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Category: Agriculture

  • MIL-OSI: Ready Capital Corporation Reports Fourth Quarter 2024 Results and Declares First Quarter 2025 Dividends

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    – GAAP LOSS PER COMMON SHARE FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS OF $(1.80) –
    – DISTRIBUTABLE LOSS PER COMMON SHARE OF $(0.03) –
    – DISTRIBUTABLE EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE BEFORE REALIZED LOSSES OF $0.23 –
    – DISTRIBUTABLE RETURN ON AVERAGE STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY BEFORE REALIZED LOSSES OF 7.1%    –
    – DECLARED A QUARTERLY CASH DIVIDEND OF $0.125 PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK AND OPERATING PARTNERSHIP UNIT FOR THE QUARTER ENDING MARCH 31, 2025 –

    NEW YORK, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ready Capital Corporation (“Ready Capital” or the “Company”) (NYSE: RC), a multi-strategy real estate finance company that originates, acquires, finances, and services lower-to-middle-market (“LMM”) investor and owner-occupied commercial real estate loans, today reported financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 and declared dividends for the quarter ending March 31, 2025.

    “The fourth quarter closes out a year of mixed results. On one hand, our Small Business Lending segment performed well, with significant origination growth reflecting the benefits of past investments. Meanwhile, our multi-family lending focused business faced challenges from higher rates, inflationary pressures, and lower rent growth,” said Thomas Capasse, Ready Capital’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Entering 2025, we have taken decisive actions to stabilize and better position our balance sheet going forward by fully reserving for all of our non-performing loans in our CRE portfolio. While this reduces our book value per share in the short term, we believe it provides a path to recovery in our net interest margin through the accelerated resolution of our non-performing loans to generate liquidity for reinvestment in higher-yielding new originations. Additionally, we have adjusted our dividend to $0.125 per share to align with anticipated cash earnings to preserve capital for reinvestment and share repurchases with potential upward bias co-incident with the recovery in earnings. We believe these actions will enable the Company to resume growth in both book value per share and the dividend as we move forward.”

    Fourth Quarter Highlights

    • LMM commercial real estate originations of $436 million
    • Small Business Lending (“SBL”) loan originations of $348 million, including $315 million of Small Business Administration 7(a) loans
    • Book value of $10.61 per share of common stock as of December 31, 2024
    • Entered into a definitive merger agreement to acquire United Development Funding IV, a real estate investment trust providing capital solutions to residential real estate developers and regional homebuilders
    • Acquired approximately 5.8 million shares of the Company’s common stock at an average price of $7.35 per share as part of stock repurchase program
    • Issued $130 million in aggregate principal amount of 9.00% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2029

    Full Year Highlights

    • GAAP Loss per common share from continuing operations of $(2.52)
    • Distributable earnings per common share before realized losses of $0.97
    • Distributable return on average stockholders’ equity before realized losses of 7.5%
    • Total LMM and SBL originations of $2.4 billion, including $1.1 billion of Small Business Administration 7(a) loans
    • Sold $7.6 billion in mortgage servicing rights in connection with the disposition of its residential mortgage banking segment
    • Completed the acquisitions of Madison One, a leading originator and servicer of USDA and SBA guaranteed loan product, and Funding Circle USA, Inc., an online lending platform that originates and services small business loans
    • Acquired approximately 10.3 million shares of the Company’s common stock at an average price of $7.95 per share as part of stock repurchase program

    Subsequent Events

    • On January 16, 2025, the Board approved a new stock repurchase program authorizing the repurchase of up to $150 million of the Company’s common stock
    • On February 21, 2025, ReadyCap Holdings, LLC, a taxable REIT subsidiary of the Company, closed a private placement of $220 million in aggregate principal amount of its 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2028. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the private placement to repay its indebtedness and for general corporate purposes

    Dividends

    • The Company announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.125 per share of common stock and Operating Partnership unit for the quarter ending March 31, 2025. The dividend is payable on April 30, 2025, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on March 31, 2025
    • Additionally, the Company announced that its Board of Directors declared quarterly cash dividends on its 6.25% Series C Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series C Preferred Stock”), and its 6.50% Series E Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock (the “Series E Preferred Stock”)
    • The Company declared a dividend of $0.390625 per share of Series C Preferred Stock payable on April 15, 2025, to Series C Preferred stockholders of record as of the close of business on March 31, 2025
    • The Company declared a dividend of $0.40625 per share of Series E Preferred Stock payable on April 30, 2025, to Series E Preferred stockholders of record as of the close of business on March 31, 2025

    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information

    In addition to the results presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, this press release includes distributable earnings, formerly referred to as core earnings, which is a non-U.S. GAAP financial measure. The Company defines distributable earnings as net income adjusted for unrealized gains and losses related to certain mortgage backed securities (“MBS”) not retained by us as part of our loan origination business, realized gains and losses on sales of certain MBS, unrealized gains and losses related to residential mortgage servicing rights (“MSR”) from discontinued operations, unrealized changes in our current expected credit loss reserve, unrealized gains or losses on de-designated cash flow hedges, unrealized gains or losses on foreign exchange hedges, unrealized gains or losses on certain unconsolidated joint ventures, non-cash compensation expense related to our stock-based incentive plan, and one-time non-recurring gains or losses, such as gains or losses on discontinued operations, bargain purchase gains, or merger related expenses.

    The Company believes that this non-U.S. GAAP financial information, in addition to the related U.S. GAAP measures, provides investors greater transparency into the information used by management in its financial and operational decision-making, including the determination of dividends. However, because distributable earnings is an incomplete measure of the Company’s financial performance and involves differences from net income computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP, it should be considered along with, but not as an alternative to, the Company’s net income computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP as a measure of the Company’s financial performance. In addition, because not all companies use identical calculations, the Company’s presentation of distributable earnings may not be comparable to other similarly-titled measures of other companies.

    In calculating distributable earnings, Net Income (in accordance with U.S. GAAP) is adjusted to exclude unrealized gains and losses on MBS acquired by the Company in the secondary market but is not adjusted to exclude unrealized gains and losses on MBS retained by Ready Capital as part of its loan origination businesses, where the Company transfers originated loans into an MBS securitization and the Company retains an interest in the securitization. In calculating distributable earnings, the Company does not adjust Net Income (in accordance with U.S. GAAP) to take into account unrealized gains and losses on MBS retained by us as part of the loan origination businesses because the unrealized gains and losses that are generated in the loan origination and securitization process are considered to be a fundamental part of this business and an indicator of the ongoing performance and credit quality of the Company’s historical loan originations. In calculating distributable earnings, Net Income (in accordance with U.S. GAAP) is adjusted to exclude realized gains and losses on certain MBS securities considered to be non-distributable. Certain MBS positions are considered to be non-distributable due to a variety of reasons which may include collateral type, duration, and size.

    In addition, in calculating distributable earnings, Net Income (in accordance with U.S. GAAP) is adjusted to exclude unrealized gains or losses on residential MSRs, held at fair value from discontinued operations. Servicing rights relating to the Company’s small business commercial business are accounted for under ASC 860, Transfer and Servicing. In calculating distributable earnings, the Company does not exclude realized gains or losses on commercial MSRs, as servicing income is a fundamental part of Ready Capital’s business and is an indicator of the ongoing performance.

    To qualify as a REIT, the Company must distribute to its stockholders each calendar year at least 90% of its REIT taxable income (including certain items of non-cash income), determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gain. There are certain items, including net income generated from the creation of MSRs, that are included in distributable earnings but are not included in the calculation of the current year’s taxable income. These differences may result in certain items that are recognized in the current period’s calculation of distributable earnings not being included in taxable income, and thus not subject to the REIT dividend distribution requirement until future years.

    The table below reconciles Net Income computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP to Distributable Earnings.

    (in thousands) Three Months Ended
    December 31, 2024    		 Year Ended
    December 31, 2024
    Net Loss $ (314,751 ) $ (430,398 )
    Reconciling items:    
    Unrealized loss on MSR – discontinued operations   33,175     40,394  
    Unrealized gain on joint ventures   (5,015 )   (3,503 )
    Increase in CECL reserve   277,277     272,964  
    Increase (decrease) in valuation allowance   (31,229 )   124,878  
    Non-recurring REO impairment   31,175     55,686  
    Non-cash compensation   2,826     8,510  
    Unrealized loss on preferred equity, at fair value   15,613     15,613  
    Merger transaction costs and other non-recurring expenses   6,579     17,432  
    Bargain purchase gain   —     (13,859 )
    Realized losses on sale of investments   51,688     183,718  
    Total reconciling items $ 382,089   $ 701,833  
    Income tax adjustments   (22,825 )   (89,504 )
    Distributable earnings before realized losses $ 44,513   $ 181,931  
    Realized losses on sale of investments, net of tax   (44,246 )   (153,571 )
    Distributable earnings $ 267   $ 28,360  
    Less: Distributable earnings attributable to non-controlling interests   3,113     8,167  
    Less: Income attributable to participating shares   2,248     9,125  
    Distributable earnings attributable to common stockholders $ (5,094 ) $ 11,068  
    Distributable earnings before realized losses on investments, net of tax per common share – basic and diluted $ 0.23   $ 0.97  
    Distributable earnings per common share – basic and diluted $ (0.03 ) $ 0.07  

    U.S. GAAP return on equity is based on U.S. GAAP net income, while distributable return on equity is based on distributable earnings, which adjusts U.S. GAAP net income for the items Din the distributable earnings reconciliation above.

    Webcast and Earnings Conference Call

    Management will host a webcast and conference call on Monday, March 3, 2025 at 8:30am ET to provide a general business update and discuss the financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2024. During the conference call, the Company may discuss and answer questions concerning business and financial developments and trends that have occurred after quarter-end. The Company’s responses to questions, as well as other matters discussed during the conference call, may contain or constitute information that has not been disclosed previously.

    The Company encourages use of the webcast due to potential extended wait times to access the conference call via dial-in. The webcast of the conference call will be available in the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at www.readycapital.com. To listen to a live broadcast, go to the site at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time in order to register, download and install any necessary audio software.

    To Participate in the Telephone Conference Call:

    Dial in at least five minutes prior to start time.

    Domestic: 1-877-407-0792
    International: 1-201-689-8263

    Conference Call Playback:

    Domestic: 1-844-512-2921
    International: 1-412-317-6671
    Replay Pin #: 13750356

    The playback can be accessed through March 17, 2025.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” as such term is defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and such statements are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provided by the same. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements; the Company can give no assurance that its expectations will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include, but are not limited to, applicable regulatory changes; general volatility of the capital markets; changes in the Company’s investment objectives and business strategy; the availability of financing on acceptable terms or at all; the availability, terms and deployment of capital; the availability of suitable investment opportunities; changes in the interest rates or the general economy; increased rates of default and/or decreased recovery rates on investments; changes in interest rates, interest rate spreads, the yield curve or prepayment rates; changes in prepayments of Company’s assets; the degree and nature of competition, including competition for the Company’s target assets; and other factors, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC, and other reports filed by the Company with the SEC, copies of which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    About Ready Capital Corporation

    Ready Capital Corporation (NYSE: RC) is a multi-strategy real estate finance company that originates, acquires, finances and services lower-to-middle-market investor and owner occupied commercial real estate loans. The Company specializes in loans backed by commercial real estate, including agency multifamily, investor, construction, and bridge as well as U.S. Small Business Administration loans under its Section 7(a) program and government guaranteed loans focused on the United States Department of Agriculture. Headquartered in New York, New York, the Company employs approximately 500 professionals nationwide.

    Contact
    Investor Relations
    Ready Capital Corporation
    212-257-4666
    InvestorRelations@readycapital.com

    Additional information can be found on the Company’s website at www.readycapital.com.

    READY CAPITAL CORPORATION
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    Assets      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 143,803     $ 138,532  
    Restricted cash   30,560       30,063  
    Loans, net (including $3,533 and $9,348 held at fair value)   3,378,149       4,020,160  
    Loans, held for sale (including $128,531 and $81,599 held at fair value and net of valuation allowance of $97,620 and $0)   241,626       81,599  
    Mortgage-backed securities   31,006       27,436  
    Investment in unconsolidated joint ventures (including $6,577 and $7,360 held at fair value)   161,561       133,321  
    Derivative instruments   7,963       2,404  
    Servicing rights   128,440       102,837  
    Real estate owned, held for sale   193,437       252,949  
    Other assets   362,486       300,175  
    Assets of consolidated VIEs   5,175,295       6,897,145  
    Assets held for sale   287,595       454,596  
    Total Assets $ 10,141,921     $ 12,441,217  
    Liabilities      
    Secured borrowings   2,035,176       2,102,075  
    Securitized debt obligations of consolidated VIEs, net   3,580,513       5,068,453  
    Senior secured notes, net   437,847       345,127  
    Corporate debt, net   895,265       764,908  
    Guaranteed loan financing   691,118       844,540  
    Contingent consideration   573       7,628  
    Derivative instruments   352       212  
    Dividends payable   43,168       54,289  
    Loan participations sold   95,578       62,944  
    Due to third parties   1,442       3,641  
    Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities   188,051       207,481  
    Liabilities held for sale   228,735       333,157  
    Total Liabilities $ 8,197,818     $ 9,794,455  
    Preferred stock Series C, liquidation preference $25.00 per share   8,361       8,361  
           
    Commitments & contingencies      
           
    Stockholders’ Equity      
    Preferred stock Series E, liquidation preference $25.00 per share   111,378       111,378  
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 162,792,372 and 172,276,105 shares issued and outstanding, respectively   17       17  
    Additional paid-in capital   2,250,291       2,321,989  
    Retained earnings (deficit)   (505,089 )     124,413  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (18,552 )     (17,860 )
    Total Ready Capital Corporation equity   1,838,045       2,539,937  
    Non-controlling interests   97,697       98,464  
    Total Stockholders’ Equity $ 1,935,742     $ 2,638,401  
    Total Liabilities, Redeemable Preferred Stock, and Stockholders’ Equity $ 10,141,921     $ 12,441,217  
    READY CAPITAL CORPORATION
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (in thousands, except share data) Three Months Ended
    December 31, 2024    		   Year Ended
    December 31, 2024
    Interest income $ 203,965     $ 896,975  
    Interest expense   (153,911 )     (696,455 )
    Net interest income before provision for loan losses $ 50,054     $ 200,520  
    Provision for loan losses   (285,008 )     (292,759 )
    Net interest income after provision for loan losses $ (234,954 )   $ (92,239 )
    Non-interest income      
    Net realized gain (loss) on financial instruments and real estate owned   (10,934 )     (54,000 )
    Net unrealized gain (loss) on financial instruments   (17,025 )     (14,991 )
    Valuation allowance, loans held for sale   31,229       (124,878 )
    Servicing income, net of amortization and impairment of $7,756 and $21,972   4,112       16,556  
    Gain on bargain purchase   —       13,859  
    Income on unconsolidated joint ventures   6,065       10,886  
    Other income   13,557       50,803  
    Total non-interest income (expense) $ 27,004     $ (101,765 )
    Non-interest expense      
    Employee compensation and benefits   (23,320 )     (82,522 )
    Allocated employee compensation and benefits from related party   (3,350 )     (11,387 )
    Professional fees   (7,557 )     (26,887 )
    Management fees – related party   (5,518 )     (24,862 )
    Loan servicing expense   (12,749 )     (46,656 )
    Transaction related expenses   (4,878 )     (10,118 )
    Impairment on real estate   (29,876 )     (56,503 )
    Other operating expenses   (19,637 )     (63,572 )
    Total non-interest expense $ (106,885 )   $ (322,507 )
    Loss from continuing operations before benefit for income taxes   (314,835 )     (516,511 )
    Income tax benefit   17,318       104,512  
    Net loss from continuing operations $ (297,517 )   $ (411,999 )
    Discontinued operations      
    Loss from discontinued operations before benefit for income taxes   (22,978 )     (24,532 )
    Income tax benefit   5,744       6,133  
    Net loss from discontinued operations $ (17,234 )   $ (18,399 )
    Net loss $ (314,751 )   $ (430,398 )
    Less: Dividends on preferred stock   1,999       7,996  
    Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest   1,389       5,357  
    Net loss attributable to Ready Capital Corporation $ (318,139 )   $ (443,751 )
           
    Earnings per common share from continuing operations – basic $ (1.80 )   $ (2.52 )
    Earnings per common share from discontinued operations – basic $ (0.10 )   $ (0.11 )
    Total earnings per common share – basic $ (1.90 )   $ (2.63 )
           
    Earnings per common share from continuing operations – diluted $ (1.80 )   $ (2.52 )
    Earnings per common share from discontinued operations – diluted $ (0.10 )   $ (0.11 )
    Total earnings per common share – diluted $ (1.90 )   $ (2.63 )
           
    Weighted-average shares outstanding      
    Basic   167,434,683       169,107,477  
    Diluted   168,845,426       170,472,273  
           
    Dividends declared per share of common stock $ 0.25     $ 1.10  
    READY CAPITAL CORPORATION
    UNAUDITED SEGMENT REPORTING
      Three Months Ended December 31, 2024
    (in thousands) LMM
    Commercial
    Real Estate    		   Small Business
    Lending    		   Corporate-Other   Consolidated
    Interest income $ 170,292     $ 33,673     $ —     $ 203,965  
    Interest expense   (131,128 )     (22,783 )     —       (153,911 )
    Net interest income before provision for loan losses $ 39,164     $ 10,890     $ —     $ 50,054  
    Provision for loan losses   (279,483 )     (5,525 )     —       (285,008 )
    Net interest income after provision for loan losses $ (240,319 )   $ 5,365     $ —     $ (234,954 )
    Non-interest income              
    Net realized gain (loss) on financial instruments and real estate owned   (33,206 )     22,272       —       (10,934 )
    Net unrealized gain (loss) on financial instruments   (19,629 )     2,604       —       (17,025 )
    Valuation allowance, loans held for sale   31,229       —       —       31,229  
    Servicing income, net   1,761       2,351       —       4,112  
    Income on unconsolidated joint ventures   6,065       —       —       6,065  
    Other income   2,279       9,155       2,123       13,557  
    Total non-interest income (loss) $ (11,501 )   $ 36,382     $ 2,123     $ 27,004  
    Non-interest expense              
    Employee compensation and benefits   (4,741 )     (14,564 )     (4,015 )     (23,320 )
    Allocated employee compensation and benefits from related party   (335 )     —       (3,015 )     (3,350 )
    Professional fees   (1,639 )     (3,210 )     (2,708 )     (7,557 )
    Management fees – related party   —       —       (5,518 )     (5,518 )
    Loan servicing expense   (11,592 )     (1,157 )     —       (12,749 )
    Transaction related expenses   —       —       (4,878 )     (4,878 )
    Impairment on real estate   (29,876 )     —       —       (29,876 )
    Other operating expenses   (4,257 )     (12,215 )     (3,165 )     (19,637 )
    Total non-interest expense $ (52,440 )   $ (31,146 )   $ (23,299 )   $ (106,885 )
    Income (loss) before provision for income taxes $ (304,260 )   $ 10,601     $ (21,176 )   $ (314,835 )
    Total assets $ 8,058,707     $ 1,427,281     $ 368,338     $ 9,854,326  
    READY CAPITAL CORPORATION
    UNAUDITED SEGMENT REPORTING
      Year Ended December 31, 2024
    (in thousands) LMM
    Commercial
    Real Estate    		   Small Business
    Lending    		   Corporate-Other   Consolidated
    Interest income $ 766,354     $ 130,621     $ —     $ 896,975  
    Interest expense   (598,846 )     (97,609 )     —       (696,455 )
    Net interest income before provision for loan losses $ 167,508     $ 33,012     $ —     $ 200,520  
    Provision for loan losses   (283,800 )     (8,959 )     —       (292,759 )
    Net interest income after provision for loan losses $ (116,292 )   $ 24,053     $ —     $ (92,239 )
    Non-interest income              
    Net realized gain (loss) on financial instruments and real estate owned   (132,746 )     78,746       —       (54,000 )
    Net unrealized gain (loss) on financial instruments   (20,588 )     5,597       —       (14,991 )
    Valuation allowance, loans held for sale   (124,878 )     —       —       (124,878 )
    Servicing income, net   5,759       10,797       —       16,556  
    Gain on bargain purchase   —       —       13,859       13,859  
    Income on unconsolidated joint ventures   10,876       10       —       10,886  
    Other income   22,605       23,424       4,774       50,803  
    Total non-interest income (loss) $ (238,972 )   $ 118,574     $ 18,633     $ (101,765 )
    Non-interest expense              
    Employee compensation and benefits   (25,821 )     (46,036 )     (10,665 )     (82,522 )
    Allocated employee compensation and benefits from related party   (1,139 )     —       (10,248 )     (11,387 )
    Professional fees   (4,963 )     (12,681 )     (9,243 )     (26,887 )
    Management fees – related party   —       —       (24,862 )     (24,862 )
    Loan servicing expense   (44,667 )     (1,989 )     —       (46,656 )
    Transaction related expenses   —       —       (10,118 )     (10,118 )
    Impairment on real estate   (56,428 )     (75 )     —       (56,503 )
    Other operating expenses   (15,212 )     (36,108 )     (12,252 )     (63,572 )
    Total non-interest expense $ (148,230 )   $ (96,889 )   $ (77,388 )   $ (322,507 )
    Income (loss) before provision for income taxes $ (503,494 )   $ 45,738     $ (58,755 )   $ (516,511 )
    Total assets $ 8,058,707     $ 1,427,281     $ 368,338     $ 9,854,326  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Magadh Central Co-operative Bank Limited, Bihar

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated February 27, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1.00 lakh (Rupees One Lakh only) on The Magadh Central Co-operative Bank Limited, Bihar (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Know your Customer (KYC)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, oral submissions made during the personal hearing and examination of additional submissions made by it, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had failed to put in place a system of carrying out periodic review of risk categorisation of accounts at least once in six months.

    This action is based on deficiency in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2292

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF MAʻAKUA RIDGE-PAPALI TRAIL, February 28, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF MAʻAKUA RIDGE-PAPALI TRAIL, February 28, 2025

    Posted on Mar 1, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ‘OIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

     

         JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

     

    DAWN CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

     

    TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF MAʻAKUA RIDGE-PAPALI TRAIL

    FOR LITTLE FIRE ANT ERADICATION

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    February 28, 2025

    Hauʻula, Oʻahu — Starting today, a portion of the Hauʻula Forest Reserve on Oʻahu, including hunting unit C and the Maʻakua Ridge-Papali Trail, will temporarily close for Little Fire Ant (LFA) containment and removal efforts.

     

    The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) is partnering with the Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee, the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture, and the Hawaiʻi Ant Lab to produce a comprehensive plan to control the infestation of this noxious invasive species. The partnership also includes surveys and control efforts on private properties around the forest reserve.

     

    This closure is necessary to ensure the safety of hikers, pets, and hunting dogs. The tiny ant delivers a painful sting when disturbed. LFA stings cause welts that can last for weeks and have also been known to cause blindness in cats and dogs. The ant doesn’t build mounded dirt nests, but lives in a variety of habitats, including trees, potted plants, around irrigation lines, and in electrical boxes.

     

    “This little ant is a big threat to our quality of life and native plants and animals,” said DOFAW Oʻahu Branch Manager Marigold Zoll. “We don’t want it to become established in our communities or forest areas, so we need to take quick action. We urge the Hauʻula community to help us in testing their homes and treating any infestations, so we ensure it is eradicated from the area.”

    Emergent populations of LFA have been successfully controlled in other places on Oʻahu, such as Lanikai and Waimānalo, but this is the first detection in a forest reserve on the island. Eradication efforts will begin once the infestation area is defined and may take over a year.

    Zoll added that DOFAW staff will attend the Hauʻula Community Association meeting on March 4 and the Koʻolauloa Neighborhood Board meeting on March 13 and encourages residents to join.

    # # # 

     

    RESOURCES 

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR) 

     

    Photographs – Maʻakua Ridge LFA Survey https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/vxm7y9kz7w6eoo73fr77m/AOV74EOKSIZUkXa5oKszLKA?rlkey=3pwmkfsu6a6jse9pnm1v90w90&st=0c04fx2d&dl=0

     

    Little Fire Ant information:

    Little Fire Ant (LFA)

    LITTLE FIRE ANTS ON OAHU AND MAUI

    Little Fire Ant

    www.stoptheant.org

     

    Trail information:

    https://hawaiitrails.ehawaii.gov

    Get the Outerspatial App

     

     

    Media Contact: 

    Ryan Aguilar

    Communications Specialist

    Hawaiʻi Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    808-587-0396

    Email: Dlnr.comms@hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Trade and Gender Group launches new edition of equality prize, consultations on future work

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Trade and Gender Group launches new edition of equality prize, consultations on future work

    The co-chairs of the Informal Working Group (IWG) — Ambassador Clara Delgado of Cabo Verde, Ambassador Patricia Benedetti of El Salvador and Ambassador Simon Manley of the United Kingdom — looked back at key achievements in 2024. They highlighted the specific wording on trade and gender in the Abu Dhabi Ministerial Declaration WT/MIN(24)/DEC, the launch of a new trade policy tool in support of women entrepreneurs’ financial inclusion, and progress on “sharing experiences” on gender-responsive trade policy making.
    Progress was also made in integrating gender issues into the work of various WTO bodies, such as the Informal Working Group on Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), they added. 
    Members welcomed the co-chairs’ initiative to launch consultations on the IWG’s work plan for 2025-26, including on potential outcomes at the 14th Ministerial Conference, to be held in March 2026.
    Members also agreed to launch the second edition of the International Prize for Gender Equality in Trade to support members’ work on inclusive trade. The call for applications is now open via this form.
    Presentations
    The United Kingdom presented its work on the implementation of gender equality in free trade agreements (FTAs), including the UK-New Zealand FTA and the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
    The importance of mainstreaming gender across trade agreements was highlighted. In addition, cooperation provisions are key for collecting gender-disaggregated data and for monitoring the impact of trade agreements on women, the UK said. The United Kingdom also noted that it is crucial to secure an institutional mechanism for discussing and implementing cooperation activities with stakeholders such as trade associations and women entrepreneurs. 
    Australia introduced its recently launched “International Gender Equality Strategy for a Safer and More Prosperous Indo-Pacific and the World”. Developed following consultations with over 600 stakeholders, the strategy aims to support gender equality in trade commitments at the WTO and other international and regional organizations
    Mexico reported on a recent capacity-building workshop on trade and gender organized by the countries of the Global Trade and Gender Arrangement (GTAGA) in coordination with the WTO Secretariat. Bringing together experts, government representatives, academics and women entrepreneurs, the event looked into the challenges and opportunities in mainstreaming gender into global trade.
    The International Trade Centre (ITC) provided an update on the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund, launched at MC13. This WTO-ITC initiative will provide grants and technical assistance regarding digital trade to support export growth in women-led businesses. Following a call for applications in September 2024, the Fund will work with a number of business support organizations to be announced  in early March.
    The WTO Secretariat provided an update on its activities, highlighting training programmes, collaborative research projects, and outreach initiatives. The Secretariat emphasized progress in capacity-building initiatives with the Latin American Integration Association, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and various universities. A thematic course on trade, gender and agriculture will be launched with the FAO in 2025 as a follow-up to the WTO-FAO Memorandum of Understanding signed  in 2024.
    The Trade and Gender Office also underlined its collaboration with the Secretariat of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) on drafting a recommendation (General Recommendation number 40) on women’s access to decision-making positions and its ongoing work.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Japan and WFP partner to protect food security of communities against extreme weather in the Bangsamoro, Philippines

    Source: World Food Programme

    MANILA – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Government of Japan signed an agreement to strengthen support to farmers and fishermen, protecting them from extreme weather shocks in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

    Japan’s contribution of Japanese Yen 757 million (approximately US$4.9 million) will directly benefit 36,000 individuals, including conflict-affected communities. This will also help strengthen the BARMM Government’s disaster management systems to integrate early warning and anticipatory action.   

    “We recognize that the peace process in Mindanao is crucial not only for the Philippines but for the entire Asian region. As a committed partner of the Philippines, Japan has made peace and development in Mindanao as one of the key pillars of our cooperation efforts. This project with WFP well aligns with the objectives of the normalization efforts for the region,” said Mr Kazuya Endo, Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines.

    The ceremony was attended by the Embassy of Japan First Secretary Hidenori Akasaka; WFP Philippines Representative and Country Director Regis Chapman; BARMM Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform Minister Mohammad Shuaib Yacob; Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Senior Undersecretary Isidro Purisima; and representatives of various national and BARMM government agencies.

     “Japan has consistently been a vital partner in fostering enduring peace in BARMM,” said WFP’s Regis Chapman.  “Through initiatives ranging from disaster relief to school meals, we continue our efforts to ensure that no one in BARMM is left behind. We thank the Government and the people of Japan for their support,” 

    In 2024, the partnership between Japan, the BARMM Government, and WFP provided food assistance and livelihood opportunities to 50,000 individuals. 

    #                 #                   #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on Twitter @wfp_media @wfp_philippines

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MIT Professor Jonathan Fleming praises Govt. of India’s efforts and remarkable achievements in women empowerment

    Source: Government of India

    MIT Professor Jonathan Fleming praises Govt. of India’s efforts and remarkable achievements in women empowerment

    Jonathan Fleming interacts with Namo Drone Didis at Pusa Campus of ICAR

    Namo Drone Didis make a live demonstration in field by using drone technology

    Posted On: 01 MAR 2025 7:41PM by PIB Delhi

    Professor Jonathan Fleming, Senior Lecturer, MIT Sloan School of Management, USA has appreciated the efforts of the Government of India and remarkable achievements in women empowerment. While interacting with the Namo Drone Didis at ICAR Pusa campus in New Delhi today, he said he was excited to see how India is using technology for women empowerment and such initiative is an inspiration for not only women in rural areas of India, but also in other countries who can learn from this concept.  Prof. Fleming was highly impressed by the process of training and benefits the women getting from the use of latest technology in India.

        The Drone Didis explained to the visiting professor about the efforts of the Government of India to enable them to use drone technology and providing financial assistance to become Drone Didis. While interacting with Prof. Jonathan Fleming, Didis told how using Drone is helping them spray fertilizers and pesticides in dense crops where manual spraying has been a big challenge. They also told that they feel proud to be called as Drone Didis and their financial condition has improved significantly. The Didis mentioned that Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi is a great visionary and he has brought a great scheme for them.

     

        Prof. Jonathan also visited the Drone Robotic and Machine Learning Centre of IRAI, where he was showcased different types of drones developed by the institute and how they are making difference in the traditional farming with the use of technology. Dr. Ravi Sahoo, Principal Scientist, Division of Agricultural Physics, IRAI, New Delhi briefed him about Drone journey of India and explained to him on how India is integrating the indigenous knowledge and modern technology to reform the agriculture sector which is the backbone of Indian Economy and social system. Professor Jonathan found this technological development very interesting and said that India is not only transforming the present agriculture system but also investing in the future.

      Namo Drone Didi scheme was briefed to the visiting professor by Mr. Raman Wadhwa, Deputy Director, National Rural Livelihoods Mission. Four Namo Didis namely Ms. Gita, Ms. Sita, Ms. Priyanka, and Ms. Hemlata made a live demonstration of spraying by the Drone in the fields of IARI campus before the US dignitary.

          Later speaking to the media, Professor Jonathan Fleming said 100 percent beneficiaries of the Drone incentive scheme in the USA are men, while in India it’s totally opposite as all the beneficiaries are women which is a great example of how India is using technology for empowerment of women. “I am going back to my country with so many positive messages for my government from my wonderful experiences in India”, he said.

     

     

         Dr. Rajeev Ranjan, Senior Scientist, Division of Agricultural Physics, IARI, New Delhi along with his team of scientist, Shri SB Pawar from Ministry of Agriculture, Shri Bibhu and Shri Arvind from NRLM, several officials from IFFCO, officials from states of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh State Livelihood Missions were also present on this occasion.

    *****

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    (Release ID: 2107388) Visitor Counter : 27

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address at post-budget webinar on agriculture and rural prosperity

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAR 2025 3:55PM by PIB Delhi

    Namaskar!

    After the budget, your presence in the budget-related webinar is very important. Thank you all for joining this program. This year’s budget was the first full budget of the third term of our government. This budget not only shows continuity in our policies, but also shows a new expansion in the vision of a developed India. The inputs and suggestions given by all of you stakeholders before the budget were very useful while preparing the budget. Now in implementing this budget more effectively, in getting the best and quickest outcome, in making all the decisions and policies effective, your role has increased further.

    Friends, 

    India’s resolve to move towards the goal of a developed India is very clear. We are all together engaged in building such an India where farmers are prosperous and empowered. Our endeavour is to ensure that no farmer is left behind and every farmer is encouraged to move forward. We have given a place of pride to our Annadatas, considering agriculture as the first engine of development. We are moving together towards two major goals, first- development of the agriculture sector and second- prosperity of our villages.

    Friends, 

    The PM Kisan Nidhi Yojana was implemented 6 years ago. Under this scheme, farmers have received almost 4 lakh crore rupees so far. This amount has been directly transferred to the accounts of nearly 11 crore farmers. With this financial assistance of 6 thousand rupees annually, the rural economy is getting strengthened. We have created a farmer-centric digital infrastructure so that the benefits of this scheme can reach farmers across the country. That is, there is no scope for any middleman to enter or leakage in this, a no-cut company. This is an example of the fact that if experts and visionary people like you cooperate, then the scheme succeeds as soon as possible and gives better results. With your contribution, any scheme can be implemented with full strength and transparency. I would like to appreciate your cooperation in this and your active cooperation always. Now it is necessary that we work together and speedily to implement the announcements of this year’s budget. In this also we will get your cooperation as before, but we should get more cooperation and more comprehensive cooperation in every sector. 

    Friends, 

    As you now know, today India’s agricultural production is at a record level. The agricultural production which was around 265 million tonnes 10-11 years ago has now increased to more than 330 million tonnes. Similarly, the production related to horticulture has increased to more than 350 million tonnes. This is the result of our government’s seed to market approach. Agricultural reforms, empowerment of farmers and strong value chain have made this possible. Now we have to reach even bigger targets by making full use of the agricultural potential of the country. In this direction, we have announced the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana in the budget, this is a very important scheme for me. Under this, the focus will be on the development of the 100 districts with the lowest agricultural productivity in the country. You all have seen the results of the Aspirational District program on many parameters of development. These districts are getting a lot of benefits of collaboration, governance and healthy competition, and convergence. I would like all of you to study the results obtained from such districts and learn from their learnings and take the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana forward at a very fast pace in these 100 districts. This will help in increasing the income of farmers in these 100 districts.

    Friends, 

    In the last few years, due to our efforts, the production of pulses has increased in the country, and I also congratulate the farmers for this. But, still 20 percent of our domestic consumption is dependent on foreign countries, on imports. That means we have to increase our pulses production. We have achieved self-sufficiency in gram and moong. But we have to work more rapidly to increase the production of tur, urad and masoor. To speed up the production of pulses, it is necessary to maintain the supply of improved seeds and promote hybrid varieties. For this, all of you will have to focus on solving challenges like climate change, market uncertainty, and price fluctuations.

    Friends, 

    In the last decade, ICAR has used modern tools and cutting-edge technologies in the breeding program. This has led to the development of more than 2900 new varieties in various crops including cereals, oilseeds, pulses, fodder, sugarcane between 2014 and 2024. You have to ensure that the farmers of our country get these new varieties at affordable rates. We also have to ensure that the farmers’ yield is not affected by the fluctuations of the weather. You know that this time in the budget, it has been announced to start a national mission for high yielding seeds. I would especially like to tell the people from the private sector who are present in this program to definitely focus on the dissemination of these seeds. To ensure that these seeds reach small farmers, they will have to be made a part of the seed chain, and it is our job to decide how to become one.

    Friends, 

    You all are seeing that today people have become very aware about nutrition. Therefore, in view of the increasing demand for horticulture, dairy and fishery products, a lot of investment has been made in these sectors. Many programs are being run to increase the production of fruits and vegetables. The formation of Makhana Board in Bihar has also been announced. I urge all of you stakeholders to find new ways to spread diverse nutritional foods. Such nutritional foods should reach every corner of the country and the global market.

    Friends, 

    In 2019, we launched the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana. This was an important step towards strengthening the value chain of this sector, creating infrastructure and modernizing it. This helped in improving production, productivity and post-harvest management in the field of fisheries. In the past years, investment in this sector was also increased through many schemes, the results of which are in front of us today. Today fish production has doubled, our exports have also doubled. Our effort is to promote sustainable fisheries from the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and the open sea. An action plan will be prepared for this. I would like all of you to brainstorm on ideas that promote Ease of Doing Business in this sector and start working on them as soon as possible. Along with this, we will also have to ensure the protection of the interests of our traditional fishermen.

    Friends, 

    Our government is committed to making the rural economy prosperous. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin, crores of poor people are being given houses, property owners have got ‘Record of Rights’ through the Swamitva Yojana. We have increased the economic strength of self-help groups and have increased help to them. Small farmers and businessmen have benefited from the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. We have set a target of making 3 crore Lakhpati Didis. Due to our efforts, more than 1.25 crore sisters have become Lakhpati Didis. The announcement of rural prosperity and development programs in this budget has created the possibility of many new employment opportunities. Investment in skilling and technology is creating new opportunities. All of you must discuss these topics on how to make the ongoing schemes more effective. Your suggestions and contributions in this direction will definitely yield positive results. Only with the active participation of all of us, villages will be empowered, rural families will be empowered. And I am confident that this webinar will be truly about implementing the budget as soon as possible, in the shortest possible time, and in the best possible manner, and that too with the cooperation and suggestions of all of you. Now it should not happen that in this webinar there is a discussion about making a new budget. Now this budget has been made, now this scheme has come. Now our entire focus should be on action. What are the difficulties in action, what are the shortcomings, what kind of changes are needed, we must pay attention to that. Only then will this webinar be fruitful. Otherwise, if we discuss today the budget that is going to come after a year, then we will not get the benefit of what has happened now. And that is why I request all of you that with the budget that has come, we have to achieve the targets in a year, and in that, not the government alone, but all the stakeholders of this sector should move in one direction, with one opinion, with one goal. With this one expectation, I thank you very much to all of you.

     

    DISCLAIMER: This is the approximate translation of PM’s speech. Original speech was delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Textiles Anchors Post-Budget Webinar Sub-Theme on ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity’

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Textiles Anchors Post-Budget Webinar Sub-Theme on ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity’

    Strategic Initiatives for Enhancing Cotton Quality and Next-Gen Materials to be Integrated into the Mission

    Posted On: 01 MAR 2025 8:00PM by PIB Delhi

     

    The Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the Post-Budget Webinar on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity, hosted by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in collaboration with the Ministry of Textiles today. The event was graced by the Union Minister of Textiles, Shri Giriraj Singh, along with Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary of Textiles, and senior officials from various government departments. The session also saw the participation of key stakeholders and experts from the agriculture sector. Following the inaugural address, the webinar branched into multiple breakout sessions focused on various upcoming schemes and missions.

    Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary of Textiles, highlighted the government’s strong commitment to strengthening the cotton value chain. She outlined key initiatives such as expanding fibre testing infrastructure, increasing the production of Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton seeds, and further developing the Kasturi Cotton Bharat initiative to ensure the growth and sustainability of India’s cotton sector.

    As part of this initiative, the Ministry of Textiles led a crucial discussion on the ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity.’ The session brought together senior officials from the Union Ministries of Textiles and Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, State Government representatives, industry stakeholders, and leading experts from the textile value chain, including cotton farmers and ginners.

    The webinar witnessed active participation from a diverse group of panelists, including industry leaders, policymakers from both state and central levels, eminent scientists, research experts, and farmers. The discussions centered on advancing technology, strengthening market linkages, and fostering innovation in sustainable cotton production. The government’s commitment to supporting cotton farmers was underscored, with a focus on leveraging advanced technologies to enhance productivity and ensure long-term sustainability.

    The webinar concluded with remarks from the Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who reaffirmed the sentiments shared by the Hon’ble Prime Minister. He emphasized the importance the various Ministries taking coordinated steps to ensure that our farmers are prosperous and empowered.

    ***

    Dhanya Sanal K

    Director

    (Release ID: 2107468) Visitor Counter : 30

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of the Vice-President’s address at IIT Hyderabad (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 MAR 2025 6:30PM by PIB Delhi

    Very good afternoon all of you and I had the occasion to say it yesterday, there are no backbenchers in IITs, there are only backbenches. Am I right? Shri Jishnu Dev Verma, Honourable Governor Telangana, Honourable Member of Parliament, Shri M. Raghunandan Rao, Chairman, Board of Governors, IIT Hyderabad, Dr. B. V. R. Mohan Reddy, a man highly acclaimed, highly accoladed and I shared his thoughts with you, mincing no words.

    When IIT Board of Governors is fully involved, things are in a different groove. Professor B. S. Murthy, Director IIT Hyderabad, watch out for him. He is not as he appears, a tough guy. He means business and he means two other things apart from business. Number two is business, Number three, is business. Brevity is the soul of wit, the soul of demonstration of it in his discourse. Every word was amplified, a thought process with which you all are involved. He indicated, we don’t only create ideas, we ideate, we innovate, we accomplish. When you monetise every second, every moment, you do justice not only to yourself but to humanity.

    But you are greatly privileged when you happen to be in Bharat, home to one-sixth of humanity. We are privileged today to have presence of Honourable members of Parliament. Shri Vaddiraju Ravichandra, Shri S. S. Babu, I’ll face them in Rajya Sabha from my chair. You must have seen Rajya Sabha proceedings. They are good cholesterol. Soothing and make positive contributions. It was a great loss to the chairman of Rajya Sabha when Shri Vijay Sai Reddy ji, a very distinguished parliamentarian, ceased to be its member. I wish him great luck.

    The director focused and so did the chairman of the board of governors. An Institution is defined by the infrastructure, but that is easily creatable. That is essential, but not the cutting edge. It is our 300 squad of faculty members with greater recognition who are giving everything to make you future leaders. And let me tell you, there can be no greater honour at the moment than a global benchmark to get such quality education as your Institute.

    Amongst the IITs, in terms of time, you may not have been in the beginning, but by your achievements, by your accomplishments, you have reached that group. My congratulations to the entire faculty. The director must settle me, finding I have a political background of having been in parliament in 1989 when I ministered there, and also taking a vote without spilling out my role as Governor of the state of West Bengal. It reminded me I have to focus on innovation.

    Innovation, boys and girls, is a panacea for what we need and what kills us. It is a one-stop solution to bring about progress, sustainable development, and solve our problems. When it comes to Bharat, a land of homogeneous, demonstrated to the world for over 5,000 years, an Indian mind has a DNA which speaks of genius.

    Let me buttress it by one illustration. We are a nation of 1.4 billion people and we are well spread out. The landscape, rural, semi-urban, urban, metro, and top metros. But when it came to technological penetration and digitisation, just imagine, accessibility of technology and adaptability of those in the villages. Amazing performance, giving us global recognition. If our people-centric policies, if service delivery is so efficient, it is on account of adaptability to technology of our brothers and sisters in the villages. I am son of a farmer.

    Imagine the kind of pride I have. Three times a year, about 100 million farmers get a direct amount in their bank accounts. The government or the system is not important. It is an achievement, but the farmers are equipped on their own to receive it. Now if you go to the base of it, this would not have been possible unless the Prime Minister of the country entertained the grandiose idea that they must have access to banking system.

    And in the shortest space, when it comes to time assessment, over 500 million people have got banking vision. Second, the malice of nepotism, and that is highly unacceptable to our young people, because if patronage is password for an employment or opportunity, you will have a deep frustration.

    And there was a time, not long ago, when power corridors were infested with corrupt elements. Decision-making was leveraged extraordinarily. Patronage was a password for success. There was in that country a privileged pedigree. They entertained the idea that we are above law. We are beyond the reach of law. Nothing could be more frustrating toyoung minds. I faced it during my time.

    Imagine my pain, admitted to an IIT, had no money, couldn’t go. Imagine my pain, as an advocate, had to work very hard to get a loan of 6000 rupees for my digestion. Vividly I had before me the manager who said, I can give you without paying guarantee because I find you are a good lawyer, and look at the transformative change you are witnessing. Start-ups, unicorns emanating from tier 2 cities.

    You are, and you try, Gen Z and Generation Next and those who are before me. You are the most vital stakeholders in democracy, in progress of this nation. Right now, if you have to see where we are heading, then we have to find the ecosystem. A nation’s state is fundamental because if the nation is let say at war, things go horizontally. So nation’s state is important. So is the national movement. Also its growth trajectory, the destination it has for itself, its ecosystem.

    And when we examine these things, reality check, our nation is in a top global group. World technological leaders, when it comes to finer aspects of development like Quantum computing or Green Hydrogen mission or commercialisation of 6G, areas which will appeal you not to ordinary youth, but we are in the big league of nations.

    Artificial intelligence is bringing about paradigm shift every moment. It is introduction of an era, a new kind of industrial revolution with greater potential, challenges and opportunities. This has a big basket of opportunities for boys and girls. Let me remind you one aspect. I had the occasion to face terrible panks of pain in 1990.

    I was a Minister and our gold had to be shipped out by air to be placed to two banks in Switzerland to sustain our fiscal credibility because our foreign exchange could not last even for a few weeks, not to speak of months.

    It was in doldrums, dangerously moving around 1 billion US dollars. This is not a concern to us at all at the moment. We are 700 billion, but concern to you is we are having trade deficit with a neighbouring country to the extent of 90 billion US dollars, and if I go by the figures recently released, the input is 17% year on year and the output is only 11%. Solution to that has to be found by you.

    You will have to focus and only you can do it. I do agree that young minds like you have capacity to bring about big transformative change. But then you need some support. And one support is I seek to steer your minds, minds of the parliamentarians, minds of industry leaders, your chairman represents that group. Academia, your director represents it.

    Economic nationalism. Much of the trade deficit that is draining out our foreign exchange to the tune of hundreds of billions. If one country is around 90 billion US dollars, you can imagine when we cumulatively assess it.

    Why should this country import what is available? Number two, if it is avoidable, can’t our genius find a solution by way of substitution? and three, our raw materials leave our shores, pronouncing on our inability to add value to the raw material. In the process, we deprive our people of work on both accounts, avoidable imports and export of raw material. The blunt entrepreneurship, this mindset has to dominate us.

    The role of the people is crucial, but then the greater role is of those in industry, commerce, business and trade. Can’t they sit on one table through their associations and take a call? That, I would urge, should be taken.

    While I was examining your motto and logo, both are critical, and I am happy by what I have gathered on my own and what has been asserted by the director and chairman. Motto: Inventing and innovating in Technology for Humanity.

    Logo: Expansion and Growth of Knowledge, and this is drawn from Telugu. Let me reflect on some changes that are worrisomely alarming, concerning. India is a land of rich languages.

    Sanskrit, Bangla, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, several languages. Even in Parliament, simultaneous translation takes place in 22 languages. Our civilisational ethos tells us inclusivity. Should there be confrontational stance on language in land of Bharat?

    What a moment of pride for everyone when languages were put in the classical language status recently. We have to nurture every language. Our languages have global outreach. They are gold mine of literature, and the literary pieces have knowledge and wisdom. Vedas, Puranas, our epics, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Gita.

    And therefore I call upon youth of the country, Social media has given you the power to take a call. If there is deviation from our commitment to nationalism, if there is assessment of development through partisan prism, we need to be watchdogs.

    Use the power to blunt the narratives that emanate from forces that are financially fuelled only to injure Bharat. Because you are at the moment living in times that indicate hope and possibility. Your basket is limitless.

    Look at sea surface, deep sea, ground, underground, sky or space. Your opportunities and challenges are there. Mid-blue economy or space economy.

    Let me pose a question to you. If the International Monetary Fund has asserted that India, Bharat at the moment is a hotspot, a global centre, most attractive one for investment and opportunity, is it for government jobs? Certainly not. Therefore, that opportunity is for you also.

    Investment, these days I can tell you with my exposure in governance, is not a problem at all. You would have seen in start-ups investment, apart from the governmental affirmative policies, innovative framework, top business leaders investing in start-ups. The hierarchical succession mechanism in industrial business has collapsed.

    Tech tycoons are emerging. There was a time when we could not see a single Indian soul working in global top corporates at any level, and now boys and girls, there is not a single global corporate of consequence where an Indian genius is not contributing at the top level.

    When that is the scenario, you have to make a difference. You have to catalyse the change which you think is best for the nation. And I would say, don’t just catalyse, be the epicentre of change.

    Another centre of change, never ever keep a brilliant idea in your mind. Your mind is not a parking space. What a parking place.

    You do greatest injustice to you and to humanity that an idea has occurred to you and you fear experimentation. You fear failure. Boys and girls’ fear of failure is a myth.

    Chandrayaan 2,I was governor of the state of West Bengal. It was September, I think, 2019. I think 2019, and I was in the company of about 500 school-going children, young boys and girls. Chandrayaan 2 landed close but could not touch the lunar surface. For some who are recipe for chaos, some would define nothing but negativity. For some who see nothing but only taint in your white cloth, they said, failure, so much money, but if you examine success of Chandrayaan 3, was rooted in the foundation laid by Chandrayaan 2, you all will realise first attempt success has eluded most great innovations.

    Let me focus on reality of research and innovation. First our corporates. I am not critical of them, I am critique. They must invest in research. They must invest in research for development and innovation. They must compete with global giants, because this investment is not for the beneficiary student, boy or girl of your Institute or other Institutes.

    It is for benefit of our present, our future. And trust me, we have had a big change in our strategic system globally. Conventional war system has collapsed. It is diplomacy that defines. Innovation and research give us great cutting edge in soft diplomacy. We become a great power. Therefore I appeal from this podium. Corporates, examine what your peers are doing in the West. Please come closer to them.

    Second, look at global Universities. Their endowment funds in billions of US dollars. I had the occasion to glance. Oh my god, crossing in 50 billion US dollars. If you see the top list, why don’t we have it? I hope, Governor of the board, we started in 2008.

    We have Alumni. Let our alumni plow in the corpus. Amount doesn’t matter. It is the spirit of contribution that will generate a connect with the Institute.

    A pride for them also. I have mooted an idea. I hope someone takes it.

    We have institutes of excellence, IITs, IIMs and other institutes. Their aluminium associations must form into a confederation of associations of aluminium. It will be a top world benchmark think tank for policy making.

    It can spur research and innovation. All I am indicating is that these thoughts which I have shared are only indicative, because you are discerning minds, you can on your own work about it.

    If a man like me, who had such a successful career, I can say so, now I am not a senior advocate anymore, to be designated senior in less than 10 and a half years of my practise. No one has done it. I still feel the void of not getting admission to IIT. You are there. I still have the void.

    The position of the Governor or Vice-President does not compensate it. And therefore, I am your Eklavya. I am trying to persuade you.

    I would conclude, I invite in batches students of the IIT and the faculty to be my guests for a visit to Indian parliament, and I would have the occasion and I would gather some people who need to be educated. No pun intended.

    We will have luncheon, brainstorming sessions. I will depute an Officer from my secretariat to be in touch with the Registrar, and this will be done before I take off in my helicopter. I hope you will respond to me. I go with a deep sense of satisfaction, optimism and confidence.

    Though I have not been able to share my thoughts in completeness, but I know, I may have sent or short changed you. But you have received what I mean to convey.

    Thank you so much for your time.

     ***

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2107587) Visitor Counter : 34

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Central Warehousing Corporation celebrates 69th Foundation Day

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 MAR 2025 4:28PM by PIB Delhi

    With Centre’s focus on infrastructure development, warehousing and logistics sector is seen as a key driver of economic growth: Union Food Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi

    Government of India aims to cut logistics costs with National Logistics Policy and PM Gati Shakti initiatives: Shri Joshi

    With the rapid expansion of e-commerce and the government’s focus on infrastructure development, the warehousing and logistics sector is seen as a key driver of economic growth. This was stated by Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution & New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi on the 69th Foundation Day of the Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) today in New Delhi. Recognising its pivotal role in India’s logistics and supply chain infrastructure since its inception in 1957, he further commended the corporation’s efforts in operational efficiency, transparency, and accountability through integration of digital initiatives.

    Shri Joshi emphasised CWC’s crucial role in government initiatives such as Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA), ensuring efficient warehousing, handling, and transportation of essential commodities, including food grains, pulses, cotton, and groundnuts.

    Underlining the government’s commitment to reducing logistics costs, the Minister said, “With the launch of the National Logistics Policy (NLP) and the PM Gati Shakti Programme, we aim to bring down logistics costs from the existing 13-14% to global standards of around 8%. CWC, as a leading warehousing organization, is poised to support these objectives through modern infrastructure development and efficiency enhancements.”

    Speaking on the occasion, the Minister highlighted CWC’s transformation from a conventional warehousing entity to a dynamic logistics service provider, stating, “CWC has evolved into a symbol of efficiency, innovation, and reliability, with an extensive network of over 700 warehouses and an operational storage capacity of 148.29 lakh metric tonnes.”

    Reflecting on India’s historical legacy in warehousing, Shri Joshi remarked, “India has a rich history of storage solutions, dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization and Patliputra in the Mauryan and Gupta empires. Today, modern technology-driven warehousing has revolutionized the sector, with India’s warehousing market expected to grow at a remarkable 15% CAGR, reaching $35 billion by 2027.” The Minister acknowledged CWC’s significant contribution to infrastructure development and stated that CWC has expanded its storage capacity by an additional 21.65 lakh square feet in FY 2023-24 with a record capital expenditure of ₹613 crore. He added that its e-commerce capacity has grown twelvefold since 2021 to approximately 80 lakh square feet in 2025.

    He praised the asset monetization of CWC’s assets at 18 locations mobilizing an investment of ₹ 820 crores under the asset monetization plan. Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Mission, CWC shall aim is to foster self-reliance by having an efficient and substantial supply chain by encouraging the private sector participation, investment in technology advancement and creating a conducive environment.

    Union Ministers of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Shri B.L. Verma and Smt. Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya also graced the event.

    Both Ministers during their address reiterated CWC’s commitment towards ensuring food security of the nation by enabling seamless storage supply. Noting the decision undertaken by Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi to raise the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all mandated Rabi crops for the 2025-26 marketing season, they underscored the government’s efforts for the welfare of farmers.

    The event commenced with a presentation on the overview of CWC performance by Shri Santosh Sinha, Managing Director, CWC. He emphasized upon the modernization of conventional warehouses in Tier-I and Tier-II cities, development of cold storage facility under PPP model and emphasizing on leveraging partnership with stakeholders. CWC has added new capacities with more than 120 lakhs sq ft capacity hired during 2024-25, storage of 70 Lakhs Cotton Bales and 1.90 crore bags of groundnut in the current season. On account of superior performance and consistent team efforts, the Corporation has been recently awarded ‘Navratna Status’ during April, 2024.

     

     

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    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma/Asmitabha Manna

    (Release ID: 2107547) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Post Budget Webinar on “Agriculture and Rural Prosperity” focused on the Framework for Harnessing Fisheries Resources in Exclusive Economic Zone & High Seas

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Post Budget Webinar on “Agriculture and Rural Prosperity”  focused on the Framework for Harnessing Fisheries Resources in Exclusive Economic Zone  & High Seas

    Deliberations on Market Linkages, Ease of Doing Business, Sustainability Aim to Boost Farmers Income

    Posted On: 02 MAR 2025 3:18PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAH&D) and Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Shri Rajeev Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, participated virtually in a  daylong Post-Budget Webinar on “Agriculture and Rural Prosperity” on 1st March 2025. The webinar was organised  by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and also saw participation  of Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Union Minister of State, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Panchayati Raj, and Shri George Kurian, Union Minister of State, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Minority Affairs.

      

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in the webinar, delivered the keynote address in the event. The webinar engaged stakeholders in focused discussions, strategizing the effective implementation of 2025 Budget announcements. The webinar addressed key areas of agricultural growth and rural prosperity, ensuring a collaborative approach towards realizing the budget’s vision. Furthermore, the event aligned key stakeholders, including private sector experts, industry representatives, and subject matter specialists and key stakeholders, including representatives from fishermen associations, fisheries cooperatives, industry & private sector experts from mainland, Andaman Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands through structured, sub-theme-focused discussions. The webinar also aimed at facilitating dialogue, gathering insights, and ensuring timely and coordinated actions towards achieving the set goals.

    The post budget webinar on “Agriculture  and Rural Prosperity” featured parallel discussions on various sub-themes, each anchored by designated Secretaries. Key topics included Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, Enhancing Credit through KCC, Building Rural Prosperity and Resilience, Atmanirbharata in Pulses, Comprehensive Programme for Vegetables & Fruits, National Mission on High Yielding Seeds, Mission for Cotton Productivity, India Post as a Catalyst for the Rural Economy, Framework for Harnessing Fisheries Resources in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) & High Seas, and Support to National Cooperative Development Corporation.

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in his address at the post-budget webinar on agriculture and rural prosperity, highlighted the transformative impact of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) since 2019, which has strengthened fisheries infrastructure, doubled production, and boosted exports in the sector. He emphasized the government’s commitment to sustainable fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the High Seas through a strategic action plan. Urging swift implementation, he called on stakeholders to explore new ideas for Ease of Doing Business and enhance sectoral growth.

    Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, highlighted India’s vast marine resources within its 2.2 million sq. km Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The initiatives undertaken by ICAR in fisheries research were also briefly highlighted, emphasizing their role in advancing sustainable development and strengthening the sector. Emphasizing the need for regional development, the significance of promoting fisheries clusters as a key strategy for boosting the sector was underscored. He affirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Lakshadweep and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands into major fisheries hubs by leveraging their untapped marine potential. He stated that initiatives undertaken by the government aims to enhance local value chains, improve infrastructure, and create sustainable economic opportunities for coastal communities while ensuring environmental conservation and long-term growth in the fisheries sector.

    Shri George Kurian, in his address, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for establishing the Fisheries Department in 2019. He said that fisheries sector aims to double the income of fish farmers for which the government has provided additional financial support in the budget to boost exports. He said that the government is also promoting cluster zones for fisheries development in Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep. To develop these regions, it will be necessary to provide training to the local people and seek assistance from the governments of these island groups.

    Breakout Session on “Framework for Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Resources in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of India and the High Seas with a special focus on Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep”, was chaired by Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries.  The session discussed policy interventions, international commitments, and strategies for responsible fisheries management to drive seafood exports, enhance food security, and create employment opportunities while ensuring long-term sustainability. It also deliberated upon the implementation of the Budget Announcement, focusing on  sustainable harnessing of fisheries from India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the High Seas, along with the development of deep-sea fisheries in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep to unlock their vast marine potential.

    This session witnessed participation of key industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders who deliberated on crucial aspects of deep-sea fishing, market linkages, value addition, and sustainability. Various topics like Deep Sea Fishing: Vessel Designing, Procurement & Smart Harbor Development, Credit Facility for Fisheries Cooperatives to Procure and Operate Deep Sea Fishing Vessels, Concept of Mother and Child Vessels Strategy for Deep Sea Fishing, Sustainable Offshore Technologies for Harnessing of Marine Resources, Value Chain Enhancement: Processing, Packaging & Export etc. were deliberated upon during the session.

    The discussions  during the webinar have laid a strong foundation for the structured and sustainable harnessing of India’s marine fisheries resources with a clear focus on balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. The proposed framework will enable deep-sea fisheries development, strengthen regulatory mechanisms, and enhance infrastructure and market access. Also the strategic emphasis on Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep will unlock their vast marine potential while ensuring long-term sustainability. The discussions also focused on seamless collaboration among stakeholders, adherence to international commitments, and effective policy implementation to help transform  India’s marine fisheries sector into a global leader in sustainable and responsible fishing.

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    Aditi Agrawal

    (Release ID: 2107533) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address in NXT Conclave

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAR 2025 2:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Namaskar, 

    ITV Network founder and my colleague in Parliament, Kartikeya Sharma ji, the entire team of the network, all the guests from India and abroad, other dignitaries, ladies and gentlemen, NewsX World’s auspicious beginning and for this I congratulate all of you, my best wishes. Today, all the regional channels of your network including Hindi and English are going global. And today many fellowships and scholarships have also been started. I wish all of you the best for these programs.

    Friends, 

    I have been attending such media events earlier also, but today I feel that you have set a new trend and I congratulate you for this too. Such media events keep happening in our country, and it is a tradition that is continuing. There are some economic topics in it, it is a matter of benefit for everyone, but your network has given it a new dimension. You have worked on a new model by breaking away from the norm. I remember, if I talk about the earlier summits and your summit I have been listening to since yesterday, the earlier summits organised by different media houses have been leader-centric, I am happy that this one is policy-centric, policies are being discussed here. Most of the events that have taken place have been about living the present on the basis of the past. I see that your summit is dedicated to the future. I have seen that in all such programs that I have seen from afar or have attended myself, the importance of controversy was more there, here the importance of dialogue is more. And I firmly believe that all the events that I have attended are held in a small room and have their own people. Seeing such a huge event here and that too the event of a media house and people from all walks of life being here, is a big thing in itself. It is possible that other media people will not get any masala (scoop) from here, but the country will get a lot of inspiration, because the thoughts of every person who comes here will be thoughts that inspire the country. I hope that in the coming days other media houses will also adopt this trend, this template, in their own way and make it innovative and at least come out of that small room.

    Friends, 

    Today the whole world is looking at 21st century India, people from all over the world want to come to India, want to know India. Today India is the country in the world where positive news is being created continuously. There is no need to manufacture news, where new records are being made every day, something new is happening. Just on 26 February, the Maha Kumbh of unity was concluded in Prayagraj. The whole world is surprised that how in a temporary city, a temporary arrangement, crores of people came to the banks of the river, travelled hundreds of kilometers and got filled with emotions after taking a holy bath. Today the world is seeing India’s organising and innovating skills. We are manufacturing everything from semiconductors to aircraft carriers right here. The world wants to know about this success of India in detail. I think that this NewsX World is a very big opportunity in itself.

    Friends, 

    Just a few months ago, India conducted the world’s largest elections. After 60 years, it happened that a government in India has returned to power for the third consecutive time. The basis of this public trust are India’s many achievements in the last 11 years. I am confident that your new channel will take India’s real stories to the world. Without adding any colour, your global channel will show the picture of India as it is, we do not need makeup.

    Friends, 

    Many years ago, I had presented the vision of Vocal for Local and Local for Global to the country. Today we are seeing this vision turning into reality. Today our Ayush products and Yoga have gone from Local to Global. Go anywhere in the world, you will find someone who knows Yoga, my friend Tony is sitting here, he is a daily Yoga practitioner.  Today, India’s superfood, our Makhana, is going global from local. India’s millets – Shreeanna, are also going global from local. And I have come to know that my friend, Tony Abbott, has had first-hand experience of Indian millets at Delhi Haat, and he liked the millet dishes very much and I felt very happy to hear this.

    Friends, 

    Not only millets, India’s turmeric has also gone from local to global, India supplies more than 60 percent of the world’s turmeric. India’s coffee has also gone from local to global, India has become the world’s seventh largest coffee exporter. Today India’s mobiles, electronic products, medicines made in India are making their global identity. And along with all this, one more thing has happened. India is leading many global initiatives. Recently I got a chance to go to the AI ​​Action Summit in France. India was the co-host of this summit which is taking the world towards the AI ​​future. Now India has the responsibility of hosting it. India organised such a wonderful G-20 Summit during its presidency. During this summit, we gave the world a new economic route in the form of India-Middle East-Europe Corridor. India also gave a strong voice to the Global South, we have connected the island nations and their interests to our priority. India has given the vision of Mission Life to the world to deal with the climate crisis. Similarly, International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, there are many such initiatives which India is leading globally. And I am happy that today when many brands of India are going global, the media of India is also going global. It is understanding this global opportunity.

    Friends, 

    For decades, the world used to call India its back office. But today, India is becoming the new factory of the world. We are not just becoming a workforce, but a world-force! Today, the country is becoming an emerging export hub for the things that we once imported. The farmer who was once limited to the local market, today his crop is reaching the markets of the whole world. The demand for Pulwama’s Snow Peas, Maharashtra’s Purandar Figs and Kashmir’s Cricket Bats is now increasing in the world. Our Defence products are showing the world the power of Indian Engineering and technology. From the Electronics to Automobile Sector, the world has seen our scale and capability. We are not only providing our products to the world, India is also becoming a trusted and reliable partner in the global supply chain.

    Friends, 

    If we have become a leader in many sectors today, then it is because of years of well deliberated hard work. This has been possible only due to systematic policy decisions. Look at the journey of 10 years, where bridges were incomplete, roads were stuck, today dreams are moving ahead at a new pace. With good roads, excellent expressways, both travel time and cost have reduced. This has given the industry an opportunity to reduce the turnaround time of logistics. Our automobile sector got a huge benefit from this. This increased the demand for vehicles, we encouraged the production of vehicles and EVs. Today we have emerged as a major automobile producer and exporter in the world.

    Friends, 

    A similar change has been seen in electronics manufacturing. In the last decade, electricity reached more than 2.5 crore households for the first time. The demand for electricity increased in the country, production increased, which increased the demand for Electronic Equipment. When we made data cheaper, the demand for mobile phones increased. As more and more services were brought on mobile phones, the consumption of digital devices increased further. By turning this demand into an opportunity, we started programs like PLI Schemes. Today, India has become a major electronics exporter.

    Friends, 

    Today India is able to set very big targets and is achieving them, so there is a special mantra at the core of this. This mantra is – minimum government, maximum governance. This is the mantra of efficient and effective governance. That means no interference from the government, no pressure from the government. I will give you an interesting example. In the last decade, we have abolished about 1500 laws that have lost their importance. It is a big deal to abolish 1500 laws. Many of these laws were made during British rule. Now I will tell you something, you will be surprised to hear that there was a law called dramatic performance act, this law was made by the British 150 years ago, at that time the British wanted that drama and theatre should not be used against the then government. There was a provision in this law that if 10 people were found dancing in a public place, they could be arrested. And this law continued for 75 years after the country got independence. That is, if there is a wedding procession and 10 people are dancing, the police can arrest them including the groom. This law was in force for 70-75 years after independence. This law was removed by our government. Now, we have borne this law for 70 years, I have nothing to say to the government of that time, those leaders, they are sitting here too, but I am more surprised by this Lutyens’ group, this Khan Market gang. Why were these people silent on such a law for 75 years? Those who go to court every day, who roam around like contractors of PIL, why were these people silent? Did they not remember liberty then? If someone thinks today, what would have happened if Modi had made such a law? And these trollers on social media, if they too had spread such false news that Modi was going to make such a law, these people would have created a ruckus, would have pulled Modi’s hair.

    Friends, 

    It is our government that has abolished this law from the times of slavery. I will give another example of bamboo, bamboo is the lifeline of our tribal areas, especially the North East. But earlier, you were sent to jail even for cutting bamboo, why was the law made now? Now, if I ask you, is bamboo a tree? Some will believe that it is a tree, some will believe that it is a tree, you will be surprised that even after 70 years of independence, the government of my country believed that bamboo is a tree, and therefore, just as cutting trees was prohibited, cutting bamboo was also prohibited. There was a law in our country which considered bamboo to be a tree, and all the laws for trees were applicable to it, it was difficult to cut it. Our earlier rulers could not understand that bamboo is not a tree. The British may have had their own interests, but why did we not do it? Even the decades old law related to bamboo was changed by our own government.

    Friends, 

    You must remember how difficult it was for a common man to file ITR 10 years ago. Today you file ITR in a few moments and the refund is also deposited directly in the account within a few days. Now the process of making the law related to income tax even simpler is going on in the Parliament. We have made income up to Rs. 12 lakh tax free, yes now there is applause, you did not applaud the bamboo because it belongs to the tribals. And this is going to benefit especially the media personnel, the salaried class like you. The youth who are doing their first and second jobs, their aspirations are also different, their expenses are also different. They should fulfil their aspirations, their savings should increase, the budget has helped a lot in this. Our aim is to give the people of the country Ease of Living, Ease of Doing Business, give them open skies to fly. Today see how many start-ups are taking advantage of geospatial data. Earlier, if someone had to make a map, they had to take permission from the government. We changed this and today our start-ups and private companies are making excellent use of this data.

    Friends,

    India, which gave the world the concept of Zero, is today becoming the land of Infinite Innovations. Today India is not just innovating but also indovating. And when I say indovate, it means – Innovating The Indian Way. Through indovating, we are creating solutions that are affordable, accessible and adaptable. We are not gate-keeping these solutions but have offered them to the entire world. When the world wanted a secure and cost-effective digital payment system, we created the UPI system. I was listening to Professor Carlos Montes, he seemed very impressed with the people-friendly nature of technology like UPI. Today, countries like France, UAE, Singapore are integrating UPI in their financial ecosystem. Today, many countries of the world are making agreements to join our digital public infrastructure, India Stack. During the Covid pandemic, our vaccine showed the world the model of India’s Quality Healthcare Solutions. We also open-sourced the Arogya Setu app so that the world can benefit from it. India is a major space power; we are also helping other countries to achieve their space aspirations. India is also working on AI for Public Good and is also sharing its experience and expertise with the world.

    Friends,

    ITV Network has launched many fellowships today. India’s youth is the biggest beneficiary of developed India and also the biggest stakeholder. Therefore, India’s youth is a very big priority for us. National Education Policy has given children an opportunity to think beyond books. Children are getting ready for the field of AI and Data Science by learning coding from middle school itself. Atal Tinkering Labs are giving children hands-on experience of emerging technologies. Therefore, in this year’s budget, we have announced to create 50 thousand new Atal Tinkering Labs.

    Friends,

    In the world of news, you people take subscriptions from different agencies, this helps you in getting better news coverage. Similarly, in the field of research, students need more and more information sources. For this, earlier they had to take subscriptions of different journals at expensive rates, they had to spend money themselves. Our government has freed all researchers from this worry too. We have brought One Nation One Subscription. With this, every researcher of the country is sure to get free access to the world’s renowned journals. The government is going to spend more than 6 thousand crore rupees on this. We are ensuring that every student gets the best research facilities. Be it space exploration, biotech research or AI, our children are emerging as future leaders. Dr. Brian Green has met the students of IIT and astronaut Mike Massimino went to meet the students of Central School and as he said, his experience has been really wonderful. The day is not far when a big innovation of the future will come out of a small school in India.

    Friends,

    Let the flag of India fly on every global platform, this is our aspiration, this is our direction.

    Friends,

    This is not the time to think small and take small steps. I am happy that as a media organisation, you too have understood this sentiment. You see, till 10 years ago you used to think about how to reach different states of the country, how to make your media house reach, today you too have gathered the courage to go global. This inspiration, this pledge, should be the one of every citizen, every entrepreneur today. My dream is that there should be some Indian brand in every market of the world, in every drawing room, on every dining table. Made in India – should become the mantra of the world. If someone is ill, he should first think about – Heal in India. If someone wants to get married, he should first think about – Wed in India. If someone wants to travel, he should put India on top of his list. If someone wants to hold a conference or an exhibition, he should come to India first. If someone wants to hold a concert, he should first choose India. We have to develop this strength, this positive attitude in ourselves. Your network and your channel will play a big role in this. The possibilities are infinite, now we have to turn them into reality with our courage and determination.

    Friends,

    India is moving ahead with the resolve to become a developed India in the next 25 years. You too should move ahead with the resolve to bring yourself on the world stage as a media house. I believe that you will definitely succeed in this. I once again convey my best wishes to the entire team of ITV Network and I also congratulate the participants who have come from the country and the world, their views have definitely strengthened a positive thinking, I am thankful for this too, because when the pride of India increases, every Indian feels happy and proud and for this I thank them all very much. Namaskaram.

     

    DISCLAIMER: This is the approximate translation of PM’s speech. Original speech was delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses the post-budget webinar on agriculture and rural prosperity

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses the post-budget webinar on agriculture and rural prosperity

    Our resolve to move towards the goal of Viksit Bharat is very clear: PM

    Together we are working towards building an India where farmers are prosperous and empowered: PM

    We have considered agriculture as the first engine of development, giving farmers a place of pride: PM

    We are working towards two big goals simultaneously – development of agriculture sector and prosperity of our villages: PM

    We have announced ‘PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana’ in the budget, under this, focus will be on the development of 100 districts with the lowest agricultural productivity in the country: PM

    Today people have become very aware about nutrition; therefore, in view of the increasing demand for horticulture, dairy and fishery products, a lot of investment has been made in these sectors; Many programs are being run to increase the production of fruits and vegetables: PM

    We have announced the formation of Makhana Board in Bihar: PM

    Our government is committed to making the rural economy prosperous: PM

    Under the PM Awas Yojana-Gramin, crores of poor people are being given houses, the ownership scheme has given ‘Record of Rights’ to property owners: PM

    Posted On: 01 MAR 2025 1:59PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the post-budget webinar on agriculture and rural prosperity today via video-conferencing. Emphasizing the importance of participation in the post-budget webinar, the Prime Minister thanked everyone for joining the program and highlighted that this year’s budget is the first full budget of the Government’s third term, showcasing continuity in policies and a new expansion of the vision for Viksit Bharat. He acknowledged the valuable inputs and suggestions from all stakeholders before the budget, which were very helpful. He stressed that the role of stakeholders has become even more crucial in making this budget more effective.

    “Our resolve towards the goal of Viksit Bharat is very clear and together, we are building an India where farmers are prosperous and empowered”, exclaimed Shri Modi and highlighted that the effort is to ensure no farmer is left behind and to advance every farmer. He stated that agriculture is considered the first engine of development, giving farmers a place of pride. “India is simultaneously working towards two major goals: the development of the agriculture sector and the prosperity of villages”, he mentioned.

    Shri Modi highlighted that the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, implemented six years ago, has provided nearly ₹3.75 lakh crore to farmers and the amount has been directly transferred to the accounts of 11 crore farmers. He emphasized that the annual financial assistance of ₹6,000 is strengthening the rural economy. He mentioned that a farmer-centric digital infrastructure has been created to ensure the benefits of this scheme reach farmers across the country, eliminating any scope for intermediaries or leakages. The Prime Minister remarked that the success of such schemes is possible with the support of experts and visionary individuals. He appreciated their contributions, stating that any scheme can be implemented with full strength and transparency with their help. He expressed his appreciation for their efforts and mentioned that the Government is now working swiftly to implement the announcements made in this year’s budget, seeking their continued cooperation.

    Underlining that India’s agricultural production has reached record levels, the Prime Minister said that 10-11 years ago, agricultural production was around 265 million tons, which has now increased to over 330 million tons. Similarly, horticultural production has exceeded 350 million tons. He attributed this success to the Government’s approach from seed to market, agricultural reforms, farmer empowerment, and a strong value chain. Shri Modi emphasized the need to fully utilize the country’s agricultural potential and achieve even bigger targets. In this direction, the budget has announced the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, focusing on the development of the 100 least productive agricultural districts, he added. The Prime Minister mentioned the positive results seen from the Aspirational Districts program on various development parameters, benefiting from collaboration, convergence, and healthy competition. He urged everyone to study the outcomes from these districts and apply the learnings to advance the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, which will help increase farmers’ income in these 100 districts.

    Prime Minister underscored that efforts in recent years have increased the country’s pulse production, however, 20 percent of domestic consumption still relies on imports, necessitating an increase in pulse production. Heremarked that while India has achieved self-sufficiency in chickpeas and mung, there is a need to accelerate the production of pigeon peas, black gram, and lentils. To boost pulse production, it is essential to maintain the supply of advanced seeds and promote hybrid varieties, he stated, stressing on the need to focus on addressing challenges such as climate change, market uncertainty, and price fluctuations.

    Pointing out that in the past decade, ICAR has utilized modern tools and cutting-edge technologies in its breeding program, and as a result, over 2,900 new varieties of crops, including grains, oilseeds, pulses, fodder, and sugarcane, have been developed between 2014 and 2024, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to ensure that these new varieties are available to farmers at affordable rates and that their produce is not affected by weather fluctuations. He mentioned the announcement of a national mission for high-yield seeds in this year’s budget. He urged private sector participants to focus on the dissemination of these seeds, ensuring they reach small farmers by becoming part of the seed chain.

    Shri Modi remarked that there was a growing awareness about nutrition among people today and underscored that significant investments have been made in sectors such as horticulture, dairy, and fishery products to meet the increasing demand. He mentioned that various programs were being implemented to boost the production of fruits and vegetables, and the formation of the Makhana Board in Bihar has been announced. He urged all stakeholders to explore new ways to promote diverse nutritional foods, ensuring their reach to every corner of the country and the global market.

    Recalling the launch of the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana in 2019, aimed at strengthening the value chain, infrastructure, and modernization of the fisheries sector, the Prime Minister stated that this initiative had improved production, productivity, and post-harvest management in the fisheries sector, while the investments in this sector had increased through various schemes, resulting in a doubling of fish production and exports. He underlined the need to promote sustainable fishing in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and open seas, and a plan will be prepared for this purpose. Shri Modi urged stakeholders to brainstorm ideas to promote ease of doing business in this sector and start working on them as soon as possible. He also stressed the importance of protecting the interests of traditional fishermen.

    “Our Government is committed to enriching the rural economy”, said the Prime Minister and highlighted that under the PM Awas Yojana-Gramin, crores of poor people are being provided with homes, and the Swamitva Yojana has given property owners ‘Record of Rights.’ He mentioned that the economic strength of self-help groups has increased, and they have received additional support. He noted that the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana has benefited small farmers and businesses. Reiterating the goal to create 3 crore Lakhpati Didis, while efforts have already resulted in 1.25 crore women becoming Lakhpati Didis, Shri Modi emphasized that the announcements in this budget for rural prosperity and development programs have created numerous new employment opportunities. Investments in skilling and technology are generating new opportunities, he added. The Prime Minister urged everyone to discuss how to make the ongoing schemes more effective. He expressed confidence that positive results will be achieved with their suggestions and contributions. He concluded by stating that active participation from everyone will empower villages and enrich rural families. He expressed confidence that the webinar will help ensure swift implementation of the schemes of the budget. He urged all the stakeholders involved to work in unison to achieve the targets of the budget.

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2107215) Visitor Counter : 56

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 57-2025: Services Restored: Monday 03 March 2025 – BICON external website

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    Who does this notice affect?

    All clients of the department’s Biosecurity Import Conditions System (BICON) – external website.

    Information

    Restored time:

    As of 15:58 Monday 03 March 2025 (AEDT).

    Detail:

    Between 11:30 and 15:58 on Monday 03 March 2025 (AEDT), the BICON external website was experiencing an unplanned service disruption. As a result, users may have experienced service degradation (e.g. slowness) and/or an inability to load webpages…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 56-2025: Changes to BICON Standard List of Laboratory Microorganisms and Infectious Agents

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    3 March 2025

    Who does this notice affect?

    Importers and customs brokers associated with importing laboratory microorganisms and infectious agents under a standard permit, including those who currently hold a standard permit to import microbes or related material.

    What has changed?

    In March 2024, the department completed a scientific review of the biosecurity risks associated with the taxa included on the list of standard laboratory microorganisms and infectious…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NORTHAMPTON COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Visit Farmersville Elementary School, Highlight Efforts to Solve Education Workforce Challenges and Put More Teachers in Our Classrooms

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    March 03, 2025 – Bethlehem Township, PA

    ADVISORY – NORTHAMPTON COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Visit Farmersville Elementary School, Highlight Efforts to Solve Education Workforce Challenges and Put More Teachers in Our Classrooms

    Governor Josh Shapiro will visit Farmersville Elementary to meet with students, teachers, school administrators and legislators to highlight the investments his 2025-26 budget proposal would make in Pennsylvania schools – including efforts to address Pennsylvania’s teacher shortage and strengthen the educator pipeline by doubling funding for student teacher stipends from $20 million to $40 million to support aspiring educators.

    In 2023, Governor Shapiro signed a law creating the Educator Pipeline Support Grant Program, which provides stipends to eligible student teachers in Pennsylvania to ensure student teachers are compensated for their hard work. More than 2,000 student teachers have been granted or will soon receive stipends, lowering barriers to entry to the teaching profession.

    WHO:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Senator Lisa Boscola
    Senator Nick Miller
    Representative Peter Schweyer
    Dr. Jack Silva, Bethlehem Area School District Superintendent
    Nathan Hench, PHEAA Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, Guaranty, and Strategy
    Jeff Ney, PSEA Vice President
    Giavanna DeMarco, student teacher

    WHEN:
    TOMORROW, Monday, March 3, 2025 at 11:00 AM

    WHERE:
    Farmersville Elementary
    7036 William Penn Highway
    Bethlehem Township, PA 18045

    LIVE STREAM:
    pacast.com/live/gov
    governor.pa.gov/live/

    RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending must RSVP with the names and phone numbers for each member of their team to ra-gvgovpress@pa.gov.

    **All press must provide ID at the front entrance of the school.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: North Coast cattle treated for tick fever

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    3 Mar 2025

    NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Local Land Services (LLS) have reminded producers to be alert following the confirmation of tick fever on two North Coast cattle properties.

    North Coast LLS district veterinarian, Phillip Carter, said the cattle were treated for tick fever,  Babesiosis, once confirmed by DPIRD Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute laboratory tests.

    “If treatment is delayed tick fever can kill susceptible animals and producers should contact a vet immediately if cattle show signs of tick fever,” Dr Carter said.

    “These two positive cases of tick fever are the first new confirmed cases in NSW this year and we saw signs of cattle tick infestation during our inspection of the animals.

    “We advise producers to monitor herds for cattle tick and cattle tick fever as other animals may be infected and are yet to show signs.

    “Unexplained death can be the first sign of tick fever. Other signs producers should look out for in their cattle include lethargy, depression, salivation, red urine, elevated temperature, jaundice and anaemia.

    “Tick fever is spread by cattle tick, which thrive in warm, humid conditions and we urge producers to practice good farm biosecurity to prevent more tick fever cases in these seasonal conditions.

    “Producers should regularly check cattle for ticks, especially when cattle are yarded in preparation for autumn sales.”

    NSW DPIRD Cattle Tick Operations leader, Larry Falls, said producers should immediately report signs of cattle tick on their animals by calling the NSW Biosecurity Helpline, 1800 680 244.

    “Early intervention is key to minimising the spread and impact of cattle tick and tick fever,” Mr Falls said.

    “The NSW record of movement for cattle tick lists the mandatory biosecurity requirements which must be followed when bringing cattle from cattle tick infested areas into NSW and moving from cattle tick restricted properties in NSW.
    “Following these biosecurity requirements helps prevent the introduction and spread of cattle tick and minimises costs and losses to your enterprise and livestock industries.”

    Tick fever and cattle tick are notifiable under NSW biosecurity legislation, supporting the efforts of industry, producers and government who work together to keep NSW tick-free.

    Cattle tick and tick fever pose significant economic impact on cattle production in northern Australia due to potential large losses of animals, production losses, restrictions on trade and treatment costs.

    If you find sick or dead cattle or suspect tick fever, immediately contact your LLS DV or call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline, 1800 675 888.

    Information about cattle tick and tick fever is available from the NSW DPIRD website.

    Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi’s special envoy attends inauguration of Uruguay’s new president

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

    MONTEVIDEO, March 2 — Chinese President Xi Jinping’s special envoy and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Han Jun on Saturday attended the inauguration ceremony of Uruguay’s new President Yamandu Orsi.

    On Sunday, Orsi met with Han at the presidential palace, where Han conveyed Xi’s cordial greetings and best wishes to Orsi.

    Since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations 37 years ago, China-Uruguay relations have maintained sound and steady development, becoming a model of mutual respect, harmonious coexistence and win-win cooperation between countries with different political systems and economic sizes, said Han.

    China attaches great importance to the development of China-Uruguay relations and is willing to work hand in hand with Uruguay to lift bilateral relations to higher levels so as to better benefit the two peoples, inject more stability and certainty into Latin America and the international community, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, he said.

    Orsi asked Han to convey his sincere greetings and best wishes to Xi, and sincerely thanked Xi for sending a special envoy to attend his inauguration ceremony.

    Successive governments of Uruguay, he said, have attached great importance to developing relations with China, and there is broad consensus on this across all sectors of society.

    The new Uruguayan government is willing to work with China to continuously deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, steadily strengthen practical cooperation in various fields, and make joint effort to defend multilateralism and free trade and cope with global challenges, he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 55-2025: Unplanned Service Disruption: Monday 03 March 2025 – BICON external website

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    03 March 2025

    Who does this notice affect?

    All clients required to use the department’s Biosecurity Import Conditions System (BICON) – external website.

    Information

    The BICON external website is currently experiencing an unplanned service disruption. As a result, users may experience service degradation (e.g. slowness) and/or an inability to load BICON webpages.

    Action

    This issue is under urgent investigation and will advise once services…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Appointment of new Austrade CEO

    Source: Minister for Trade

    The Albanese Government is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Paul Grimes PSM as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade).

    Austrade plays a critical role helping Australian businesses to grow and reach new markets, attract investment including to build a Future Made in Australia and promoting Australia as a premier destination for tourism and study.

    Having held a number of senior positions across state, federal and territory governments, Dr Grimes is a highly experienced public servant and brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. He has previously served as Secretary of the NSW Department of Treasury, as well as Secretary of the Federal Department of Agriculture and the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Population and Communities.

    Dr Grimes joins Austrade from his current positions as Chair of the NSW Net Zero Commission and Chair of the National Archives of Australia Advisory Council, among other roles.

    In recognition of his outstanding work in the development of the Australian Government’s response to the global financial crisis, he was awarded the Australian Public Service Medal in 2010.

    I look forward to working closely with him to continue to support local businesses to expand, reach new markets and create more jobs in Australia.

    I would like to give my thanks again to former CEO Mr Xavier Simonet for his distinguished service, and to Acting CEO, Daniel Boyer, for his strong and effective leadership of Austrade during the CEO transition period.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New programs to end gender-based violence in Queensland communities

    Source: Australian Ministers for Social Services

    Joint with:

    The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP
    Minister for Social Services
    Minister for the National Disability insurance Scheme
    Federal Member for Kingston 
     

    Senator the Hon Anthony Chisholm
    Assistant Minister for Education
    Assistant Minister for Regional Development
    Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
    Senator for Queensland

    The Albanese Labor Government is continuing to address domestic and family violence, investing over $8.1 million in new Men’s Wellness Centres in Queensland.

    Three local Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations will roll out culturally appropriate domestic violence programs and activities for First Nations men and boys in their communities.

    W.Y.L.D. Projects Indigenous Organisation will receive $1.7 million for the Babbinyuwi Wanda Rites of Passage Program in Hervey Bay, Maryborough and Bundaberg. Cultural, therapeutic, and trauma-informed healing programs will support young men to develop positive relationships with each other and the community.

    Goolburri Aboriginal Health Advancement Company will deliver the Strong Men, Strong Families – Strengthening men’s contributions to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family wellbeing program in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs region, supported by investment of $4.18 million. The program will include local, integrated, culturally centred, and strength-based supports and healing for boys, and men whose behaviour is placing their family at risk of harm and potential intervention by child protection authorities. 

    Goondir Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders Corporation for Health Services will receive $2.25 million for the Dreamtime Resilience – Sowing Deep Cultural Roots in Men program in Dalby. It includes mentoring through the Big Buddy Program in St George, and cultural development programs, art studio workshops, and social and emotional wellbeing activities. 

    This funding is part of a $41.4 million Government investment under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan 2023-2025 to develop 13 Men’s Wellness Centres for First Nations peoples around Australia.

    Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, said the centres would prioritise and target the specific needs of First Nations communities in Queensland.

    “Through a variety of culturally appropriate activities, the Men’s Wellness Centres will provide training, support, mentoring and healing to First Nations men and young men in Queensland to support family wellbeing and safety,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “These programs are led by First Nations communities, drawing on First Nations knowledge, to help communities to stop the cycle of violence.

    “We are proud to support these new community-led solutions to better meet the needs of First Nations men and boys and improve the safety of families and communities.”

    Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm said this investment was another example of the Albanese Government’s commitment to address domestic and family violence.

    “Since Labor was elected, we’ve invested over $400 million in early intervention. But it’s frontline investments, like these ones in regional Queensland, that will be vital to ending the vicious cycle of gender-based violence.”

    This initiative will also help progress Target 13 under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, which aims to reduce all forms of violence against First Nations women and children by at least 50 per cent by 2031.

    More information on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan 2023–2025 is available on the Department of Social Services website. 

    If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence, call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit www.1800respect.org.au for online chat and video call services.

    • Available 24/7: call, text, or online chat
    • Mon-Fri, 9am-midnight AEST (except national public holidays): video call (no appointment needed)

    If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au

    Feeling worried or no good? Connect with 13YARN Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters on 13 92 76, available 24/7 from any mobile or pay phone, or visit www.13yarn.org.au No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Automated Milking Systems delivers comparable performance to conventional systems in Australian dairy farms

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    3 Mar 2025

    The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has released a comprehensive report from the Milking Edge Project, offering valuable insights for Australian dairy farmers considering Automatic Milking Systems (AMS) technology.

    The research revealed that while on average, AMS-equipped farms in Australia achieve comparable economic and physical results to conventional milking systems, AMS is beneficial for freeing up labour for other key tasks such as pasture management, boosting overall farm productivity.

    NSW DPIRD Development Officer Juan Gargiulo said that by analysing the economic and operational performance of AMS in the Australian dairy industry, the report provides clear guidance for farmers exploring this innovative approach to milking, while supporting them to more effectively adopt and operate AMS.

    Key findings from the report include:

    • Australian AMS farms typically milk between 150 and 240 cows and operate between three and four robotic units.
    • Average daily milk production per cow typically ranged from 19.3 to 26.3 kilograms.
    • Cows are milked on average 2.17 times per day, with each robot harvesting approximately 1,200 kg of milk daily.

    The study also identified key drivers of profitability, including robot efficiency (milk harvested per robot), labour efficiency, and pasture utilisation per hectare. These factors are crucial in determining the success and financial viability of AMS technology on Australian farms.

    “The findings from this report provide valuable benchmarks for AMS profitability and efficiency in the Australian dairy industry, helping farmers and stakeholders make informed decisions about technology investments and operational strategies,” Mr Gargiulo said.

    “While AMS performance varied across different operations, the research highlights key opportunities for improving productivity and profitability, such as the ability of AMS farmers to reallocate labour from milking to other tasks like farm business management, herd health, and pasture management, enhancing overall farm efficiency and sustainability.”

    Since its global introduction in 1992, AMS is reported to have transformed dairy farming, with over 50,000 systems now in use worldwide.

    In Australia, AMS is currently implemented on around 1.5% of dairy farms, with growing interest as farmers assess its benefits.

    Importantly, researchers debunked a common perception in the Australian dairy industry that adopting AMS technology often leads to more frequent milking and increased milk production.

    “While this is largely true in European and North American dairy systems, where cows are housed in barns with closer access to AMS units, the report found that in Australia’s pasture-based systems, milking frequency and production levels were similar to those in conventional systems,” Mr Gargiulo said.

    “This is partly due to the greater distance between paddocks and milking stations, requiring cattle to walk further compared to barn-housed cattle.”

    Another key finding was that for a majority of pasture-based AMS farms in Australia, the key to improving profitability was not increasing milking frequency, but rather maximising the number of cows milked per robot.

    This report was designed to provide valuable insights into the performance of AMS systems for dairy farmers, industry advisors, consultants, and researchers involved in AMS adoption or performance analysis.

    The NSW Government encourages the dairy sector to review the report before investing in AMS technology to determine whether it is the right fit for their operation.

    The Milking Edge Project was a five-year initiative led by NSW DPIRD in collaboration with Dairy Australia and DeLaval, with the AMS report available on the DPIRD website.

    Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor gains in Redbridge poll of marginal seats and seizes lead in a Morgan poll

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    A poll of 20 marginal seats by Redbridge and Accent Research was conducted for the News Ltd tabloids on February 20–25, from a sample presumably over 1,000. The Coalition led by 50.5–49.5, a 1.5-point gain for Labor since the February 4–11 marginals poll.

    Labor won the 2022 election by 52–48 and won the marginal seats polled by 51–49, implying a 1.5-point swing to the Coalition across these seats since the last election. If this poll were applied nationally, it suggests a Labor lead of 50.5–49.5.

    Primary votes were 41% Coalition (down two), 34% Labor (up one), 12% Greens (steady) and 13% for all Others (up one). Anthony Albanese’s net favourability was up five points to -11 while Peter Dutton’s was down two to -13. By 50–33, voters thought things were headed in the wrong direction (55–27 previously).

    While Labor improved overall in this poll, their position in the Victorian seats polled was dire, with an 8.4% two-party swing to the Coalition across the first two waves of this poll. State Labor is dragging down federal Labor.

    Labor gains lead in Morgan poll

    A national Morgan poll, conducted February 17–23 from a sample of 1,666, gave Labor a 51–49 lead by headline respondent preferences, a 2.5-point gain for Labor since the February 10–16 poll. This poll contrasted with the Resolve poll taken February 18–23 that gave the Coalition a 55–45 lead.

    Primary votes were 36.5% Coalition (down three), 31.5% Labor (up 3.5), 13.5% Greens (up one), 5% One Nation (down 0.5), 10% independents (steady) and 3.5% others (down one). By 2022 election preference flows, Labor led by 53–47, a four-point gain for Labor.

    By 49.5–34.5, voters said the country was going in the wrong direction (52.5–32.5 previously). The 15-point lead for wrong was the lowest since January 2024. Morgan’s consumer confidence measure jumped 4.7 points to 89.8.

    The Morgan poll and the Redbridge marginal seats poll both suggest movement to Labor since the Reserve Bank reduced interest rates on February 18. While the Coalition retained a narrow lead in YouGov, the primary votes implied a little movement to Labor.

    The graph below shows Labor’s two-party estimated vote in national polls, so the Redbridge marginals poll is excluded.

    Labor has not recovered the lead in a polling average, but the latest polls are far better for them than the Resolve poll last week.

    Coalition narrowly ahead in YouGov poll

    A national YouGov poll, conducted February 21–27 from a sample of 1,501, gave the Coalition a 51–49 lead by preference flows from YouGov’s MRP polls, in which Greens and One Nation preferences are both weaker for Labor than at the 2022 election. There was no change from YouGov’s last MRP poll, conducted from late January to mid-February.

    Primary votes were 37% Coalition (steady since the MRP poll), 28% Labor (down one), 14% Greens (up one), 8% One Nation (down one), 1% for Clive Palmer’s Trumpet of Patriots, 10% independents (up one) and 2% others (down one). By 2022 election preference flows, Labor would lead by about 50.5–49.5, a 0.5-point gain for Labor.

    Albanese’s net approval was up three points since YouGov’s last non-MRP poll in January to -12, with 52% dissatisfied and 40% satisfied. Dutton’s net approval was up four points to -2. Albanese led Dutton as better PM by 42–40 (44–40 previously).

    By 60–8, voters supported the government operating the Whyalla steelworks through a publicly owned company if no suitable private investor was found.

    Additional Resolve questions and seat polls

    The Resolve poll for Nine newspapers asked whether Donald Trump’s policies should be applied to Australia. Question wording has an impact: for example, “cutting waste from the public service” is a pro-Trump framing. A question that asked whether Australians approved or disapproved of Trump’s performance as US president would be preferable.

    In past elections, seat polls have been unreliable. The Poll Bludger reported last Wednesday that three polls of Western Australian federal seats had been conducted by JWS Research for Australian Energy Producers from a combined sample of 2,529.

    In Curtin, held by teal independent Kate Chaney, the Liberals held a huge primary vote lead of 56–28 over Chaney. In Bullwinkel, a new federal WA seat that is notionally Labor, Labnr’s primary vote had slumped 21 points to 15%, putting them in third place behind the Nationals and Liberals. However, there were only modest primary vote swings in Tangney, with Labor looking competitive to hold.

    There were also two uComms NSW federal seat polls. In Wentworth, held by teal independent Allegra Spender, Spender held a 57.2–42.8 lead over the Liberals. This poll was taken for Climate 200 on February 12 from a sample of 1,068. In Labor-held Gilmore, the Liberals led by 52.8–47.2. This poll was taken for the Australian Forest Products Association February 17–20 from a sample of 684.

    NSW Resolve poll: Labor’s primary vote slumps

    A New South Wales state Resolve poll for The Sydney Morning Herald, conducted with the federal January and February Resolve polls from a sample of over 1,000, gave the Coalition 38% of the primary vote (up one since December), Labor 29% (down four), the Greens 14% (up three), independents 11% (down two) and others 8% (up one).

    No two-party estimate was reported, but The Poll Bludger estimated a Coalition lead of about 51–49 from these primary votes. Labor incumbent Chris Minns led Liberal Mark Speakman by 35–14 as preferred premier (35–17 in December).

    On the rail dispute between the NSW government and the train union, 43% wanted the government to negotiate a better deal with the union, 26% wanted the government to refuse the union’s demands and 16% thought they should agree to the union’s demands in full.

    EMRS Tasmanian poll has little change

    An EMRS Tasmanian state poll, conducted February 11–18 from a sample of 1,000, gave the Liberals 34% of the vote (down one since November), Labor 30% (down one), the Greens 13% (down one), the Jacqui Lambie Network 8% (up two), independents 12% (up one) and others 3% (steady). Tasmania uses a proportional system, so a two-party estimate is inapplicable.

    Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s net favourability dropped five points to +10, while Labor leader Dean Winter was down eight to +6. Rockliff led Winter by 44–34 as preferred premier (43–37 in November).

    Adrian Beaumont 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. Labor gains in Redbridge poll of marginal seats and seizes lead in a Morgan poll – https://theconversation.com/labor-gains-in-redbridge-poll-of-marginal-seats-and-seizes-lead-in-a-morgan-poll-250614

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Higher meat export prices boost terms of trade – Stats NZ media and information release: International trade: December 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Higher meat export prices boost terms of trade – 3 March 2025 – Export prices increased more than import prices in the December 2024 quarter, which led to a 3.1 percent rise in the terms of trade, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    The terms of trade represent the ratio of export prices to import prices. They can be interpreted as a measure of New Zealand’s purchasing power on the international stage and as an indicator of the relative strength of the New Zealand economy.

    The total export price index rose 3.2 percent and the import price index rose 0.1 percent in the December 2024 quarter, compared with the September 2024 quarter.

    Export prices for meat products, which are New Zealand’s second largest export commodity by value, rose 6.8 percent in the December quarter. Lamb prices rose 7.0 percent, while beef and veal prices rose 6.1 percent.

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Higher meat export prices boost terms of trade – Stats NZ media and information release: International trade: December 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Higher meat export prices boost terms of trade – 3 March 2025 – Export prices increased more than import prices in the December 2024 quarter, which led to a 3.1 percent rise in the terms of trade, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    The terms of trade represent the ratio of export prices to import prices. They can be interpreted as a measure of New Zealand’s purchasing power on the international stage and as an indicator of the relative strength of the New Zealand economy.

    The total export price index rose 3.2 percent and the import price index rose 0.1 percent in the December 2024 quarter, compared with the September 2024 quarter.

    Export prices for meat products, which are New Zealand’s second largest export commodity by value, rose 6.8 percent in the December quarter. Lamb prices rose 7.0 percent, while beef and veal prices rose 6.1 percent.

    Files:

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Going for growth in exports and aquaculture

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Coalition Government is going for growth by unlocking additional exports and creating jobs in the aquaculture industry Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones and Minister for Agriculture, and Trade and Investment Todd McClay announced today.

    The two ministers have confirmed support for salmon farming which is estimated to create an additional sector wide $500m of salmon exports by 2035. 

    “The Coalition Government will be co-investing $11.72 million over five years from the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund as part of a $29.3 million programme, led by New Zealand King Salmon to increase production and drive up exports, Minister McClay says. 

    The joint project will look at ways to expand salmon farming around New Zealand including in deep water while continuing to meet environmental obligations.”

    “The ‘Future Salmon Farming Programme’ will prove the viability of open ocean farming for the King Salmon species to make New Zealand a leading global supplier for this high value product.

    “It will also drive innovation, allowing fish farmers to maximise productivity and profitability and get a better return for their product.”  

    “We expect this investment to boost exports and produce more higher paying jobs in our regions,” Todd McClay said.  

    Minister Shane Jones says this is another example of the Coalition Government’s commitment to growing the aquaculture industry and supporting innovation in the sector, to the benefit of all New Zealanders.

    “We have a strong track record of supporting New Zealand aquaculture, including investing in projects to boost mussel spat availability, extending the resource consents for marine farms, and listing seven aquaculture projects in the Fast-Track Bill, which includes two new open ocean salmon farms.

    “It’s clear that open ocean aquaculture is going to be key for the industry’s growth. These farms will increase our capacity for farmed salmon by 40,000 tonnes annually in addition to the expected 10,000 tonnes from New Zealand King Salmon’s pilot open ocean farm.”

    “The Coalition Government has got big plans for the aquaculture sector, which I’ll be releasing in full soon. Open ocean salmon farming is a big part of these plans, as it directly supports our focus on delivering profitable, resilient, and sustainable marine farms around New Zealand, that work for the regions, Māori, our marine farmers, and the economy as a whole,” Mr Jones says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New management for Pūponga Farm Park

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  03 March 2025

    HealthPost Nature Trust will carry out restoration work in the Triangle Flat area of the farm park. They aim to build a 3 km-long low predator fence across the base of the spit to provide a line of defence against reinvading introduced predators. The farm and crossing road area will remain open to the public.

    Pax Leetch and Ellie Miller, who manage land next to the farm park, have successfully applied to graze land from the west of Old Man Range to Greenhills. This area will remain as a working farm.

    These concessions run for five years while DOC works with our Treaty partners —Iwi Chairs of Ngāti Tama, Ngāti Rārua and Te Ātiawa, and Manawhenua ki Mohua — to develop a long-term strategic vision for the site, which is rich in ecological and cultural values and a popular visitor destination.

    Last September, the Department of Conservation (DOC) ran an expression of interest process inviting parties to put in proposals for managing these sites as the previous license to graze was ending after 27 years.

    Eight proposals were received and an evaluation panel made up of Manawhenua ki Mohua, Nelson Marlborough Conservation Board representatives and DOC staff decided on the successful applicants.

    HealthPost Nature Trust will also fund 50 per cent of a salary for a DOC ranger to be based in Pūponga, who will spend half of their time working on the Trust’s biodiversity initiatives and half keeping the popular area maintained for visitors to enjoy.

    They will work closely with Pest Free Onetahua, a large-scale conservation project removing pests on Onetahua/Farewell Spit and the surrounding areas.

    Triangle Flat is a very significant archaeological site, and any proposed restoration would need to be careful not to impact these important values.

    The Trust’s agreement will expand the significant restoration work they have been carrying out at Cape Farewell since 2017 to benefit burrowing seabirds, including creating a 3-hectare predator-free sanctuary.

    The Trust has worked in partnership with Manawhenua ki Mohua and DOC for several years which has led to pakahā/fluttering shearwaters translocated to the area.

    DOC Golden Bay Operations Manager Ross Trotter says Onetahua/Farewell Spit Nature Reserve is a unique ecosystem and a significant biodiversity hotspot, with several rare plants and more than 90 bird species recorded in the area. It’s recognised as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.

    “HealthPost Nature Trust’s vision is exciting because if we can get predators down to really low numbers, Onetahua would be a much-needed safe haven for some of our threatened species in the area. It might also mean more rare species could be released into the area in the future.”

    Ross says DOC was impressed with the calibre of the proposals and wants to thank everyone who submitted an expression of interest.

    “We believe we’ve got a great outcome for the future of Pūponga Farm Park that is in the best interest of this really special part of the country.”

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: In many of Appalachia’s flood-ravaged areas, residents have little choice but rebuild in risky locations

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Kristina P. Brant, Assistant Professor of Rural Sociology, Penn State

    Parts of the North Fork of the Kentucky River flooded in July 2022, and again in February 2025. Arden S. Barnes/For The Washington Post via Getty Images

    On Valentine’s Day 2025, heavy rains started to fall in parts of rural Appalachia. Over the course of a few days, residents in eastern Kentucky watched as river levels rose and surpassed flood levels. Emergency teams conducted over 1,000 water rescues. Hundreds, if not thousands of people were displaced from homes, and entire business districts filled with mud.

    For some, it was the third time in just four years that their homes had flooded, and the process of disposing of destroyed furniture, cleaning out the muck and starting anew is beginning again.

    Historic floods wiped out businesses and homes in eastern Kentucky in February 2021, July 2022 and now February 2025. An even greater scale of destruction hit eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina in September 2024, when Hurricane Helene’s rainfall and flooding decimated towns and washed out parts of major highways.

    Scenes of flooding from several locations across Appalachia in February 2025.

    Each of these events was considered to be a “thousand-year flood,” with a 1-in-1,000 chance of happening in a given year. Yet they’re happening more often.

    The floods have highlighted the resilience of local people to work together for collective survival in rural Appalachia. But they have also exposed the deep vulnerability of communities, many of which are located along creeks at the base of hills and mountains with poor emergency warning systems. As short-term cleanup leads to long-term recovery efforts, residents can face daunting barriers that leave many facing the same flood risks over and over again.

    Exposing a housing crisis

    For the past nine years, I have been conducting research on rural health and poverty in Appalachia. It’s a complex region often painted in broad brushstrokes that miss the geographic, socioeconomic and ideological diversity it holds.

    Appalachia is home to a vibrant culture, a fierce sense of pride and a strong sense of love. But it is also marked by the omnipresent backdrop of a declining coal industry.

    There is considerable local inequality that is often overlooked in a region portrayed as one-dimensional. Poverty levels are indeed high. In Perry County, Kentucky, where one of eastern Kentucky’s larger cities, Hazard, is located, nearly 30% of the population lives under the federal poverty line. But the average income of the top 1% of workers in Perry County is nearly US$470,000 – 17 times more than the average income of the remaining 99%.

    This income and wealth inequality translates to unequal land ownership – much of eastern Kentucky’s most desirable land remains in the hands of corporations and families with great generational wealth.

    When I first moved to eastern Kentucky in 2016, I was struck by the grave lack of affordable, quality housing. I met families paying $200-$300 a month for a small plot to put a mobile home. Others lived in “found housing” – often-distressed properties owned by family members. They had no lease, no equity and no insurance. They had a place to lay one’s head but lacked long-term stability in the event of disagreement or disaster. This reality was rarely acknowledged by local and state governments.

    Eastern Kentucky’s 2021 and 2022 floods turned this into a full-blown housing crisis, with 9,000 homes damaged or destroyed in the 2022 flood alone.

    “There was no empty housing or empty places for housing,” one resident involved in local flood recovery efforts told me. “It just was complete disaster because people just didn’t have a place to go.”

    Most homeowners did not have flood insurance to assist with rebuilding costs. While many applied to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for assistance, the amounts they received often did not go far. The maximum aid for temporary housing assistance and repairs is $42,500, plus up to an additional $42,500 for other needs related to the disaster.

    The federal government often provides more aid for rebuilding through block grants directed to local and state governments, but that money requires congressional approval and can take months to years to arrive. Local community coalitions and organizations stepped in to fill these gaps, but they did not necessarily have sufficient donations or resources to help such large numbers of displaced people.

    Affordable rental housing is hard to find in much of Appalachia. When flooding wipes out homes, as Jackson, Ky., saw in July 2022 and again in February 2025, it becomes even more rare.
    Michael Swensen/Getty Images

    With a dearth of affordable rentals pre-flood, renters who lost their homes had no place to go. And those living in “found housing” that was destroyed were not eligible for federal support for rebuilding.

    The sheer level of devastation also posed challenges. One health care professional told me: “In Appalachia, the way it usually works is if you lose your house or something happens, then you go stay with your brother or your mom or your cousin. … But everybody’s mom and brother and cousin also lost their house. There was nowhere to stay.” From her point of view, “our homelessness just skyrocketed.”

    The cost of land – social and economic

    After the 2022 flood, the Kentucky Department for Local Government earmarked almost $300 million of federal funding to build new, flood-resilient homes in eastern Kentucky. Yet the question of where to build remained. As another resident involved in local flood recovery efforts told me, “You can give us all the money you want; we don’t have any place to build the house.”

    It has always been costly and time-intensive to develop land in Appalachia. Available higher ground tends to be located on former strip mines, and these reclaimed lands require careful geotechnical surveying and sometimes structural reinforcements.

    If these areas are remote, the costs of running electric, water and other infrastructure services can also be prohibitive. For this reason, for-profit developers have largely avoided many counties in the region. The head of a nonprofit agency explained to me that, because of this, “The markets have broken. … We have no [housing] market.”

    Eastern Kentucky’s mountains are beautiful, but there are few locations for building homes that aren’t near creeks or rivers. Strip-mined land, where mountaintops were flattened, often aren’t easily accessible and come with their own challenges.
    Posnov/Moment via Getty Images

    There is also some risk involved in attempting to build homes on new land that has not previously been developed. A local government could pay for undeveloped land to be surveyed and prepared for development, with the prospect of reimbursement by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development if housing is successfully built. But if, after the work to prepare the land, it is still too cost-prohibitive to build a profitable house there, the local government would not receive any reimbursement.

    Some counties have found success clearing land for large developments on former strip mine sites. But these former coal mining areas can be considerable distances from towns. Without robust public transportation systems, these distances are especially prohibitive for residents who lack reliable personal transportation.

    Another barrier is the high prices that both individual and corporate landowners are asking for properties on higher ground.

    The scarcity of desirable land available for sale, combined with increasingly urgent demand, has led to prices unaffordable for most. Another resident involved in local flood recovery efforts explained: “If you paid $5,000 for 30 acres 40 years ago, why won’t you sell that for $100,000? Nope, [they want] $1 million.” That makes it increasingly difficult for both individuals and housing developers to purchase land and build.

    One reason for this scarcity is the amount of land that is still owned by outside corporate interests. For example, Kentucky River Properties, formerly Kentucky River Coal Corporation, owns over 270,000 acres across seven counties in the region. While this landholding company leases land to coal, timber and gas companies, it and others like it rarely permit residential development.

    But not all unused land is owned by corporations. Some of this land is owned by families with deep roots in the region. People’s attachment to a place often makes them want to stay in their communities, even after disasters. But it can also limit the amount of land available for rebuilding. People are often hesitant to sell land that holds deep significance for their families, even if they are not living there themselves.

    Rural communities are often tight-knit. Many residents want to stay despite the risks.
    AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley

    One health care professional expressed feeling torn between selling or keeping their own family property after the 2022 flood: “We have a significant amount of property on top of a mountain. I wouldn’t want to sell it because my papa came from nothing. … His generation thought owning land was the greatest thing. … And for him to provide his children and his grandchildren and their great-grandchildren a plot of land that he worked and sweat and ultimately died to give us – people want to hold onto that.”

    She recognized that land was in great demand but couldn’t bring herself to sell what she owned. In cases like hers, higher grounds are owned locally but still remain unused.

    Moving toward higher ground, slowly

    Two years after the 2022 flood, major government funding for rebuilding still has not resulted in a significant number of homes. The state has planned seven communities on higher ground in eastern Kentucky that aim to house 665 new homes. As of early 2025, 14 houses had been completed.

    Progress on providing housing on higher ground is slow, and the need is great.

    In the meantime, when I conducted interviews during the summer and fall of 2024, many of the mobile home communities that were decimated in the 2022 flood had begun to fill back up. These were flood-risk areas, but there was simply no other place to go.

    Last week, I watched on Facebook a friend’s live video footage showing the waters creeping up the sides of the mobile homes in one of those very communities that had flooded in 2022. Another of my friends mused: “I don’t know who constructed all this, but they did an unjustly favor by not thinking how close these towns was to the river. Can’t anyone in Frankfort help us, or has it gone too far?”

    With hundreds more people now displaced by the most recent flood, the need for homes on higher grounds has only expanded, and the wait continues.

    Kristina Brant has received funding from the National Science Foundation and United States Department of Agriculture to support her past and ongoing research in rural Appalachia.

    – ref. In many of Appalachia’s flood-ravaged areas, residents have little choice but rebuild in risky locations – https://theconversation.com/in-many-of-appalachias-flood-ravaged-areas-residents-have-little-choice-but-rebuild-in-risky-locations-240429

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Soaring U.S. egg prices and millions of dead chickens signal the deep problems and risks in modern poultry production

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Tony Weis, Professor of Geography and Environment, Western University

    The recent volatility of egg prices in the United States has been a hot topic. Media coverage has consistently made the connection between supply problems and virulent strains of avian flu that has been afflicting poultry birds since 2022.

    Many articles have indicated that, in addition to millions of birds dying from avian flu, infected flocks have widely been killed en masse in an attempt to contain its spread. The livestock industry euphemistically calls this killing of infected animals “depopulation,” and around 150 million birds have been depopulated since the current crisis began.

    I have studied industrial livestock production for many years and have seen its myriad problems flash in and out of the media — such as greenhouse gas emissions, air and water pollution, food-borne illnesses, labour exploitation, and animal suffering. But it’s rare for the sector to stay in the media for long.

    The unusually heavy media coverage of expensive eggs, depopulated chickens and avian flu has highlighted some of the deep problems and risks of modern poultry production. Unfortunately, however, important context and dynamics have been regularly omitted.

    Unpacking key omissions helps to better understand both the nature of these chronic risks of infectious disease and the perilous response of the Trump administration.

    The spotlight on avian flu

    Multiple strains of avian flu chronically circulate within populations of both wild and domesticated birds. Avian flu is prone to frequent mutations, and occasionally some strains become more virulent and spillover across species.

    In addition to the problems avian flu in poultry production, recent media coverage has also highlighted the virus’s broader dangers.

    Avian flu is currently ravaging many wild animal species around the world, reaching into extremely remote places and even zoos.

    In the U.S., avian flu recently spilled over into cattle — causing widespread illness after a mutation enabled intra-species transmission.

    Avian flu has also caused a small number of severe human illnesses in the U.S. (primarily workers in poultry operations). Although no human-to-human transmission is evident — a necessary condition for a pandemic — this potential remains a grave threat.

    Key issues underplayed

    Although the media coverage of egg prices, depopulated chickens and avian flu has cast a valuable spotlight on many aspects of modern poultry production, it has also tended to leave out some important elements.

    Mentions in the media of many millions of chickens being killed to contain the spread of avian flu will surely sound jarring to some. But such figures pale in comparison to the 9.5 billion chickens slaughtered annually in the U.S. and the 76 billion slaughtered annually worldwide.

    Poultry birds now comprise 70 per cent of the total biomass of all birds on earth. Most are produced in densely-packed operations where reproduction, life and death have been greatly accelerated.

    Modern chickens have been selectively bred to either put on weight (broilers) or produce eggs (layers) very quickly. Broilers reach slaughter weight in a mere six weeks. Layer hens produce nearly an egg a day for about a year or two, before being slaughtered. These short life-cycles are rarely mentioned in coverage of depopulations.

    The growing risk of avian flu mutations relate to both enormity of poultry bird populations — by far the biggest habitat for the virus — and the unhealthy conditions of life in large enclosures.

    According to the U.S. Census of Agriculture, over 97 per cent of layers live in operations with at least 10,000 birds. Over 99 per cent of broilers are grown in operations with annual sales of at least 100,000 birds.

    This scale also relates to a question that has, with a few notable exceptions, received scant coverage: since infected populations cannot simply be shipped to the slaughterhouse, how are the birds actually killed?

    A leading approach to depopulation is ventilation shutdown. This involves turning off the powerful fans needed to make the ambient conditions in large enclosures bearable, and results in agonizing deaths.

    Researchers are investigating ways to augment ventilation shutdown as part of a broader research agenda seeking to develop systematic ways to depopulate large operations. This agenda clearly illustrates that the livestock industry is acutely aware of the great risks of infectious disease evolution within these spaces.

    Undermining infectious disease surveillance

    In the 2024 election campaign, Republicans regularly pointed to high egg prices in efforts to highlight rising inflation. In early 2025, the continuing rise of egg prices has cast a glare on U.S. President Donald Trump’s failed promise to immediately solve inflation.

    In response to scrutiny, the Trump administration initially tried to blame Biden for the depopulation of chickens. While such deflection might work for a time, Trump and his advisors realize they need a strategy to increase egg supplies.

    This emerging strategy must be viewed in relation to Trump’s sweeping assault on state institutions and regulations — which includes undermining crucial capacity for infectious disease surveillance. Trump made immediate cuts to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and forced it to disengage with the World Health Organization. He has also promised big cuts to the National Institutes of Health.

    In this context, it’s unsurprising that Trump is laying out a simple plan to increase the egg supply: rebuilding layer populations, reducing depopulations and trusting the livestock and pharmaceutical industries to find ways of containing avian flu — likely through vaccines and strengthened biosecurity.

    It’s profoundly irrational to be weakening infectious disease surveillance in the midst of the current avian flu crisis (and amid mounting infectious disease risks more generally).
    It’s also hard to fathom how further empowering the leading actors in poultry production can be expected to resolve the risks of avian flu that are so bound up in the nature of modern production.

    Pursuing this course might temporarily bring egg prices down, but it also inevitably means passing untold risks into the future.

    Tony Weis 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. Soaring U.S. egg prices and millions of dead chickens signal the deep problems and risks in modern poultry production – https://theconversation.com/soaring-u-s-egg-prices-and-millions-of-dead-chickens-signal-the-deep-problems-and-risks-in-modern-poultry-production-249679

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The urgent mental health needs of young people: Lessons for Canada from a global commission

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Tovah Cowan, Postdoctoral Fellow in Psychiatry, McGill University

    Since 2015, youth mental health has noticeably declined. Currently, 1.25 million young people in Canada require mental health support. (Shutterstock)

    Canada urgently needs to take action to support the well-being of young people and secure a healthier and more prosperous future for generations to come.

    Since 2015, well before the COVID-19 pandemic began, self-reported mental health has notably declined among young people. Currently, 1.25 million young people require mental health support. According to Mental Health Research Canada, in 2024, 19 per cent of Canadians between 16 and 34 years old accessed mental health services in the previous year while another 12 per cent felt they needed services but did not receive them.

    Megatrends

    The recently published Lancet Psychiatry Commission on Youth Mental Health shows that this problem is global, and in part driven by megatrends — major and long-lasting societal changes such as climate change, insecure employment and growing intergenerational inequality. These issues are situated within decades of colonial and neoliberal political, social and economic policies.



    Read more:
    What exactly is neoliberalism?

    In Canada, the effects of historic and ongoing colonialism on First Nations, Métis and Inuit youth are heartbreakingly clear in rates of suicide, which are six times higher in First Nations youth than non-Indigenous youth, and 33 times higher in young Inuit women than non-Indigenous young women. Additionally, there are gaps in services and barriers to access for Indigenous, 2SLGBTQ+, newcomer, Black and racialized young people, leading to disparities in care and support.

    To support youth mental health, Canada must work towards reversing these megatrends while also investing in youth mental health services.

    The youth mental health problem is global, and in part driven by ‘megatrends’ — major and long-lasting societal changes such as climate change, insecure employment and growing intergenerational inequality.
    (Shutterstock)

    As a team of mental health researchers and professionals, we are deeply committed to improving youth mental health. Without timely support, mental health challenges can disrupt education, relationships and career development, creating long-term effects for young people, their families and their communities. Unaddressed mental health issues can persist into adulthood, becoming more difficult to treat, adding preventable strain to health-care systems and hindering economic growth due to lost productivity.

    We were inspired by The Lancet Psychiatry Commission on Youth Mental Health, which calls for global action to address this urgent mental health crisis affecting young people. This global initiative involved researchers from diverse fields, service providers and young people, and was co-led by Srividya Iyer (a co-author on this piece and Canada Research Chair in Youth, Mental Health, and Learning Health Systems). It advances a framework for improving youth mental health care, integrating all sectors providing services relevant to mental health (for example, community centres, stand-alone clinics, hospitals) and all types of interventions, ranging from prevention to specialized services for youth with long-term mental health problems.

    The situation in Canada

    Canada is a global leader in creating new mental health services for youth, which began with the creation of a network of programs for youth with psychosis. Lessons learned have inspired transformation in broader youth mental health services, called “Integrated Youth Services” (IYS).

    Designed with input from youth and their families, IYS do not require transition from pediatric to adult care at age 18, which prevents youth from slipping through the cracks between the two systems. IYS integrate mental health, medical health and other social services; and create primary mental health care services.

    Today, there are almost 80 IYS hubs in most jurisdictions across Canada, with approximately 50 more in development. In the 2024 federal budget, a $500 million investment in community-based youth mental health services was the most positively received item by the public.

    These services and investments represent Canada’s critical commitment to youth mental health. However, there have been relatively fewer efforts to address other elements responding to factors contributing to worse youth mental health, such as the ongoing harms of colonization and the climate crisis.

    To truly address the youth mental health crisis, we must move beyond just creating services and into creating a world that supports young people to thrive. In these areas, young people themselves have shown us the way through initiatives like the Indigenous Climate Action Youth Leadership, the Anti-Racist Youth Lab and EveryChildNow, which takes action on youth poverty.

    What can we do

    Society must embrace a strong cultural shift that prioritizes a duty to young people.
    (Shutterstock)

    To support young people, the Lancet report highlights that society must embrace a strong cultural shift that prioritizes a duty to young people, future generations and intergenerational equity, ensuring that present-day policies consider their long-term impacts. The influence of megatrends suggests that activism on any of these societal issues can benefit youth mental health.

    For those who want to take action directly, advocating for increasing mental health and social service funding, supporting local organizations dedicated to young people, involving youth in decision-making processes, and fostering nurturing social communities are all important steps.

    In light of the upcoming federal election, Canadians should demand that all political parties have a clear plan for youth mental health. Policymaking should prioritize youth, family and community needs. Policies should be evidence-based, especially since intuitively helpful but untested ideas may have unintended consequences (for example, negative effects of universal prevention efforts) or can be complicated (such as the relationship between social media use and youth mental health).

    Continuous funding for mental health research can generate knowledge that can inform practice and policy, anticipate and respond to future priorities, test innovative interventions (like nature-based, social prescribing and intergenerational connection) and improve existing systems and interventions.

    Young people are tomorrow’s leaders, innovators and contributors. Ignoring their mental health problems undermines their potential and jeopardizes Canada’s ability to build a prosperous, inclusive society. Prioritizing youth mental health is not just a strategic investment for the country’s resilience — it is an ethical imperative.

    Tovah Cowan receives funding from CIHR for a Planning and Dissemination grant supporting a project related to improving learning health systems for youth mental health services. Her current salary is paid through a CIHR grant previously awarded to Dr. Iyer.

    Camila Velez receives funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) through a Doctoral Scholarship and a Planning and Dissemination grant for an International Symposium on arts-based research in youth mental health. Her current research assistant salary is paid through a CIHR grant previously awarded to Dr. Iyer.

    Nora Morrison’s current salary is paid through a CIHR grant previously awarded to Dr. Srividya Iyer.

    Rubén Valle receives his salary from a CIHR grant previously awarded to Dr. Iyer.

    Srividya N. Iyer is supported by the Canada Research Chairs Program (Tier 1) and has received peer-reviewed grants from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Fonds de Recherche du Québec – Santé and the International Development Research Centre.

    – ref. The urgent mental health needs of young people: Lessons for Canada from a global commission – https://theconversation.com/the-urgent-mental-health-needs-of-young-people-lessons-for-canada-from-a-global-commission-245039

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –