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

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS Urges Well and Septic Safety Following Hurricane Helene

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

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

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

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

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

    Follow these steps to assess your well:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Siga estos pasos para evaluar su pozo:

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

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

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

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

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

    Oct 10, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

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

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

    MIL OSI Video –

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

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

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

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

    MIL OSI Video –

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Video –

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

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

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

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

    MIL OSI Video –

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

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

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

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

    #cbp
    #lawenforcement
    #bordersecurity

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

    MIL OSI Video –

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Video –

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ****

    NKR/DK

    (Release ID: 2063893) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

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

    Highlights:

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Video –

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Swachhata Special Campaign 4.0 being observed by the Department of Fertilizers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

     

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

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

    *****

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2063911) Visitor Counter : 51

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    SS

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

    Source: Government of India

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

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

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

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

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

    ****

    NB/KMN

    (Release ID: 2063930) Visitor Counter : 27

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

    Source: Government of India

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Please click here to see the President messgae – 

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2063924) Visitor Counter : 23

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

    Your Excellency, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone,

    Your Majesty,

    Excellencies,

    Namaskar।

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Friends,

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

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

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

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

    Thank you very much.

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

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    RK/ASH/PR/PS

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

    Source: Government of India

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

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

     

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

     

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

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

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

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

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    SS/AK

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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    SB/DP/ARJ

    (Release ID: 2063936) Visitor Counter : 45

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English translation of India’s National Statement at the 21st ASEAN-India Summit delivered by Prime Minister Narendra Modi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 8:36PM by PIB Delhi

    Your Majesty,

    Excellencies,

    Thank you all for your valuable insights and suggestions. We are committed to strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and ASEAN. I am confident that together we will continue to strive for human welfare, regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

    We will continue to take steps to enhance not only physical connectivity but also economic, digital, cultural, and spiritual ties.

    Friends,

    In the context of this year’s ASEAN Summit theme, “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,” I would like to share a few thoughts.

    Today is the tenth day of the tenth month, so I would like to share ten suggestions.

    First, to promote tourism between us, we could declare 2025 as the “ASEAN-India Year of Tourism.” For this initiative, India will commit USD 5 million.

    Second, to commemorate a decade of India’s Act East Policy, we could organise a variety of events between India and ASEAN countries. By connecting our artists, youth, entrepreneurs, and think tanks etc., we can include initiatives such as a Music Festival, Youth Summit, Hackathon, and Start-up Festival as part of this celebration.

    Third, under the “India-ASEAN Science and Technology Fund,” we could hold an annual Women Scientists’ Conclave.

    Fourth, the number of Masters scholarships for students from ASEAN countries at the newly established Nalanda University will be increased twofold. Additionally, a new scholarship scheme for ASEAN students at India’s agricultural universities will also be launched starting this year.

    Fifth, the review of the “ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement” should be completed by 2025. This will strengthen our economic relations and will help in creating a secure, resilient and reliable supply chain.

    Sixth, for disaster resilience, USD 5 million will be allocated from the “ASEAN-India Fund.” India’s National Disaster Management Authority and the ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Centre can work together in this area.

    Seventh, to ensure Health Resilience, the ASEAN-India Health Ministers Meeting can be institutionalised. Furthermore, we invite two experts from each ASEAN country to attend India’s Annual National Cancer Grid ‘Vishwam Conference.’

    Eighth, for digital and cyber resilience, a cyber policy dialogue between India and ASEAN can be institutionalised.

    Ninth, to promote a Green Future, I propose organising workshops on green hydrogen involving experts from India and ASEAN countries.

    And tenth, for climate resilience, I urge all of you to join our campaign, ” Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (Plant for Mother).

    I am confident that my ten ideas will gain your support. And our teams will collaborate to implement them.

    Thank you very much.

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

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

    Your Majesty,

    Excellencies,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Thank you very much.

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

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government releases plan for affordable electricity

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government Policy Statement (GPS) on electricity clearly sets out the Government’s role in delivering affordable and secure electricity at internationally competitive prices, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says.

    “New Zealand’s economic growth and prosperity relies on Kiwi households and businesses having access to affordable and secure electricity at internationally competitive prices. This is one of the Government’s top priorities,” Mr Brown says.

    “The GPS outlines our expectation that the Electricity Authority will drive a more competitive, fuel agnostic, electricity sector that works in the long-term interests of consumers and avoid excessive prices. 

    “We know that in the coming years New Zealand will see greater electrification of transport and process heat. This will shift demand from imported fuels towards domestically produced electricity, and see more distributed electricity generation brought online to bolster regional resilience.

    “The Government has a goal of doubling renewable electricity generation to meet this increase in demand, and has committed to policy decisions that would enable more private investment in generation.

    The GPS provides certainty about the Government’s role in the sector. This certainty will help create a stable investment environment for renewable energy to drive affordability through security of supply.

    “Previous government interventions pushed prices up and had a chilling effect on investment. The GPS confirms the role for Government is to ensure the market settings are right, to enable the private sector to invest and consumers to take advantage of innovations,” Mr Brown says.

    The Electricity Authority will now have regard to the GPS as they work to ensure the market setting are right to unleash private sector investment and to enable consumers to take advantage of innovations in energy supply.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Apple Retail Workers in Bethesda, Md., File for Union Election with Communications Workers of America

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    (Bethesda, Md.)—Today, retail workers at the Bethesda Row Apple store in Maryland filed for a union election with the National Labor Relations Board. Over 70% of the group of 59 workers have signed union authorization cards, including workers in a range of retail, repair, and other job roles. The Bethesda Row Apple store workers will be represented by CWA.

    The filing comes nearly three weeks after Apple retail workers in Oklahoma City, represented by the Communications Workers of America (CWA), became the second store in the U.S. to secure a tentative contract agreement with the tech giant.

    “It has been inspiring to see our colleagues in Oklahoma City and Towson organize and win better working conditions and job protections at the bargaining table. Their efforts have made it clear that a union is not only better for workers, but better for the company. My colleagues and I at the Apple Bethesda Row store in Maryland care deeply about our jobs and want to secure the transparency, pay, benefits, and job stability that we deserve.” said Peter Cascio, Operations specialist at Apple. 

    “With a voice on the job, we will now have the collective power to hold Apple accountable to its retail credo and to get the rights we deserve. We’re excited to be standing shoulder-to-shoulder with other workers as part of Apple Retail Union-CWA to ensure that Apple continues to be a positive place to work, providing high-quality service to its consumer base,” said Jimmy Hemmig, Technical expert at Apple. 

    With support for labor unions near record highs, momentum for union organizing has been building among Apple retail workers. Instead of recognizing changing attitudes and embracing the opportunity to give workers a meaningful say in their working conditions, Apple executives have worked with anti-union consultants to deploy aggressive, sometimes illegal, tactics to prevent workers from making a free and fair choice about whether or not to join a union. Workers at the CWA-represented Apple store in Oklahoma City and the IAM-represented store in Towson, Md., have overcome Apple’s attempts to intimidate them and secured legally enforceable contracts that provide the security and stability they need to provide the high levels of service Apple customers expect.

    “My hope with our union is to make it easier for us to do our best work and to further our relationship not just with each other, but with our community. We have one of the most loyal customer bases in any retail industry. We want to make sure Apple allows us to do our best by our customers because it strengthens their trust in Apple as a company. We want to accomplish these things without compromising ourselves and our own values, and to make sure we get compensated fairly while pursuing our passion,” said Jan Molina, Product Specialist at Apple. 

    “We’re honored to welcome the workers at the Bethesda Row Apple store in Maryland as members of CWA. Increasingly more and more workers in the DMV are exercising their right to organize, bringing greater protections to union members in the tech and video game industry. In the past, we’ve seen Apple choose to undermine its employees’ right to organize. We call on Apple to change course, live up to its credo, and respect workers’ right to form a union,” said Johnny Brown, President of CWA Local 2108.

    Apple workers interested in improving their working conditions and having the protections of a union contract should visit this site to learn more about organizing.

    ###

    The Campaign to Organize Digital Employees (CODE-CWA) is a network of worker-organizers and their staff working every single day to build the voice and power necessary to ensure the future of the tech, game, and digital industries in the United States and Canada. CODE-CWA is a project of the Communications Workers of America, which represents hundreds of thousands of workers throughout tech, media, telecom, and other industries who stand together to fight for justice on the job and in our communities.

    cwa-union.org @cwaunion

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man to face court over bus assault

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police have charged a man over an unprovoked assault on an Auckland bus driver.

    Auckland City West Police have been investigating an assault that occurred in the Kingsland area last Friday, 4 October.

    Area Commander Inspector Alisse Robertson says the bus had stopped on New North Road at the time.

    “The offender allegedly struck the driver, before running away from the bus,” she says.

    “Our staff attended at the time and began to make enquiries into the matter.”

    Overnight, Police located a 25-year-old Henderson man and arrested him.

    He has been charged with assault and will appear in the Auckland District Court today.

    Inspector Robertson says: “I know when these events occur it impacts the staff and commuters who use these services.

    “More than 13,500 bus services alone operate across our city every day, most without incident.

    “There is no place for violence, and when these incidents occur we will continue to identify and prosecute offenders.”

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ahtahkakoop — Ahtahkakoop RCMP: male arrested after firearm discharge

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 8, 2024 at approximately 8:55 p.m., Ahtahkakoop RCMP received a report of a shooting on Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation.

    Officers responded immediately and located an injured adult male, who had gunshot injuries, at the residence. The adult male was taken to hospital by EMS with injuries described as non-life threatening.

    Investigation determined an altercation occurred between two adult males. A firearm was discharged and the victim was injured.

    As a result of continued investigation, on October 9, officers located and arrested an adult male at a residence on Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation.

    19-year-old Christopher Ballantyne from Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation is charged with:

    • one count, discharge firearm with intent, Section 244, Criminal Code;
    • one count, assault with a weapon, Section 267(a), Criminal Code;
    • one count, unauthorized possession of a firearm, Section 91(1), Criminal Code;
    • one count, possession of a firearm when knowing possession authorized, Section 92(1), Criminal Code;
    • one count, possession of restricted firearm with ammo without license/registration, Section 95(1), Criminal Code; and
    • one count, unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon or restricted weapon, Section 91(2), Criminal Code.

    Christopher Ballantyne is scheduled to appear in Prince Albert Provincial Court on October 10, 2024.

    Saskatchewan RCMP’s Warrant Enforcement Suppression Team (WEST) assisted in this investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Secures Over $6.5M from Citadel Federal Credit Union to Address Redlining of Black and Hispanic Communities

    Source: United States Attorneys General 8

    First Redlining Settlement Agreement Against Credit Union in Justice Department History

    The Justice Department announced today that Citadel Federal Credit Union (Citadel) has agreed to pay over $6.5 million to resolve allegations that it engaged in a pattern or practice of lending discrimination by redlining predominantly Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in and around Philadelphia. This landmark agreement is the Justice Department’s first redlining settlement with a credit union, making this a historic achievement for the Combating Redlining Initiative.

    Redlining is an illegal practice in which lenders avoid providing credit services to individuals living in communities of color because of the race, color or national origin of residents in those communities.

    “This redlining settlement marks the Justice Department’s very first resolution involving a credit union, making clear our intent to hold all types of lenders accountable for their role in modern-day redlining,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “There are well over 4,600 credit unions across America, all subject to federal laws that prohibit redlining and lending discrimination. Redlining and other forms of lending discrimination harm communities of color and families by denying them an equal opportunity to access credit, attain the dream of homeownership and build generational wealth. This settlement will expand investment in Black and Hispanic communities, particularly in Philadelphia, and increase opportunities for homeownership and financial stability. Residents of communities harmed by unlawful redlining will finally be able to access credit services from Citadel in their own neighborhoods, including at the new branches required by the settlement.”

    “For generations, Philadelphia’s communities of color have lacked equal access to the credit needed for homeownership. We know that redlining has a devastating impact on a family’s finances and future, and results in economic and other inequalities that plague our communities for decades,” said U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. “We also know the transformational change that can occur when credit is made available to underserved residents, and particularly when lenders, like Citadel, establish branch locations in these neighborhoods.”

    The Justice Department’s complaint, which was filed today in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, alleges that, from at least 2017 through 2021, Citadel failed to provide mortgage lending services to majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in and around Philadelphia and discouraged people seeking credit in those communities from obtaining home loans. Citadel’s home mortgage lending was focused disproportionately on white areas around Greater Philadelphia. Peer lenders generated mortgage applications in predominately Black and Hispanic neighborhoods at nearly three times the rate of Citadel and originated mortgage loans in these areas at more than three times the rate of Citadel.

    The complaint further alleges that Citadel’s branches are located almost exclusively in majority-White neighborhoods, with no branches in Philadelphia, which contains more than 75% of the majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods and 34% of the total population in Citadel’s market area.

    Under the proposed consent order, which is subject to court approval, Citadel has agreed to invest $6.52 million to increase credit opportunities for communities of color in and around Philadelphia. Specifically, Citadel will:

    • Invest at least $6 million in a loan subsidy fund to increase access to home mortgage, home improvement and home refinance loans for residents of majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in Philadelphia;
    • Spend at least $250,000 on community partnerships to provide services related to credit, consumer financial education, homeownership and foreclosure prevention for residents of predominantly Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in Citadel’s market area;
    • Spend at least $270,000 for advertising, outreach, consumer financial education and credit counseling focused on predominantly Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in Philadelphia;
    • Open three new branches in predominantly Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in Philadelphia; and
    • Hire a community lending officer who will oversee the continued development of lending in communities of color.

    Citadel also agreed to retain independent consultants to enhance its fair lending program and better meet the communities’ needs for mortgage credit. The credit union will conduct a community credit needs assessment, evaluate its fair lending compliance management systems, and conduct staff trainings.

    With assets of approximately $6 billion, Citadel is headquartered in Pennsylvania and operates 24 branches in its market area of Greater Philadelphia, which includes Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties. Citadel is the second largest credit union in the region and has over 263,000 members. Citadel cooperated with the Justice Department’s investigation.

    In October 2021, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and Assistant Attorney General Clarke launched the Justice Department’s Combating Redlining Initiative, a coordinated enforcement effort to address this persistent form of discrimination against communities of color. Since 2021, the department has announced 14 redlining resolutions and secured over $144 million in relief for communities of color that have been the victims of lending discrimination across the country. In March, Assistant Attorney General Clarke presented remarks to America’s Credit Unions’ Governmental Affairs Conference regarding the unique issues raised by redlining in the credit union industry.

    A copy of the complaint and information about the Justice Department’s fair lending enforcement work can be found at http://www.justice.gov/fairhousing. Individuals may report lending discrimination by calling the Justice Department’s housing discrimination tip line at 1-833-591-0291 or submitting a report online.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman García’s Statement in Support of a Police Station at the Midway Armory

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

    CHICAGO — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement in support of opening a new police station at the Midway Armory.  The armory, located at 63rd and Long, has been closed and unused for seven years, and Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation to transfer the armory for $1 from the state to the city for a new police district station. Currently, this area is part of the Chicago Lawn (8th) Police District, which covers a vast area with the largest population in the city, but has the fewest officers per capita.

    “I have lived on Chicago’s Southwest Side for more than 50 years, and I recognize the need to strengthen our public safety capacity and infrastructure. I have heard from my neighbors, constituents, business owners, and local elected officials in the area who call for the expansion of more public safety services including a potential police station to serve the greater regional need. 

    “As the population in our area has grown, the 8th District Police station needs additional support to improve safety and response times. We have a quarter of a million residents in a 23 square mile area, 84 schools, and many people passing through the district. In addition, the surrounding area of Midway Airport is also served by the Chicago Lawn 8th District Police. In March of this year, neighbors in the area overwhelmingly voted in support of the proposal for a new police district in a referendum. They have made their voices heard. They deserve to know that when they call 911 asking for help, the police will arrive promptly. 

    “I also understand that as plans are made for land use, it is imperative that site plans comply with federal aviation standards and regulations. As the Illinois’ Democratic House Member on the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, I value the insight of the expert agencies as we move forward and commit to work with all parties to reach the best solution. We have been in communication with the Federal Aviation Administration and understand the land use is permissible with continued collaboration and guidance.

    “I urge Mayor Johnson and respective parties convene to arrive at an agreement that respects the will of the people and places the concerns and safety of our residents first while complying with federal, state, and local regulations.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: UN – World Day Against the Death Penalty (10 Oct. 2024)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    On this 22nd World Day Against the Death Penalty, France reiterates its opposition to this cruel, unjust and inhumane punishment everywhere and in all circumstances.

    The abolition of the death penalty is steadily making headway around the world. But 51 nations continue to apply it.

    At the last UN General Assembly, France and its partner countries presented their biennial resolution calling for a moratorium on executions with the ultimate aim of abolishing the death penalty.

    On December 10, 2023, the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, President Macron announced that France would host the 9th World Congress Against the Death Penalty in 2026.

    France calls on all nations to sign and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aimed at abolishing the death penalty.

    On this symbolic day, France honors the memory of Robert Badinter, who passed away on February 9.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Golden introduces bill to designate Bradley museum as National Museum of Forestry and Logging History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) today introduced legislation that would designate the Maine Forest and Logging Museum (MFLM), located in Bradley, as the National Museum of Forestry and Logging History.

    “The forest economy has played an important part in the American story, and Mainers are one of the biggest reasons why,” Golden said. “This national designation would pay tribute to those vital contributions while reaffirming Maine’s continued role as stewards and innovators of the industry.”

    “The Maine Forest and Logging Museum, a special place in the woods known by many as “Leonard’s Mills,” embodies the Great North Wood’s heart and soul by showcasing the natural beauty of our state’s Northern Forest. And by providing invaluable outreach and educational opportunities, we are proudly planting the seeds to grow careers in forestry stewardship and ensure our sustainable forests benefit both material needs and environmental responsibilities,” Mike Wetherbee, president of the Maine Forest and Logging Museum’s board of directors said. “We are so very grateful to Congressman Golden for helping us work to earn this prestigious status and look forward to many more years of sharing Maine’s amazing forestry and logging heritage with the world.

    MFLM was incorporated in 1960 to celebrate Maine’s forest heritage. Originally envisioned to preserve forest industry artifacts and documents, plans evolved into the creation of a living history site complete with working machinery and a community of volunteer reenactors. Today, MFLM owns more than 450 acres around Blackman Stream in Bradley and frequently hosts school groups, visitors and interactive public programs.  

    Maine’s forest economy employs more than 14,000 Mainers and generates more than $5 billion in sales. Maine’s 17.7 million acres of forest covers 89% of the state — the highest percentage in the country.

    Industry and community leaders praised the move:

     “The Maine Forest and Logging Museum is so important to Maine’s rich history of forestry and logging,” Shawn Bugbee, Roads and Infrastructure Manager for Seven Islands Land Company said. “Through the preservation and restoration of tools combined with the knowledge the volunteers bring to the Museum, those who visit get an authentic understanding of how forestry and logging was done by our ancestors. One of the most awe-inspiring things I have ever witnessed has been watching the steam powered Lombard Log Hauler operate in person — and this move will help more people get that same experience.”

    “The Maine Forest and Logging Museum is a testament to the resourcefulness and ingenuity of people involved in Maine’s rich timber industry,” Keith Kanoti, forest manager for the University of Maine said. “The combination ofworking equipment, infrastructure and the natural beauty of the museum grounds site is unsurpassed and truly deserving of national status.”

    “There’s a strong connection between the forest products industry and our modern society, and the Maine Forest and Logging Museum helps us all celebrate it,” Joe Phaneuf, executive director and publisher of the Northeastern Loggers Association said. “The story of the forest products is one worth telling, and this national designation will strengthen that mission.”

    “This museum doesn’t just honor Maine’s past: It stands as a national treasure,” Breanna Wing, director and producer of Axe Women: The Modern Lumberjill said. “At a time when our landscapes are rapidly developing, the Museum is a haven that keeps important history alive —  teaching future generations about the resilience of our ancestors, whose grit and innovation through harsh winters built for the growth we see today. This national designation will amplify the importance of understanding and protecting the natural world, for both our material and spiritual well-being.”

    “Leonard’s Mills has long been a special place in Maine for people to visit and learn about the history and heritage of forestry,” Rick Robertson, president and CEO of Dennis Food Service said. “I have taken my kids there when they were younger in year’s past as an opportunity to learn about the mill. It was a great way to learn about the beginnings of thisimportant industry as well as the ingenuity of our past. A visitor of any age will certainly be able to learn something from this treasure in the state of Maine, and elevating it as the National Museum of Forestry and Logging History will help so many people do just that.”

    Full text of Golden’s legislation can be found here.

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Federal Councillor Beat Jans at ministerial meeting in Luxembourg

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

    Bern, 10.10.2024 – On 10 October, Federal Councillor Beat Jans attended a meeting of justice and home affairs ministers of the (EU and) Schengen states in Luxembourg. The talks focused on better protection of the external border, internal border controls and the need for reform in relation to the EU’s return policy.

    These are priority issues for the Schengen states this year. The Hungarian Council presidency focused the ministerial meeting agenda on the protection of the external border, in particular the digitalisation of processes and systems, and the implementation of interoperability.

    Federal Councillor Beat Jans stressed that external border protection was only one element of a functioning Schengen area and that challenges such as secondary immigration, Dublin transfers and internal border controls must also be addressed. External borders should also be strengthened through better cooperation with third countries. In this regard, the head of the FDJP referred to Switzerland’s positive experience with migration partnerships, which served the interests of all parties involved and ensured that fundamental rights were guaranteed.

    Mr Jans welcomed the discussion on return policy initiated by the Council presidency. He emphasised that there was a need to reform legislation in the area of return policy and argued in favour of Schengen states having greater room for manoeuvre in returning dangerous individuals. He was open to the suggestion that voluntary return to Afghanistan and Syria and the associated expansion of operational support from Frontex should be discussed in European bodies.

    Bilateral meetings

    In Luxembourg, Mr Jans held his first talks with the new French Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau. He spoke with the new Greek Migration and Asylum Minister, Nikos Panagiotopoulos, about cooperation on migration as part of Switzerland’s second contribution to selected EU states. Switzerland is providing support in Greece for projects to strengthen migration management and to accommodate vulnerable refugees. Mr Jans was briefed by Norwegian Justice Minister Emilie Enger Mehl on the latest asylum policy decisions in Norway. He discussed internal border controls with Czech Interior Minister Vít Rakušan and Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner.

    Address for enquiries

    FDJP Communication Service, info@gs-efd.admin.ch, T +41 58 462 18 18

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Justice and Police
    http://www.ejpd.admin.ch

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Justice signs House Bill 201 to provide $10 million for Communities In Schools West Virginia

    Source: US State of West Virginia

    CHARLESTON, WV — During his administration update briefing today, Gov. Jim Justice signed House Bill 201, which provides $10 million to the Communities In Schools West Virginia program.

    Communities In Schools West Virginia is First Lady Cathy Justice’s primary initiative, which took root in West Virginia in 2018. Today, the program operates in all 55 counties, providing essential resources to at-risk students and helping them stay in school and succeed. West Virginia is the only state in the country to have CIS operating in every county.

    “Cathy truly deserves all the recognition in the world for her commitment to Communities In Schools,” Gov. Justice said. “Over the years, we’ve had the honor to visit tons of CIS schools, meeting thousands of students and teachers in every corner of West Virginia. We’ve witnessed first-hand the heart that goes into this program. We see that our students know there are people who genuinely love and care for them, and that makes a huge difference. I am beyond proud of Cathy. It’s her vision that paved the way for this Communities In Schools success story. These funds allow the program to keep going, and I would urge lawmakers for evermore to continue supporting this program, because without question it is working. Let’s keep it going.”

    “It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to see Communities In Schools thrive across all 55 counties of West Virginia,” First Lady Cathy Justice said. “The positive impact on our students is undeniable. This program ensures that every child, no matter their background or circumstances, has a strong support system within their school. The investment in CIS is an investment in our future, and I’m incredibly grateful for the continued support from our state leaders and educators. Together, we’re making a real difference for West Virginia’s students.”

    Yesterday, First Lady Cathy Justice presented her final Communities In Schools progress report to the West Virginia State Board of Education, expressing gratitude for their ongoing support. She and Governor Justice encouraged the Board to continue advocating for the success of the program in the future.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Iran Country Analysis Brief

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    Petroleum & Other Liquids

    Crude oil, gasoline, heating oil, diesel, propane, and other liquids including biofuels and natural gas liquids.

    Natural Gas

    Exploration and reserves, storage, imports and exports, production, prices, sales.

    Electricity

    Sales, revenue and prices, power plants, fuel use, stocks, generation, trade, demand & emissions.

    Coal

    Reserves, production, prices, employment and productivity, distribution, stocks, imports and exports.

    Total Energy

    Comprehensive data summaries, comparisons, analysis, and projections integrated across all energy sources.

    MIL OSI USA News –