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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Study indicates significant shale gas generation potential in eastern South Karanpura coalfield, Jharkhand

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 9:41AM by PIB Delhi

    Evidence from microscopic palynomorphs–, organic remains, combined with geochemical assessments have indicated significant potential for hydrocarbon generation in the eastern region of the South Karanpura coalfield in the Ramgarh district of Jharkhand. The eastern Sirka coalfield in this region have exhibited higher potential for hydrocarbon generation compared to the Giddi coalfield in the north.

    The South Karanpura coalfield, consisting of 28 major coal blocks, is well-established for its substantial deposits of workable coal. However, with the rising demand for energy and the growing interest in hydrocarbon exploration, the focus has increasingly shifted towards the potential for coal bed methane/shale gas (unconventional resource) generation within this region. This pursuit of green energy necessitates an environment conducive to hydrocarbon preservation, which is critical for the nation’s energy strategy.

    The potential for hydrocarbon generation within a source rock is largely determined by the concentration of organic matter, which is influenced by specific environmental conditions.

    To assess this potential, scientists from Birbal Sahni institution of Palaeosciences, Lucknow (BSIP), an autonomous institution of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) carried out a comprehensive study involving analysis of microscopic remains like pollen, spores, and certain microscopic organic matter (palynological), coupled with a laboratory procedure called Rock-Eval pyrolysis,  for assessing the potential of the rock samples in an open system through the cracking of the organic matter, on sediments from the Sirka and Giddi C areas of the Damodar Basin.  

    Samples were collected from coal, carbonaceous shale, and sandstone layers of freshly exposed quarry faces of Sirka Colliery and Giddi C Colliery of Argada area, Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand, respectively. Parameters such as palynofacies, free hydrocarbons (S1), heavy hydrocarbons (S2) pyrolyzable carbon (PC), residual hydrocarbon (RC), were analysed in the samples.

    These collected sediments, belonging to the Permian (Barakar) deposits, point to favourable conditions for high hydrocarbon resource potential in the eastern region of the South Karanpura coalfield.

    This research published in Journal of Asian Earth Sciences-X provides essential insights that can guide future exploration efforts, contributing to energy resource development and national energy security. More detailed study is required for the confirmation of the economic exploration.

    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaesx.2024.100181

     

    Fig.1 Geological map of South Karanpura Basin, showing the location of investigated fossil locality

    Fig.2 Ternary plot showing the distribution of the various palynofacies components in the Sirka and Giddi C area.

    Fig. 3 A bivariate graph showing the genetic potential in the source rock of South Karanpura Coalfield.

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    NKR/DK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC takes suo motu cognizance of the reported death of a boy after falling into an open drain in Alipur area of North West Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    NHRC takes suo motu cognizance of the reported death of a boy after falling into an open drain in Alipur area of North West Delhi

    Observes reports of many such incidents in the recent past as a serious issue indicating negligence of the concerned authorities

    Issues notices to the Delhi Chief Secretary, Police Commissioner, DDA Vice-Chairman, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of Delhi calling for detailed reports within four weeks

    The reports to include the status of the FIRs registered in such incidents, action taken against the responsible officials, and compensation to the victims’ families

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 11:47AM by PIB Delhi

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report that a five-year-old boy died after falling into an open drain in the Alipur area of North West Delhi on 7th October 2024. Reportedly, the contractor, who worked there, had left the drain opened at various places without placing any warning signs. This is the fifth such incident in the national capital in the recent past.

    The Commission has observed the contents of the news report about the instant case and similar incidents in the recent past, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of the human rights of the victims due to apparent negligence of the civic authorities. It is indeed very concerning that such incidents indicating negligence by the public authorities continue to happen in the national capital. Many human lives were reported lost due to drowning and electrocution in Delhi of which it had taken suo motu cognizance and asked the authorities to be vigilant.

    Accordingly, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary, Government of NCT of Delhi, the Commissioner of Police, Delhi, the Vice-Chairman, Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of Delhi calling for a detailed report within four weeks.

    The report is expected to include the status of the FIRs in all such cases, action taken against the responsible officials, and compensation if any, paid to the next of kin of the deceased persons. The Commission would also like to know about the steps taken/ proposed by the authorities to stop the recurrence of such incidents.

    According to the media report, carried on 8th October 2024, earlier this month, a two-and-a-half-year-old girl lost her life after falling into an open drain in northeast Delhi’s Khajuri Khas. In September, a 32-year-old man died after falling into an open drain in northeast Delhi’s Bhajanpura. In August, the body of a seven-year-old boy was found in an open drain in northwest Delhi’s Ashok Vihar. Again in August, a man died after falling into a drain in the Paschim Vihar area. In July, the death of a woman and her son in a drain in east Delhi’s Ghazipur created a big storm. Another person died after his car fell into a drain in north Delhi’s Burari in the same month.

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    NSK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cabinet Greenlights National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Cabinet Greenlights National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal

    Creating Over 22,000 Jobs While Honouring India’s Maritime Legacy

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 12:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Cabinet Greenlights National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal

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    Santosh Kumar/ Sheetal Angral/ Saurabh Kalia

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Government releases tax devolution of ₹1,78,173 crore to State Governments, including one advance instalment of ₹89,086.50 crore in addition to regular instalment due in October, 2024

    Source: Government of India

    Union Government releases tax devolution of ₹1,78,173 crore to State Governments, including one advance instalment of ₹89,086.50 crore in addition to regular instalment due in October, 2024

    Advance instalment released in view of upcoming festive season and to enable States to accelerate capital spending and finance their development/ welfare related expenditure

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 1:25PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Government has released tax devolution of ₹ 1,78,173 crore to State Governments on 10th October, 2024, as against the normal monthly devolution of ₹89,086.50 crore. It includes one advance instalment, in addition to the regular instalment due in October, 2024.

    This release is in view of the upcoming festive season and to enable States to accelerate capital spending, and also finance their development/ welfare related expenditure.

    State-wise breakup of amounts released is given below in the table:

     

    State-wise distribution of Net Proceeds of Union Taxes and Duties for October, 2024

     

    Sl. No

    Name of State

    Total (₹ Crore)

    1

    ANDHRA PRADESH

    7,211

    2

    ARUNACHAL PRADESH

    3,131

    3

    ASSAM

    5,573

    4

    BIHAR

    17,921

    5

    CHHATTISGARH

    6,070

    6

    GOA

    688

    7

    GUJARAT

    6,197

    8

    HARYANA

    1,947

    9

    HIMACHAL PRADESH

    1,479

    10

    JHARKHAND

    5,892

    11

    KARNATAKA

    6,498

    12

    KERALA

    3,430

    13

    MADHYA PRADESH

    13,987

    14

    MAHARASHTRA

    11,255

    15

    MANIPUR

    1,276

    16

    MEGHALAYA

    1,367

    17

    MIZORAM

    891

    18

    NAGALAND

    1,014

    19

    ODISHA

    8,068

    20

    PUNJAB

    3,220

    21

    RAJASTHAN

    10,737

    22

    SIKKIM

    691

    23

    TAMIL NADU

    7,268

    24

    TELANGANA

    3,745

    25

    TRIPURA

    1,261

    26

    UTTAR PRADESH

    31,962

    27

    UTTARAKHAND

    1,992

    28

    WEST BENGAL

    13,404

     

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    NB/KMN

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Experts deliberated on challenges & prospects of hydrogen energy commercialisation

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 1:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Industrialists, entrepreneurs, business aspirants and enthusiasts   from various sectors discussed the challenges and prospects of hydrogen energy commercialization at a workshop on fostering start-up ecosystems for commercialization of hydrogen technologies.

    Dr. R Vijay, Director of ARCI, stressed on the importance of reducing the cost of hydrogen production to make it more market-attractive while speaking as Guest of Honour at the workshop organised by ARCI an autonomous institution of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) on the occasion of National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day on 8th October2024.

    He also showcased ARCI’s role in transferring hydrogen technologies both at the component level and through integrated systems and said that ARCI is supporting many start-ups in the energy sector.

    The 7th consecutive annual hydrogen workshop was organised at the Centre for Fuel Cell Technology of International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI), at IITM Research Park, Chennai.

    In his inaugural address, Prof. Mohammad RihanDirector General of the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), highlighted the mission-mode approach of integrating solar power with electrolyzer for green hydrogen generation for energy storageand conversion to electricity through fuel cells. He underscored the synergy between solar energy and hydrogen technologies, offering a sustainable pathway toward green energy. He also mentioned that ARCI and NISE have already signed a MoU to jointly work for the realisation of the above approach.

    Dr. R. Gopalan,Former Regional Director of ARCI, Chennai, emphasized the need for a circular economy in hydrogen production to further reduce costs and highlighted India’s emerging leadership in green ammonia synthesis alongside other developed nations.

    Eminent speakers such as Dr. G.A. Pathanjali, Managing Director of High Energy Batteries, Tiruchirappalli, Shri. Krishnan Sadagopan, Senior Vice President at Ashok Leyland, and Dr.RamadasArumugamSakunthalai, Director at the Global Automotive Research Centre (GARC), discussed the critical role of hydrogen in the Indian automotive market. They delved into hydrogen’s application in transportation and the challenges and potential for growth in this sector.

    Several start-up founders and representatives shared their experiences with hydrogen production and utilization, discussing their capabilities as well as the hurdles they face in scaling their technologies. Key challenges such as cost, infrastructure development, and regulatory barriers were highlighted. Participants explored strategies to reduce production and distribution costs to make hydrogen more economically viable.

    The workshop underscored the need for collaboration between industry, academia, and research institutions, with ARCI playing a pivotal role in fostering these partnerships. This collaboration is seen as essential for achieving hydrogen economy in India.

     

    This year’s workshop not only celebrated National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day but also marked a significant step in India’s journey towards a green energy future. The discussions and insights shared during the event will contribute to the development of hydrogen technologies that can reshape the global energy landscape.

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    NKR/DK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New cancer therapy target could help patients overcome resistant to current treatments

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 1:41PM by PIB Delhi

    Scientists have identified a promising new target for cancer treatment by activating a DNA repair enzyme called TDP1, suggesting a combination therapy which could be a potential precision medicine especially for those resistant to current cancer remedies.

    Existing anticancer drugs like Camptothecin, Topotecan, and Irinotecan target an enzyme crucial for DNA replication and transcription called Topoisomerase 1 (Top1). Cancer cells often develop resistance to such single-agent treatments and hence require alternate therapy methods. 

    In order to explore such alternative routes to treatment, scientists at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), Kolkata, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST)probed how cancer cells repair DNA during cell division and respond to chemotherapy that targets the enzyme Top1, often leading to drug resistance.

    The research published in The EMBO Journal 2024 highlights two key proteins –Cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) and Tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (TDP1). The researchers led by Prof. Benu Brata Das found that cancer cells can counteract the effect of existing drugs by activating TDP1, a DNA repair enzyme, allowing them to survive.

    While investigating how cancer cells repair DNA during cell division and respond to DNA damage induced by enzyme Topoisomerase 1 (Top1), the scientists discovered the critical roles of the proteins CDK1 and TDP1 that regulate the DNA repair process and repairs drug-induced trapped Top1 respectively.

    The TDP1, was known to be a dedicated enzyme that repairs drug-induced trapped Top1 during the S phase when the DNA replicates, but its role and regulation during the mitotic phase were previously unknown. CDK1, on the other hand, the key regulatory kinase in the mitotic phase, was found to regulate the DNA repair process by phosphorylating TDP1, which enhances its ability to resolve Top1-DNA adducts.

    The scientists stressed that the phosphorylation event was crucial for efficient DNA repair during cell division, allowing cancer cells to survive Top1-targeted chemotherapy.

    “Our work demonstrates that CDK1 directly regulates TDP1, aiding cancer cells in repairing DNA breaks caused by Top1 inhibitors,” explains Prof. Benu Brata Das, the study’s corresponding author. “By targeting both CDK1 and TDP1, we can potentially overcome resistance and improve treatment effectiveness,” he added.

    The study suggests that using CDK1 inhibitors—such as avotaciclib, alvocidib, roniciclib, riviciclib, and dinaciclib—alongside Top1 inhibitors could enhance cancer cell killing. This combination disrupts DNA repair mechanisms and halts the cell cycle, making it more difficult for cancer cells to survive.

     “We discovered that phosphorylation of TDP1 by CDK1 is essential for cancer cells to manage DNA damage during cell division. By inhibiting CDK1, we can induce chromosome instability, effectively targeting cancer cells,” said Prof Das.

     “Cancer cells often develop resistance to single-agent treatments. By using both CDK1 and Top1 inhibitors, we can more effectively target and eliminate cancer cells,” said Prof. Das emphasizing the potential of this combination therapy.

    By identifying CDK1 as a key regulator and TDP1 as a repair enzyme, this research highlights both as potential targets for developing cancer therapies that inhibit DNA repair in cancer cells

    This breakthrough points to a promising avenue for precision medicine in treating cancers, especially those resistant to current therapies. Further studies using animal models are ongoing to validate this approach.

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    NKR/DK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: There’s a new school funding bill in parliament. Will this end the funding wars?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew P. Sinclair, Lecturer and Researcher of Education Policy, School of Education, Curtin University

    On Thursday, federal Education Minister Jason Clare introduced a school funding bill to parliament.

    The bill aims to set a new “floor” for how much the federal government contributes towards public school funding in Australia.

    It would mean the Commonwealth has to contribute at least 20% of the schooling resource standard (how much funding a school needs to meet students’ educational needs) for public schools each year in all states and territories from 2025.

    Clare argues it will provide “certainty” to schools, but it also comes in the middle of a standoff between the federal government and some states over school funding policy.

    What’s in the bill?

    The bill proposes to change the current arrangement, under which the Commonwealth contributes 20% to the schooling resource standard of public schools. As the government explains:

    This means the 20 per cent will become the minimum, not the maximum, the Commonwealth contributes to public schools.

    The Albanese government says the bill will increase “transparency and accountability” and ensure funding cannot go backwards.

    But it cannot be certain of parliamentary support – Greens and independent senators are among those pushing for the government to provide more funding for public schools than is currently on the table.

    The bill will remove a 20% cap on federal funding for public schools.
    Bianca De Marchi/AAP, CC BY

    The bigger picture

    The bill also comes as the federal government is still trying to sign off new deals with some of the states and territories about their public school funding for next year.

    The current agreements will run out at the end of the year. While the new proposed arrangements would increase the federal contribution, it’s not by as much as some states want.

    So far, Clare has made agreements with Western Australia and Tasmania to increase the federal contribution from 20% to 22.5%. For the Northern Territory it will increase funding to a 40% contribution by 2029.

    So far, it has not signed deals with New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia, which are pushing for a federal contribution of 25%.

    The Australian Capital Territory is also yet to sign, despite its public schools receiving at least 100% of the schooling resource standard (via both federal and its own funds) for several years now.

    Clare set a deadline of September 30 for the holdout states to sign on for the 2.5% funding boost, or risk losing an extra A$16 billion in funding. But that has passed without any compromise from either side.

    Progress and politics

    At the very least, the introduction of the bill to federal parliament is symbolically significant, particularly in light of the Commonwealth’s willingness to increase its contribution to the school resource standard of public schools.

    But politics is never far away in school funding policy. Critics could argue the bill is more of a box-ticking exercise, rather than substantive reform. Indeed, the change in wording to a 20% minimum was inevitable given the specifics of the funding agreements already signed with Western Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory.

    Critics might also point out national school funding policy is currently a bit of a mess, with four of the five most populous Australian states ignoring the government’s new funding deal. And they could remind us this agreement has already been delayed by a year. The previous one expired at the end of 2023 and was extended for 12 months by the Albanese government.

    What happens to schools next year?

    The bill does nothing to bring the holdout states any closer to signing on to the new funding agreement.

    But this does not mean the federal government will withdraw its funding when school starts next year. Instead, the current funding arrangements will continue for another 12 months. This is why Clare says $16 billion in “additional investment” is on the table for public schools.

    With a federal election due next year, it is even possible there will be no resolution before Australians go to the polls. This continues the fight over the schooling resource standard funding for public schools, which has has been ongoing since the so-called Gonski Review was made public in 2012.

    Matthew P. Sinclair does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. There’s a new school funding bill in parliament. Will this end the funding wars? – https://theconversation.com/theres-a-new-school-funding-bill-in-parliament-will-this-end-the-funding-wars-240994

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister witnesses Lao Ramayan performance

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 1:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi witnessed an episode of Lao Ramayan – called Phalak Phalam or Phra Lak Phra Ram – performed by the prestigious Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang. Ramayan continues to be celebrated in Laos, and the epic reflects the shared heritage and age-old civilization connection between the two countries. Several facets of Indian culture and tradition have been practised and preserved in Laos for centuries. The two countries are closely working to illuminate their shared heritage. The Archaelogical Survey of India is involved in restoring the Vat Phou temple and related monuments in Laos. Several dignitaries, including Minister of Home Affairs, Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Governor of Bank of Lao PDR and Mayor of Vientiane were present on the occasion.

    Prior to the Ramayan performamce, Prime Minister participated in a blessing ceremony by senior Buddhist monks of Central Buddhist Fellowship Organization of Lao PDR, led by Most Venerable Mahaveth Masenai, the revered abbot of Si Saket temple in Vientiane. Shared Buddhist heritage represents yet another facet of close civilizational bonds between India and Laos.

     

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    MJPS/SR

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: SEACOR Marine Wins Third Annual NOIA ESG Excellence Award 

    Source: National Ocean Industries Association – NOIA

    Headline: SEACOR Marine Wins Third Annual NOIA ESG Excellence Award 

    For Immediate Release: Thursday, October 10, 2024NOIA .org
    SEACOR Marine Wins Third Annual NOIA ESG Excellence Award
    Washington, D.C. – The National Ocean Industries Association has named SEACOR Marine as the winner of the third annual NOIA Environmental, Social, & Governance (ESG) Excellence Award. The NOIA ESG Excellence Award highlights and recognizes those who, by their actions, design, or influence, are contributing to the advancement of the ideals embodied by the NOIA ESG Principles:
    NOIA President Erik Milito congratulates SEACOR Marine, saying, “SEACOR Marine exemplifies the NOIA ESG Principles in virtually every aspect of its operations. Their unwavering commitment to ESG performance has significantly strengthened and enhanced the company. The breadth and diversity of their initiatives are truly remarkable. SEACOR Marine’s achievements exemplify the offshore energy industry’s leadership in advancing technologies and projects to reduce emissions missions and in shaping the workforce of tomorrow.  We commend SEACOR Marine not only for their substantial and measurable progress but also for their willingness to share their operational efficiencies with the broader industry.
    “The dedication to ESG performance demonstrated by all applicants for this award, and the industry as a whole, is truly impressive. The NOIA ESG Excellence Award is a testament to the innovative spirit of our industry and its contributions to community betterment. We extend our gratitude to our members for consistently setting the gold standard in the offshore energy sector.”
    SEACOR Marine Chief Executive Officer John Gellert commented, “We are honored to receive this award, which highlights our commitment to sustainability and innovation in the offshore energy sector. As operators of one of the youngest fleets in the industry, we are proud to be at the forefront of the transition to cleaner, more efficient operations. Our investments in green technology, like hybrid battery power systems, reduce fuel consumption and emissions. By 2025, over 50% of our platform supply vessels (PSVs) will be hybrid powered. We are also proud of our broader ESG efforts, including waste reduction and our ongoing focus on prioritizing the safety and well-being of our employees.”
    ##
    SEACOR Marine is recognized for its comprehensive commitment to ESG performance across nearly every operational aspect of the company. Their entry highlighted a diverse array of initiatives, including ocean protection through extensive pollution and waste prevention measures, and enhancing employee well-being with robust safety and mental health programs. Furthermore, SEACOR Marine is at the forefront of the industry’s transition to digitization and automation, leveraging advanced technologies to boost efficiency and reduce emissions, including the global deployment of hybrid PSVs.
    The award-winning entry from SEACOR Marine was evaluated by an independent panel of experts from Pickering Energy Partners, Cornerstone Government Affairs, and an independent industry expert. NOIA received applications from a diverse cross-section of NOIA membership, highlighting the support for ESG performance among the full ecosystem of companies involved in the offshore energy sector.
    2024 marks the third year of the NOIA ESG Excellence Award competition. The NOIA ESG Excellence Award competition is open to any offshore service or supply company that is in good standing with NOIA.
    NOIA President Erik Milito (R) presented the award to SEACOR Marine CEO John Gellert (L) at the in-person NOIA Fall Meeting.

    About SEACOR MarineSEACOR Marine provides global marine and support transportation services to offshore energy facilities worldwide. SEACOR Marine operates and manages a diverse fleet of offshore support vessels that deliver cargo and personnel to offshore installations, including offshore wind farms; assist offshore operations for production and storage facilities; provide construction, well work-over, offshore wind farm installation and decommissioning support; carry and launch equipment used underwater in drilling and well installation, maintenance, inspection and repair; and handle anchors and mooring equipment for offshore rigs and platforms. Additionally, SEACOR Marine’s vessels provide emergency response services and accommodations for technicians and specialists.
    For further information about SEACOR Marine’s sustainability practices and ESG initiatives, or to view its diverse energy-efficient fleet of offshore support vessels, please visit http://www.seacormarine.com.

    About NOIA The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) represents and advances a dynamic and growing offshore energy industry, providing solutions that support communities and protect our workers, the public and our environment.

    About the NOIA ESG NetworkThe National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Program is a programmatic effort to share and develop best practices across the offshore energy industry. From top to bottom, NOIA members are already embracing ESG principles as dedicated stewards of the environment and of local communities, and the ESG Program unifies and align their efforts. Through innovation, best ESG practices and new technology, our can industry can solve environmental and climate challenges facing society.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Major overhaul work completed on building No. 2 of Botkin Hospital

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Specialists from the municipal services complex have completed the main work on the capital repairs of building No. 2 of the Moscow multidisciplinary scientific and clinical center named after S.P. Botkin. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for housing and public utilities and improvement Petr Biryukov.

    “The three-story brick building with an area of over three thousand square meters was built in 1909 and was completed until 1937. Its engineering systems and some of the structures were in an unsatisfactory condition, so a decision was made to carry out a major overhaul. The building is a cultural heritage site, and therefore the necessary restoration work was carried out in it,” noted Petr Biryukov.

    The specialists reinforced the existing structures, repaired the floors, laid the floor screed, updated the rafter system and roof. They completely replaced the electrical and water supply systems, heating, sewerage, air conditioning and ventilation.

    Partitions and suspended ceilings were installed on the floors, stone window sills were mounted, 147 window and nine door units made of hardwood were installed. They became part of the historical appearance of the building, so their dimensions, shape and color were observed.

    The building’s facade, with an area of almost three thousand square meters, was restored. The plaster and brick were painted in a style typical of the first half of the 20th century.

    The craftsmen preserved the cornices, horizontal graphic rustication at the first floor level and metal canopies above the entrances. In addition, they restored the stairs with figured metal railings and restored the Mettlach tiles on the landings.

    Petr Biryukov noted that during the renovation, the Monier vaults discovered on the stairwells were preserved – small-span cylindrical brick vaults arranged between metal beams. They were put in order and plastered.

    The territory of the Botkin Hospital will be improved this year – Moscow Mayor

    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.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145071073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Europol supports Latvia in dismantling major synthetic drug lab network

    Source: Europol

    Europol worked closely with Latvian partners to identify and track the criminal network responsible for the production and distribution of synthetic substances, including synthetic cathinones and other high-risk drugs.The operation, which culminated in coordinated raids across Latvia in the beginning of October, resulted in the arrest of eight individuals suspected of involvement in the production. Among the arrested were key…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to boost financing support for data development, utilization

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, Oct. 10 — China will increase fiscal support for the data industry by tapping into the central government’s budget and ultra-long special treasury bonds to improve the management, development, utilization and security of data resources, an official said on Thursday.

    Chen Ronghui, deputy head of the National Data Administration, said at a press conference that China encourages financial institutions to innovate products and services to provide financing for data companies. In addition, private capital is being promoted to participate in the development of public data resources to foster industry growth.

    China unveiled a set of guidelines on Wednesday aimed at accelerating the development and utilization of public data resources to support the digital economy and help build new competitive advantages for the country.

    By 2025, China expects to see significant progress in the development and utilization of public data resources across key industries and regions. By 2030, public data is anticipated to play a key role in empowering the real economy, expanding consumer demand and improving governance capacity, according to the guidelines.

    The guidelines also emphasize the need for data to be made available in an orderly manner in accordance with the law and regulations, while ensuring national data security and the protection of personal information and business secrets.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Stories of CPC’ briefing on Northeast China to be held

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The “Stories of CPC – Achievements of Northeast China in Practicing Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era” thematic briefing will be held on Oct. 14 in Changchun, Northeast China’s Jilin province, Hu Zhaoming, spokesperson for the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC), announced Wednesday.
    The briefing, themed “Striving for New Breakthroughs in the Full Revitalization of Northeast China,” will be jointly hosted by the IDCPC, and Party committees of the Inner Mongolia autonomous region and the three provinces of Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang.
    The event will be attended by more than 200 leaders of political parties from over 50 countries, foreign envoys in China, and foreign business representatives.
    China’s northeastern region comprises of Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces and part of the Inner Mongolia autonomous region.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OLAF and partners strengthen efforts against tobacco smuggling

    Source: European Anti-Fraud Offfice

    The European Anti-Fraud office (OLAF), in cooperation with the Irish Revenue – Tax and Customs, organised the annual OLAF Tobacco Conference from 8-10 October in Dublin, Ireland. The event brought together over 90 representatives from key stakeholders including customs and national police authorities of EU member states and third countries, the World Customs Organization, EUROPOL and representatives from the industry.

    Participants discussed strategies and latest trends and exchanged best practices in order to enhance international cooperation in combating tobacco smuggling. During the conference, OLAF presented an overview of developments on water pipe tobacco and new generation tobacco products. These new products, which include tobacco pouches, heated tobacco products and electronic cigarettes, have gained popularity among consumers in recent years, especially young consumers, as alternatives to traditional cigarettes. This trend presents a unique challenge for regulators and enforcement agencies. 

    The illegal tobacco trade poses a significant threat to public health, deprives the EU and member states of substantial tax revenues and fuels organised crime networks. It undermines anti-smoking and public health campaigns, and violates the strict rules that the EU and Member States have on manufacturing, distribution and sale. In 2023, international operations involving the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) led to the seizure of 616 million illicit cigarettes, 140 tonnes of raw tobacco and 6 tonnes of water pipe tobacco, saving an estimated €150 million in revenue loss in the EU.

    The global nature of tobacco smuggling requires a united response. The goal of the conference was to build stronger, more robust and coordinated international efforts to combat the illegal tobacco trade, thereby protecting public health, safeguarding revenues, and disrupting the illicit networks involved in smuggling operations. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Investing in sustainable economic growth and solidarity and safeguarding EU financial interests through our 2023 budget

    Source: EuroStat – European Statistics

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 10 Oct 2024 The Commission welcomes the European Court of Auditor (ECA)’s extensive work on its Annual Report on the 2023 EU budget published today and takes note of the ECA’s valuable insights as regards the regularity of the EU budget implementation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: COMCO: Discontinuance of the investigation against Novartis

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

    Bern, 10.10.2024 – The Competition Commission (COMCO) terminates the investigation against Novartis without consequences.

    On 13 September 2022, COMCO opened an investigation against Novartis. Its purpose was to determine whether Novartis intended to unlawfully protect one of its dermatological medicines by filing various patent infringement lawsuits. In this regard the investigation sought to establish whether such behaviour had to be considered a case of a so called “blocking patent” unlawfully limiting production, supply or technical development in the market within the meaning of antitrust law.

    The investigation revealed that Novartis’ actions finally were common practice in the field of patent law and, further, did not confirm the above indications of an unlawful restraint of competition. Therefore, COMCO discontinued the investigation.

    In this investigation, COMCO mutually cooperated with the European Commission on the basis of the bilateral Agreement between the European Union and the Swiss Confederation concerning cooperation on the application of their competition laws in force since 2014. The European Commission made its own analysis of the facts of the case and came to the same conclusion to discontinue proceedings.

    Address for enquiries

    Laura Melusine Baudenbacher
    President
    +41 79 854 87 25
    lauramelusine.baudenbacher@comco.admin.ch

    Patrik Ducrey
    Director
    +41 58 464 96 78
    +41 79 345 01 44
    patrik.ducrey@comco.admin.ch

    Olivier Schaller
    Vice Director
    +41 58 462 21 23
    +41 79 703 80 07
    olivier.schaller@comco.admin.ch

    Publisher

    Competition Commission
    http://www.weko.admin.ch/

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission restrictions on liquids carried in cabin baggage at airports – E-001961/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001961/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marcin Sypniewski (ESN)

    Passengers in the Member States are still being forced to comply with stringent restrictions on liquids carried in cabin baggage at airports.

    An estimated 350 new CT X-ray scanners have already been acquired in 13 Member States. These allow for the scanning of larger quantities of liquids and the scanning of laptops without having to remove them from suitcases. As a result, some airports, such as those in Amsterdam and Rome, have relaxed their limits on the amount of liquids carried.

    In late July 2024, however, the Commission temporarily upheld the 100 ml limit on liquids carried, citing the fact that traditional scanners cannot detect liquid explosives as the sole reason. The decision went into effect on 1 September 2024, but no estimated date for the lifting of the restriction was given.

    In this connection, I would like to ask the following questions:

    • 1.Are the restrictions imposed solely due to the limitations of the old equipment previously used at airports, or is the new equipment also, in the Commission’s opinion, incapable of scanning larger quantities of liquids?
    • 2.In addition to equipment problems, are there other restrictions resulting from existing rules?
    • 3.When does the Commission plan to lift the recently upheld limit?

    Submitted: 4.10.2024

    Last updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: 2024 REGIOSTARS awards recognise EU-funded projects for their impact and innovation

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 10 Oct 2024 Last night, Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms Elisa Ferreira, together with President of the Committee of the Regions, Vasco Alves Cordeiro, hosted the 2024 REGIOSTARS awards ceremony in Brussels as part of the 22nd European Week of Regions and Cities.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Sakharov Prize: shortlist of three candidates – Committee on Development

    Source: European Parliament

    On 26 September, the Committees on Foreign Affairs and on Development, together with the Subcommittee on Human Rights, presented the candidates for this year’s Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, one of the most important events of the European Parliament. On 17 October, the AFET and DEVE committees will meet again to narrow down the list of nominees to a three-candidate shortlist, via a secret vote.

    Each year the Sakharov Prize reaffirms the European Parliament’s unwavering commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights, a founding principle of the European Union. The winning 2024 laureate(s) will be announced on 24 October by the Conference of Presidents (EP President and political group leaders) and an exchange of views with the laureate(s) will take place in a joint Committee meeting on 16 December. The Prize will be presented to the laureate(s) at an award ceremony during the December plenary, on 18 December.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Enquiry regarding electric cars and the 2035 target – E-001885/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001885/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Claudiu-Richard Târziu (ECR)

    When, in February 2023, Parliament approved – with a fragile majority – the proposal that from 2035 only electric cars would be sold, in order to reach the ‘zero CO2 emissions’ target, its proponents spoke of a historic moment, subsumed under the eco-Marxist left’s dream of achieving so-called climate neutrality by the middle of this century.

    But the facts are: battery production and replacement costs have remained extremely high; car-charging infrastructure – one of the critical issues – is far from sufficient; concern about ‘saving the planet’ is a fiction maintained by the extreme environmentalists; and, therefore, electric car sales have fallen massively in the last year.

    I ask the Commission, therefore, to respond to the following:

    To what extent will the ‘ambitious’ (in fact, utopian) goal of eliminating vehicles powered by conventional fuels in just a few years be achieved, given that demand for electric cars is steadily declining, manufacturers are postponing ‘electrification’ indefinitely, and the trend of rejection of this ideological tool is obvious and growing?

    Submitted: 1.10.2024

    Last updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – MEPs complete check on possible conflicts of interest of Commissioners-designate

    Source: European Parliament

    The Legal Affairs Committee gave its green light for the confirmation hearings for all 26 Commissioners-designate to go ahead.

    MEPs in the Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI) concluded the procedure of examining any conflicts of interest for the new Commissioners-designate in relation to their respective portfolios. The process will now proceed with the confirmation hearings, as each Commissioner-designate will be heard in their respective committees in accordance with the calendar agreed by Parliament.

    Declarations of interest submitted by the Commissioners-designate will become publicly available before the start of the confirmation hearings.

    Quote

    Following the examination, Chair of the Legal Affairs Committee Ilhan Kyuchyuk (Renew, BG) said: “The JURI Committee performed an impartial and in-depth analysis of the declarations of interest of the Commissioners-designate, looking at potential conflicts of interests with reference to the assigned portfolios. Whenever we deemed the information incomplete, we requested further details in order to assess all relevant elements and reach our conclusions. From a procedural point of view, some reasonable criticism of the legal framework can arise and we will have the opportunity to analyse it and suggest amendments, if needed. But today, I want to express my gratitude to all Members of JURI for taking an active part in the process and safeguarding the interests not only of the Committee and Parliament – but also – the European citizens, through their thorough review of all data and information at our disposal. I am glad that JURI, together with all other parliamentary committees, will now be able to focus on the confirmation hearings of Commissioners-designate.”

    Background

    According to Parliament’s rules of procedure, the Legal Affairs Committee is responsible for assessing each commissioner-designate’ s potential or actual conflict of interests. This procedure is confidential and it is a precondition for a candidate to take part in the hearing in the European Parliament. The Legal Affairs Committee must confirm in writing the absence of any conflict of interest in order for the candidate to be heard by the relevant committee.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Erasmus+ funding from the Commission for the controversial Gazientep University – E-001927/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001927/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dirk Gotink (PPE)

    According to an article[1] , there is an Erasmus+ partnership between the Commission and Gaziantep University and the university recently received EUR 250 000 from the EU. The article points to a host of anti-Israeli statements and states that the university rector actively supports the Hamas terrorist organisation. Accordingly:

    • 1.Is this report about the Commission providing EUR 250 000 in Erasmus+ funding for Gaziantep University true?
    • 2.When establishing relations with Gaziantep University, did the Commission also look into the statements by the rector and his possible links with Hamas?
    • 3.Does the Commission concur that, in view of the rector’s statements, the agreement with the university should be immediately terminated? If not, why not?

    Submitted: 2.10.2024

    • [1] https://www.lejdd.fr/societe/erasmus-lunion-europeenne-sous-le-feu-des-critiques-pour-avoir-integre-une-universite-pro-hamas-150023
    Last updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Geo-blocking in French overseas territories – E-001936/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001936/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Rody Tolassy (PfE), Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE), Pierre Pimpie (PfE), Angéline Furet (PfE), Julien Leonardelli (PfE), Julie Rechagneux (PfE), Aleksandar Nikolic (PfE), Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (PfE), Valérie Deloge (PfE), André Rougé (PfE), Mathilde Androuët (PfE), France Jamet (PfE), Alexandre Varaut (PfE), Catherine Griset (PfE), Nikola Bartůšek (PfE)

    Although the European Parliament voted to ban geo-blocking in EU Member States, some French departments continue to be affected by it.

    With its overseas territories, France has a unique geography. The people living in these territories are European taxpayers, just like Spanish, Italian or German citizens, and should therefore enjoy the same rights.

    However, our overseas compatriots still do not have full access to European, let alone French, information, both in terms of audiovisual media and on certain websites.

    In order to better integrate our overseas territories into the EU while also protecting French culture, what measures will the Commission take to put a definitive end to this kind of geographical discrimination?

    Submitted: 3.10.2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Increase in the Modernisation Fund by 0.5 % of the total quantity of allowances in accordance with Article 10a(5b) of Directive (EU) 2003/87/EC – P-001971/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001971/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Adam Jarubas (PPE)

    On 31 May 2021, the Commission adopted Implementing Decision (EU) 2021/927 determining the uniform cross-sectoral correction factor for the adjustment of free allocations of emission allowances for the period 2021 to 2025.

    In his answer to question for written answer to the Commission P-003674/2021[1], Vice-President of the Commission Frans Timmermans stated that the second exercise to determine the free allocation for the years 2026 to 2030 would take place after 30 September 2024.

    When exactly will the exercise take place, and when does the Commission plan to adopt the implementing decision determining the uniform cross-sectoral correction factor for the adjustment of free allocations of emission allowances for the period 2026 to 2030?

    Submitted: 7.10.2024

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/P-9-2021-003674-ASW_EN.html.
    Last updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Contradictory information from the Commission on Treaty change – E-001946/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001946/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marieke Ehlers (PfE)

    In the communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the Conference on the Future of Europe (COM(2022) 404 of 17 June 2022), the Commission stated that it would ‘always be on the side of those who want to reform the European Union to make it work better, including through Treaty change […]’.

    On 18 September 2024, however, in response to minister Marjolein Faber’s letter, in which the Netherlands formally requested an opt-out from European migration policy in the event of a subsequent Treaty change, the Commission stated that no Treaty change was planned.

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to go back on its communication of 17 June 2022, which backed Treaty change initiatives?
    • 2.Has the Commission decided, accordingly, that it is not going to abide by the conclusions of the Conference on the Future of Europe and, hence, that it no longer wants to be involved in the process of initiating Treaty change?
    • 3.Has the Commission decided, accordingly, that no candidate countries will join the EU during the 2024-2029 parliamentary term, given that accession agreements allow Member States to opt out of certain European policies?

    Submitted: 3.10.2024

    Last updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission challenging France’s energy success, ignoring the EU’s climate and environmental challenges – E-001873/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001873/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jordan Bardella (PfE)

    On 11 September 2023, former Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson publicly reprimanded France for its energy policy, saying that it had yet to meet its climate targets given the share of renewable electricity in its energy mix.

    Now, with Parliament about to decide on the Commissioners nominated by Ursula von der Leyen, it would seem that the candidates Teresa Ribera[1] (energy transition) and Dan Jorgensen[2] (energy) also share the same hostility to nuclear energy. With these two appointments, Brussels continues to show its ideological blindness in favouring intermittent and variable energies.

    • 1.Will the Commission propose a further revision of the Renewable Energy Directive with a view to including all low-carbon energy sources?
    • 2.Not forgetting that it is guardian of the Euratom Treaty, does it still see a place for nuclear energy in Europe’s energy future?

    Submitted: 30.9.2024

    • [1] https://www.lefigaro.fr/conjoncture/francois-d-orcival-teresa-ribera-une-pourfendeuse-du-nucleaire-aux-cotes-d-ursula-von-der-leyen-20240925
    • [2] https://www.information.dk/debat/2022/02/dan-joergensen-atomkraft-maa-aldrig-del-loesningen-danmark
    Last updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Verbal violence and online abuse – E-001875/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001875/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Eleonora Meleti (PPE)

    We have recently seen a dramatic increase in the number of instances of hate speech on social media. Across Europe, more and more people – regardless of age or gender – are becoming victims of sexist, racist and abusive verbal attacks carried out in the name of ‘democracy and freedom of speech’. Unfortunately, hate speech has been on the rise in mass media and on social networks and become endemic in society. Verbal violence and abuse takes an immeasurable toll on the mental health and daily lives of its victims.

    These acts are at odds with European culture and education, the principles of respect and dignity and the values of the EU. Given that verbal violence is starting to spiral out of control in all EU countries, can the Commission answer the following:

    • 1.Does it intend to take immediate action and, if so, what measures will it take to combat hate speech in the digital world and to protect victims of verbal violence and their mental health?
    • 2.How does it intend to follow up the initiative[1] to extend the list of EU crimes so that it finally includes hate speech?

    Submitted: 30.9.2024

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52021DC0777
    Last updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Early departure of Luis Miguel Bueno, the EU’s Arabic spokesperson for the Middle East and North Africa – E-001869/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001869/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jordan Bardella (PfE)

    Luis Miguel Bueno, the EU’s Arabic spokesperson for the Middle East and North Africa, left his post early on 31 July 2024. This was in the wake of growing controversy surrounding ambiguous statements on his part and his Islamist tendencies. On 24 July 2024, Commission Vice-President Josep Borrell defended Mr Bueno, deeming his statements to be in line with the role assigned to him as an EU official. Some of Mr Bueno’s most controversial posts have nevertheless been removed from his official social media channels.

    Luis Miguel Bueno made a particular splash in December 2023 with a video shared via ICESCO, an organisation influenced by the Muslim Brotherhood[1], in which he stated that ‘Arabic has become a European language. The Arabic language and Arabic and Islamic culture are an integral part of the European Union and of European history and culture’.

    • 1.Is an internal investigation on the cards to establish the reasons behind Mr Bueno’s early departure?
    • 2.What means is the Commission using to protect itself against entryism on the part of Islamist movements within the European institutions?

    Submitted: 30.9.2024

    • [1] https://www.revuedesdeuxmondes.fr/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/R2M-2020-12-109-119.pdf.
    Last updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – SEDE discusses priorities for the CSDP in its Annual Report 2024 – 17 October 2024 – Subcommittee on Security and Defence

    Source: European Parliament

    SEDE_meeting_military_EU_26102022.jpeg © Adobe Stock

    On 17 October, SEDE Members will discuss the Annual Report on the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) presented by the Rapporteur MEP Nicolás Pascual de la Parte (EPP, Spain). While the EU is facing multiple and unprecedented threats to its security and new crises in its neighbourhood, especially since Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, this first CSDP Annual Report of the 10th Parliamentary term will set out the European Parliament’s assessment of CSDP’s readiness to address the challenges in the current complex geopolitical and security context. It also provides recommendations on the main avenues for strengthening policies and actions for the future along several dimensions, including institutional decision-making progress, the joint development of military and armament capabilities and the urgently needed issue of how to finance European defence.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Civic reception is a golden occasion for Olympians and Paralympians

    Source: City of Leeds

    Leeds rolled out the red carpet last night as it honoured the local stars of the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics with a civic reception.

    The event was organised to recognise the inspirational achievements of competitors from the city and the rest of West Yorkshire on the global sporting stage in Paris earlier this year.

    Guests at the reception – held in the banqueting suite at Leeds Civic Hall – included athletes Hannah Cockroft, Guillaume Junior Atangana and Donard Ndim Nyamjua, gymnasts Harry Hepworth and Luke Whitehouse and divers Lois Toulson, Jack Laugher, Anthony Harding and Yona Knight-Wisdom.

    They gave the 100-strong invited audience some intriguing insights into their Games experiences during a series of interviews with sports commentator and former international gymnast Lisa Gannon.

    The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, had earlier welcomed attendees to the event, organised by Leeds City Council with support from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

    Other speakers included Ed Anderson (HM Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire), Councillor Salma Arif (Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture), Mariana Pexton (interim chief executive of Leeds City Council) and Alison Lowe (West Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime).

    Together they congratulated the assembled Olympians and Paralympians on their achievements and thanked them for further enhancing West Yorkshire’s status as a powerhouse of sporting talent and ambition.

    There was recognition, too, for the crucial part played by coaches, volunteers and other unsung heroes in delivering the kind of world-class performances seen in Paris.

    Stewart Ross, chair of Triathlon Leeds, Dave Murray, director of performance at Leeds Gymnastics Club, and Marc Holdsworth, head coach at City of Leeds Diving Club, were among those sharing the spotlight with the competitors.

    Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said:

    “Leeds, and indeed West Yorkshire as a whole, is hugely passionate about sport and that was reflected in the excitement generated earlier this year by the Olympics and the Paralympics.

    “As a city and a county, we have a superb range of sports facilities and an excellent record of staging high-profile sporting events. Add in the natural talent and determination that is in Yorkshire’s DNA and it’s no wonder that we keep producing sportsmen and sportswomen who are at the very top of their respective games.”

    The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, said:

    “I was pleased and proud to have the opportunity to welcome so many of our Olympians and Paralympians to Leeds Civic Hall for this well-deserved celebration of their achievements.

    “Their stories gave us a real flavour of what it’s like to compete at the highest level of sport, with all the rewards and challenges that can bring. It was also great to hear about the dedicated work that is done by coaches and volunteers with our athletes – from grassroots to elite – as they help them realise their sporting dreams. Thank you for making us all so proud.”

    Alison Lowe, West Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, said:

    “West Yorkshire’s sporting legends did us proud in Paris, and inspired young people right across our communities. Every child deserves the chance to follow in their footsteps and go for gold. That’s why we’re planning to create more opportunities for people in West Yorkshire to get involved in sport.”

    Leeds’s impressive range of sporting facilities includes Beeston’s John Charles Centre for Sport, the Leeds Gymnastics Club set-up in Seacroft and the Bodington Playing Fields-based Brownlee Centre – the UK’s first purpose-built triathlon training site.

    The list of major sporting events held in the city in recent years, meanwhile, includes the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and the AJ Bell World Triathlon Championship Series as well as a number of fixtures at 2022’s Rugby League World Cup.

    Local competitors have also enjoyed notable recent success at some of the world’s biggest sporting occasions, with Yorkshire famously outperforming countries such as Jamaica, Spain and Brazil with its haul of seven gold, two silver and three bronze medals at the London 2012 Olympics.

    Last night’s event came just over a month after the end of the 2024 competitions in Paris, with the date being picked to fit in as best as possible with the busy diaries of West Yorkshire’s various Olympians and Paralympians.

    Hannah Cockroft was joined at Leeds Civic Hall by her husband and fellow Paralympian, Salford-born Nathan Maguire, fresh from their wedding on Saturday.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –