NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE #3: Concern for welfare – Alice Springs Region

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force continues to hold serious concerns for the welfare of 26-year-old Gach, who has been missing since the afternoon of Monday 28 July.

    Extensive search efforts, coordinated by the NT Police Force’s Search and Rescue Section (SRS), have now entered their fourth day. The operation continues to be centred around an area approximately 21km west of Alice Springs and involves more than 50 personnel from NT Police, NT Emergency Services, NT Fire and Rescue Service, and Parks and Wildlife NT.

    Ground teams, ATVs, drones, the Dog Operations Unit, and a Jet Ranger helicopter have now covered more than 500km² of rugged terrain since the search commenced on Tuesday.

    Gach is described as being of Sudanese appearance, with dark skin, a slim build, short curly hair, and approximately 6 feet tall. He was last seen wearing cream tracksuit pants, a black t-shirt, a red/orange puffer jacket, and dark-coloured shoes.

    Police are maintaining close contact with Gach’s family and urge anyone with information to contact police on 131 444.

    In particular, police urge anyone who may have seen Gach in the vicinity of Larapinta Drive, Standley Chasm, or Simpsons Gap on the evening of Monday 28 July is encouraged to reach out.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Child exploitation arrest

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A man has been arrested after child exploitation material was located at his home today.

    On Friday 1 August, investigators from the South Australian JACET, a joint taskforce between South Australia Police and Australian Federal Police, attended a northeast suburbs home as a result of an online conversation between the accused and a covert online police officer.

    The house was searched and a mobile phone, computer hard drives and a computer were seized.

    Child exploitation material was located on the devices by Digital Evidence Section specialists and further examinations will continue.

    Also during the search, investigators located three gel blasters.

    A 38-year-old man from the northeastern suburbs was arrested and charged with disseminating child exploitation material, possessing child exploitation material and three counts of possessing a firearm without a licence.

    He was refused police bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court later today.

    “This operation is a stark reminder of the realities of child sexual exploitation and the proliferation of child sexual abuse material on the internet, and the need for proactive measures to address these crimes against our children,” said Chief Inspector George Fenwick Manager, of the Special Crimes Investigation Section.

    “Without my officers being online and in these chat forums, we may never have identified this man or his offending.”

    Members of the public who have information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to contact Crime Stoppers at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.

    CO2500196535

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Money Market Operations as on July 31, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 6,02,930.30 5.44 4.00-5.85
         I. Call Money 18,011.87 5.49 4.75-5.55
         II. Triparty Repo 3,98,426.75 5.43 5.00-5.55
         III. Market Repo 1,83,826.13 5.45 4.00-5.75
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 2,665.55 5.58 5.55-5.85
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 171.24 5.26 4.95-5.40
         II. Term Money@@ 1,211.00 – 5.30-5.75
         III. Triparty Repo 8,544.05 5.53 5.40-5.55
         IV. Market Repo 879.12 5.47 4.50-5.62
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Thu, 31/07/2025 1 Fri, 01/08/2025 13,075.00 5.49
    3. MSF# Thu, 31/07/2025 1 Fri, 01/08/2025 1,649.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Thu, 31/07/2025 1 Fri, 01/08/2025 1,14,195.00 5.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -1,25,621.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Tue, 29/07/2025 3 Fri, 01/08/2025 46,058.00 5.49
      Fri, 25/07/2025 7 Fri, 01/08/2025 1,25,008.00 5.49
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       10,299.21  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -1,60,766.79  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -2,86,387.79  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks          
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on July 31, 2025 9,96,170.04  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending August 08, 2025 9,56,146.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ July 31, 2025 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on July 11, 2025 5,38,578.00  

    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).

    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.

    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.

    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.

    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.

    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/820

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE issues over 1,000 tentative job offers to shore up agency’s enforcement efforts

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is proud to announce that it has issued over 1,000 tentative job offers since July 4, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing recruitment efforts. This achievement comes as ICE, under President Donald J. Trump and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s strong leadership, intensifies its mission to protect American communities and uphold the rule of law.

    “We’re excited to welcome patriots who want to serve their country and make a difference in people’s daily lives,” said acting ICE Director Todd M. Lyons. “People who have received tentative offers will qualify for the incredible benefits we’re offering under this unprecedented initiative — including $50,000 bonuses and student loan forgiveness.”

    ICE extended first-round job offers to several former ICE officers and agents who retired under the previous administration.

    “People were frustrated under the Biden administration,” said Lyons. “They couldn’t do the jobs they signed up to do. Now, people are lining up to work with us because they know our officers and agents are allowed to enforce immigration law fairly and across the board, and that’s a cause people really believe in.”

    For media inquiries about ICE activities, operations or policies, contact ICE’s Office of Public Affairs at ICEMedia@ICE.dhs.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: International Mathematics, Cultural Exchange, and Inspiration for a Dissertation: NSU MMF Students Attend Combinatorics School in China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Students and young scientists Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics, Novosibirsk State University took part in the International Summer School on Combinatorics, which was held at China Three Gorges University (CTGU) from June 26 to July 13. The delegation included Maxim Emelyanov, Timofey Vasiliev, Wang Yifei, Ayana Ondar and Maxim Levashov. The school program focused on modern aspects of discrete mathematics: participants studied in depth the theory of symmetric functions, Kazhdan-Lustig polynomials, Newton polyhedra and Lorentz polynomials. The educational process included active scientific discussions with teachers and colleagues, as well as final exams, which were successfully passed by all participants.

    For NSU MMF Master’s student Maxim Yemelyanov, this trip was his first international academic experience in the field of combinatorics:

    — This school brought together leading specialists and students from all over China. The program allowed not only to deeply study theoretical and applied approaches, but also to lay the foundation for future cooperation between NSU and Chinese universities, — says Maxim.

    Maxim Yemelyanov presented his master’s thesis at the school on the topic “Consequences of using augmentation options in image recognition by convolutional neural networks.” Despite the fact that the topic lies at the intersection of mathematics and AI, it aroused keen interest among teachers and students:

    — I decided to take part in the school to get new ideas for my dissertation and exchange experiences with world experts in discrete mathematics. In addition, it was a unique chance to present my research to an international audience and receive an objective assessment from leading lecturers. My master’s dissertation interested my colleagues and teachers at CTGU, which allowed me to receive valuable recommendations for further development of the topic and refinement of the methodology, — the student notes.

    According to Maxim Yemelyanov, the lectures on symmetric functions were especially memorable – they demonstrated how a universal mathematical apparatus can be applied to a wide variety of problems and provide a new vision of discrete structures.

    But the summer school is not only about science. The participants had a rich cultural program, including a trip to the world’s largest hydroelectric power station, the Three Gorges, master classes in Chinese crafts, and excursions to museums and picturesque places in the province:

    — The scale of the CTGU campus, its infrastructure, the combination of modern architecture with natural landscapes and the careful organization of all processes made a huge impression. This trip was simultaneously inspiring, productive and truly important for my scientific path, — shares Maxim Emelyanov.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN receives a courtesy call by the new Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the United States Mission to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received a courtesy call by the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the United States Mission to ASEAN, Joy Sakurai, who recently assumed her office. Both sides discussed the progress of the ASEAN-United States Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) and expressed their shared commitment to working closely together to further promote ASEAN-United States CSP.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN receives a courtesy call by the new Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the United States Mission to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Veerawit Tianchainan named New Greenpeace Southeast Asia Executive Director, Leading the Charge for Environmental Justice

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Bangkok, 1 August 2025 – Greenpeace Southeast Asia has appointed Veerawit Tianchainan as its new Executive Director, effective 1 August 2025. Assuming leadership at a time of intensifying escalating climate threats and systemic environmental injustices, Veerawit brings a bold and values-driven vision to lead the organisation in confronting the climate crisis and champion environmental justice across Southeast Asia.

    Greenpeace Southeast Asia has appointed Veerawit Tianchainan as its new Executive Director, effective 1 August 2025. Assuming leadership at a time of intensifying escalating climate threats and systemic environmental injustices, Veerawit brings a bold and values-driven vision to lead the organization in confronting the climate crisis and champion environmental justice across Southeast Asia. © Chanklang Kanthong / Greenpeace

    A seasoned leader in environmental and human rights advocacy, Veerawit brings over 25 years of experience working across Southeast Asia and globally. His career spans diplomacy, public policy, grassroots mobilisation and international cooperation with governments, multilateral institutions and civil society movements. 

    Early in his career, Veerawit worked with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Regional Office in Thailand before founding the Thai Committee for Refugees Foundation (TCR), the country’s first nationally registered non-profit organisation dedicated to refugee protection. Under his leadership, TCR became a leading advocate for the rights of refugees, asylum seekers and stateless persons across Thailand and the region. 

    Prior to joining Greenpeace, Veerawit held leadership roles with the USAID-WWF Mekong for the Future Programme, where he led initiatives on environmental governance, community rights and natural resource protection across the Lower Mekong and wider ASEAN region. He also served leadership roles at The Freedom Story in Chiang Rai and the US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, and has advised the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand, the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights, and the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children and the Asian Research Center for Migration.

    Upon his appointment, Veerawit stated:

    “We can only secure a thriving future for people and planet by standing up to unjust systems and creating bold, fair alternatives that put communities and the environment first. Greenpeace is a force for transformation – driven by courage, hope, and the power of people coming together. I’m proud to stand with Southeast Asia’s communities as we fight for environmental justice and a dignified future for all.”

    Welcoming the new Executive Director, Wahyu Dhyatmika, Chair of Greenpeace Southeast Asia’s Board of Directors, commented:

    “Veerawit’s bold vision, deep roots in community engagement, and proven leadership come at a time when bold action is urgently needed. The Board is confident he will guide Greenpeace Southeast Asia with purpose and drive the systemic change required to meet today’s environmental challenges.”

    With presence in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, for over 25 years, Greenpeace Southeast Asia continues to champion renewable energy, forest and ocean protection, and climate justice – working alongside communities and grassroots movements to build a just, peaceful and sustainable future.

    Download the image of Veerawit here

    For media inquiries, please contact:

    Somrudee Panasudtha, Senior Media Campaigner, Greenpeace Thailand

    Tel. 081 929 5747 Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Woodside decommissioning “more like decomposing”: Greenpeace

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    PERTH, Friday 1 August 2025 — In response to reports that fossil fuel giant Woodside has been hit with mandated orders over decommissioning by safety regulator NOPSEMA, the following statement can be attributed to Geoff Bice, WA Campaign Lead at Greenpeace Australia Pacific:

    “It’s unsettling but unsurprising that Woodside is yet again in trouble with the federal regulator NOPSEMA. Woodside’s mess is its own to clean up through thorough, safe and timely decommissioning of its toxic, retired offshore projects. But at this rate, what Woodside calls decommissioning is more like decomposing. 

    “Woodside’s decommissioning woes are piling up as its safety record and timelines blow out. The latest issues highlighted by the regulator include plastic from its Victorian structures washing up on local beaches, dangerous worker safety incidents, and ongoing issues related to the giant riser turret mooring that sank to the ocean floor near Ningaloo Reef.

    “This follows on from troubling reports last week that taxpayers are expected to foot Chevron’s bill for the massive clean-up required of the once-pristine Barrow Island. It has never been clearer that the oil and gas industry cannot be trusted to operate off the beautiful WA coast. We cannot risk similar outcomes at Scott Reef, where Woodside wants to drill up to 57 wells. The federal and Western Australian governments must make the polluters pay for their own full and proper clean up and prevent further risks to WA’s nature by rejecting Woodside’s dirty gas proposal at Scott Reef.”

    -ENDS-

    Photos and videos available here

    For more information or interviews, contact Kimberley Bernard on +61407581404 or [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Young artist’s work brings bus shelter to life

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    You can view the reconciliation mural at O’Connor shops.

    In brief:

    • There’s a new reconciliation mural in an O’Connor bus shelter.
    • Noah Yong, a year 6 student at Turner Primary School, created the reconciliation artwork.
    • Wiradjuri artist Kalara Gilbert brought the reconciliation mural to life.

    A reconciliation artwork created by a young student has breathed new life into an O’Connor bus shelter.

    The mural was designed by Noah Yong, a year 6 student at Turner Primary School.

    The whole school participated in a 2025 Reconciliation Day poster competition. Noah won first place, and his two classmates came second and third.

    Noah’s artwork represents the country, water, fauna, and community.

    ‘The centre shows First Nations people holding Australia, which includes all the different communities of Aboriginal Australia – this links with the 2025 Reconciliation Day theme Bridging Now to Next,’ he said.

    Wiradjuri artist Kalara Gilbert helped bring Noah’s mural to life.

    ‘The equal placement of the Aboriginal and Australian flags reflects unity and respect, while the Aboriginal flag’s precedence acknowledges Indigenous peoples as the land’s First Custodians,’ she said.

    ‘The surrounding patterns I’ve painted represent the journey for justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.’

    Wiradjuri artist Kalara Gilbert.

    This is the second bus stop in Canberra to be painted in honour of Reconciliation Day.

    Displaying the artwork in a public bus shelter helps to ensure conversations about reconciliation happen every day.

    View the mural at the O’Connor shops bus shelter on Sargood Street.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PSI Chairman Johnson Writes to Secretary Hegseth about DoD’s Efforts to Assist Service Members Wrongfully Terminated Under Biden’s COVID-19 Injection Mandate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson

    WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Chairman Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) sent a letter to Department of Defense (DoD) Secretary Pete Hegseth requesting a briefing on the DoD’s efforts to apologize, reinstate, and provide back pay to service members who were terminated after refusing to take the COVID-19 injection.

     In 2021, then-Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin issued a COVID-19 vaccine mandate which resulted in the termination of approximately 8,700 active-duty service members who refused the injection.

    “This dismissal of thousands of brave men and women from the military was a despicable act that damaged our armed forces,” the chairman wrote.

    Tuesday’s letter follows a Daily Caller article about former service members who are reportedly still waiting to be made whole following the Biden administration’s disastrous COVID-19 vaccine mandate. 

    During the first few days of President Trump’s second term, he issued an executive order enabling these wrongfully discharged service members to revert to their former rank and receive full back pay, benefits, bonus payments, or compensation. In February 2025, Sec. Hegseth announced that service members could seek reinstatements and back pay.

    “I have no doubt that you are committed to assisting our service members, which is why I want to bring to your attention a July 24, 2025 Daily Caller article that featured several former military personnel who have still not received back pay after being terminated for refusing the injection,” Chairman Johnson wrote to Secretary Hegseth. 

    Read more about Chairman Johnson’s letter in Daily Caller.

    The full text of the letter can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 07/31/2025 VIDEO: Blackburn Holds Hearing on Protecting Americans’ Privacy Online

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) chaired a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law hearing, where she examined how a national data privacy framework can protect Americans’ personal information across state lines, empower consumers, and promote responsible innovation: 

    Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s opening remarks during the Senate Judiciary subcommittee hearing.

     Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s questions during the Senate Judiciary subcommittee hearing.

    Americans Are Vulnerable without a National Data Privacy Framework

    Senator Blackburn: “The absence of a comprehensive national data privacy framework has left millions of Americans vulnerable… For years now, I have been clear we need a national privacy standard that is comprehensive and enforceable. One that empowers consumers, promotes innovation and ensures accountability. It should prioritize transparency, minimize data collection and provide meaningful consent, not just a box to check.”

    Senator Blackburn Has Led the Fight to Protect Americans in the Virtual Space

    Senator Blackburn: “It is past time for Congress to take up this issue, to take action to pass a bill and see that bill signed into law. We should also acknowledge how closely this issue is tied to the safety of our children online. Senator Blumenthal and I have worked diligently on the Kids Online Safety Act, which would require platforms to design their product for children’s well-being in mind, not just for their bottom line. We’ve seen time and again how data driven algorithms target kids with addictive content and expose them to harmful material. Business models that profit from children’s vulnerabilities must be reined in. It is absolutely disgusting that our children are the product when they are online. And through the Open App Market Act that I introduced with Senator Klobuchar, I have worked to increase competition and consumer choice in the digital marketplace. Whether it’s protecting your personal data, your right to download the apps you want, or your ability to access services, the common thread is this: users, not tech giants, should be in control of the individual user’s life.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 07/29/2025 Blackburn Introduces Legislation to Ban the National Education Association from Influencing Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) introduced the Terminating Education Association Congressional Handouts (TEACH) Act to ban the National Education Association (NEA) from influencing the decisions of the federal government. This follows Senator Blackburn’s legislation to revoke the congressional charter of the NEA, the nation’s largest teachers’ union and the only labor union with a federal charter.

    “The National Education Association has abandoned its mission of supporting America’s teachers and students in the name of pushing its far-left political agenda,” said Senator Blackburn. “The NEA has become nothing more than a radical-left activist group, and it has no business using its status as a congressionally chartered entity to push woke gender ideology, antisemitism, and propaganda on America’s students.”

    BACKGROUND

    • The National Education Association (NEA) voted to fight against President “Trump’s embrace of fascism,” promote LGBTQ events in public schools, and members backed severing all ties with the Anti-Defamation League. These latest examples of NEA’s blatant political bias, along with its recent promotion of hatred and antisemitism, are a clear departure from the organization’s intended purpose.
    • The NEA has a long list of egregious violations of public trust:
      • In the 2024 election cycle, 98 percent of NEA political donations went to Democrats. 
      • In 2023, the NEA partnered with the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), who collaborated with the Target Corporation to promote an obscene, radical agenda in their stores.
      • In July 2021, the NEA adopted measures to support critical race theory.
      • The NEA stood in the way of reopening schools in 2020 and 2021 by threatening strikes and influencing CDC guidance process to make it harder for schools to reopen.
      • The NEA erased the word “Jewish” when referencing the Holocaust in their handbook. The NEA then erased the handbook from their website after being caught.

    THE TEACH ACT

    The TEACH Act would:

    • Ban the NEA from influencing the decisions of the federal government; and
    • Require the NEA to submit an annual certification to the Secretary of Education that the association has not engaged in any such attempts. 

    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Documents reveal Government efforts to avoid scrutiny on pay equity – NZCTU

    Source: NZCTU

    Newly released Government documents reveal the lengths to which ministers went to avoid scrutiny and ignore official advice on their decision to gut the Equal Pay Act and cancel pay equity claims.

    “These documents reveal that the Government did everything in its power to shut down public debate on pay equity in an effort to stop over 300,000 women from being paid what they’re worth,” said NZCTU Secretary Melissa Ansell-Bridges.

    “Ramming the legislation through Parliament under urgency with no select committee process was bad enough, but it is now clear that the Government intentionally denied the public transparency and accountability in a highly orchestrated and underhanded campaign.

    “Ministers went to extraordinary lengths to keep their plans secret and prevent workers from taking claims while they still had an avenue to do so.

    “The documents also reveal that officials warned that the secretive and rushed process limited proper scrutiny of the policy and could lead to unintended consequences, but this advice was evidently ignored.

    “Officials also noted that the changes retrospectively removed people’s rights and could be breaches of the Human Rights Act and Bill of Rights Act.

    “Attempts to silence opposition have failed – women workers and their allies continue to rise up and demand the reversal of claim cancellations and will be coming together in an unprecedented Women’s Day of Action on September 20,” said Ansell-Bridges.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public consultation launched on renewal of domestic free television programme service licences

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Communications Authority:

         The Communications Authority (CA) announced today (August 1) the commencement of a two-month public consultation on the applications for the renewal of domestic free television programme service (free TV) licences.

         The free TV licences of HK Television Entertainment Company Limited (HKTVE), i-CABLE HOY Limited (i-CABLE HOY) and Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB) are due to expire between 2027 and 2028. The three licensees have submitted their licence renewal applications to the CA. In accordance with the requirements under the Broadcasting Ordinance (Cap. 562) (BO) and established procedures, the CA will carry out a detailed assessment of the licensees’ past performance and renewal proposals, and collect public views through various means, including carrying out a two-month public consultation, an opinion survey, a televised online public hearing (TOPH) and focus group discussions. The CA will take into account performances of the licensees, views of the industry and public, the latest market developments etc, and make recommendations on the licence renewal applications to the Chief Executive in Council before the end of March 2026.

         Members of the public may give their views through various means, including submitting views in writing by September 30, 2025 (by email: consultation-tv-2025@ofca.gov.hk, fax: 2507 2219 or mail to: Office of the Communications Authority (Attn: Broadcasting Section 33), 20/F, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong); and/or by participating in the TOPH which will be held on September 20, 2025. For the TOPH registration arrangements and the details of the licensees’ services (including compliance records and investment plans), please visit the dedicated webpage on the CA’s website.

         The free TV licences of HKTVE, i-CABLE HOY and TVB are valid for 12 years from April 1, 2015, to March 31, 2027, May 31, 2016, to May 30, 2028, and December 1, 2015, to November 30, 2027, respectively. As required by the BO, the three licensees have submitted their licence renewal applications to the CA no less than 24 months before the expiry of the validity period of their licences. Having regard to the proximity of expiry of the three licences, the CA will carry out a consolidated review exercise for the renewal applications in accordance with the BO and established practice. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump signs executive order increasing tariff on Canada to 35%

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

    U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday signed an executive order increasing the tariff on Canada from 25 percent to 35 percent, with the higher tariff set to go into effect on Aug. 1, the White House said in a fact sheet.

    “Canada has failed to cooperate in curbing the ongoing flood of fentanyl and other illicit drugs, and it has retaliated against the United States for the president’s actions to address this unusual and extraordinary threat to the United States,” said the fact sheet.

    The White House said that in response to Canada’s “continued inaction and retaliation,” Trump has found it necessary to increase the tariff on Canada to “effectively address the existing emergency.”

    Goods qualifying for preferential tariff treatment under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will continue to remain exempt from the new tariffs. Goods transshipped to evade the 35 percent tariff will be subject, instead, to a transshipment tariff of 40 percent.

    The fact sheet addressed the presidential action as “necessary and appropriate to protect American lives and the national security and foreign policy of the United States.”

    In February, Trump signed an executive order to impose an ad valorem duty rate of 25 percent on imports from Canada in response to the national emergency. In March, he determined that Canada had failed to adequately address the situation and proceeded with the imposition of the 25 percent tariff, according to the fact sheet.

    “Now, President Trump is taking further action to hold Canada accountable for its continued role in the illicit drug crisis,” the White House said.

    On Thursday, Trump also announced so-called “reciprocal tariff rates” of up to 41 percent on many countries.

    In April, Canada imposed 25-percent tariffs on U.S. vehicles that didn’t meet CUSMA rules and on non-Canadian, non-Mexican content in vehicles imported under CUSMA, as countermeasures, said its government.

    Canada was the top buyer of U.S. exports last year, importing 349 billion dollars worth of goods, while exporting 413 billion dollars to the United States as its third-largest source of foreign goods, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US sanctions Palestinian Authority officials, Palestine Liberation Organization members

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

    The U.S. Department of State on Thursday announced sanctions that deny visas to officials of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).

    “It is in our national security interests to impose consequences and hold the PLO and PA accountable for not complying with their commitments and undermining the prospects for peace,” the State Department said in a press release.

    The department noted it reported to the U.S. Congress that both organizations “are not in compliance with their commitments under the PLO Commitments Compliance Act of 1989 and the Middle East Peace Commitments Act of 2002.”

    It claimed that the PA and PLO took actions to “internationalize its conflict with Israel” at international organizations such as the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice.

    It also accused them of “continuing to support terrorism including incitement and glorification of violence,” and “providing payments and benefits in support of terrorism to Palestinian terrorists and their families.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Aid distribution in Gaza hampered despite checkpoint deliveries

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

    Palestinians carry bags of flour after the humanitarian aid entered Gaza through a border crossing, in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza Strip, on July 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    UN humanitarians said Thursday that as starvation worsens in Gaza, efforts to swiftly distribute aid are being hampered by delays, looting and military operations, even as shipments continue to arrive through Israeli checkpoints.

    The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that earlier this week, despite the Israeli military designating secure routes from border crossings into Gaza and toward distribution sites, aid trucks operated by the United Nations and its partners continued to face lengthy delays, putting drivers, humanitarian workers and crowds at risk.

    OCHA said that the sole route provided by Israeli authorities for UN teams exiting the Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem crossing into Gaza is frequently disrupted by Israeli ground forces setting up ad hoc checkpoints, causing additional delays in aid delivery.

    The office said that despite such challenges, the world body and its humanitarian partners continue to seize every opportunity to collect supplies from the Israeli-controlled crossings.

    “The teams have managed to collect wheat flour, ready-to-eat rations, high-energy biscuits, nutrition items, hygiene kits and other critical supplies from the Israeli-controlled crossings,” OCHA said.

    The office said that “much of the food is taken by people en route, rather than reaching community-based distribution points,” adding that “aid must be distributed at the community level” to ensure no one is left behind.

    The United Nations and its partners insist on reaching Palestinians in need through community-based distribution points, numbering 400 across Gaza, rather than the four militarized Israeli and U.S.-sponsored Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) hubs, due to chaos and gunfire erupting near them.

    “OCHA urges the Israeli authorities to allow the consistent and simultaneous entry of large volumes of diverse humanitarian and commercial supplies through all crossing points and multiple routes,” the office said.

    Highlighting the difficulties aid workers face in coordinating movements across much of the Gaza Strip with Israeli authorities, OCHA said that only 47 percent were fully facilitated, while 11 percent were withdrawn by organizers, according to cumulative data from July 23 to 29.

    “Unimpeded humanitarian access within Gaza is essential,” the office said. “Without it, time and resources are wasted, lives are lost, and the response cannot match the scale of the needs.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump signs executive order modifying tariff rates with dozens of trading partners

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

    U.S. President Donald Trump steps off Marine One upon his arrival at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on July 29, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday signed an executive order further modifying tariff rates with nearly 70 trading partners.

    The order hereby imposes “additional ad valorem duties on goods of certain trading partners.”

    Most of the new tariff rates range from 10 percent to 40 percent, according to an annex to the release from the White House.

    The new tariff rates will take effect seven days after the date of the executive order with exceptions on logistical grounds.

    Trump noted in the executive order that some U.S. trading partners, despite having engaged in negotiations, have offered terms that do not sufficiently address “imbalances” in trading relationship or have failed to align sufficiently with the United States on “economic and national security matters.”

    “There are also some trading partners that have failed to engage in negotiations with the United States or to take adequate steps to align sufficiently with the United States on economic and national security matters,” he said.

    According to the order, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Homeland Security, together with other senior officials, shall publish every six months a list of countries and specific facilities used in circumvention schemes, to inform public procurement, national security reviews, and commercial due diligence.

    In addition, major U.S. governmental agencies are directed and authorized to take “all necessary actions” to implement and effectuate this order, consistent with applicable law, including through temporary suspension or amendment of regulations or notices.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese envoy rejects US accusations over Ukraine crisis

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

    A Chinese envoy on Thursday rejected U.S. accusations against China over its role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

    At a Security Council meeting on Ukraine, the U.S. representative accused China of being “the most important supplier” of Russia’s war efforts.

    In response, Geng Shuang, China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, dismissed the false and slanderous narratives against China from the U.S. side as completely unacceptable.

    China did not start the Ukraine crisis and is not a party to it. China has never supplied lethal weapons to either side of the conflict and has strictly controlled the export of dual-use goods, including drones, said Geng.

    “The parties to the conflict are not under Security Council sanctions. China has normal trade relations with Russia and Ukraine. By doing so, it does not violate international law or breach its international obligations. China’s legitimate rights and interests must not be infringed upon,” he said. “In fact, till now, the United States has maintained its trade with Russia. If the United States is doing that itself, why doesn’t it allow others to do the same?”

    The Ukraine crisis is at a critical juncture where there are prospects and hopes for a political solution. It is not right for the United States, on the one hand, to expect China to play a role in putting an early end to the conflict, and on the other hand, to keep on smearing and pressurizing China, said Geng.

    China, once again, urges the United States to stop its pointless blame game, stop shifting responsibilities, and play a constructive role in ending the fighting and promoting peace talks, he said.

    To resolve the Ukraine crisis, what is needed is unity and cooperation, not division and confrontation, he added.

    On the supply of weapons to Ukraine, Geng expressed concern about the expanding variety and range of weapons flowing to the battlefield, as well as a growing lethality and destructive power.

    The reckless supply of weapons to the battlefield will only intensify confrontation, prolong the conflict, cause risks of proliferation, and inflict further casualties and suffering on the people of both sides and the broader region, he warned.

    The urgent priority for Russia and Ukraine is to work together to de-escalate the situation on the battlefield as soon as possible. They should maintain the momentum of talks, continue to build consensus and ultimately reach a comprehensive, lasting and binding peace agreement, said Geng.

    Since day one of the conflict, China has advocated for the peaceful resolution of disputes and has called on the parties to the conflict to end hostilities, start negotiations and restore peace sooner rather than later. China will continue to work with the international community to play a constructive role in an early political settlement of the crisis, he said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Voter registers released

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The 2025 provisional registers of electors for geographical constituencies (GCs) and functional constituencies (FCs) were released today, along with omissions lists for each type of constituency.

    The Registration & Electoral Office (REO) appealed to members of the public to check their registration status through “iAM Smart” or the voter registration website by August 25.

    The 2025 provisional register for GCs contains about 4,144,600 registered electors. The REO has received about 36,400 new applications for registration and about 115,400 applications from registered GC electors wishing to update their particulars.

    Meanwhile, the records of about 101,100 electors have been deleted due to death or other reasons.

    The 2025 provisional register for FCs contains about 193,700 registered electors. This factors in newly registered electors and electors entered on the omissions list due to death or other reasons.

    Notices regarding inspection of the provisional registers of electors and the omissions lists were published in the Government Gazette today.

    Under the law, copies of the provisional registers and omissions lists containing entries relating to individuals may only be shown in accordance with statutory requirements, and to specified persons only.

    However, copies of the provisional registers and omissions lists containing entries relating to corporate electors may be inspected by any member of the public. Click here for details and arrangements regarding access.

    The final registers will be published on September 25.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Lok Sabha to take up Goa ST representation bill and Merchant shipping bill

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Parliament has a list of important businesses for Friday, which includes The Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2024, and ‘The Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024’.

    According to the list of business in the Lok Sabha, the bills will be moved for passage. The House also has private members’ business.

    Minister Prataprao Jadhav will make a statement regarding the status of implementation of the recommendations contained in the 137th and 150th reports of the Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare on Vaccine Development, Distribution Management and Mitigation of Pandemic Covid-19 pertaining to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

    The Lok Sabha will take up the ‘The Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2024’ for further consideration.

    The bill was introduced by the Union Law Minister, Arjun Ram Meghwal, on December 17, 2024.

    The bill aims to enable reservation of seats in accordance with Article 332 of the Constitution for effective democratic participation of members of Scheduled Tribes and to provide for the readjustment of seats in the Legislative Assembly of the State of Goa, in so far as such readjustment is necessitated by inclusion of certain communities in the list of the Scheduled Tribes in the State of Goa, according to the list of business in Lok Sabha.

    Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal will move ‘The Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024’ to update and unify existing law to align with international maritime treaties.

    The legislation will consolidate the law relating to ports, promote integrated port development, facilitate ease of doing business and ensure the optimum utilisation of India’s coastline; establish and empower State Maritime Boards for effective management of ports other than major ports; establish the Maritime State Development Council for fostering structured growth and development of the port sector; provide for the management of pollution, disaster, emergencies, security, safety, navigation, and data at ports; ensure compliance with India’s obligations under international instruments to which it is a party; take measures for the conservation of ports; provide for adjudicatory mechanisms for the redressal of port-related disputes. The Bill will be tabled for consideration and passage.

    In the Rajya Sabha, seven ministers will lay papers on the table concerning their ministries.

    The House will also see statements made by two Ministers.

    Union Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development Dr Pemmasani Chandra Sekha will make the following statements regarding: (a) Status of implementation of the Recommendations contained in the 2nd Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (18th Lok Sabha) on Demands for Grants (2024-25) pertaining to the Ministry of Rural Development (Department of Land Resources).

    (b) Status of implementation of the Recommendations contained in the 6th Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (18th Lok Sabha) on Demands for Grants (2025-26) pertaining to the Ministry of Rural Development (Department of Land Resources).

    Union Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing Industries Ravneet Singh Bittu will make a statement regarding the Status of implementation of Recommendations/Observations contained in the 3rd Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Railways(18th Lok Sabha) on Demands for Grants (2025-26) about the Ministry of Railways.

    (IANS)

  • ‘Kashmir to Kevadia’: PM Modi welcomes Omar Abdullah’s Gujarat visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for visiting Gujarat’s Sabarmati Riverfront and the Statue of Unity, calling it a gesture that sends a powerful message of national unity.

    “Kashmir to Kevadia! Good to see Shri Omar Abdullah Ji enjoying his run at the Sabarmati Riverfront and visiting the Statue of Unity. His visit to SoU gives an important message of unity and will inspire our fellow Indians to travel to different parts of India,” PM Modi posted on X.

    The Prime Minister was responding to Abdullah’s post about his morning run at the riverfront during a two-day visit to Ahmedabad for a tourism promotion event.

    “While in #Ahmedabad for a tourism event, I took advantage of being here to get my morning run at the famed Sabarmati River Front promenade. It’s one of the nicest places I’ve been able to run, and it was a pleasure to get to share it with so many other walkers/runners. I even managed to run past the amazing Atal Foot Bridge,” Abdullah wrote.

    His visit comes amid efforts by the Jammu and Kashmir administration to revive tourism in the Union Territory, following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that affected tourist inflow.

    During his Gujarat visit, Abdullah is meeting with tour operators and industry stakeholders to rebuild confidence in Kashmir as a safe and attractive travel destination.

    “Gujarat, along with Maharashtra and West Bengal, has always played a major role in Kashmir’s tourism economy,” he said, expressing optimism about the return of Gujarati tourists in large numbers.

  • Cabinet approves ₹2,000 crore grant to NCDC; Amit Shah thanks PM Modi for strengthening cooperative sector

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, on Thursday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Cabinet approved a grant assistance of ₹2,000 crore to the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) for the next four years.

    The grant will be disbursed at ₹500 crore per year, with the objective of boosting the cooperative sector, particularly in rural areas. Shah highlighted the move as a step forward in realising the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Sahkar Se Samriddhi’ (Prosperity through Cooperation).

    “In line with PM Modi ji’s mantra of ‘Sahkar Se Samriddhi’, the NCDC is playing a crucial role in strengthening the rural economy. This financial support will help cooperatives launch new projects, expand existing infrastructure, and offer loans, thereby benefiting crores of members,” Shah said in a post on X. He added that the initiative would empower women to become self-reliant and generate employment opportunities for the youth.

    In another post, the Home Minister also welcomed the Cabinet’s decision to approve an expenditure of ₹6,520 crore under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana’ (PMKSY), including an additional allocation of ₹1,920 crore. As part of the scheme, 50 multi-product food irradiation units and 100 food testing laboratories will be set up across the country. Shah stated that these facilities will aid in food preservation, ensure better safety and quality standards, and help farmers fetch higher prices for their produce.

    Further, Shah lauded the Cabinet’s approval of four railway multi-tracking projects covering 13 districts in six states from the eastern, central, and western regions. These projects, with a total outlay of ₹11,169 crore, will add 574 km to the country’s railway network. According to the minister, this will not only improve connectivity but also boost trade and industry, while opening up fresh avenues for employment.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Environmental Justice Caucus Co-Chairs Markey, Duckworth, Booker Slam Trump Administration Plan to Eliminate EPA’s Ability to Protect Public Health from Climate Change

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (July 31, 2025) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.)—co-chairs of the U.S. Senate Environmental Justice Caucus—issued the following statement after Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin announced his proposal to rescind the 2009 endangerment finding, a landmark determination that requires the EPA to address greenhouse gas emissions and pollution because of the threat that climate change poses to public health and welfare. By rescinding the endangerment finding, the Trump administration will effectively declaw the EPA, giving big businesses a green light to pollute our air and devastate environmental justice communities.

    “Once again, the Trump administration is sacrificing our children’s future to protect polluters in the present. Trump and Zeldin are annihilating the key legal foundation that requires our government to act on climate change because it threatens the health of Americans—their repeal of the endangerment finding is ignorant, runs counter to scientific fact and will put lives at risk. Environmental justice communities are particularly threatened by this wrong-headed decision, since they are most exposed to climate impacts and have the fewest resources to protect themselves. The Trump administration must reverse this decision—it flies in the face of science, the law, and our moral responsibility to protect our future.”

    As co-chairs of the Senate Environmental Justice Caucus, Markey, Duckworth, and Booker have long pushed to strengthen and defend environmental justice efforts across the country. Earlier this month, the three condemned Republicans’ cuts to environmental justice grants that were included in Donald Trump’s Big, Beautiful Betrayal. Earlier this week, Markey held a press conference outside EPA headquarters to rail against the Trump administration’s plans to rescind the endangerment finding. In March, Duckworth and Booker condemned the Trump administration for shutting down all of EPA’s environmental justice offices and slashing over 30 EPA regulations that have helped protect our nation’s public health and the environment for decades.

    In February, Markey, Duckworth, and Booker—along with Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.)—urged EPA Administrator Zeldin to reopen the EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights (OEJECR), which Duckworth and Booker led the charge to create. Markey, Duckworth, and Booker also helped introduce legislation that would permanently codify the Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) in response to Attorney General Bondi’s order eliminating all environmental justice efforts at the DOJ.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey Builds Bipartisan Momentum with Reintroduction of His Warehouse Worker Protection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Bill Text (PDF)

    Washington (July 31, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, along with Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Representatives Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Mike Lawler (NY-17), and Haley Stevens (MI-11), today reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral Warehouse Worker Protection Act, legislation to prohibit dangerous speed quotas and that threaten warehouse worker safety and lead to high injury rates. The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Chris Murphy (D-Conn.).

    Major corporations often institute speed and productivity quotas for warehouse workers that force workers past their physical limits, leading to high injury rates. One in 15 Amazon warehouse workers is injured at work seriously enough to need days off or light duty to recover. Nearly 2 million Americans work in warehouses nationwide.

    The Warehouse Worker Protection Act would institute the basic standards necessary to ensure all workers experience a safe and dignified workplace. The bill would prohibit the use of dangerous speed quotas that rely on intrusive surveillance, interfere with workers’ ability to use the bathroom and take guaranteed breaks, and push workers past safe physical limits. The bill would also prohibit measures that prevent workers from exercising their right to unionize.

    “Workers deserve to clock in knowing they will return home safe and healthy at the end of their shift. The Warehouse Worker Protection Act would protect the basic health and dignity of workers from corporate bosses who time and again have prioritized unfettered greed and profit over their own people,” said Senator Markey. “I am proudly in solidarity with nearly two million warehouse workers nationwide in the fight to ensure that their rights, safety, and dignity are protected.”

    “Corporations need to prioritize their workers’ safety and well-being over profits. This bipartisan legislation will hold the warehouse industry accountable while combatting the industry’s worst practices. It’s time to put workers’ safety first and treat them with the dignity they deserve,” said Senator Hawley.

    “Corporate profits should never be placed above the safety and dignity of American workers,” said Senator Smith. “The Warehouse Worker Protection Act ends secret, aggressive productivity metrics and surveillance methods used by major companies, and instead puts power back in the hands of the workers who experience these conditions every day. Workers should never have to choose between their health and their next paycheck, and should not be harmed in service of corporate greed – this bill takes an important step in establishing safe, just workplaces for all.”

    “In 2022, three New Jersey warehouse workers tragically died on the job within weeks of each other, bringing attention to working conditions and injury rates in warehouses. Businesses can keep workers safe and earn a profit, but that’s only possible with more transparency and accountability,” said Congressman Norcross. “As a former electrician, I know firsthand what it’s like to lose a coworker on the job. The Warehouse Worker Protection Act takes necessary steps to ensure everyone can come home from work safely.”

    “Amid the vast expansion of shipping and online shopping, the warehouse workers keeping this economy moving have been left behind,” said Senator Marshall. “For too long, companies have been implementing outlandish quotas, cutting into workers’ rights and leading to injuries. That ends with this bill. I’m proud to support Senator Markey in providing proper protections for workers, ending the fear of abusive quotas.”

    “Amazon and other abusive warehouse employers are squeezing their workers for every penny of profit, leaving behind tired and broken bodies,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “These corporate criminals are destroying good jobs in an industry that once supported a strong middle class. But one thing stands in their way—that’s the Teamsters Union, along with a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers who understand what’s at stake. It’s time to pass the Warehouse Worker Protection Act and put workers’ safety over corporate profits.”

    “Everyone deserves a guarantee of safety and dignity on the job, but retail giants like Amazon are raking in record profits on the backs of their workers, subjecting them to incredibly high rates of injury, unsustainable pace pressures, and punitive surveillance systems,” said Patricia Stottlemyer, Labor Rights Policy Lead at Oxfam America. “The re-introduction of the Warehouse Worker Protection Act is a critical step toward finally securing the safeguards and protections that these workers desperately need.”

    “Every day, we face unrealistic quotas and unsafe conditions just to keep our jobs at Amazon. The Warehouse Worker Protection Act gives us hope that our lives and safety will finally matter more than productivity rates. We fought for this law — and with support from Awood Center and national coalitions like Athena, we made it happen. Now we need Amazon to comply with the law or face consequences. It’s been in effect for a year, and they’re still falling short,” said an Amazon warehouse worker, supported by Awood Center, a worker center in Minnesota that uplifts East African immigrant workers.

    “At a time when Amazon warehouse workers like me are being injured at twice the rate as workers at other warehouses, this bill is a monumental step forward to holding companies like Amazon accountable and finally getting the workplace protections we deserve,” said Ronald “Mr. Ron” Sewell, an Amazon associate at ATL6 in Georgia and leader with United for Respect. “My coworkers and I are constantly putting our safety at risk to meet Amazon’s backbreaking productivity quotas, and we’ve had enough. Our lives are not expendable – we need real change to improve safety on the job, and this bill will help make that a reality.”

    “For too long, multi-billion dollar corporations like Walmart and Amazon have gotten away with forcing warehouse workers to meet unreasonable daily quotas — leading to countless injuries on the job — just so they can grow their profits. It’s long past time for that to change,” said Terrysa Guerra, Co-Executive Director of United for Respect. “These protections for warehouse workers will usher in a new era of accountability for these companies, and most importantly, will help improve workplace safety for hundreds of thousands of low-wage warehouse workers. United for Respect is thrilled to support this legislation.”

    “We’ve seen that when workers try to meet unattainable distribution center quotas, they get hurt; when they file for workers comp for their injuries, they get denied or fired. The Warehouse Worker Protection Act will protect workers from harm and blatant violation of their rights in an industry that treats them as expendable, and lead to safer, more dignified working conditions for the people who make life easier for the rest of us. Since New York’s version of this law went into effect in June, warehouse workers have already been feeling more secure in their rights. That’s something every single worker in the country deserves to feel—and why it’s so important that we pass the federal Warehouse Worker Protection Act as soon as possible,” said Vanessa Cid, Labor Organizer at For the Many.

    “Amazon’s greed has created a nationwide worker injury crisis as they put profit over people time and time again,” said Theodore A. Moore, Executive Director of ALIGN, leader of the New Yorkers for a Fair Economy coalition. “We’re proud of the work we’ve done to regulate warehouse safety in New York, but it’s time to take federal action and ensure that one of the richest companies in the world keeps their workers safe everywhere. We applaud Senator Markey’s leadership and urge Governor Hochul to lead the way with strong enforcement of New York’s Warehouse Worker Injury Reduction Act.”

    “We are facing a workplace injury crisis in warehouses across America,” said Irene Tung, Senior Researcher and Policy Analyst at the National Employment Law Project. “NELP’s research has found that the digital surveillance and disciplinary practices at companies like Amazon create a climate of fear for workers and astronomically high injury rates at warehouses. We urgently need the Warehouse Worker Protection Act to rein in these abuses and support workers’ right to organize for autonomy and safety on the job.”

    The Warehouse Worker Protection Act is endorsed by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the National Employment Law Project (NELP), the Athena Coalition, and Oxfam America.

    In May 2024, Senator Markey, along with Senator Smith and then Senator Bob Casey (D-Pa.), first introduced the Warehouse Worker Protection Act. In September 2024, Senator Markey celebrated the bipartisan momentum growing behind the bill.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Statement by Minister McClay following US tariff announcement

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The United States has confirmed that tariffs on New Zealand exports will increase from 10 per cent to 15 per cent from 7 August, placing us alongside other key US trading partners including Japan and South Korea.

    Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay says, this decision appears to be based on a calculation of trade deficits, with countries running a surplus with the US moved to the higher rate. In New Zealand’s case, the surplus is modest, around US$500 million, and is not overly significant in the context of the US economy.

    Over the past decade, our trade relationship with the US has seen periods where the US enjoyed a significant surplus and times, like now, when New Zealand has a modest one. Overall, our trade is balanced and complementary, reflecting the strength of a long-standing partnership.

    “I am seeking an urgent call with the US Trade Representative to make New Zealand’s position clear: this increase risks harming exporters and consumers of both countries. The US currently faces an average tariff of just 0.8 per cent when exporting to New Zealand, far lower than what we face into their market,” Mr McClay says. 

    “New Zealand exports around $9 billion of goods to the US annually. At 15 per cent, the impact will be considerable for exporters, many of whom absorbed or passed on the earlier 10 per cent rate. At 15 per cent, that becomes much harder.  

    “Our focus now moves to engaging directly with the US on this current announcement to seek changes to this decision.

    “New Zealand has always stood for open, rules-based trade. We will continue to advocate strongly for a resolution that supports our exporters and maintains the strength of our trading relationship with the United States.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Hindmarsh Valley

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police and emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Hindmarsh Valley.

    Just before 1.15pm on Friday 1 August, police were called to the intersection of Victor Harbor Road near Hindmarsh Tiers Road after reports of a two-car crash.

    Northbound traffic on Victor Harbor Road is being diverted at Hindmarsh Tiers Road and southbound traffic is diverted at Crows Nest Road.

    Please avoid the area.

    MIL OSI News –

  • PM Modi invites citizens to share ideas for Independence Day speech

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday invited citizens across the country to share their ideas and suggestions for this year’s Independence Day address.

    In a post on X, PM Modi urged the public to contribute their thoughts via the open forums on MyGov.in and the NaMo app.

    “As we approach this year’s Independence Day, I look forward to hearing from my fellow Indians! What themes or ideas would you like to see reflected in this year’s Independence Day speech? Share your thoughts on the Open Forums on MyGov and the NaMo App,” the Prime Minister wrote.

    As per tradition, the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi and addresses the nation every year on August 15.

    Last year, on India’s 78th Independence Day, PM Modi’s speech focused on the theme ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’, which outlines the Government’s vision to transform India into a developed nation by 2047.

    The Prime Minister also spoke on various key issues, including Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), improving ease of living, the role of women in the Air Force, tackling nepotism in politics, the safety of Bangladeshi Hindus, the idea of a uniform civil code, and India’s aspirations to host the 2036 Olympics.

    Continuing the ceremonial traditions, the Prime Minister also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat and received a ‘Rashtriya Salute’ after hoisting the national flag. Last year, the salute was presented by the Punjab Regiment’s military band, which included one JCO and 25 other ranks, led by Subedar Major Rajinder Singh.

    This year marks PM Modi’s 12th consecutive Independence Day address from the Red Fort, making him only the third Indian Prime Minister-after Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi-to achieve this milestone.

  • Mission Karmayogi crosses 1.26 crore users, expands digital training across govt

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Mission Karmayogi, the central government’s ambitious civil services capacity-building programme, is witnessing robust nationwide adoption. As of July 21, over 1.26 crore govt officials across central and state levels have registered on the iGOT-Karmayogi digital learning platform.

    In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed that all ministries and departments of the central government have been fully integrated with the platform. The digital shift represents a transformative step in government training, moving away from conventional models to a more adaptive, role-based approach.

    The iGOT-Karmayogi portal provides customised training that aligns with the competency frameworks of individual departments. Of the total users, around 41 lakh are central government employees, while 85 lakh belong to various state services. The platform currently offers more than 3,000 live courses covering a range of functional, behavioural, and domain-specific competencies. Together, these courses have seen over 3.8 crore completions, reflecting the growing demand for continuous learning within public administration.

    Designed as a comprehensive digital learning ecosystem, iGOT-Karmayogi has been integrated with key training components such as induction sessions, mid-career programmes, and in-service development. It aims to equip civil servants with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to meet the evolving challenges of governance in the 21st century.

    To measure the initiative’s impact, the Department of Personnel and Training has introduced a Monitoring and Evaluation framework with clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track stakeholder performance and drive service delivery improvements.

  • Nifty, Sensex open lower as new Trump tariffs take effect

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian equity markets opened lower on Friday, tracking weak global cues following the announcement of new tariffs by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The pharmaceutical sector bore the brunt, with the Nifty Pharma index falling 2.75 per cent.

    At 9:25 AM, the Nifty 50 was down 51 points or 0.21 per cent at 24,716, while the BSE Sensex had declined 179 points or 0.22 per cent, trading at 81,005.

    In the broader market, both the BSE MidCap and BSE SmallCap indices posted marginal gains of 0.05 per cent.

    Among sectoral indices, Nifty FMCG stood out as the sole gainer, rising 1.46 per cent. Meanwhile, Nifty IT slipped 0.80 per cent and Nifty Metal declined 0.99 per cent, in addition to sharp selling in pharma stocks.

    Within the Nifty 50 pack, Hindustan Unilever (HUL) was the top gainer, rising 4.45 per cent, followed by Tata Consumer Products, Hero MotoCorp, Maruti Suzuki, and Trent. On the losing side, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories led with a 1.41 per cent decline, followed by Cipla, ONGC, Larsen & Toubro, and Tata Steel.

    “Despite Nifty’s bounce yesterday, the index remains vulnerable unless it sustains a move above the 24,800 mark. A close above this level could potentially open the path toward 25,000. On the downside, immediate support lies at 24,600, followed by 24,500,” said Hardik Matalia, Derivatives Analyst at Choice Equity Broking.

    “As elevated volatility and conflicting technical signals prevail, traders are advised to follow a cautious ‘sell-on-rise’ approach, especially when using leverage. Book partial profits during rallies and maintain tight trailing stop-losses. Fresh long positions should only be considered if the Nifty sustains above 25,000,” he added.

    On July 31, former U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing revised “reciprocal” tariffs on several countries including Syria, Laos, South Africa, and Myanmar. The new tariff rates, ranging from 10 per cent to 41 per cent, are set to take effect from August 7.

    Strong earnings from U.S. tech giants Microsoft and Meta Platforms failed to lift Wall Street. The S&P 500 fell 0.37 per cent, marking its third straight day of losses. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.74 per cent, while the Nasdaq Composite remained flat with a marginal dip of 0.03 per cent.

    “In the near term, markets will be influenced by tariff-related developments. Since the implementation date is August 7, affected countries still have time to negotiate for revisions. Yesterday’s market behavior indicates that investors view the 25 per cent tariff as a short-term issue,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    Asian markets also opened weak. South Korea’s Kospi led the regional decline with a 2.94 per cent fall, followed by Japan’s Nikkei 225, which dropped 0.38 per cent. Shanghai Composite shed 0.10 per cent, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index edged up 0.13 per cent.

    On the institutional front, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) extended their selling streak for a ninth consecutive session, offloading equities worth ₹5,588 crore on July 31. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) remained net buyers for the 19th straight session, investing ₹6,372 crore.

    -IANS