Modern Treaty commitments. Today represents a significant milestone in this shared journey toward reconciliation. We have introduced legislation to establish a Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation as an independent Agent of Parliament. This follows an extensive co-development process between Canada and Indigenous Modern Treaty partners. Focusing exclusively on Modern Treaties, the Commissioner will ensure the federal government is held accountable, will identify areas where the government can improve and ultimately make us be better Treaty partners.

    In developing Bill C-77, we engaged with over 130 groups, including Indigenous Modern Treaty partners, Indigenous groups negotiating Modern Treaties, Self-Government Arrangement holders, Sectoral Agreement holders, National Indigenous Organizations, and colleagues in provincial and territorial governments. I thank Indigenous Modern Treaty partners across the country for their tireless advocacy and collaboration in developing this legislation.

    Reconciliation requires lasting trust, transparency, and accountability which means honouring the commitments we have made. Establishing a Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation will serve as an additional support and safeguard.

    The establishment of the Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation contributes to the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and advances Measure 9 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan by co-developing a Modern Treaty oversight mechanism.

    The introduction of this legislation marks important progress toward ensuring lasting accountability and fairness for Indigenous Peoples. The creation of a new Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation as an Agent of Parliament signifies a transformational shift toward a future where partners can be assured Canada will fulfill all Modern Treaty commitments and responsibilities, holding the government accountable to that standard in the legislature.”

    Related products

    Greg Frame
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree
    Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
    gregory.frame@rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca

    You can subscribe to receive our news releases and speeches via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit http://www.cirnac.gc.ca/RSS.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada announces projects to protect and empower Canadian consumers

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 10, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Canadian consumers require strong consumer advocacy groups to represent their interests.

    Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced four projects that will support efforts to ensure Canadians make informed purchases. Through the Canadian Consumer Protection Initiative, formerly the Contributions Program for Non-profit Consumer and Voluntary Organizations, the government announced more than $900,000 in funding over the next two years.

    The funded projects cover a variety of affordability-related topics with a focus on challenges in the retail sector, and important issues like barriers to competition in the grocery sector.

    These efforts align with the Government’s goal to enhance affordability, transparency and support for consumers so they can make informed choices.  

    Quotes

    “The input and experience of strong consumer advocacy groups are essential to informing our continued efforts to make life more affordable for Canadians and to ensure that the interests of consumers are impartially represented. That’s why we have made it a priority to fund timely, independent research that will help inform consumer protection policy in Canada.”

    – The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

    Quick facts

    • The Canadian Consumer Protection Initiative has an annual budget of $5 million for the next five years. 

    • ISED’s Office of Consumer Affairs manages this program on behalf of the Government.

    • Funding available through the Initiative helps Canadian consumer organizations produce high quality, independent and timely research on consumer issues, as well as strengthen capacity building for consumer organizations to help fulfil their mandates.

    Contacts

    Audrey Milette
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
    audrey.milette@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada 
    media@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Find more services and information at Canada.ca/ISED.

    Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on social media.
    Twitter: @ISED_CA, Facebook: Canadian Innovation, Instagram: @cdninnovation and LinkedIn

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Vice President Kamala  Harris on the Passing of Former U.S. Senator Tim  Johnson

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Senator Tim Johnson was a tenacious fighter for the people of South Dakota. Throughout his career—as a member of the South Dakota legislature, as the state’s sole representative in the U.S. House of Representatives, and as a U.S. Senator—he brokered compromise and advanced commonsense solutions that improved the lives of South Dakotans and all Americans. Senator Johnson secured support for critical water infrastructure that delivered clean water to communities across South Dakota, including Native reservations and rural communities across the state. He played a vital role in passing the Affordable Care Act, which delivered high-quality, affordable health care to millions of Americans, including tens of thousands of South Dakotans. And as Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, he championed community banks and housing finance reforms to help ensure that rural communities across the nation have the support they need to access safe and affordable housing. His life and legacy will be felt by generations of South Dakotans and all Americans to come. Doug and I send our prayers to his wife, Barbara, and the entire Johnson family. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rhode Island Gets $1.6 Million Small Businesses Opportunity Grant

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    Federal grant will support the state-administered RI Rebounds Technical Assistance Program

    PROVIDENCE, RI – U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo announced $1,600,000 in competitive grant funding for the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation to better support small businesses in the construction, transportation, and renewable energy industries through the RI Rebounds Technical Assistance Program. Administered through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Investing in America Small Business Opportunity Program (SBOP) that was reauthorized and expanded by the American Rescue Plan Act, this award will assist underserved and very small businesses in Rhode Island. 

    Rhode Island’s application for this $1.6 million SSBCI grant was chosen from a share of $75 million in federal funding nationwide to provide critical technical assistance to small businesses and entrepreneurs – helping these small companies access financing opportunities.

    This latest grant comes on top of the $61.7 million in federal SSBCI funding Reed and Whitehouse secured last year to promote small business growth and entrepreneurship across the Ocean State.

    “I helped pass the American Rescue Plan Act to deliver pandemic relief to help small businesses stay afloat, recover and grow, and position themselves for long-term success.  This latest round of federal funding will help connect more small businesses with access to capital and other tools to compete, grow, and strengthen Main Street businesses in communities across the state,” said Senator Jack Reed.

    “Our delegation is dedicated to helping Rhode Island’s entrepreneurs create well-paying jobs,” said Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. “This federal investment – made possible by the American Rescue Plan – will provide technical support to small businesses with the goal of growing the local economy.”

    “Behind every small business is an entrepreneur who had the courage to turn their dreams into reality, and we need to keep that spirit alive in Rhode Island,” said Representative Seth Magaziner. “This federal funding will help small businesses receive the technical assistance they need to create good jobs and opportunities for working Rhode Islanders.”

    “After working to help implement President Joe Biden’s American Rescue Plan and its critical provisions that support small businesses, I’m glad to build upon this effort as a member of the Rhode Island’s congressional delegation,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “Growing a business is never easy, but with this federal funding for Rhode Island Commerce, we’re helping to bring down barriers so that every entrepreneur with a vision and a dream can compete on a level playing field.” 

    “This funding will provide critical technical assistance services to ensure even our state’s smallest entrepreneurs have the resources they need to grow and thrive” said Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce Liz Tanner. “I thank our state’s Congressional delegation and the Biden Administration for their continued support of our small businesses.”

    BACKGROUND

    Signed into law in 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act reauthorized and expanded SSBCI, which provides nearly $10 billion to support small businesses and help them the access the capital they need to invest in job-creating opportunities. SSBCI provides funds to states, the District of Columbia, territories, and Tribal governments to promote entrepreneurship, support small business ownership, and democratize access to capital across the country, including in underserved communities.

    Earlier this year, the Department of Treasury announced that Rhode Island was approved to use $773,624 in SSBCI allocation formula-based technical assistance grant funding to support RI Commerce in providing legal, accounting, and financial advisory services to underserved and very small businesses preparing to apply for support from state and/or federal small business programs, including connecting companies directly with the state’s SSBCI-supported capital programs.

    A fact sheet summarizing the funding that Rhode Island and 13 other states received can be found HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Donalds Partners With Federal, State, And Local Leaders To Streamline Hurricane Milton Preparation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL)

    Donalds Partners With Federal, State, And Local Leaders To Streamline Hurricane Milton Preparation

    Naples, Fla., October 8, 2024

    NAPLES, Fla. – Today, Congressman Byron Donalds joined Senator Rick Scott (R-FL), State Representative Jenna Persons-Mulicka (R-FL), and other local leaders from across Southwest Florida at the Lee County Emergency Operations Center.

    Together, the lawmakers were briefed ahead of Hurricane Milton’s projected landfall tomorrow on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno, additional members of local law enforcement, and local emergency management officials presented local plans of action to the lawmakers.

    The Office of Congressman Byron Donalds is closely monitoring Hurricane Milton and is actively coordinating storm preparations alongside federal, state, and local partners. The Congressman and his team stand ready to support our Southwest Florida community and ensure all necessary resources are available.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ashcroft Participates in Security Summit – Vows to Maintain Election Integrity in Missouri

    Source: US State of Missouri

    For immediate release:                 October 10, 2024

    Contact:                                         JoDonn Chaney, Communications Director

                                                            (573) 526-0949

    Jefferson City, Mo. — Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft returned yesterday from a two-day election security summit in Omaha, NE, put on by the National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology and Education Center (NCITE) headquartered at the University of Nebraska.

    Ashcroft and four other secretaries of state, Nebraska’s Bob Evnen, Iowa’s Paul Pate, Kansas’ Scott Schwab, and South Dakota’s Monae Johnson, met together to discuss election and cybersecurity issues in preparation for the upcoming November election.

