Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)
A panel discussion on Chapter 2 of our latest Global Financial Stability Report (GFSR) with:
– Mario Catalan, Deputy Division Chief, Monetary and Capital Markets Department, IMF
– Andrea Deghi, Financial Sector Expert, Monetary and Capital Markets Department, IMF
– José de Gregorio, Dean of the School of Economics and Business at the University of Chile, and former Governor of the Central Bank of Chile and former Minister of Economy, Mining, and Energy in Chile
– Moderator: Jeanna Smialek, Reporter, New York Times
Every time a new Pixel phone comes out, you might hear that “on-device processing” makes its cool new features possible. Just take a look at the new Pixel 9 phones
Exactly! Within recent years, there’s been this explosion in generative AI capabilities. At first when we started thinking about running large language models on devices, we thought it was kind of a joke — like, “Sure we can do that, but maybe by 2026.” But then we began scoping it out, and the technology performance evolved so quickly that we were able to launch features using Gemini Nano, our on-device model, on Pixel 8 Pro in December 2023.
That’s what I want to know more about: “on-device processing.” Let’s break it down and start with what exactly “processing” means.
The main processor, or system-on-a-chip (SoC), in your devices, has a number of what are called Processing Units designed specifically to handle the tasks you want to do with that device. That’s why you’ll see the chip (like the Tensor chip found in Pixels) referred to as a “system-on-a-chip: There’s not just one processor, but several processing units, memory, interfaces and much more, all together on one piece of silicon.
Let’s use Pixel smartphones as an example: The processing units include a Central Processing Unit, or CPU, as the main “engine” of sorts; a Graphics Processing Unit, or GPU, which renders visuals; and now today we have a Tensor Processing Unit, or TPU, specially designed by Google to run AI/ML workloads on a device. These all work together to help your phone get things done — aka, processing.
For example, when you take photos, you’re often using all elements of your phone’s processing power to good effect. The CPU will be busy running core tasks that control what the phone is doing, the GPU will be helping render what the lens is seeing and, on a premium Android device like a Pixel, there’s also a lot of work happening on the TPU to process what the optical lens sees to make your photos look awesome.
Got it. “On-device” processing implies there’s off-device. Where is “off-device processing” happening, exactly?
Off-device processing happens in the cloud. Your device connects to the internet and sends your request to servers elsewhere, which perform the task, and then send the output back to your phone. So if we wanted to take that process and make it happen on device, we’d take the large machine learning model that powered that task in the cloud and make it smaller and more efficient so it can run on your device’s operating system and hardware.
What hardware makes that possible?
New, more powerful chipsets. For example, with the Pixel 9 Pro, that’s happening thanks to our SoC called Tensor G4. Tensor G4 enables these phones to run models like Gemini Nano — it’s able to handle these high-performance computations.
So basically, Tensor is designed specifically to run Google AI, which isalsowhat powers a lot of Pixel’s new gen AI capabilities.
Right! And the generative AI features are definitely part of it, but there are lots of other things on-device processing makes possible, too. Rendering video, playing games, HDR photo editing, language translation — most everything you do with your phone. These are all happening on your phone, not being sent up to a server for processing.
TalkBack with Gemini, which analyzes images and reads descriptions out loud to blind or low-vision users, is an example of on-device processing that makes use of Tensor, Pixel’s system on a chip.
The computation your phone can do today is pretty incredible. Today’s smartphones are thousands of times faster than early high-performance computers, even those that were the size of rooms. Back in the day, those high-performance computers were the state of the art in terms of data analysis, image processing, anomaly detection and early AI research. Now we can do this all on device, and it opens up all sorts of neat opportunities to build helpful features that use this processing capability.
Is on-device processing better than off-device?
Not necessarily. If you were to use Search entirely on-device, that would be really slow or really limited or both, because when you’re searching the web, you’re sort of looking for a needle in a haystack. To fit the entire web index on your phone would be too much! Instead, when you use Search, you’re tapping into the cloud and our data centers to access trillions of web pages to find what you’re looking for.
But if you want to perform a more specific task, then on-device processing is really useful. For starters, there’s latency — if something’s being processed directly on the device, you may get the result faster. Then there’s also the fact that features that are fully on device work without an internet connection, meaning better availability and reliability.
Finally, given the AI chip is in your pocket rather than being served through a cloud backend, it’s free for apps to leverage the LLM capabilities.
All this said, there are distinct advantages to both: Cloud has more powerful models and can house lots of important data. Lots of your data, like photos, videos and more, sits in the cloud today. It also helps support actions like searching massive databases, like Drive, Gmail and Google Photos.
I’m already pretty impressed with what my Pixel can do today, but from what you’re saying, I’d imagine it’s only going to get better.
Yes, the models we’re using to do these complex tasks on Android devices are getting more capable. And of course it’s not just about better models and better technology: We also put a lot of work and research into thinking about what’s actually going to benefit people. We don’t want to just introduce products because the on-device processing can handle it; we want to make sure it’s something that people want to use on their phones in their everyday lives.
Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
Highlights:
– Nobel Peace Prize
– Noon Briefing Guest
– Secretary-General
– Lebanon
– Security Council
– Lebanon/Humanitarian
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Ukraine
– South Sudan
– West and Central Africa Floods
– UNHCR
– International Days
Nobel Peace Prize
The Secretary-General warmly congratulated the grassroots Japanese organization Nihon Hidankyo on being awarded the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize.
The atomic bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, also known as the hibakusha, are selfless, soul-bearing witnesses of the horrific human cost of nuclear weapons. While their numbers grow smaller each year, the relentless work and resilience of the hibakusha are the backbone of the global nuclear disarmament movement.
In a statement, the Secretary-General said that he will never forget his many meetings with them over the years. Their haunting living testimony reminds the world that the nuclear threat is not confined to history books. Nuclear weapons remain a clear and present danger to humanity, once again appearing in the daily rhetoric of international relations.
It is time for world leaders to be as clear-eyed as the hibakusha and see nuclear weapons for what they are: devices of death that offer no safety, protection, or security. The only way to eliminate the threat of nuclear weapons is to eliminate them altogether.
The United Nations proudly stands with the hibakusha. They are an inspiration to our shared efforts to build a world free of nuclear weapons.
Noon Briefing Guest
Izumi Nakamitsu, the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs briefed reporters on the Nobel Peace Prize being awarded to Nihon Hidankyo for its work advocating for a world free of nuclear weapons.
Secretary-General
The Secretary-General this morning addressed the ASEAN-UN Summit in Vientiane. He underscored the importance of the relationship between the two organizations which, he said, is a strategic partnership. In a world with growing geopolitical divides, with dramatic impacts on peace and security and sustainable development, the Association of South-East Asian Nations [ASEAN] is a bridge-builder and a messenger for peace, he said.
He also underscored how much the United Nations is grateful for ASEAN’s important contribution to UN peacekeeping operations. The Secretary-General took the opportunity to express his solidarity with Indonesia, as two of its peacekeepers serving with UNIFIL were wounded yesterday by Israeli fire in south Lebanon.
The Secretary-General outlined the key areas of the recently adopted Pact for the Future, which offers a strong vision for the time ahead.
In a press conference, the Secretary-General was asked about the wounding of the two peacekeepers in Lebanon, and he condemned the shooting against the UN premises in which the two peacekeepers were wounded, adding that it was a violation of international humanitarian law. Peacekeepers must be protected by all parties of the conflict, he said.
Prior to the meeting, the Secretary-General also held bilateral meetings with the President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Thongloun Sisoulith, and with the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, Pham Minh Chinh. We have issued readouts of those meetings.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China ready to accelerate construction of major projects with Pakistan — Chinese premier
ISLAMABAD, Oct. 14 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Monday that China is ready to work with Pakistan to accelerate the construction of major projects in areas such as railways, highways and ports.
Focusing on creating an “upgraded version” of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, China is willing to work with Pakistan to ensure the bilateral cooperation benefit the people more broadly, said Li.
Li made the remarks during talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China ready to join Pakistan for closer community with shared future — Premier Li
ISLAMABAD, Oct. 14 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Monday that China is willing to work with Pakistan to accelerate the building of a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era.
In his meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Li said the Chinese side is ready to continuously strengthen strategic coordination and deepen cooperation in various fields with Pakistan.
First Peoples’ names for animals and plants undeniably enrich Australian culture. But to date, few names taken from a language of Australia’s First Peoples have been widely applied to birds.
About 2,000 Australian bird species and subspecies occur in Australia and its territories. However, just 35 of these have common names taken directly from First Peoples’ languages. These names are variations of just a handful of First Peoples words: galah, gang-gang, budgerigar, currawong, brolga, kookaburra, chowchilla, Kalkadoon and mukarrthippi.
There is growing interest in the use of First Peoples’ words, as a global movement to decolonise the common names of species gathers pace. But as we and our colleagues explain in a paper published today, the practice is far more complex, and sometimes contentious, than it might appear.
Budgerigar is one of eight First Peoples words used for Australian bird names. Shutterstock
A bird by many names
In Aoteoroa/New Zealand, many birds are known by their Māori names. Kiwis have never been known by any other name, and nor have kākāpō or kākā.
It seems natural to assume using Indigenous names for our flora would help recognise First Peoples’ rights and knowledge, and their important role in Australian bird conservation.
But we should proceed with both caution and respect.
Most Australian birds occur on Country of more than one First Peoples’ group, and each group is likely to have at least one name for each species.
The galah is a good example. For the first 100 years after Europeans arrived, naturalists most commonly used the name rose-breasted cockatoo.
Gradually, however, the name used by the Yuwaarlaraay of north-western New South Wales – gilaa – took hold. In 1926, the Royal Australasian Ornithologists Union, now BirdLife Australia, adopted a variant of this, galah, as the official Australian name for the species.
Since then, galahs have become deeply embedded into the national psyche. When Home and Away character Alf Stewart calls someone a “flamin’ galah” most Australians knows he is being uncomplimentary.
But in the Kimberley region, the Gooniyandi peoples call galahsgirlinygirliny. In the NSW Riverina, the Wemba-Wemba name is wilek-wilek.
Galahs are known by myriad names. Shutterstock
Likewise, the white-throated grasswren is known by the nameyirlinkirrkkirr or yirrindjirrin in the Kunwinjku dialect. It’s also known as djirnidjirnirrinjken in the Kune dialect, from the Bininj Kunwok language group. The Jawoyn name for the same species is nyirrnyirr.
These multiple words for a species mean governments and other organisations could be seen as favouring one group over another if they recognise a particular First Peoples’ name.
So sometimes it’s best to keep the English name, even though First Peoples’ names exist. This was the case with the endangered golden-shouldered parrot, known by Queensland’s Olkola people as alwal.
The bird is highly significant in the Olkola creation story. However, a team working on the species’ recovery, chaired by an Olkola representative, decided to stick with the English name because neighbouring language groups refer to the bird by other names.
Sadly, the parrots themselves no longer occur on the Country of some First Peoples, and only the name of the bird remains.
Golden-shouldered parrots no longer occur on the Country of some First Peoples. Shutetrstock
Protecting the secret and sacred
The words First Peoples use to describe species may have special cultural significance.
First Peoples’ names for birds, and other species, are often built around the birds’ relationships with people, kin and with Country. For example, the name may describe:
a connection between a person and a species
a group of people’s relationship with each other which is related to a shared ancestor
relationships between people and a sacred site or Dreaming track.
Sometimes the names have sacred or secret meanings – and these can change with the place or with the speaker.
For these reasons, First Peoples may not want names from their language to be publicly available or used in official documents without their consent.
Permission is key
There are cases where English names should and can be replaced by a First Peoples’ name.
For example, in 2020 the bird now known as the mukarrthippi grasswren was recognised as a separate subspecies and needed its own common name. Australia’s rarest bird, it is known from just a few sand dunes on Country of the Ngiyampaa people in western New South Wales.
Ngiyampaa elders together settled on the name mukarrthippi. It is a combination of Ngiyampaa words – mukarr or spinifex (the spiny grass in which the grasswrens live) and thippi which means little bird.
Across Australia, 14 other bird subspecies have only ever been known from Country of a single First Peoples group. This means conversations with elders could be had about ascribing a First Peoples’ name to these birds.
In other cases, language users from multiple First Peoples groups could decide together on a name.
Where First Peoples offer alternative names for animal and plant species, governments should embrace the change. But no new First Peoples’ names should be adopted for species without explicit permission of the speakers of the language.
Stephen Garnett receives funding from the Australian Research Council. He is affiliated with BirdLife Australia where he is a board member.
Sophie is a proud Alywarr woman currently working at CSIRO
Minister Radosław Sikorski at the Berlin Process Summit14/10/2024The head of Polish diplomacy represented Poland at the Berlin Process Summit, which took place on October 14 in the German capital.
El minister Radosław Sikorski devoted his speech to the issues of regional cooperation, the Common Regional Market and Polish support for the Western Balkan countries on their way to membership in the European Union. – “Poland supports the process of EU enlargement and intends to maintain the high pace of European integration of the Western Balkans during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union. We also attach great importance to the issue of convergence of the policies of the countries of the region with the Common Foreign and Security Policy. This is an element that will influence the dynamics of this process,” emphasized the head of the Polish MFA in his speech. The Minister, on behalf of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Poland, emphasized our readiness to continue the technical support for the accession process of the Western Balkan countries. Since 2015, the MFA Enlargement Academy project has been developed, the task of which is to train officials of countries aspiring to membership and share good practices from the pre- and post-accession period. Minister Sikorski’s speech also included emphasis on the significance of the results of the Berlin Process to date, including, above all, the establishment of the Single Regional Market – the foundation of cooperation between the countries of the region. Thanks to their involvement, further trade barriers are being removed, which means that trade exchange is constantly growing, and the region is enjoying increasing interest from investors. At the same time, Minister Sikorski appealed for further efforts from all partners to develop this initiative and, above all, full implementation of the agreements to date. The head of Polish diplomacy also pointed out that economic development is only possible in favourable conditions, which are achievable thanks to political stability and ensuring external security. The EU and its partners should ensure that peace prevails in the Western Balkans, and cooperation prevails over divisions. In the Minister’s opinion, all tensions can be overcome and provide a foundation for reconciliation and good-neighbourly relations, as the example of Polish history shows.
Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, issued the following statement:
Ottawa – October 14, 2024
Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, issued the following statement:
“Earlier today, Commissioner Duheme and Assistant Commissioner Gauvin of the RCMP released findings with respect to the involvement of agents of the Government of India in serious criminal activity on Canadian soil. The RCMP took this unprecedented step in response to the fact that despite law enforcement action, the activities have continued, which pose an ongoing and significant threat to public safety, particularly to members of the Sikh and broader South Asian community in Canada.
I want to thank all those involved in this deeply complex investigation, including the many municipal police services with whom the RCMP has worked closely to mitigate threats to public safety throughout Canada.
In addition to the actions taken by our independent law enforcement agencies, I am working closely with my colleague, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, who has taken additional actions to reduce this threat and together, we are employing every possible action to address these criminal activities, which must stop now.
For many Canadians, particularly Indo-Canadians, this news will come as a shock.
The actions that are alleged to have taken place on Canadian soil are a grave violation of our sovereignty and our rule of law.
But I also hope that Canadians can find relief in knowing that our law enforcement and national security agencies are working to keep you safe and hold to account those who seek to harm our communities. I strongly encourage all Canadians and in particular, leaders in the South Asian community, to continue to work with law enforcement officials.
For generations, people from every corner of the globe have come to Canada seeking a better life, precisely because they felt that the Canadian government would duly fulfill one their most fundamental duties – keep them safe.
Our law enforcement and national security agencies work every day to uphold that promise, and I once again want to thank them for their work on this file.
The Government of Canada takes the issue of foreign interference extremely seriously. We will continue to take all necessary actions to keep Canadians and those on Canadian soil safe.”
Jean-Sébastien Comeau Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs 343-574-8116 Jean-Sebastien.Comeau@iga-aig.gc.ca
The program is to strengthen Poland’s eastern border and ensure security. El primer minister Donald Tusk took part in exercises to test elements for the construction of the “East Shield” at the Land Forces Training Center in Orzysz. The implementation of the program has been accelerated – key elements of the fortifications will appear this year. We will allocate PLN 10 billion for the implementation of the “East Shield” program.El irritable within the framework of the “East Shield”
The exercises were to test the effectiveness of barriers and defense systems that are key to protecting Poland’s eastern border. The program includes activities that aim to increase the country’s security in the face of potential threats.
This is an undertaking designed to last for years. Its main task is to effectively deter a potential enemy so that there is no war here. A peaceful task to be carried out in a civil war
– the Prime Minister emphasized at the training ground in Orzysz. The exercises were conducted by subunits from the 16th and 12th Mechanized Divisions and the 2nd Engineer Regiment. Thanks to these activities, it will be possible to thoroughly examine operational needs and adapt the defense infrastructure to future challenges.
All these exercises, installations and billions that we will spend here are to serve to prevent the potential enemy from daring to enter
– said Donald Tusk. The Prime Minister emphasized that part of the infrastructure that will be built as part of the “East Shield” will have civilian applications. It will benefit residents of border areas.
There will also be European funds for all of this, not just national ones. I will also be talking about this in the coming days and weeks in Brussels
– said the Prime Minister at the Land Forces Training Center. The head of government drew attention to the importance of rapid implementation of the program in order to ensure Poland’s long-term security. The exercises in Orzysz are the first step towards full implementation of the “East Shield” assumptions. The Prime Minister also thanked the services and soldiers for protecting Poland’s eastern border.
Acceleration of work on the “East Shield”
The security of Polish women, Poles and our homeland is a priority for the government. Poland plans to allocate 4.7% of GDP for defense in 2025, PLN 187 million – PLN 50 million more than in 2023.
The National Deterrence and Defense Program “East Shield” is a priority for our government. Homeland security, defense, community building, strong alliances and army modernization are our key goals
– said the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence in Orzysz. The activities within the framework of the “East Shield” have three main goals: To hinder the mobility of enemy troops. To facilitate the mobility of Polish troops. To ensure the protection of Polish soldiers and civilians.
The East Shield is there to deter the enemy, so that no one would ever think of attacking Poland, of attacking the eastern flank of OTAN. That is why we will build it
– emphasized Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. The Deputy Prime Minister also noted that the program will be implemented faster than originally planned. Construction of fortification elements was to begin in 2025, but it will be possible in the first places in 2024. Implementation of activities within the framework of the “East Shield” will last until 2028.
Modern infrastructure and technology
Drone systems, military warehouses and modernized fortifications will constitute the foundation of the country’s defense, as well as support for units operating on the borders.
The anti-drone system, reconnaissance system, anti-access system, ensuring uninterrupted functioning of the communication system are the next elements that will be built as the “East Shield” program progresses. This military operation aims to make these areas inaccessible
– said the deputy chief of the General Staff of the Polish Army, Lieutenant General Stanisław Czosnek. The training and testing center in Orzysz allows for training of subunits in the preparation of engineering barriers and their testing. The exercises proved that the possibility of illegal crossing of the border has been minimized.
Headline: Governor Cooper Proclaims October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month and Reminds North Carolinians to Beware of Hurricane-Related Scams
Governor Cooper Proclaims October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month and Reminds North Carolinians to Beware of Hurricane-Related Scams mseets
Governor Roy Cooper has proclaimed October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month in North Carolina to recognize the ongoing importance of online safety, especially in the wake of Hurricane Helene, which brought historic devastation to the state.
“Storms like Helene offer prime opportunities for cybercriminals looking to take advantage of others during a crisis situation when they may have their guard down,” Governor Cooper said. “Every North Carolinian must remain vigilant about staying safe online and protecting their personal information.”
Scammers can pose as official representatives of disaster aid organizations or charities and use phishing emails, social media messages, texts and phone calls to obtain personal and financial information and access devices and networks that hold sensitive data. Be careful with any messages that include hurricane-related subject lines, attachments or hyperlinks.
“Our department continues to emphasize the importance of cybersecurity education and awareness,” said N.C. Department of Information Technology Secretary and State Chief Information Officer Jim Weaver. “We are committed to ensuring that everyone can access the internet safely and guard against cyberthreats, which can happen to anyone at any time.”
Here are some ways you can protect yourself, your family and your workplace from online threats:
Recognize, resist and delete phishing attempts. Do not click links or open attachments in suspicious messages. Always double check web and email addresses to make sure they are legitimate. If you think the message could be real, look up another way to contact the company or person directly to verify.
Avoid sharing personal information. Don’t send sensitive information such as passwords, account numbers and Social Security Numbers over email, text or chat.
Make passwords long, random and unique. Strong passwords should be at least 16 characters and include a random string of mixed-case letters, numbers and symbols. Use a different strong password for each account. Password managers can generate strong passwords and remember them for you.
Enable multifactor authentication for every account or app that offers it. Multifactor authentication requires you to enter more information than just a password, such as a text code or fingerprint.
Update software. Make sure your devices are running the latest version of operating systems, software and web browsers. When notified about updates, be sure to install them as soon as possible or turn on automatic updates to install updates without any input as soon as they are available.
The N.C. Department of Information Technology, along with other state, local and federal partners, works to protect North Carolina’s government IT systems, data and assets against cyberthreats.
In addition, NCDIT’s Division of Broadband and Digital Equity has launched a series of grant programs that have awarded $44 million to date to ensure North Carolinians can access and afford high-speed internet, obtain digital devices and safely and effectively navigate today’s digital world.
NCDIT will share tips and information on social media using hashtags #SecureOurWorld and #CyberSecureNC throughout the month. More information about online safety is available at it.nc.gov/CyberSecureNC.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah will interact with IPS probationers on Tuesday, 15 October 2024 in New Delhi The probationary officers will share their training experiences with the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation
Young police officers have an important role in fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s resolve to make India a developed nation by 2047
The probationary officers will also receive guidance from the Home Minister to deal with challenges related to the internal security of the country
Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 4:09PM by PIB Delhi
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah will interact with the Indian Police Service (IPS) probationers of 76 RR (2023 Batch) in New Delhi on Tuesday, 15 October 2024. During the interaction, the probationary officers will share their training experiences with the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation.
Young police officers have an important role to play in fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s resolve to make India a developed nation by 2047. During the meeting, the probationary officers will also receive guidance from the Home Minister to deal with challenges related to the internal security of the country.
In the Indian Police Service 2023 batch, a total of 188 officer trainees including 54 women officers have completed the Basic Course Training Phase-1. After two weeks of training with various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Central Police Organisations (CPOs) in Delhi, the IPS trainee officers will undergo 29 weeks of district practical training in their respective cadres.
Ensure that every citizen of India has access to safe, reliable and highly quality products and services: Shri Pralhad Joshi Enhancing public awareness about standards is essential for empowering the consumers: Shri Joshi
One nation, one standard to ensure coherence and synergy among stakeholders working towards unified standards framework: Shri Joshi
Bureau of Indian Standards commemorates World Standards Day
Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 3:17PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution & New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi during his keynote address on World Standards Day in New Delhi today said that Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) should ensure that every citizen of India has access to safe, reliable and highly quality products and services. He said the well-being of consumers depend on the access to quality products while the growth and profitability of the industry is directly linked to the demand for these high-quality goods. This is a holistic approach acknowledging the interdependence of the consumers and producers fostering the robust quality ecosystem, he said.
Shri Joshi emphasised PM Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for the country to be recognised for its best quality and for India to strive to make itself synonymous with the world standards. He said that the BIS should focus on quality as India’s economy is rapidly growing along with its contribution in global trade. He stressed that the BIS has a huge role to play in enriching economic growth, enhancing the ‘Made in India’ label and establishing Brand Bharat at a global level.
The Minister said that under the guidance of Hon’ble PM, the new BIS Act of 2016 will further strengthen ease of doing business and will provide a fillip to the ‘Make in India’ campaign. Praising the BIS for their relentless efforts in standardisation of products, Shri Joshi said that today more than 22,300 standards are in force and 94% of Indian standards are being harmonised with ISO and ISE standards. Shri Joshi mentioned that today 174 QCOs of 732 products have been notified for compulsory BIS certification, while till 2014 there were only 14 Quality Control Orders (QCOs) of 106 products.
The Union Minister said that enhancing public awareness about standards is essential for empowering the consumers. The Minister said that the challenge for the government is to generate widespread interest and awareness among citizens in the standards programmes being undertaken by BIS. We have to set a standard where awareness is created among consumers to verify ISI and BIS certification before buying any product, that is the challenge for us, he said.
Shri Joshi said that India, currently being the fifth largest economy in the world, should focus on improving standards as they serve as the backbone of the society, ensuring the safety, quality and trust in the product and the service. Standards work as catalysts for technical development, industrial growth and well-being of the society. They facilitate both domestic and international trade contributing both for economic growth and environmental sustainability, he noted.
Shri Joshi said that for businesses, standards improve processes, systems, reduce waste and customer satisfaction supported through the compatibility with other markets while for consumers standards ensure reliability, consistency and safety of the products and interoperability.
During his address, he also applauded other standard development organisations (SDOs) like Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) and Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) operating across sectors. He further stated that the concept of one nation and one standard becomes paramount ensuring the coherence and synergy among stakeholders working towards the unified standards framework.
During the event, Shri Joshi launched BIS Care App 3.0. BIS CARE app is a one stop utility platform to empower consumers. It not only provides means to verify genuineness of BIS certified products and Hallmarked Jewelries, but it also facilitates lodging of complaints against sub-standard products and misuse of BIS Standard Marks. The brand-new upgrade of BIS CARE App to version 3.0 comes with a new set of features specifically aiming to increase visibility of relevant information for stakeholders pertaining to Standards and Certification.
Shri Joshi also launched a film on the Standards Promotion Activities of BIS along with a Quality Quest Game for consumers to enhance their knowledge on quality. To mark World Standards Day, he released Reference Handbooks to disseminate information regarding important national standards and also comic books developed by BIS to be distributed to Standards Clubs across the country.
The event was also graced by the Union Minister of State, Shri B.L. Verma, alongside Secretary of Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, Smt. Nidhi Khare, Additional Secretary, Shri Bharat Khera, Director General of BIS, Shri Pramod Kumar Tiwari. Key stakeholders from government, industry, and academia were also present on the occasion.
Deputy Governor Xuan Changneng attended the Second BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting of the year, which was held in Moscow on October 11, 2024. The meeting discussed issues including Global Monetary and Financial System and international financial cooperations.
The Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, released a ₹100 commemorative coin in honour of HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Ji to mark her Birth Centenary celebrations. The event, organized at National Museum, was a heartfelt tribute to the immense contributions of HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Ji in promoting spirituality, inner peace, and self-realization globally.
In his address, Shri Nitin Gadkari highlighted the significance of HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Ji’s teachings, emphasizing her lifelong dedication to uplifting humanity through the practice of Sahaja Yoga and her message of universal love. He mentioned that the release of this ₹100 commemorative coin is a symbol of appreciation for her profound impact on spiritual and cultural values.
📍𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑫𝒆𝒍𝒉𝒊
Release of commemorative coin of HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi ji on the occasion of Birth Centenary Celebrations. pic.twitter.com/pr7QqEgSCN
The ₹100 commemorative coin features the image of HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Ji, symbolizing her spiritual vision and the principles she embodied. It serves as a tribute to her enduring legacy and as a keepsake for those inspired by her teachings.
strong>BRISTOL, Va. — Residents of Scott County, Virginia are now eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA under the Individual Assistance Program. FEMA assistance can help with costs from damage and losses due to Tropical Storm Helene.
Residents of the cities of Galax and Radford, as well as Bedford, Bland, Carroll, Giles, Grayson, Montgomery, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Russell, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe counties, remain eligible for assistance.
FEMA may be able to help you pay for essential items, temporary housing, home repairs and other needs due to the disaster, including:
Essential items such as water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, medical supplies and equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation;
Financial assistance to help pay for hotel stays, stays with family and friends, or other options while you look for a rental unit as well as rental assistance if you are displaced because of the disaster;
Repair or replacement of a vehicle, appliances, room furnishings, personal or family computer;
Books, uniforms, tools, computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment; and
Moving and storage fees, medical expenses, childcare and funeral expenses.
For more information about the types of FEMA assistance available under the Individual Assistance Program, visit: fema.gov/ia.
You can apply for disaster assistance today:
To watch an accessible video about how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance – YouTube.
FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov.
For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.
###
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.
To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.
Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
October 14, 2024
Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of $37 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace lead and copper water pipes across Oregon that have been known to cause serious health issues.
“The science is clear – there is no safe level of lead in drinking water,” Wyden said. “I am very grateful to see more than $37 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law ensure that Oregonians always have access to clean drinking water in our schools, homes, and places of work. This funding proves that investing in infrastructure means investing in the health and wellbeing of Oregonians for generations to come.”
“Oregonians in every corner of the state should be able to turn on their tap without fear of lead contamination in their drinking water,” Merkley said. “These federal funds will allow for the replacement of lead pipes around the state and improve our water infrastructure systems—a top concern I hear about in the town halls I hold in every county in Oregon. I’ll continue to do all I can ensure every community in Oregon and across the U.S. has reliable access to safe, clean drinking water.”
The federal investment is through the Environmental Protection Agency’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, and is intended to help replace all lead water pipes from Oregon’s water supply within the next 10 years.
Wyden and Merkley have long been champions for more resources to address aging water infrastructure. In May, Wyden and Merkley announced $5.5 million to replace aging water delivery infrastructure in communities across Oregon. In addition, the senators have supported water pollution monitoring and wastewater upgrade projects for communities and tribes across Oregon. As chair of the Energy and Natural Resources’ Subcommittee on Water and Power, Wyden helped lead a coordinated set of hearings last year on drinking water issues to identify the federal and state jurisdictional areas that prevent addressing aging water infrastructure.
Scientists have found a green and efficient chemical process for preparing amides directly from alcohol using a Covalent Organic Framework (COF) based photocatalyst that can revolutionize industrial manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and synthetic materials.
Amides are essential in chemistry, serving as key components in a wide range of organic compounds, including proteins, pharmaceuticals, and synthetic materials. Traditional amide synthesis methods often require high temperatures and harsh conditions, leading to significant environmental impact and inefficiency. These conventional approaches typically involve transition metal catalysts and generate substantial waste, prompting the need for more sustainable alternatives.
Researchers from S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, an autonomous Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have introduced a novel method for synthesizing amides from alcohols using a Covalent Organic Framework (COF) as a photocatalyst under red light irradiation. This catalytic method can be helpful in chemical processes across various industries, including pharmaceutical manufacturing, materials science, and green chemistry – offering a more sustainable, efficient, and recyclable approach to creating vital chemical structures.
The advantages of this method include mild reaction conditions, high efficiency, excellent recyclability, and the practicality of red-light activation, which is less harmful and penetrates more effectively, making it suitable for large-scale applications. Additionally, the tolerance of COFs to various functional groups broadens their applicability to challenging substrates, such as secondary amides, which are difficult to synthesize using traditional catalysts.
The newly developed method uses the redox-active TTT-DHTD COF, which has been designed with high-density organic moieties, namely dithiophenedione, which is crucial for trapping photogenerated electrons (Scheme 1). This feature enables the COF to efficiently facilitate hydrogen atom abstraction reactions. The ability of the COF to absorb light across the visible spectrum, coupled with its narrow band gap, makes it particularly effective for generating excitons, which are essential for dehydrogenative coupling reactions. Upon red light absorption, the COF undergoes a photochemical reaction that generates excited states capable of initiating the dehydrogenation of alcohols, resulting in amide formation through coupling with amines. The process benefits from the stability and recyclability of COFs, making it a robust catalyst for repeated use.
The implications of this research are significant. In the pharmaceutical industry, this method could streamline drug production, reduce costs, and eliminate metal contamination. In materials science, it could enable the development of new polymers and materials with amide linkages, expanding the range of materials for various applications. Further research may optimize the COF structure for even better performance and stability, and scaling up the process for industrial applications will be crucial to realizing its full potential.
Scheme 1.Scheme of synthesis of amides using covalent organic frameworks as heterogeneous photocatalysts.
The development of the TTT-DHTD COF-catalysed method for sustainable and green amide synthesis marks a significant advancement in chemical catalysis. By combining mild reaction conditions, efficient light activation, and excellent recyclability, this approach addresses many limitations of traditional methods and paves the way for more sustainable and efficient chemical processes. As research progresses, the impact of this breakthrough could extend across multiple industries, driving progress toward greener and more effective chemical synthesis.
Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Watauga County
Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Watauga County
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Disaster Recovery Center is opening Tuesday, Oct. 15 in Boone (Watauga County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Helene.
The Watauga County DRC is located at:
Appalachian Enterprise Center 130 Poplar Grove Connector Boone, N.C. 28607 Open: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday
A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more.
FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs, personal property losses or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses.
Centers are already open in Asheville, Lenoir, Marion and Sylva. To find those center locations go to fema.gov/drcor text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Homeowners and renters in 27 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.
It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app. You may also call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
For the latest information about North Carolina recovery, visit Hurricane Helene | NC DPS or fema.gov/disaster/4827. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
PALMETTO, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the award of $9.5 million to SeaPort Manatee to jumpstart its recovery and help repair impacted infrastructure following significant damage caused by Hurricane Milton. SeaPort Manatee is the primary deep-water seaport in Southwest Florida. It receives fuel, fruits and vegetables, appliances, construction materials, and wood for distribution across Southwest Florida and the Southeast.
Following Hurricane Milton, initial damage assessments indicated potential losses of $225 million at SeaPort Manatee. While many of the port’s losses are insured, some components are not. Damage to the port includes the loss of 10 out of 13 on-site warehouses, 3 of the ten port-owned docking facilities, and widespread damage to port offices.
“This action to get SeaPort Manatee back to full operations will benefit the people of Florida, ensure the hardening of our infrastructure for future disasters, and ensure normal life is resumed for Floridians as soon as possible,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Taking action to address these impacts now is imperative to keep Florida on the road to recovery.”
This investment will include:
$5.5 million for emergency berth repairs and dredging in state waters;
$3.5 million for immediate security needs and access control; and,
$500,000 to support planning activities for fortifying port infrastructure.
In addition to this funding, Governor DeSantis directed several state agencies to step in and assist the port to expedite recovery efforts. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will provide subject matter experts and skilled workers, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will expedite all permits for the immediate rebuild of port infrastructure, and the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) will provide support in navigating the FEMA award process. The Florida National Guard will also provide personnel to reestablish perimeter security and assist in repairing the port fence.
“With the major impact that seaports have on our state’s economy and the quality of life for our residents, it’s critical that we ensure our seaports are open and fully operational, particularly SeaPort Manatee given the significant damage they sustained following Hurricane Milton,” said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Thank you to Governor Ron DeSantis, our state agency partners, and all our seaport partners as we work together to ensure Florida’s seaports stay open for business.”
For every state dollar invested in seaport infrastructure, the expected return on investment for the state is seven dollars in state and local taxes. In 2023, SeaPort Manatee supported 42,094 U.S. jobs, generated $275 million in state and local taxes, and contributed $7.3 billion in economic value to the U.S. economy.
Police are at the scene of a serious crash that has blocked State Highway 1 at Marton.
The crash involves an empty bus and a truck, and was reported about 8.50am. The road is blocked at the rail overbridge between Wings Line and Calico Line.
Diversions are in place and motorists should expect delays.
The Serious Crash Unit is attending.
Information will be released proactively when we are in a position to do so.
Major Crash officers are investigating a fatal crash at Waterloo Corner earlier this morning.
Just after 12.15am on Tuesday 15 October, emergency services were called to the intersection of Port Wakefield Highway and McEvoy Road at Waterloo Corner after reports a concrete truck and a sedan collided.
The driver of the white Lexus sedan, a 19-year-old woman from Buckland Park, sadly died at the scene.
The driver of the truck was taken to hospital where he is being treated for minor injuries. He is assisting police with their investigations.
The intersection was closed for about five hours whilst Major Crash officers examined the scene, but the road has since reopened.
The woman’s death is the 69th live lost on South Australian roads this year.
Police are investigating a serious crash at Lower Light earlier this morning.
Just before 2.30am on Tuesday 15 October, police and emergency services were called to the intersection of Port Wakefield Highway and Richardson Road at Lower Light after reports a truck collided with a pedestrian.
The pedestrian, a 29-year-old woman from Osborne, was taken to hospital where she is being treated for critical injuries.
The driver of the truck, a 38-year-old man from Unley Park, was uninjured and was taken to hospital for mandatory testing. The man is assisting police with their investigation.
Port Wakefield Highway is currently closed for southbound traffic from Richardson Road and diversions are in place. Motorists are asked to avoid the area.
Police are asking if anyone witnessed the collision or may have dashcam footage of the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au
HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) announced today that its subsidiary, Phillips 66 Limited, has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its 49 percent non-operated equity interest in Coop Mineraloel AG (“CMA”) to its Swiss joint venture partner. It will receive cash of 1.06 billion Swiss francs (approximately $1.24 billion) consisting of a 1 billion Swiss franc sales price (approximately $1.17 billion) and an assumed dividend of 60 million Swiss francs (approximately $70 million) for financial year 2024 to be paid at or prior to closing. The sales price is subject to adjustment based on the amount of the dividend.
“This transaction marks significant progress in delivering on our commitment of over $3 billion in divestitures,” said Mark Lashier, chairman and CEO of Phillips 66. “As we manage our portfolio, we will continue to evaluate monetization of assets that no longer fit our long-term strategy.”
CMA operates 324 retail sites and petrol stations across Switzerland.
Proceeds from the sale will support the strategic priorities of Phillips 66, including returns to shareholders.
The transaction is subject to approval by the Swiss Competition Commission. It is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025.
About Phillips 66
Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) is a leading integrated downstream energy provider that manufactures, transports and markets products that drive the global economy. The company’s portfolio includes Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, Marketing and Specialties, and Renewable Fuels businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 has employees around the globe who are committed to safely and reliably providing energy and improving lives while pursuing a lower-carbon future. For more information, visit phillips66.com or follow @Phillips66Co on LinkedIn.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR THE PURPOSES OF THE “SAFE HARBOR” PROVISIONS OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to the sale of Phillips 66’s 49 percent non-operated equity interest in Coop Mineraloel AG. Words such as “anticipated,” “estimated,” “expected,” “planned,” “scheduled,” “targeted,” “believe,” “continue,” “intend,” “will,” “would,” “objective,” “goal,” “project,” “efforts,” “strategies” and similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on management’s expectations, estimates and projections as of the date they are made. These statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, and you should not unduly rely on them as they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: any delay in, or inability to obtain, necessary regulatory approvals, including from the Swiss Competition Commission; changes in governmental policies or laws that relate to our operations, including regulations that seek to limit or restrict refining, marketing and midstream operations or regulate profits, pricing, or taxation of our products or feedstocks, or other regulations that restrict feedstock imports or product exports; our ability to timely obtain or maintain permits necessary for projects; fluctuations in NGL, crude oil, refined petroleum, renewable fuels and natural gas prices, and refining, marketing and petrochemical margins; the effects of any widespread public health crisis and its negative impact on commercial activity and demand for refined petroleum or renewable fuels products; changes to worldwide government policies relating to renewable fuels and greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect programs including the renewable fuel standards program, low carbon fuel standards and tax credits for biofuels; unexpected changes in costs for constructing, modifying or operating our facilities; our ability to successfully complete, or any material delay in the completion of, any asset disposition, acquisition or conversion that we may pursue; unexpected difficulties in manufacturing, refining or transporting our products; the level and success of drilling and production volumes around our midstream assets; risks and uncertainties with respect to the actions of actual or potential competitive suppliers and transporters of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels or specialty products; lack of, or disruptions in, adequate and reliable transportation for our products; potential liability from litigation or for remedial actions, including removal and reclamation obligations under environmental regulations; failure to complete construction of capital projects on time and within budget; our ability to comply with governmental regulations or make capital expenditures to maintain compliance with laws; limited access to capital or significantly higher cost of capital related to illiquidity or uncertainty in the domestic or international financial markets, which may also impact our ability to repurchase shares and declare and pay dividends; potential disruption of our operations due to accidents, weather events, including as a result of climate change, acts of terrorism or cyberattacks; general domestic and international economic and political developments, including armed hostilities (such as the Russia-Ukraine war), expropriation of assets, and other diplomatic developments; international monetary conditions and exchange controls; changes in estimates or projections used to assess fair value of intangible assets, goodwill and property and equipment and/or strategic decisions with respect to our asset portfolio that cause impairment charges; investments required, or reduced demand for products, as a result of environmental rules and regulations; changes in tax, environmental and other laws and regulations (including alternative energy mandates); political and societal concerns about climate change that could result in changes to our business or increase expenditures, including litigation-related expenses; the operation, financing and distribution decisions of equity affiliates we do not control; and other economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Phillips 66’s businesses generally as set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Phillips 66 is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)
In September, Vice President Harris traveled to Arizona for official briefings on the latest work to secure the southern border and operations to stop the flow of illegal fentanyl into our country.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (Indiana 09)
Washington, D.C. — Recently, Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-9) and Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) introduced the Task Force to End Financial Abuse Act, a bipartisan effort to address the growing issue of coerced debt and financial exploitation. The proposed task force aims to develop a comprehensive approach to combat financial abuse, protect victims, and prevent future incidents.
Coerced debt occurs when one individual in an abusive relationship accumulates debt in their partner’s name without their knowledge or consent. This form of financial abuse can leave victims trapped with ruined credit, overwhelming debt, and limited financial options, even after escaping an abusive situation.
“Addressing coerced debt requires a coordinated effort that goes beyond just tackling financial exploitation; it touches on abuse, consumer protection, and the ability to live free from financial control,” said Congresswoman Houchin. “The Task Force to End Financial Abuse Act will provide a roadmap to better understand the scope of this problem and develop real solutions to help victims break free and rebuild their lives.”
“Far too many survivors are trapped in abusive relationships where their spouse or significant other has run up the bills on credit cards or auto loans – often without their knowledge. As a result, they face destroyed credit, substantial payment expectations, debt collection, and even, bankruptcy. Financial abuse is often the last chain that binds a survivor to their abuser. This new Interagency Task Force on Financial Abuse will bring together relevant federal agencies and external stakeholders to address this crisis head on,” said Congressman Gottheimer. “When we protect survivors from financial abuse, we don’t just restore their credit — we restore their freedom and their future.”
The Task Force to End Financial Abuse Act represents a critical step toward breaking the cycle of financial control that affects so many victims of domestic abuse. Congresswoman Houchin and Congressman Gottheimer are committed to advancing this legislation, ensuring that survivors have the support they need and preventing future financial abuse.
Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
WASHINGTON, D.C. –?Today, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Gary Peters (D-MI)?introduced bipartisan legislation to reform the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Individual Assistance program. This bill would improve how FEMA provides assistance to individuals to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of a disaster. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, there were 28 weather and climate disasters in 2023, surpassing the previous record of 22 in 2020, and with a price tag of at least $92.9 billion in recovery costs.
“It’s past time we end the ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to disaster relief and cut the red tape that prevents many communities from accessing the relief they desperately need,” said Senator Tillis.“This common-sense legislation provides greater flexibility for communities in need, saves tax-payer dollars, and helps communities recover faster.”
“Severe weather and natural disasters are becoming more frequent, more catastrophic and more costly, leaving people across the country in need of swift federal resources to help assist their recovery,” said Senator Peters. “My commonsense bipartisan legislation would reform the FEMA disaster assistance process and improve how the agency provides assistance to individuals for home repairs, disaster housing, and mitigation activities.”
BACKGROUND
The bipartisan Disaster Survivors Fairness Act would reform individual federal disaster assistance programs to best support survivors. The bill would provide FEMA with new authorities to increase its ability to fund disaster mitigation projects and expand support to homeowners. The bill would also enable FEMA to reimburse states that implement their own innovative post-disaster housing solutions and bolster development of post-disaster solutions for renters. The bill requires FEMA and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to complete a series of reports and studies that would identify additional challenges regarding the administration of post-disaster assistance for survivors and boost transparency.
We invite you to join us for a live online event on Tuesday, October 15,from 1:00-1:45 pm ET, with Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) aid workers reflecting on the catastrophic health impacts of the war in Gaza.
MSF teams were already active providing medical care in Gaza when conflict escalated following the horrific attacks by Hamas on Israel on October 7. In response, the Israeli government launched a ferocious military offensive on Gaza. More than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed, tens of thousands more have been injured, and some 1.9 million people have been displaced–often multiple times. Much of the Gaza Strip has been reduced to rubble.
MSF staff are providing urgent medical care even while facing the personal impacts of the war themselves–the deaths of loved ones, destruction of their homes, and constant dangers everywhere. Hospitals and health facilities have repeatedly come under fire or been forced to evacuate. The medical needs are exploding, including the spread of infectious diseases and the risk of starvation.
Join us for a conversation with Dr. Javid Abdelmoneim, emergency physician and former medical team leader in Gaza, and Dr. Amber Alayyan, pediatrician and medical program manager for MSF in Palestine, Afghanistan and Haiti. Dr. Mohammed AbuMughaisib, MSF deputy medical coordinator in Gaza, will share testimony directly from Khan Younis, and Avril Benoît, MSF USA chief executive officer, will moderate the live discussion. Together they will bear witness to this unfolding emergency and reflect on the medical challenges ahead.
Meet the speakers
Dr. Javid Abdelmoneim
Dr. Javid Abdelmoneim is an emergency physician and was president of MSF UK from 2017-2021. Born and raised in the UK to Sudanese Iranian parents, Javid volunteered with MSF as a medical student, and later joined MSF as an aid worker for his first assignment to Iraq. Since then, he has worked for MSF in conflict zones, crises and disease outbreaks around the world. He has completed assignments in Ukraine, Haiti, Lebanon/Syria, South Sudan, Sierra Leone (for Ebola), and on the Mediterranean Sea on one of MSF’s search and rescue vessels. Most recently, he worked as an emergency medical team leader in Gaza.
Dr. Amber Alayyan
Dr. Amber Alayyan is a pediatrician and international public health consultant with over 20 years of experience in health care in conflict and post-conflict zones particularly in the Middle East, as well as malnutrition and environmental health in conflict settings. She currently works as MSF’s medical program manager for Afghanistan, Palestine, and Haiti and previously managed medical programs for Peru, Syria, Lebanon, Iran, and Iraq. In her current role, she manages the medical operational strategy and activities in the West Bank and Gaza. These activities include burn and trauma surgery and multi-disciplinary pre/post-operative care, pediatric inpatient care, antibiotic resistance management, primary health care, mental health, and sexual and gender-based violence. Her work with MSF over the past 13 years includes assignments in the Central African Republic, Pakistan, Yemen, Iraq, Jordan/Syria, Turkey/Syria, Lebanon, Croatia and Greece.
Dr. Mohammed Abu Mughaisib
Dr. Mohammed (Abu Abed) Abu Mughaisib is the deputy medical coordinator for MSF’s operations in Palestine. He holds degrees in both medicine and mental health and has worked with MSF for nearly 23 years. Last fall, he was forced to flee his home in Gaza City, and was displaced multiple times thereafter. While his wife and children managed to cross the border into Egypt, Abu Abed continues to provide lifesaving care as a critical member of our project team in Palestine.
Avril Benoît
Avril Benoît is the chief executive officer of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières in the United States (MSF USA). She has worked with the international medical humanitarian organization since 2006 in various operational management and executive leadership roles, most recently as the director of communications and development at MSF’s operational center in Geneva, a position she held from November 2015 until June 2019. Throughout her career with MSF, Avril has contributed to major movement-wide initiatives, including the global mobilization to end attacks on hospitals and health workers. She has worked as a country director and project coordinator for MSF, leading operations to provide aid to refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants in Mauritania, South Sudan, and South Africa. Avril’s strategic analysis and communications assignments have taken her to countries including Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Haiti, Iraq, Lebanon, Mexico, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sudan, Syria, and Ukraine. From 2006 to 2012, Avril served as director of communications with MSF Canada. Prior to joining MSF, Avril had a distinguished 20-year career as an award-winning journalist and broadcaster in Canada. She was a documentary producer and radio host with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), reporting from Kenya, Burundi, India, and Brazil on HIV stigma, rapid urbanization, sexual violence in conflict, and political inclusion of women, among numerous other assignments and topics. Recent articles: Surge of humanity needed for migrants and refugees
NEWS | OCT 14, 2024
MSF mourns and condemns the tragic killing of our colleague in norther…
President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the effects of Hurricane Milton on Oct. 10, 2024, in Washington, D.C. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
Rumors and lies about government responses to natural disasters are not new. Politics, misinformation and blame-shifting have long surrounded government response efforts.
When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston in 2017, for example, rumors and misinformation both originated from and were spread by government, news and individual user accounts on social media. And after Hurricane Sandy in 2012, rumors about the storm were so widespread that even CNN’s live coverage of the event was inaccurate.
Those rumors don’t usually come from former presidents. Yet in the wake of hurricanes Helene and Milton, former President Donald Trump spread falsehoods about the federal government’s response to the disaster. Misinformation on the topic became so widespread that the Federal Emergency Management Agency, known as FEMA, set up a webpage to debunk the rumors spawned by Trump.
President Joe Biden responded angrily, calling the falsehoods that Trump and his followers spread “reckless, irresponsible” and “disturbing.” He also suggested Trump’s claims undermined the rescue and recovery work being done by local, state and federal authorities.
Disaster relief often becomes political because so many people are affected – and because there is a lot of media coverage surrounding hurricanes, floods and other major weather events. Additionally, relief requires a lot of money and coordination by high-profile elected officials.
The rhetoric around federal emergency management is made only more complicated because most people do not know that much about the federal law that governs disaster relief. Indeed, even state and local officials find navigating the details of the law and accompanying regulations difficult.
And finally, the law’s design and the timing of hurricane season can lead to politicization. Elected officials – politicians – are always involved in coordinating government response efforts, adding a layer of politics to disaster relief. The fact that hurricane and election seasons coincide only heightens the politics of such relief.
Former President Donald Trump saying falsely that the Biden administration “stole a billion dollars” meant for disaster relief and used it to help immigrants.
Explaining government responses to natural disasters
The Disaster Relief Act of 1974, as amended and now known as the Stafford Act, is the law that governs how the federal government responds to natural disasters and other emergencies.
But the act does not guarantee federal assistance to the communities affected by hurricanes or other natural disasters.
Instead, the governor of an affected state or the chief executive of an affected tribal government must ask the president for a disaster declaration. The request can be made before or after a storm hits but must show that the disaster is of such a severity and magnitude that the state, local or tribal governments cannot respond on their own.
Responding to such requests, Biden issued declarations covering eight states before and after Helene. He also issued a declaration for the Seminole Tribe and the state of Florida in response to Milton.
After the president issues a declaration, the federal government can begin to assist state, local and tribal governments. This includes coordinating all disaster relief assistance – from evacuations to recovery – provided by federal agencies, private organizations such as the Red Cross, and state and local governments.
Federal assistance can be financial or logistical. It covers everything from help repairing roads and restoring utility services to providing assistance and services, such as temporary housing, legal services and crisis counseling, to the people who have been affected by the disaster.
The number of federal agencies and employees involved in disaster relief is astounding. For example, thousands of federal personnel from FEMA, the Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, Environmental Protection Agency and the departments of Defense, Energy, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, and Transportation are helping respond to Helene and Milton.
Several state and local officials also play key roles after a disaster declaration. Each state’s governor or tribe’s chief executive serves as the leading official for coordination of state and federal efforts. That person also designates an officer to serve as a liaison between the federal government and the state or tribe. And in each affected community, a local elected official leads the response on the ground. This is usually a city or town’s mayor.
Federalism in action
Implementation of the Stafford Act requires cooperative, healthy relationships between the president, federal agencies and state, local and tribal governments.
When done well, government disaster response is a prime example of what’s called “federalism” in action. Federalism involves the sharing of power between the national and state governments. The framers of the United States Constitution created this system of shared power so that the national government could solve coordination and capacity problems among the states, and the state governments could respond to the nuances of local circumstances.
In response to state government requests in the wake of Hurricane Helene, for example, Biden directed federal efforts to help those most affected. The federal government’s response has so far included working with over 450 state and local officials to ensure that those affected by the hurricane have everything from housing assistance to financial support for medical and funeral expenses.
Politics in the mix
The very things that the framers designed the federalist constitutional system to do, however, can create opportunities for political manipulation. The Stafford Act creates a system of emergency management that is highly decentralized and responsive to local needs.
But that decentralization also means that, because of their different perspectives, the officials involved in disaster response prioritize different things, which can lead to conflict.
For example, various officials involved in the response to Hurricane Helene have advocated for federal resources such as money and personnel to go toward restoring utilities, law enforcement, fire, health, communications and transportation services. How can the national government possibly choose between all of these necessary services?
Everything is made more complicated because, as studies have shown, on average, the officials in charge of making such decisions – elected officials and their appointees – have less experience in government than the career civil servants who work on a daily basis with the people affected by natural disasters.
As a result, the Stafford Act’s decision to place elected officials and their appointees in charge of emergency management could reduce the quality of government response.
Members of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue task force search a flood-damaged area in Asheville, N.C., in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene on Oct. 4, 2024. Mario Tama/Getty Images
Debating size and role of government
Elected officials’ different political leanings add another wrinkle. Debates over disaster response often reflect larger political debates such as those over the size and role of government.
The history of the Stafford Act provides an illustrative example. Traditionally, disaster relief was the responsibility of state and local government. But a series of natural disasters, including the Alaska earthquake in 1964 and hurricanes Betsy in 1965 and Camille in 1969, were so large in scale that the federal government had to step in and help.
In the aftermath of Camille, accusations of racial discrimination in the relief process and partisan squabbling over who was to blame for the ineffectiveness of the government’s response to the disaster mounted. Media and congressional attention on government mismanagement of the relief effort created a window for the expansion of the federal government’s role in the process and ultimately led to the passage of the first version of the Stafford Act.
Fast-forward 35 years and many of the same issues – racial discrimination, government mismanagement and politicization of relief – arose in 2005 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. Media and congressional attention led to legislation that amended the Stafford Act and restructured FEMA and how the federal government responds to state and tribal requests for assistance.
Trump’s lies are from the same playbook – false claims about money being diverted to migrants and that relief efforts are being used only to help areas where Democrats live.
Yet the devastation left by Helene and Milton do raise questions about local and federal coordination in preparation for and response to natural disasters and has led to calls for Congress to pass reforms to improve equity, efficiency and effectiveness in government responses to natural disasters. Whether this reform is possible in such a contentious political climate remains an open question.
Jennifer L. Selin has received funding and/or support for her research on the executive branch from the Administrative Conference of the United States. The views in this piece are those of the author and do not represent the position of the Administrative Conference or the federal government.
The 2024 Nobel Prize in Economics has been awarded to three US-based economists who examined the advantages of democracy and the rule of law, and why they are strong in some countries and not others.
Daron Acemoglu is a Turkish-American economist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Simon Johnson is a British economist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and James Robinson is a British-American economist at the University of Chicago.
The citation awards the prize “for studies of how institutions are formed and affect prosperity”, making it an award for research into politics and sociology as much as economics.
At a time when democracy appears to be losing support, the Nobel committee has rewarded work that demonstrates that, on average, democratic countries governed by the rule of law have wealthier citizens.
The committee says the richest 20% of the world’s countries are now around 30 times richer than the poorest 20%. Moreover, the income gap is persistent; although the poorest countries have become richer, they are not catching up with the most prosperous.
Acemoglu, Johnson and Robinson have connected this difference to differences in institutions, and they find this derives from differences in the behaviour of European colonisers in different parts of the world centuries ago.
The denser the indigenous population, the greater the resistance that could be expected and the fewer European settlers moved there. On the other hand, the large indigenous population – once defeated – ofered lucrative opportunities for cheap labour.
This meant the institutions focused on benefiting a small elite at the expense of the wider population. There were no elections and limited political rights.
In the places that were more sparsely populated and offered less resistance, more colonisers settled and established inclusive institutions that incentivised hard work and led to demands for political rights.
The committee says, paradoxically, this means the parts of the colonised world that were the most prosperous around 500 years ago are now relatively poor. Prosperity was greater in Mexico under the Aztecs than it was at the same time in the part of North America that is now called Canada and the United States.
More so than in previous years, this year’s winners have written for the public as well as the profession. Acemoglu and Robinson are probably best known for their 2013 best-seller Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity and Poverty.(It has pictures and no equations.)
In May this year Acemoglu wrote about artificial intelligence, putting forward the controversial position that its effects on productivity would be “nontrivial but modest”, which is another way of saying “tiny”. Its effect on wellbeing might be even smaller and it was unlikely to reduce inequality.
Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.
This year’s award makes the cohort of Nobel winners a little less US-dominated.
Although all three are currently working at American universities, Acemoglu is from Turkey and the others are British. There is even an Australian link. Robinson taught economics at The University of Melbourne between 1992 and 1995.
Winning the prize is life-changing for more reasons than the 11 million Swedish kroner (about $A 1.5 million) the winners share. As Nobel winners, they will have a higher profile. Their opinions will be accorded more respect by most but not all.
The new winners might get the same treatment. Johnson has critiqued Trump’s proposal to raise tariffs. Acemoglu has called Trump “a threat to democracy”.
John Hawkins 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.
Headline: Unprecedented Storm Response by Local, Federal and State Resources Continues in Western North Carolina
Unprecedented Storm Response by Local, Federal and State Resources Continues in Western North Carolina mseets
An unprecedented response to damage caused by Hurricane Helene continues in Western North Carolina. State, federal and local response workers are working around the clock to surge assistance into the region.
Law enforcement is working to ensure the safety of responders amid reports of threats and misinformation. FEMA officials remain in communities and will resume door-to-door operations to help people impacted by these storms recover as quickly as possible following reports of threats on the ground. Governor Roy Cooper has directed the Department of Public Safety to work with local law enforcement to identify specific threats and rumors and coordinate with FEMA and other partners to ensure the safety and security of all involved as this recovery effort continues.
“State, federal and local response workers, including FEMA, are working around the clock to bring assistance to western North Carolina,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “We know that significant misinformation online contributes to threats against response workers on the ground, and the safety of responders must be a priority. At my direction, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety is helping partners like FEMA to coordinate with law enforcement to ensure their safety and security as they continue their important work.”
North Carolina National Guard and Military Response
Approximately 3,500 Soldiers and Airmen are working in Western North Carolina. Joint Task Force- North Carolina, the task force led by the North Carolina National Guard is made up of Soldiers and Airmen from 12 different states, two different XVIII Airborne Corps units from Ft. Liberty, a unit from Ft. Campbell’s 101st Airborne Division, and numerous civilian entities are working side-by-side to get the much-needed help to people in Western North Carolina.
National Guard and military personnel are operating 11 aviation assets and more than 1,200 specialized vehicles in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is helping to assess water and wastewater plants and dams. Residents can track the status of the public water supply in their area through this website.
FEMA Assistance
More than $96 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western North Carolina disaster survivors and more than 160,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Approximately 4,600 households are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance.
1,000+ FEMA staff are in the state to help with the Western North Carolina relief effort. In addition to search and rescue and providing commodities, they are meeting with disaster survivors in shelters and neighborhoods to provide rapid access to relief resources. They can be identified by their FEMA logo apparel and federal government identification.
The Major Disaster Declaration requested by Governor Cooper and granted by President Biden now includes 27 North Carolina counties (Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey) and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
North Carolinians can apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app. FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.
Help from Other States
More than 1,500 responders from 38 state and local agencies have performed 135 missions supporting the response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). This includes public health nurses, emergency management teams supporting local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs and more.
Beware of Misinformation
North Carolina Emergency Management and local officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. NCEM has launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm. FEMA also has a rumor response webpage.
Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution
Efforts continue to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, using both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. Food, water and commodity points of distribution are open throughout Western North Carolina. For information on these sites in your community, visit your local emergency management and local government social media and websites or visit ncdps.gov/Helene.
Shelters
A total of 13 shelters are open in Western North Carolina supporting over 560 people.
Storm Damage Cleanup
If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.
Power Outages
Across Western North Carolina, approximately 19,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than 1 million. Overall power outage numbers will fluctuate up and down as power crews temporarily take circuits or substations offline to make repairs and restore additional customers.
Road Closures
Travel remains dangerous, with hundreds of roads closed. Many of these roads are primary routes connecting the region.
NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for those traveling in the region. North Carolinians can visit DriveNC.Gov for the latest roadway conditions. NCDOT currently has approximately 2,100 employees and 1,100 pieces of equipment working on approximately 6,700 damaged road sites.
Fatalities
Ninety-five storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We expect that this number will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911.
Volunteers and Donations
Due to dangerous road conditions and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is difficult. Consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:
If you would like to donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, visit nc.gov/donate. Donations will help to support local nonprofits working on the ground.
For information on volunteer opportunities, please visit nc.gov/volunteernc
Additional Assistance
There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.
If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.
For general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.
If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.