    “We run elections for the people of the states; we run elections for our government because it is how ‘we the people’ decide that our Republic will move forward,” Ashcroft said. “No matter who wins or loses, or which issues pass or fail, at the end of the day, the American people can rest assured knowing that they were a part of the decision process and that their votes counted and that the votes made a difference.”

    The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) presented information to the secretaries as several states, including Missouri, have received threats and “suspicious packages” of recent. The federal agency provides election officials with security assessments and scenarios to help prepare for a variety of possibilities that could including ransomware, physical threats – including de-escalation and anti-active shooter incidents, and threats from foreign adversaries (such as Russia, Iran and China). 

    “It was good to come together in person; to share ideas,” Ashcroft said. “It is our job as the chief election official in our respective states to make sure elections are safe, secure and accurate for everyone participating in the process.”

    Missouri has 116 local election authorities who work to make sure elections run smoothly across the state. Election information, as well as ballot issues, can be found at GoVoteMissouri.com.

    —30—

    Visit http://www.sos.mo.gov to learn more about the Office of the Missouri Secretary of State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Behavioral Health Resources Available for People Impacted by Hurricane Helene

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Behavioral Health Resources Available for People Impacted by Hurricane Helene

    Behavioral Health Resources Available for People Impacted by Hurricane Helene
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    Whether directly or indirectly, millions of people in North Carolina have been impacted by Hurricane Helene. Natural disasters are traumatic for individuals, families and communities, and there is no right or wrong way to feel. After a hurricane, it’s even more important to get mental health support if you believe you or a loved one may need help, and to stay in contact with family and friends as soon as your access to communications is restored. 

    “You are not alone, there is always someone to call and someone to respond if you need help with your mental or behavioral health,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. “Hurricane Helene brought catastrophic damage that will be felt immediately and for weeks, months and years to come. We are committed to helping those who are impacted right now, and for the long haul.”

    The following resources are always available if you or a loved one need help immediately:

    • The national Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year resource dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people impacted by a natural disaster or emergency. Help is available in English and Spanish. Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL callers can call or text through their preferred Relay provider.
    • Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org. The person who answers your call is a trained counselor and can provide immediate support.
    • The statewide Peer Warmline, 1-855-PEERS NC (855-733-7762), is staffed 24/7 by Peer Support Specialists who offer non-clinical support and resources to those in crisis. Peers are people living in recovery with mental illness and/or substance use disorder who provide support through the lens of personal lived experience.
    • For first responders and volunteers, it’s important to take care of yourself while you take care of others. For stress, emotional fatigue, a mental health crisis or just someone to talk to, call Hope4NC Helpline at 1-855-587-3463 for free, confidential, 24/7 support.
    • The Disability Disaster Hotline, 800-626-4959, provides information, referrals and guidance to people with disabilities and their families during disasters. Help is available 24/7.
    • People who are uninsured or have Medicaid can also call the crisis line of the Local Management Entity/Managed Care Organization in their region:
      • Partners: 1-833-353-2093 (serves western region)
      • Vaya Health: 1-800-849-6127 (serves western region)
      • Alliance: 1-877-223-4617
      • Trillium: 1-888-302-0738

    There are also resources available for people impacted by Hurricane Helene who are experiencing a crisis and need a safe place for care, as well as those have a mental health diagnosis or substance use disorder.

    Mental Health Crisis Care
    Community Crisis centers (facility-based crisis) are starting to re-open. Community Crisis & Detox Centers open as of Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024:

    • The Balsam Center, Haywood County – Open
    • Foothills Regional Treatment Center, Caldwell County – Open
    • Neil Dobbins Center and C3356 BHUC, Buncombe County – Closed
    • Caiyalynn Burrell Child Crisis Center, Buncombe County – Closed
    • Synergy Recovery, Wilkes County – Open

    Walk-in Clinics 
    People can walk into a clinic for mental health or substance use care the same way urgent care clinics help people with immediate physical health needs.  Walk-in Mental Health centers are open in more than two dozen counties that may have been impacted by Hurricane Helene.  You can view a list of walk-in clinics that are open here: Hurricane Recovery Resources – Vaya Health.

    Mobile Crisis Response
    Mobile Crisis teams are operating throughout the disaster area. Mobile Crisis teams can send trained clinicians to a home, community, or shelter to respond to an urgent need.  To get connected with a mobile crisis team, you can call Vaya Health at 1-800-849-6127 and they will respond to you as soon as possible depending on your location.

    For the most up to date info on Behavioral Health resources in the area, please reach out to Vaya Health’s Behavioral Health Crisis Line at 1-800-849-6127.

    Opioid Treatment Available 
    All Opioid Treatment Programs in the storm-impacted region are currently open. If you need to find a program, there is a real-time map with location, contact information and hours of operation available at thecentralregistry.com/map. Programs are working with emergency shelters, and all shelters have overdose rescue medications on-hand to provide emergency assistance to shelter residents if needed.

    Behavioral Health Shelter Support
    Most emergency shelters also have a behavioral health clinician and mental health services available onsite to support people currently residing in the shelter until they are able to return home or secure temporary housing. If additional supports, are needed, shelter staff can reach out to Vaya Health at 1-800-849-6127.

    Connections App
    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is using the Connections App to make evidence-based support for mental health and substance use recovery available to anyone in Western North Carolina. It is free and confidential. Enroll at signup.connectionsapp.com to receive services like 24/7 peer support, virtual meetings and access to an online community of people in recovery from substance use. Whether you’re in treatment, have a provider, or are seeking support for the first time, the Connections App can help support you. Watch a short video to learn more.

    Access to Medication
    For people who take regular medications for anxiety, depression, or any other mental health needs, it is important to maintain your regular medication schedule as much as possible. With some exceptions, the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program enables pharmacists to dispense a one-time emergency supply of up to 90 days of a prescribed medication when they are unable to reach the prescribing medical provider, and a one-time emergency refill of up to a 30-day supply.

    Visit www.ncbop.org/emergencyoperatingpharmacieshelene to locate a pharmacy that is open and operating in Western North Carolina.

    Medicaid Flexibilities
    Temporary flexibilities for people on NC Medicaid are in place to make it easier for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injury to continue to receive services and avoid care disruptions related to the hurricane. Detailed information on these flexibilities and all the services they cover can be found in the Oct. 4 press release, Additional Temporary Flexibilities in Place for Medicaid Beneficiaries Due to Hurricane Helene Devastation.

    NCDHHS will continue to work with local, state and federal partners to ensure the people and families in communities impacted by Hurricane Helene have access to both the physical and mental health services they need to recover from the storm.

    Whether people need help right away after the hurricane, or later on as recovery continues, it’s never too early or too late to ask for support. Please reach out as help is always available to those who need it.

    a sea directa o indirectamente, millones de personas en Carolina del Norte se han visto afectadas por el huracán Helene. Los desastres naturales son traumáticos para las personas, las familias y las comunidades, y no hay una forma correcta o incorrecta de sentirse. Después de un huracán, es aún más importante obtener apoyo de salud mental si cree que usted o un ser querido pueden necesitar ayuda, y mantenerse en contacto con familiares y amigos tan pronto como se restablezca su acceso a las comunicaciones.

    “No está solo, siempre hay alguien a quien llamar y alguien que responda si necesita ayuda con su salud mental o conductual”, dijo el secretario de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, Kody H. Kinsley. “El huracán Helene trajo daños catastróficos que se sentirán de inmediato y durante semanas, meses y años. Estamos comprometidos a ayudar a aquellos que se ven afectados en este momento y a largo plazo “.  

    Los siguientes recursos siempre están disponibles si usted o un ser querido necesitan ayuda de inmediato:

    • La Línea Nacional de Ayuda para los Afectados por Catástrofes, 1-800-985-5990, es un recurso disponible las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana, los 365 días del año, dedicado a brindar asesoramiento inmediato en caso de crisis a las personas afectadas por un desastre natural o una emergencia. La ayuda está disponible en inglés y español. Los sordos y personas con problemas de audición, o que usan el lenguaje de señas estadounidense (ASL, por sus siglas en inglés) pueden llamar o enviar mensajes de texto a través de su proveedor de retransmisión/relé preferido.
    • La ayuda también está disponible para cualquier persona, en cualquier momento en inglés o español a través de una llamada, mensaje de texto o chat al 988. Más información en Linea988.org/es. La persona que responde a su llamada es un consejero capacitado y puede brindarle apoyo inmediato.
    • La línea estatal de ayuda entre pares, Peer Warmline, 1-855-PEERS NC (855-733-7762), cuenta con especialistas en apoyo entre pares las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana, que ofrecen apoyo y recursos no clínicos a las personas en crisis. Los pares son personas que viven en recuperación con enfermedad mental y/o trastorno por uso de sustancias que brindan apoyo a través de la perspectiva de sus propias experiencias vividas.
    • Para los miembros de equipos de rescate inmediato y los voluntarios, es importante cuidarse a sí mismo mientras cuida a los demás. Para el estrés, la fatiga emocional, una crisis de salud mental o simplemente alguien con quien hablar, llame a la Línea de Ayuda Hope4NC al 1-855-587-3463 para obtener asistencia gratuita y confidencial las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana.
    • La Línea Directa de Desastres para Discapacitados (Disability Disaster Hotline), 800-626-4959, proporciona información, referencias y orientación a las personas con discapacidades y sus familias durante los desastres. Hay ayuda disponible en cualquier día a cualquier hora.
    • Las personas que no tienen seguro o tienen Medicaid también pueden llamar a la línea de crisis de la Entidad de Gestión Local/Organización de Atención Administrada en su región:
      • Partners: 1-833-353-2093 (sirve a la región del oeste)
      • Vaya Health: 1-800-849-6127 (sirve a la región del oeste)
      • Alliance: 1-877-223-4617
      • Trillium: 1-888-302-0738

    También hay recursos disponibles para las personas afectadas por el huracán Helene que están experimentando una crisis y necesitan un lugar seguro para recibir atención, así como para aquellas que tienen un diagnóstico de salud mental o un trastorno por uso de sustancias.

    Crisis de salud mental
    Los Centros Comunitarios de Crisis (crisis en instalaciones) están comenzando a reabrir. Los Centros Comunitarios de Crisis y Desintoxicación abren a partir del jueves, 10 de octubre de 2024:

    • El Centro Balsam (The Balsam Center), condado de Haywood – Abierto
    • Centro de Tratamiento Regional de Foothills (Foothills Regional Treatment Center) , condado de Caldwell – Abierto
    • Centro Neil Dobbins (Neil Dobbins Center) y el Centro de atención urgente de salud mental C3356 (C3356 BHUC), condado de Buncombe – Cerrado
    • Centro de Crisis Infantil Caiyalynn Burrell (Caiyalynn Burrell Child Crisis Center), condado de Buncombe – Cerrado
    • Centro de recuperación Synergy (Synergy Recovery), condado de Wilkes – Abierto

    Clínicas ambulatorias que no requieren cita previa 
    Las personas pueden ingresar a una clínica para recibir atención de salud mental o por uso de sustancias de la misma manera que las clínicas de atención de urgencia ayudan a las personas con necesidades inmediatas de salud física. Los centros de salud mental sin cita previa están abiertos en más de dos docenas de condados que pueden haber sido afectados por el huracán Helene. Puede ver una lista de clínicas ambulatorias en las que no necesita cita previa y que están abiertas aquí: Recursos de Recuperación del Huracán – Vaya Health.

    Servicios móviles de respuesta ante crisis
    Los equipos de servicios móviles de respuesta ante crisis están operando en toda la zona del desastre. Los equipos móviles de respuesta ante crisis pueden enviar médicos capacitados a un hogar, comunidad o refugio para responder a una necesidad urgente. Para ponerse en contacto con un equipo móvil de respuesta ante crisis, puede llamar a Vaya Health al 1-800-849-6127 y le responderán lo antes posible dependiendo de su ubicación.

    Para obtener la información más actualizada sobre los recursos de salud conductual en el área, comuníquese con la Línea de Crisis de Salud Conductual de Vaya Health al 1-800-849-6127.

    Tratamiento contra opioides disponible
    Todos los programas de tratamiento contra opioides en la región afectada por la tormenta están actualmente abiertos. Si necesita encontrar un programa, hay un mapa en tiempo real con ubicación, información de contacto y horarios disponibles en thecentralregistry.com/map. Los programas están trabajando con refugios de emergencia, y todos los refugios tienen medicamentos de rescate para sobredosis disponibles para brindar asistencia de emergencia a los residentes del refugio si es necesario.

    Apoyos de salud conductual para refugios
    La mayoría de los refugios de emergencia también tienen un médico de salud conductual y servicios de salud mental disponibles en el lugar para apoyar a las personas que actualmente residen en el refugio hasta que puedan regresar a casa u obtener una vivienda temporal. Si se necesita apoyos adicionales, el personal del refugio puede comunicarse con Vaya Health al 1-800-849-6127.

    Aplicación Connections
    El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte está utilizando la aplicación Connections para poner a disposición de cualquier persona en el oeste de Carolina del Norte el apoyo basado en la evidencia para la recuperación de la salud mental y el uso de sustancias. Es gratuito y confidencial. Inscríbase en signup.connectionsapp.com para recibir servicios como apoyo entre pares las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana, reuniones virtuales y acceso a una comunidad en línea de personas en recuperación del uso de sustancias. Ya sea que esté en tratamiento, tenga un proveedor o esté buscando ayuda por primera vez, la aplicación Connections puede ayudarlo. Mire un vídeo corto para obtener más información. 

    Acceso a medicamentos
    Para las personas que toman medicamentos regulares para la ansiedad, la depresión o cualquier otra necesidad de salud mental, es importante mantener su horario regular de medicamentos tanto como sea posible. Con algunas excepciones, el Programa de Asistencia de Recetas de Emergencia permite a los farmacéuticos dispensar un suministro de emergencia único de hasta 90 días de un medicamento recetado cuando no pueden comunicarse con el proveedor médico que lo prescribe, y una recarga de emergencia única de un suministro de hasta 30 días. Visite http://www.ncbop.org/emergencyoperatingpharmacieshelene para localizar una farmacia abierta y en funcionamiento en el oeste de Carolina del Norte.

    Flexibilidades de Medicaid
    Existen flexibilidades temporales para las personas con Medicaid de Carolina del Norte para facilitar que las personas con discapacidades intelectuales y del desarrollo y lesiones cerebrales traumáticas continúen recibiendo servicios y eviten interrupciones en la atención relacionadas con el huracán. La información detallada sobre estas flexibilidades y todos los servicios que cubren se puede encontrar en el comunicado de prensa del 4 de octubre, Flexibilidades temporales adicionales para los beneficiarios de Medicaid debido a la devastación del huracán Helene.

    El Departamento de Salud Y servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte continuará trabajando con socios locales, estatales y federales para garantizar que las personas y familias en las comunidades afectadas por el huracán Helene tengan acceso a los servicios de salud física y mental que necesitan para recuperarse de la tormenta.

    Ya sea que las personas necesiten ayuda inmediatamente después del huracán o más tarde a medida que continúa la recuperación, nunca es demasiado pronto o demasiado tarde para pedir ayuda. Póngase en contacto con nosotros, ya que siempre hay ayuda disponible para quienes la necesiten.

    Oct 10, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS Urges Well and Septic Safety Following Hurricane Helene

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS Urges Well and Septic Safety Following Hurricane Helene

    NCDHHS Urges Well and Septic Safety Following Hurricane Helene
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    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is urging western North Carolinians who rely on a private well for their drinking water and were impacted by Hurricane Helene to continue to use bottled, boiled or treated water until private wells can be disinfected and tested for dangerous bacteria. Safety measures and precautions are also needed for septic systems that have been impacted by the storm before returning to use.

    More than 300,000 people in or near flood-impacted areas in western North Carolina are estimated to rely on private wells, and the number on septic systems is estimated to be slightly higher. People in flood and storm-impacted areas should have their private wells and septic systems inspected and repaired if damaged. Wells should be disinfected and tested after repairs to ensure water safety, while septic systems should be inspected to confirm they are functioning properly. These steps are essential to help keep individuals and their families safe following the storm.

    North Carolinians who lost access to water or septic through a private well or damaged septic system as a result of Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA assistance. Visit disasterassistance.gov or call 800-621-3362 to apply for FEMA disaster assistance and learn about other resources available to help you and your family recover from the storm.

    Safety Measures for Private Wells
    Excessive rain and flooding can cause water in private wells to become contaminated, meaning the water can make people sick if it is consumed. People with medical conditions can be particularly susceptible to severe illness or even death related to dangerous bacteria from contaminated wells.

    After a flood, your private well must be assessed for damage, disinfected and tested. It is critical that people do not drink or use water from a private well that has been damaged or flooded until it has been properly disinfected and tested after the storm. Potentially contaminated water should not be used for drinking, washing and preparing food, making ice, preparing baby formula, washing dishes, brushing teeth or washing hands. Use an alternative water source until testing confirms contamination is no longer detected in your water. Alternative sources include bottled water, a source you know isn’t contaminated or boiling your water for at least one minute before use.

    Follow these steps to assess your well:

    • Wait to turn on electricity. Do not turn on the electricity to your pump until flood waters recede.
    • Check your well for damage. If your well is damaged, contact a licensed well driller for assistance. You can search for well contractors in your county at Find Certified Well Contractors.
    • Disinfect your well. If you are able to determine your well is not damaged, and you already have the necessary disinfection materials on-hand, you can disinfect your well to prepare it to be tested. Use the NCDHHS instructions on How to Disinfect Your Well After a Flood for assistance.
      • If you do not have disinfectant supplies or have questions about disinfecting your well, contact your local health department for assistance.
    • Test your well. Because you cannot see, taste or smell bacterial contamination in your well, it is imperative to have the water tested after disinfection to determine whether it is safe for use. 
      • The North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health provides free testing available through local health departments. 
      • If you live near animal feeding operations, agricultural fields where pesticides are applied or industrial chemical factories, you should talk with your local health department about additional testing, especially if you smell fuel or chemicals in your water.
    • Interpret your results. Your local health department or testing lab will provide the water testing results back to the well owner as quickly as possible. If you need help interpreting your results, you can use the online Be Well Informed tool (select North Carolina) or contact the NCDHHS Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch at 919-707-5900 or oeeb@dhhs.nc.gov.

    In response to Hurricane Helene, the NC State Laboratory of Public Health and NCDHHS Environmental Health Section are working to provide both disinfection and sampling kits at Point of Distribution locations across Western North Carolina. More details will be announced soon.

    Safety Measures for Septic Systems
    Your septic system can also pose a public health risk after a flood or storm because of sewage back up, dangerous gases or contaminated wastewater. It is important to keep your family, especially children and pets, away from areas affected by sewage or wastewater to reduce the risk of disease.

    If your property was affected by flooding or damage from Hurricane Helene, follow these steps to protect your septic system and your health:

    • If your property has been flooded, do not use the plumbing system while the septic tank is still under water.
    • Look for signs that your septic system may have been damaged, such as soil settling around the septic tank or drain field, septic system components that have moved or surfaced, or sewage backup into your home or wastewater on the ground.
    • Do not use your plumbing system if sewage water has backed up into your home and avoid contact with any sewage from a septic tank that is not operating.
    • Avoid putting floodwater or disinfectants into the system as these can cause further damage. Instead, contact your local health department if your system requires repairs.
    • Have your septic system inspected by a certified wastewater system inspector after a flood or if you suspect storm-related damage. You can call the NC Onsite Wastewater Contractors and Inspectors Certification Board at 336-202-3126 to find a certified inspector near you.
    • Before restoring power to the system, ensure your electrical and system components are working properly. Check the electrical system for any damage, clean the effluent filter or screen, and determine whether your septic tank needs to be pumped by a licensed professional before coming back online.
    • For assistance or additional information on repairing or constructing a septic tank system, contact your county health department.

    If your flood or storm-impacted septic system has caused sewage to back up into your home, take precautions while cleaning the area to avoid exposure or direct contact with the debris. Wear rubber gloves, boots, and eye protection while cleaning and disinfecting the area. See the NCDHHS after the flood flyer for additional information about safety measures to help keep yourself and your family safe when cleaning up after a flood. More Hurricane Helene resources are available at ncdhhs.gov/helene. 

    El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte recomienda a los habitantes del oeste de Carolina del Norte que dependen de un pozo privado para su agua potable y se vieron afectados por el huracán Helene a que continúen utilizando agua embotellada, hervida o tratada hasta que los pozos privados puedan desinfectarse y analizarse para detectar bacterias peligrosas. También se necesitan medidas de seguridad y precauciones para los sistemas sépticos afectados por la tormenta antes de volver a usarlos.

    Se estima que más de 300,000 personas en o cerca de las áreas afectadas por las inundaciones en el oeste de Carolina del Norte dependen de pozos privados, y se estima que el número de sistemas sépticos es un poco más alto. Las personas en áreas afectadas porinundaciones y tormentas deben inspeccionar sus pozos privados y sistemas sépticos y repararlos si están dañados. Los pozos deben desinfectarse y analizarse después de las reparaciones para garantizar la seguridad del agua, mientras que los sistemas sépticos deben inspeccionarse para confirmar que funcionan correctamente. Estos pasos son esenciales para ayudar a mantener a las personas y sus familias seguras después de la tormenta.

    Los habitantes de Carolina del Norte que perdieron el acceso al agua o al séptico a través de un pozo privado o un sistema séptico dañado debido al huracán Helene pueden ser elegibles para recibir asistencia de FEMA. Visite disasterassistance.gov o llame al 800-621-3362 para solicitar asistencia por desastre de FEMA y obtener información sobre otros recursos disponibles para ayudarlo a usted y a su familia a recuperarse debido a la tormenta.

    Medidas de seguridad para pozos privados
    El exceso de lluvia y las inundaciones pueden contaminar el agua de los pozos privados, lo que significa que el agua puede enfermar a las personas si se consume. Las personas con afecciones médicas pueden ser particularmente susceptibles a enfermedades graves o incluso a la muerte relacionadas con bacterias peligrosas de pozos contaminados.

    Después de una inundación, su pozo privado debe ser revisado por daños, desinfectado y analizado. Es sumamente importante que las personas no beban ni usen agua de un pozo privado que haya sido dañado o inundado hasta que haya sido desinfectado y analizadoadecuadamente después de la tormenta. Agua posiblemente contaminada no debe usarse para beber, lavar y preparar alimentos, hacer hielo, preparar fórmula para bebés, lavar platos, cepillarse los dientes o lavarse las manos. Utilice una fuente de agua alternativa hasta que los análisis confirmen que ya no se detecta contaminación en su agua. Las fuentes alternativas incluyen agua embotellada, una fuente que sabe que no está contaminada o hervir el agua durante al menos un minuto antes de su uso.

    Siga estos pasos para evaluar su pozo:

    • Espere para encender la electricidad. No encienda la electricidad de su bomba hasta que las aguas de la inundación retrocedan.
    • Revise su pozo en busca de daños. Si su pozo está dañado, comuníquese con un taladrador de pozos con licencia para obtener ayuda. Puede buscar contratistas de pozos en su condado en Encontrar contratistas de pozos certificados.
    • Desinfecte su pozo. Si puede determinar que su pozo no está dañado y ya tiene los materiales de desinfección necesarios a mano, puede desinfectar su pozo para prepararlo para el análisis. Use las instrucciones del NCDHHS sobre Cómo desinfectar su pozo después de una inundación para obtener ayuda.
      • Si no tiene suministros desinfectantes o tiene preguntas sobre la desinfección de su pozo, comuníquese con su departamento de salud local para obtener ayuda.
    • Realice un análisis de su pozo. Debido a que no puede ver, saborear u oler la contaminación bacteriana en su pozo, es importantísimo analizar el agua después de la desinfección para determinar si es segura para su uso.
      • El Laboratorio Estatal de Salud Pública de Carolina del Norte ofrece pruebas gratuitas disponibles a través de los departamentos de salud locales.
      • Si vive cerca de operaciones de alimentación de animales, campos agrícolas donde se aplican pesticidas o fábricas de productos químicos industriales, debe hablar con su departamento de salud local sobre pruebas adicionales, especialmente si huele a combustible o productos químicos en el agua.
    • Interprete sus resultados. Su departamento de salud local o laboratorio de pruebas proporcionará los resultados de las pruebas de agua al propietario del pozo lo más rápido posible. Si necesita ayuda para interpretar sus resultados, puede usar la herramienta en línea Be Well Informed (seleccione Carolina del Norte) o comuníquese con la Sección de Epidemiología Ocupacional y Ambiental de NCDHHS al 919-707-5900 ooeeb@dhhs.nc.gov.

    En respuesta al huracán Helene, el Laboratorio Estatal de Salud Pública de Carolina del Norte y la Sección de Salud Ambiental de NCDHHS están trabajando para proporcionar kits de desinfección y muestreo en los puntos de distribución en todo el oeste de Carolina del Norte. Más detalles se anunciarán pronto.

    Medidas de seguridad para sistemas sépticos
    Su sistema séptico también puede representar un riesgo para la salud pública después de una inundación o tormenta debido a la acumulación de aguas residuales, gases peligrosos o aguas residuales contaminadas. Es importante mantener a su familia, especialmente a los niños y las mascotas, alejados de las áreas afectadas por las aguas residuales para reducir el riesgo de enfermedades.
    Si su propiedad estuvo afectada por inundaciones o daños causados por el huracán Helene,siga estos pasos para proteger su sistema séptico y su salud:

    • Si su propiedad se ha inundado, no use el sistema de plomería mientras el tanque séptico todavía esté bajo el agua.
    • Busque señas de que su sistema séptico puede haberse dañado, como la tierra del suelo alrededor de la fosa séptica o del área de drenaje, componentes del sistema séptico que se han desplazado o han salido a la superficie, o la entrada de aguas residuales o del alcantarillado en su casa o en el suelo.
    • No use su sistema de plomería si las aguas residuales se han acumulado en su hogar y evite el contacto con las aguas residuales de un tanque séptico que no esté funcionando.
    • Evite poner agua de inundación o desinfectantes en el sistema, ya que pueden causar más daños. Mas bien, comuníquese con su departamento de salud local si su sistema requiere reparaciones.
    • Realice una inspección por un inspector certificado en sistema de aguas residuales después de una inundación o si sospecha daños relacionados con la tormenta. Puede llamar a la Junta de Certificación de Contratistas e Inspectores de Aguas Residuales en Sitio de NC al 336-202-3126 para encontrar un inspector certificado cerca de usted.
    • Antes de restaurar la energía al sistema, asegúrese de que los componentes eléctricos y del sistema funcionen correctamente. Revise el sistema eléctrico en busca de daños, limpie el filtro o pantalla de efluentes y determine si su tanque séptico debe ser bombeado por un profesional autorizado antes de volver a conectarse.
    • Para obtener ayuda o información adicional sobre la reparación o construcción de un sistema de tanque séptico, comuníquese con el departamento de salud de su condado.

    Si su sistema séptico afectado por inundaciones o tormentas ha causado que las aguas residuales entren en su hogar, tome precauciones mientras limpia el área para evitar la exposición o el contacto directo con los desechos. Use guantes de goma, botas y protección para los ojos mientras limpia y desinfecta el área. Consulte el volante después de la inundaciónde NCDHHS para obtener información adicional sobre las medidas de seguridad para mantenerse a si mismo y a su familia a salvo cuando limpie después de una inundación. Más recursos sobre el huracán Helene están disponibles en ncdhhs.gov/helene.

    Oct 10, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Gaza: “graveyard for tens of thousands of people” – UNRWA briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Security council briefing by Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Gaza: “widespread suffering persists, humanitarian situation worsens” – OCHA briefing | UN

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Security Council briefing by Lisa Doughten, Director, Financing and Partnerships Division, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), on the humanitarian situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, in both Gaza and the West Bank.
    —
    The past year has brought unimaginable suffering. It has been one year since the horrendous attack by Hamas and other armed groups in Israel. And rockets continue to be fired indiscriminately into Israel.
    Few times in recent history have we witnessed suffering and destruction of the size, scale, and scope that we see in Gaza. In the past year, this Council has been briefed repeatedly on the horror unfolding in Gaza, at least monthly on average.
    Once again, we find ourselves at a critical juncture. Unfortunately, much of what I am about to say mirrors what we reported a month ago. Widespread suffering persists while the humanitarian situation worsens.
    —
    Nearly every one of the more than 2 million people in Gaza receives some form of aid or service provision from UNRWA, along with nearly one million Palestine refugees in the West Bank. If approved, such legislation would be diametrically opposed to the UN Charter and in violation of Israel’s obligations under international law.
    —
    Evacuation orders are meant to protect civilians, but the exact opposite is happening. As we have said so many times, there is no safe place in Gaza.
    Three of the ten partially functional hospitals in the north have been ordered to evacuate all patients without providing alternatives for relocating them. We have not been able to get fuel to other hospitals in the north.
    There has been no electricity since October last year. Without electricity, or fuel for the generators, everything shuts down: medical facilities, water, sanitation, and other essential services.
    —
    Humanitarian partners report that women and children are hard-hit by the trauma of this war.
    Each day, according to UNRWA,10 children are losing one or both of their legs. Gaza is home to the largest cohort of child amputees in modern history. Women are three times more likely to miscarry, and three times more likely to die from childbirth.
    And, yet humanitarians are not giving up.
    —
    Urgent diplomatic efforts are needed to de-escalate the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and to prevent a wider regional descent into bloodshed.
    Member States must take steps to achieve an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a path towards sustainable peace.
    These atrocities must end.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0RLrTbCVHU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Promoting Mental Health at Workplace for UN personnel

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    UN personnel often work under incredibly challenging circumstances, especially in the deep field where the security situation is volatile and emergencies or critical incidents are the norm. On this #WorldMentalHealthDay, we celebrate all stress counsellors who promote #MentalHealthintheWorkplace.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFgv1qaeJos

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Project Expo

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

    USDA leadership, governmental and non-governmental partners will host an expo featuring Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities, a historic $3 billion investment in approximately 140 projects nationwide through which the U.S. Department of Agriculture is delivering on the promise of positioning American agriculture as a global leader in delivering voluntary, incentives-driven, market-based climate solutions.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBOrf8UXXEw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: $100 million to repair Helene-damaged roads and bridges in Western NC

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

    Our Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced the immediate availability of $100 million in Emergency Relief funds for the North Carolina Department of Transportation to help pay for the costs of immediate emergency work resulting from Hurricane Helene flood damage.

    FHWA Acting Administrator Kristin White traveled to North Carolina to join Gov. Roy Cooper to see recovery efforts underway after Hurricane Helene.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OAcZhpaQmo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Enforcement Impact at Our Borders – Press Conference | CBP

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

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner Troy A. Miller was in Nogales, Arizona, meeting with local CBP leadership and workforce from across Southern Arizona. While in Arizona, Mr. Miller hosted a media availability to discuss CBP’s enhanced enforcement efforts that are enhancing the safety and security of our communities.

    Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
    Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
    Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
    Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov

    #cbp
    #lawenforcement
    #bordersecurity

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LF8_XQMsHx0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Lebanon, Syria & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:

    – Lebanon
    – Lebanon/Humanitarian
    – Syria
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Secretary-General Travel
    – Deputy Secretary-General
    – Sudan
    – Central African Republic
    – Myanmar
    – Protection of children
    – World Mental Health Day
    – Guest today

    Lebanon
    The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) issued a statement this morning saying that two of its peacekeepers were injured after an IDF Merkava tank fired its weapon toward an observation tower at UNIFIL’s headquarters in Naqoura, directly hitting it and causing them to fall. The injuries are fortunately – this time – not serious, but the peacekeepers remain in hospital.
    In a separate incident, Israel Defense Force (IDF) soldiers also fired on UN position (UNP) 1-31 in Labbouneh, hitting the entrance to the bunker where peacekeepers were sheltering, and damaging vehicles and a communications system. An IDF drone was observed flying inside the UN position up to the bunker entrance.
    Also, UNIFIL says that, yesterday, IDF soldiers deliberately fired at and disabled the position’s perimeter-monitoring cameras. They also deliberately fired on UNP 1-32A in Ras Naqoura – where regular Tripartite meetings were held before the conflict began. Lights and a relay station were damaged.
    UNIFIL reminds the IDF and all parties of their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property and to respect the inviolability of UN premises at all times. UNIFIL peacekeepers are present in south Lebanon to support a return to stability under a Security Council mandate. Any deliberate attack on peacekeepers is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and of Security Council Resolution 1701. Our peacekeepers are following up with the IDF on these matters.
    This comes as the recent escalation along the Blue Line is causing widespread destruction of towns and villages in south Lebanon, while rockets continue to be launched towards Israel, including civilian areas.
    In the past days, our peacekeepers say incursions from Israel into Lebanon were seen in Naqoura and other areas. IDF soldiers have clashed with Hizbullah elements on the ground in Lebanon.
    Later this afternoon, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, and the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, will brief Security Council members on the situation in Lebanon. That meeting will be followed by consultations.

    Lebanon/Humanitarian
    The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that despite the challenges and a tense security situation, humanitarian organizations continue to deliver aid in coordination with national and local authorities.
    Today, a joint mission comprising UN and NGO partners delivered 12 trucks of aid to the towns of Rmeish, Ain Ebel, and Debel in the south of the country. The supplies included food, water, hygiene kits and will support more than 4,000 people. This was the first mission there since July 2024.
    UNICEF has also delivered 33 tons of medical supplies to the Ministry of Public Health, including emergency health kits to ensure safe deliveries for pregnant women, as well as essential medicine.
    To maintain these efforts, additional funding is urgently needed. While commitments are appreciated, immediate contributions to the $426 million Flash Appeal – which is 12 per cent funded – are vital to continue the response.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=10%20October%202024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgwELSf4zrQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Jitendra Singh Calls for Synergy in Science Ministries to Maximize Impact

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Calls for Synergy in Science Ministries to Maximize Impact

    Minister Urges Quick Implementation of Key Projects, Focus on Engaging Youth through Social Media

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 5:53PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, MoS (I/C) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh today chaired a joint meeting of senior officials from all Science Ministries and Departments.

    The Minister reviewed the progress of ongoing projects and budget utilization, emphasising synergy and breaking down silos to enhance coordination and efficiency.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the need for timely and optimal use of budgetary resources, urging officials from key departments, including the Department of Science & Technology, Department of Biotechnology, ISRO, CSIR/DSIR, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Department of Space and the Department of Atomic Energy to accelerate their work on several projects announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

    The Minister also reviewed the status of projects announced during the Budget this year and the Budget over the last decade. He also took up follow up discussion on Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).

    In line with the government’s focus on transparency and citizen engagement, Dr. Jitendra Singh called on senior officials to leverage social media platforms more actively. “Our presence must be felt on social media, particularly to engage with the younger generation,” the Minister stated, highlighting the importance of effective communication to showcase India’s scientific progress.

    The meeting is part of Dr. Jitendra Singh’s ongoing efforts to create synergy among the various science departments, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and that projects are delivered on time. He also took stock of the projects highlighted in the PRAGATI platform and directed officials to fast-track their completion.

    The Minister’s strong focus on accountability, efficiency, and outreach underscores the government’s commitment to driving India’s scientific and technological progress.

    Dr Jitendra Singh also shared the Mantra of sustainable ecosystem based on pooling of knowledge and resources in collaboration with the non-governmental sectors in PPP mode.

    The Minister highlighted the importance of early industry linkage and multiplication of benefits for common people when initiatives like these achieve scale and volume. He also assured that all the departments under ministry will act in coordination to achieve the common objective.

    The department also sought his guidance of further integration and improvement of the portal to become a single nodal joint for all scientific departments.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh reviewed the present status of ‘One common portal’ for all kinds of scientific research.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Rural Development & National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj to organize SARAS Ajeevika Mela in Gurugram from 13th October to 29th October 2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Rural Development & National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj to organize SARAS Ajeevika Mela in Gurugram from 13th October to 29th October 2024

    More than 900 rural women artisans from around 30 states will participate in the SARAS Mela

    SARAS Mela will also have a learning pavilion and knowledge sharing pavilion specifically for capacity building of women self-help groups

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 6:04PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Rural Development and National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) is organizing the SARAS Ajeevika Mela for the third consecutive year from 13th October to 29th October 2024 at Leisure Valley Ground in Sector 29, Gurugram. More than 900 rural women artisans from around 30 states are participating in the SARAS Mela. The fair will showcase products from different states such as Tussar sarees, Bagh prints, Patola sarees from Gujarat, Katha sarees from West Bengal, Rajasthani prints, Chanderi sarees from Madhya Pradesh, woolen products and natural food products from Himachal-Uttarakhand, wooden products from Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, various dry fruits and handloom products from Jammu and Kashmir, Palash products and natural food from Jharkhand along with different  varieties of products from rural culture across India will be on display at the fair.

    In the fair, self help group’s Didis will be provided with knowledge about Various Ministries of the Government (various departments of Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Rural Development, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Textiles etc.) through special capacity building of women self help groups learning pavilion and knowledge sharing pavilion. Under various ministries’ schemes, the Didi’s of the self help groups will be connected and informed about various means of livelihood and various training programs will also be organized for their skill development.

    Apart from this, a SARAS Food Court will also be set up in Gurugram SARAS Mela featuring 50 live food stalls from about 25 states. There will be dishes from all over India including Rajasthani Kair Sangri-Gatta ki Sabzi, Bengal’s Fish Curry, Telangana Chicken, Bihar’s Litti Chokha, Punjab’s Sarso Ka Saag and Makki Ki Roti. Cultural programs will be organized every day in the fair and arrangements have also been made for a kid’s zone for children’s sports and entertainment. Lakhs of visitors and customers from the national capital region including Delhi-Gurugram will participate in the fair. All arrangements are being made keeping in mind the convenience of the visitors. Keeping transparency in mind, arrangements have been made for online registration/nomination of self-help groups in this SARAS Aajeevika Mela. B.C. Sakhi and journalist sisters from Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh will also participate in the fair.

    This time, a North-East Pavilion has also been set up at the Gurugram SARAS Mela so that priority can be given to the North-Eastern states and state-wise pavilions will be made for each state to give them priority. Medical help desk and ambulance facilities will be available for health services at the fair. The contribution of Gurugram district administration and Haryana State Livelihood Mission is also being taken to provide various facilities to the women of self-help groups and to make the fair a success.

    With the support of the Ministry of Rural Development (Government of India) and the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR), SARAS Melas have been organized for the last 26 years. This has provided employment opportunities to lakhs of rural women and lakhs of women have learned marketing skills as well.

    The Ministry of Rural Development, in collaboration with National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) under Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), is providing a marketing platform through SARAS Melas to rural women self-help groups to sell their products. Through SARAS Melas, members of rural women self-help groups get an opportunity to directly communicate with urban customers, know the market interest and accordingly determine the pricing of their products by improving the packaging of their products.

    Through SARAS Melas, women of rural self-help groups are not only creating livelihood opportunities but are also setting a great example of women empowerment in the country. This is definitely a milestone in the livelihood journey. SARAS Melas are being organized continuously since the year 1999. The living standards of lakhs of women have improved through these fairs.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Swachhata Special Campaign 4.0 being observed by the Department of Fertilizers

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Swachhata Special Campaign 4.0 being observed by the Department of Fertilizers

    Department of Fertilizers (DoF) and its 09 PSUs observed ‘Swachhata – Pakhwada’ from 01.09.2024 to 15.09.2024 and ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ Campaign from 17.09.2024 to 01.10.2024

    About 4.97 lakh plant saplings planted so far, under the plantation drive ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ by the various PSUs of the department

    3884 Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sammrudhi Kendras (PMKSK), have been identified as the Campaign sites under the Swachhata Special Campaign 4.0 initiatives with an aim to improve the PMKSKs with clean premises, enhanced facilities and easy accessibility for farmers

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 6:13PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Fertilizers (DoF), Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India and its 9 PSUs observed ‘Swachhata – Pakhwada’ from 01.09.2024 to 15.09.2024 and ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ Campaign from 17.09.2024 to 01.10.2024 respectively.

    The Swachhata Pledge was undertaken in the Department of Fertilizers on 17.9.2024 in which officers/staff participated in the event. The Plantation drives under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ are currently underway among the PSUs of Department of Fertilizers, Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO) etc. About 4.97 lakh plant saplings have been planted so far, under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ by the various PSUs of DoF, IFFCO, KRIBHCO etc.

    Besides, Shramdaan activities, Essay writing and Quiz Competition were also conducted in which officers/staff in DoF actively participated in the said events. A Webinar on avoidance of ‘Single Use Plastics’ was conducted in DoF, in coordination with RCF on 10.09.2024 through Video Conferencing.

    Swachhata Special Campaign 4.0 is also being observed by the Department of Fertilizers and its 09 PSUs from 2ndOctober, 2024 to 31st October, 2024. PSUs under DoF have been sensitised to gear up for the Swachhata Special Campaign 4.0 initiatives for further institutionalizing cleanliness and also to reduce pendency/redundancy.

    3884 Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sammrudhi Kendras (PMKSK), have been identified as the Campaign sites under the Swachhata Special Campaign 4.0 initiatives relating to Department of Fertilizers with an aim to improve the PMKSKs with clean premises, enhanced facilities and easy accessibility for farmers.

     

    Besides, all efforts will be ensured by the Department of Fertilizers and its PSUs for making progress towards the review and weeding out of old files (both physical and e-files) as per the Record Retention Schedule, disposal of Public Grievances, digitization of records, reduction of paper work, disposal of the e-waste, as well as scrap material etc so that  efficiency and space availability gets improved. The progress of Special Campaign 4.0 will be monitored on a dedicated portal http://www.scdpm.gov.in by DARPG and updated information will be uploaded in the SCDPM portal by the Department of Fertilizers on a regular basis.

    The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) has released Guidelines to implement the Special Campaign 4.0 from 2nd October to 31st October, 2024, in order to achieve the goals of institutionalizing Swachhata and reducing pendency in Government offices.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA’S GREETINGS ON THE EVE OF DURGA PUJA

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 6:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu has sent her greetings to her fellow citizens on the eve of Durga Puja.

    In a message, the President has said, “On the auspicious occasion of Durga Puja, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to all Indians living in India and abroad.

    Durga Puja is celebrated as victory of good over evil. Goddess Durga is considered the symbol of Shakti. It is a festival of devotion and during this period we take our spiritual journey to a higher level of consciousness. This festival is an occasion to fully devote ourselves to Goddess Durga and promote unity and understanding among all religions.

    Let us pray that Maa Durga give us strength, courage and determination to create a just, sensitive and equitable society.

    On this auspicious occasion of propitiating Mahashakti, let us resolve to treat women with utmost respect and regard”.

    Please click here to see the President messgae – 

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, is observing Special Campaign 4.0 from 2nd to 31st October, 2024 for promoting cleanliness and disposal of pending matters

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 6:51PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Revenue (DoR), Ministry of Finance, is observing the Special Campaign 4.0 from 2nd to 31st October, 2024, with a focus on clearing pending matters and ensuring the Swachhta (cleanliness) of office premises.

    During the earlier period Of Special Campaign 3.0 in 2023, the DoR disposed of a total of 12 pending references from Members of Parliament, 110 Public Grievances and 110 Public Grievances Appeals. Further, a total of 580 physical files were weeded out after being reviewed. Further with the scrap disposal, revenue of Rs. 9600/- was also generated. These campaigns have resulted in an overall improvement in the office atmosphere, with better space management and a healthier working environment.

    This year also the DoR has formulated a comprehensive plan for clearing pendency, cleanliness, space management, beautification of the offices and review and weeding out of old files.

    During the Execution Phase, also known as Phase-II, disposal of all identified pending matters and site cleaning exercises will be undertaken. During the Special Campaign 4.0, the DoR is committed to set new benchmark in efficiency and cleanliness further contributing to a cleaner and more effective governance.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah addresses 119th Annual Session of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in New Delhi as the Chief Guest

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah addresses 119th Annual Session of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in New Delhi as the Chief Guest

    Shri Narendra Modi, first as Chief Minister and then as Prime Minister of the country for the third consecutive term, has been winning the trust of people in a democratic way for the last 23 years

    PM Modi is a rare combination of vision, experience and commitment

    PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry is an important link between industry and the government

    PHD Chamber should implement policies, plans and vision of the government and communicate the pressing issues of industry to the government

    In the last 10 years, Prime Minister Modi has laid the foundation of making India rank one in every field in the World

    PM Modi took the country out of ‘policy paralysis’ and established the politics of performance

    Indian economy, which earlier figured among the ‘Fragile Five’, has emerged as a ‘bright spot’ in the World, under the leadership of PM Modi  

    The public banking system, which was in shambles before 2014, has earned a profit of ₹1.40 lakh crore in FY 2023-24, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi  

    By abolishing more than 2000 colonial laws and more than 39,000 compliances, Modi government made the lives of people easier

    PM Modi has established a research foundation at a cost of ₹50 thousand crores, which will take India to the top in the field of research in the world in the next 25 years

    Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah pays tribute to the renowned industrialist Ratan Tata on his demise

    Ratan Tata ji was a respected figure not only in Indian industrial sector but globally as well, he has left behind a legacy which will continue to guide leaders in the industrial sector for a long time

    Ratan Tata ji worked to build a good society by solving all the problems of the country through his trust

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 7:04PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah today addressed the 119th Annual Session of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) in New Delhi as the Chief Guest. The theme of this year’s annual session was ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Marching Towards the Peak of Progress’. Around 1500 business persons, Chartered Accountants, bankers, advocates etc. from the industry participated in the event.

    Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah began his address with tributes to the renowned industrialist Shri Ratan Tata, who passed away last night in Mumbai. Shri Amit Shah said that Shri Ratan Tata has been a respected figure not only in the Indian industrial sector but globally as well. He took charge of the Tata Group at a time when the group needed several changes, and Ratan Tata patiently transformed all the businesses of his group and working practices. Shri Shah said that even today, the Tata Group stands as a pole star in India’s industrial landscape. He added that Ratan Tata led his industrial group to a prominent position in the country and globally while adhering to integrity and following all the rules and regulations. Shri Shah also said that through his Trust, Ratan Tata made efforts to address the country’s various problems and contribute to building a better society. He said that Shri Ratan Tata’s legacy will continue to guide industry leaders for a long time.

    Union Home Minister said that this year is going to be a decisive one for Indian industry, and it is at such a time that the 119th annual convention of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) is being organized. He said that today, there seems to be a crisis of trust in countries worldwide. He said that Shri Narendra Modi, first as the Chief Minister and then as the Prime Minister of the country, has continuously been winning the trust of the people democratically for the past 23 years. Shri Shah said that without stability, policies cannot be implemented effectively and security and development cannot be ensured. He added that stability brings continuity in policies, ideas, and development. Shri Shah further said that PM Modi has get this vast country rid of many problems over the past 10 years and he is now leading the nation for the third consecutive time.

    Shri Amit Shah said that today’s theme ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Marching Towards the Peak of Progress’ is very appropriate. He said that Prime Minister Modi has set two major goals before us: India will become a fully developed nation when the country celebrates the centenary of its independence in 2047 and by 2027, India will become the world’s third-largest economy. He said that to achieve these two goals, PM Modi has been working tirelessly for the past 10 years through various policies and programs. Shri Shah emphasized that PM Modi has implemented visionary policies aimed at developing infrastructure in the country, making India a global manufacturing hub, creating an investment-friendly ecosystem, building a skilled work-force, promoting research and development, pioneering India in emerging technologies like advanced computing, and initiating new ventures in fields like deep-sea exploration, the maritime economy, and space. He added that Prime Minister Modi has not only formulated these policies but also made continuous efforts to ensure their implementation.

    Union Home Minister said that PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry is a bridge between the industry and the Government. He said that in the coming times, PHD Chamber has to implement the policies, plans and vision of the government and convey the problems of the industry to the government. He added that we have achieved a lot in the last 10 years. Infrastructure like the world’s longest highway tunnel, the world’s highest railway bridge, Mumbai’s world-famous Trans-Harbour Link and Kolkata’s underwater metro have been built in the last 10 years. Shri Shah said that in Andaman-Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep, work has been done to utilize business opportunities and strengthen these islands from a security point of view by bringing connectivity to remote areas through underwater optical fibre.

    Shri Amit Shah said that every Indian took great pride when Indian flag was hoisted at the Shiva Shakti Point on the Moon. Connecting the underdeveloped regions of the country through the SagarMala project, weaving a network of Vande Bharat Express trains to open a new avenue for comfortable travel in the country, advancing in semiconductor manufacturing to meet not only ours but also needs of the entire world, bringing a new revolution in electric vehicles, and increasing FDI to record levels, making India the fourth-largest holder of foreign exchange reserves in the world, are significant achievements for us.

    Union Home Minister said that we are the fastest-growing start-up economy in the world. We have successfully launched the world’s largest digital payment system, which many countries are now adopting. He said that along with this, Prime Minister Modi has introduced the world’s largest grain storage plan based in cooperatives. Shri Shah said that from food security to health security, we have covered all dimensions, and in the past 10 years under PM Modi’s leadership, the foundation has been laid for India to be at the forefront in every field over the next 25 years. He said that when vision, experience, and commitment come together in one individual, and that individual is the Prime Minister, the country benefits immensely, and Shri Narendra Modi is an excellent example of this.

    Shri Amit Shah said that India is a democracy where people decide who should lead the government. He said that without a comparative study, we cannot make a proper evaluation of the work done. He emphasized the need to look at the comparative situation of the country in 2014 and 2024. He stated that before 2014, everyone used to say that our country was suffering from policy paralysis and no policies were being made, but PM Modi ended this policy paralysis, created numerous policies and brought in politics of performance. Shri Shah added that today, there is no sector where a permanent policy hasn’t been formulated. Earlier, India was amongst the “Fragile Five,” but today, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) calls us a “bright spot” in the global economy.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation highlighted that under infrastructure development, projects like the Zoji La tunnel, Chenab rail bridge, and the bridge in Assam are there for everyone to see. He said that earlier, India used to have double-digit inflation, but today we are confidently moving toward double-digit growth. He said that for many years, India’s growth rate has been the highest among G20 countries. Shri Shah said that global investors had lost confidence in India, but today India has become a preferred destination for manufacturing. Shri Shah said that in 2021-22, we attracted a record Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) of $85 billion. He said that today we are leading in many sectors like digital payments. Before 2014, scams worth ₹12 lakh crore had taken place, but in the 10 years of the Modi government, even our opponents cannot accuse us of corruption.

    Shri Amit Shah said that during previous government, terrorism, bomb blasts, and Naxalism had become severe issues for the country, but today we can confidently say that whether it’s Kashmir, Left-Wing Extremism affected areas, or the Northeast, we have successfully eliminated terrorism and extremism. He mentioned that in the Ease of Doing Business rankings, India was previously placed at the 142nd position, but today we have risen to the 63rd position. He also highlighted that the entire banking system was in a fragile state, but in 2023-24, government banks earned a profit of ₹1.40 lakh crore. New policies have been introduced in every sector, helping the country move forward.

    Union Home Minister said that if the country wants to progress, it must have a new education policy, and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi brought a New Education Policy that has globalized education while incorporating our heritage. He said that initiatives like GST, Digital India, Bharatmala, SagarMala, PM Gati Shakti, and Startup India have propelled the country forward in all directions.

    Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the principle of “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance”, 2,000 outdated colonial laws have been abolished, and over 39,000 compliances across various sectors have been eliminated. He highlighted that in the past 10 years, 80 crore people have been receiving 5 kg of free grain per person, houses provided to 4 crore poor, 15 crore households have received piped water, more than 11 crore people have been given free gas connections, and over 12 crore toilets have been built under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Shri Shah said that Prime Minister Modi has alleviated the concerns of millions and transformed India into a market of 130 crore people. He said that when 60 crore people are excluded from the country’s development process, the country can never progress. Today, with 130 crore people engaged in the nation’s development process, our growth rate has surged upward.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the Modi government has made significant efforts in the field of research. He said that for the first time, a research foundation has been established with a budget of ₹50,000 crore. He expressed confidence that in the next 25 years, India will be at the forefront of global research. Shri Shah mentioned that Prime Minister Modi has worked extensively across various sectors. In terms of internet users, India ranks second in the world, while it ranks first in global Fintech adoption and smartphone data consumption. He further highlighted that today half of the world’s daily digital transactions take place in India.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Indian industries must now work towards changing both their size and scale. He emphasized the need for companies to go global and that to establish India’s dominance worldwide, our chambers and industries need to make decisive moves.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English Translation of Opening Remarks by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at 21st ASEAN-India Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 7:14PM by PIB Delhi

    Your Excellency, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone,

    Your Majesty,

    Excellencies,

    Namaskar।

    Today, I am honored to participate in this meeting for the eleventh time alongside the ASEAN family.

    Ten years ago, I announced India’s ‘Act East’ policy. Over the past decade, this initiative has revitalized the historic ties between India and ASEAN countries, infusing them with renewed energy, direction, and momentum.

    Giving importance to ASEAN centrality, we launched the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative in 2019. This initiative complements the “ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.”

    Last year, we initiated maritime exercises to enhance regional security and stability.

    Over the last 10 years, our trade with the ASEAN region has nearly doubled, surpassing USD 130 billion.

    Today, India has direct flight connectivity with seven ASEAN countries, and soon, direct flights to Brunei will also commence.

    Additionally, we have opened a new embassy in Timor-Leste.

    In the ASEAN region, Singapore was the first country with which we established FinTech connectivity, and this success is now being emulated in other nations.

    Our development partnership is founded on a people-centric approach. Over 300 ASEAN students have benefited from scholarships at Nalanda University. A Network of Universities has been launched.

    We have also worked to preserve our shared heritage and legacy in Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Indonesia.

    Whether during the COVID pandemic or in response to natural disasters, we have provided mutual assistance and fulfilled our humanitarian responsibilities.

    Funds for collaboration in various sectors, including the Science and Technology Fund, Digital Fund, and Green Fund, have been established. India has contributed over USD 30 million to these initiatives. As a result, our cooperation now spans from underwater projects to space exploration. In other words, our partnership has significantly broadened in every aspect over the past decade.

    And, it is a matter of great satisfaction that in 2022, we elevated it to the status of a ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.’

    Friends,

    We are neighbors, partners in the Global South, and a rapidly growing region in the world. We are peace-loving nations, that respect each other’s national integrity and sovereignty, and we are committed to ensuring a bright future for our youth.

    I believe that the 21st century is the “Asian Century,” a century for India and ASEAN countries. Today, when there is conflict and tension in many parts of the world, the friendship, coordination, dialogue and cooperation between India and ASEAN are of utmost importance.

    I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone of the Lao P.D.R. for successful chairmanship of ASEAN.

    I am confident that today’s meeting will bring new dimensions to the India-ASEAN partnership.

    Thank you very much.

    DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary of Legislative Department Reviews Digitization Progress and Cleanliness Initiatives

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 7:16PM by PIB Delhi

    On 5th October, 2024, Dr Rajiv Mani, Secretary, Legislative Department visited the premises of the Department including Record Room, various Sections and digitization unit.  After this, a review meeting was convened on 7/10/2024 under the Chairmanship of Secretary, LD wherein instructions were issued to keep the Sections as well common area clean and thrive to meet the target of digitization of 1 Cr. Pages.

    Thereafter, Shri R.K. Pattanayak, Joint Secretary (Admn-II)/Nodal Officer visited various Sections of this Department and monitored the progress of digitization, weeding out etc. and reviewed all matters related to Special Campaign 4.0.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Education organises workshop on Mental Health & Cyber Security on World Mental Health Day

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 7:42PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education, organized a national online workshop on Mental Health and Cyber Security for the engagement of youth on World Mental Health Day today. The workshop had two sessions on mental health by Dr. Rajesh Sagar, Professor (MD), Psychiatry Department at AIIMS Delhi and on cyber security by and Dr. Rashmi Sharma Yadav, DCP, Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre, MHA. The workshop was broadcast live on YouTube, reaching over 20 lakh students and educators nationwide.

     

    Shri Vipin Kumar, Additional Secretary, DoSEL, highlighted the importance of mental well-being and safe utilization of the internet among students. He emphasized the necessity of early intervention to mitigate the potential adverse effects of mental health challenges in today’s digital age.

     

    Smt. Archana Sharma Awasthi, Joint Secretary, DoSEL, reinforced the commitment of the National Education Policy 2020 to prioritize student well-being. She highlighted the significance of mental health for both students and educators and exhorted everybody to attentively listen and follow the advice given by the experts to maintain good mental health and prevent themselves from being victims of cybercrime.

    Dr. Rajesh Sagar provided valuable insights into prevalent mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression. He emphasized that nearly 50% of mental health disorders emerge before the age of 14, advocating for early intervention. Dr. Sagar identified common stressors including academic pressure, parental conflicts, and bullying, and shared effective coping strategies, such as deep breathing and cognitive restructuring, to foster a happier childhood.

    In her presentation, Dr. Rashmi Sharma Yadav highlighted the importance of cyber hygiene and security for children. She outlined preventive measures against cyberbullying, grooming, and fraudulent online gaming applications. She encouraged students to report cyber fraud through the helpline 1930 and @cyberdost, stressing the importance of responsible internet use, parental awareness, and safeguarding personal information. Both experts suggested that students should share any issues arising with their elders like parents and teachers.

    The workshop engaged students from classes VI to XII from Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, CBSE and state government schools across the country and was simultaneously presented in sign language, ensuring accessibility for all participants. The initiative received widespread appreciation from attendees, reflecting a collective commitment to fostering a safer and healthier educational environment.

    *****

    SS/AK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English Translation of Closing Remarks by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the 21st ASEAN-India Summit, Lao PDR

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 8:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Your Majesty,

    Excellencies,

    I express my gratitude for our positive discussions today and for all your valuable insights and suggestions.

    I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone for the successful organization of today’s summit.

    The two Joint Statements we have adopted to strengthen digital transformation and our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will lay the groundwork for our collaboration in future. I commend all for this achievement.

    I would like to express my gratitude to Singapore for its positive role as India’s Country Coordinator in ASEAN over the past three years. Thanks to your support, we have made unprecedented progress in India-ASEAN relations. I also welcome and congratulate the Philippines as our new Country Coordinator.

    I am confident that we will continue to collaborate for the bright future of two billion people and for regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

    Once again, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Prime Minister of Lao P.D.R. for the exemplary chairmanship of ASEAN.

    As Malaysia assumes the mantle of the next chair, I convey my best wishes on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians.

    You can rely on India’s unwavering support for success of your Chairmanship.

    Thank you very much.

    DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –