NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Eddie Yue: Navigating new growth corridors in Asia-Pacific

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Ladies and Gentlemen, good morning.

    Let me first thank ASIFMA for inviting me here today, and also for hosting this flagship conference in Hong Kong again.

    The theme of this year’s conference, “Navigating New Growth Corridors in Asia-Pacific”, is very timely. The region is undergoing profound transformation, driven by a host of factors including the realignment of global supply chains, shifting economic landscapes, changing investment and consumption patterns, etc.  These factors have resulted in more frequent economic interaction among some of its key economies, particularly between China and ASEAN.  Over the last couple of years, we have often heard the catchy term “corridor business” or “network business”, which describes the commercial opportunities that could arise from such interaction.  What I hope to do today is to share with you what I see are the fundamental forces underpinning these corridors or networks, how Hong Kong has been positioning itself for the resulting opportunities, and what more needs to be done.

    The New Growth Corridors

    Let me start with the forces that are reshaping cross-border commerce and business in the region.

    First is the changing pattern of trades. Part of that and also the headline-grabbing part is driven by changes in geopolitical dynamics and trade policies in the west.  But there are longer term economic considerations too.  Asia is no longer just the world’s factory or a source of low-cost labour.  It has emerged as a powerhouse of innovation and consumption, with China leading the way.  Policies also play a part.  Trade agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) are facilitating the flow of goods and services in the region.

    The result of these is a stronger trade relationship between China and ASEAN. By 2024, ASEAN has become China’s largest export destination and import source, accounting for 16.4% of China’s exports and 15.3% of imports in 2024.

    Arguably more important is that we are seeing deeper integration of supply chains in the region. In 2023, close to 10% of ASEAN exports were value added sourced from China, almost doubling the share in 2017.  This reflects how China and ASEAN are more tightly wedded together to form an integral part of the global supply chain.

    The second factor is the growth of cross-border investment. This is the most notable in foreign direct investment.  In 2023, China’s FDI to ASEAN reached USD 25 billion, an increase by over one-third in just one year.  As of July 2024, the cumulative bilateral investment between China and ASEAN surpassed USD 400 billion.  Chinese investments cover not only manufacturing sectors, but also increasingly in emerging fields such as the digital economy and the green economy.  On financial investments, China’s investment in ASEAN securities has also seen rapid growth in recent years, hitting USD 18.5 billion as of June 2024, with a yearly growth of over 20%.

    Hong Kong’s Unique Role

    Now, what is Hong Kong’s role as we see the rapid growth of the China-ASEAN corridor?

    As a leading international financial centre in Asia, Hong Kong has always been a key provider of efficient cross-border payments and financing services to support the region’s trade and investment. Of the roughly USD 50 billion outstanding trade finance loans offered by banks in Hong Kong, around 40% were used to finance merchandise trade not touching Hong Kong, reflecting Hong Kong’s role in financing trades in the broader region.

    In fact, our role in trade finance is becoming more significant as RMB gains recognition as an international currency. Data from SWIFT shows that RMB’s share in the global trade finance reached 6.4% in November 2024, ranking second just after the US dollar.  As the world’s largest offshore RMB hub, Hong Kong handles approximately 75% of all offshore RMB transactions, particularly those related to cross-border trade payment and settlement.  This strong position in RMB business, together with our extensive offshore RMB liquidity pool, allow us to provide the most cost-effective RMB trade finance solutions, so that ASEAN exporters and importers can settle their transactions with China conveniently in offshore RMB.

    Let’s turn to our role in cross border investment. Hong Kong has always been the key intermediary for investment going into and out of the Mainland, handling about two-third of such flows in the past few decades. 

    And we do much more than just passing money from one hand to another. Hong Kong’s capital market has been a key venue for raising capital by firms across the region.  Our equity market has continued to be one of the world’s most liquid and resilient, even with the challenging macro environment.  With improved investor sentiment, our market is rebounding and our IPO market returned to the fourth place globally in 2024.  Less visible but no less important is our bond market.  According to our internal analysis, over USD 130 billion of Asian international bonds were arranged in Hong Kong in 2024, with a yearly growth of more than 50%, making Hong Kong the largest bond arranging hub in the region.  As in the case of trade financing, RMB’s share of investment and fundraising activities in the region has also been on the rise.  In the first three quarters of last year, dim sum bond issuance in Hong Kong totalled over RMB 770 billion, increasing by 35% over 2023.

    Enhancing the Trade and Financial Corridors

    All this is good. But what do we need to do next to strengthen our role in enhancing this important growth corridor?  Naturally, as the region’s trade, economic and investment landscapes continue to shift, Hong Kong would have to broaden and adapt our offerings to maintain our leading position.

    Part of this involves building on our traditional strengths. For example, the HKEX introduced a new listing route in 2023 to facilitate the listing of specialist technology companies, which aims at further supporting companies in accessing capital to fund their innovative ideas and drive growth.  For the bond market too, the HKMA and the SFC have jointly established a task force with market participants to explore ways to further promote Hong Kong’s status as a premier fixed income and currency hub.

    With RMB taking up an increasingly larger share of cross-border trade and investment, we have also been beefing up our RMB offerings. On liquidity for example, just last week, we launched the offshore RMB repo business using Northbound Bond Connect bonds as collateral; and HKEX will also soon allow the use of these bonds as margin collateral at OTC Clearing Hong Kong.  To further support trade financing, the HKMA will introduce the RMB Trade Financing Liquidity Facility next week.  The facility will provide banks in Hong Kong with up to RMB 100 billion in liquidity for up to six months, and that will help reinforce Hong Kong’s position as the global leader in offshore RMB business.

    We are also making systematic efforts to look at what more needs to be done to ensure that Hong Kong continues to stay at the forefront. As announced by the Chief Executive in last year’s Policy Address, the HKMA has established a working group to study future supply chain shifts and develop policy recommendations to enhance Hong Kong’s capacity for the related financial services.  The Hong Kong Association of Banks is also setting up a new committee on corridor business. 

    While this is probably not the right occasion to discuss in details the findings of such groups, I would just like to outline three themes emerging from the study as key to capturing the opportunities from the new business corridors in the region.

    First is the importance of digitalisation and innovation, in order to reduce cost, enhance efficiency, and enhance security and reliability. Trade finance is an area ripe for “digital disruption”.  Over the years there have been attempts within the industry to go “electronic” in trade documentation and in obtaining trade financing.  But there is still a lot more that we collectively can help improve.  For instance, we are experimenting with tokenisation use cases in the area of trade and supply chain finance through our Project Ensemble Sandbox.

    The second key theme is sustainability. If you just look at the news headlines, it is hard to shake the impression that sustainability is on the retreat.  To us at the HKMA though, our commitment to an orderly and inclusive transition is as firm as ever.  Last October, we launched the Sustainable Finance Action Agenda, setting out our vision to further consolidate Hong Kong’s position as the sustainable finance hub in the region and support the sustainable development of Asia and beyond.  This commitment is underpinned by two beliefs.  First, our moral obligations, particularly given that the region is the world’s biggest emitter and many of the region’s emerging markets would be badly affected by climate change.  Hong Kong, as the region’s financial centre, has the duty and capability to help. 

    But our commitment is also underpinned by our belief that sustainability is a good business. Hong Kong is Asia’s largest location for issuing international green and sustainable bonds, with over USD 40 billion of these bonds issued here in 2024, capturing 45% of the regional market.  If we include green and sustainability loans as well, total green and sustainable credits issued in Hong Kong exceeded USD 80 billion.  Despite the news headlines, sustainability initiatives across the world, from disclosure standards and climate risk management practices, are coming into force.  They would bring new opportunities to those that are prepared, and we want to make sure that Hong Kong is at the centre of it.

    The third key theme is engagement. Hong Kong has always been the “China gateway”.  But to continue to effectively perform this role at a time when many Mainland corporations and investors are looking abroad, and when businesses in many Asian markets are looking to do business with China, Hong Kong must also get to know these markets, and to tell them our strength.  To really get to know each of these markets, engagement is critical.  Over the past two years, the HKMA has visited various countries in the region to pursue collaborative initiatives with central banks and have welcomed delegations to Hong Kong.  Some of such interaction are being converted into tangible work.  For example, last October, the HKMA and the Bank of Thailand announced the collaboration on Project Ensemble and Project San. Together, we will explore Payment versus Payment (PvP) and Delivery versus Payment (DvP) tokenisation use cases, including trade payments and carbon credits.  The objective of such central bank collaboration is to lay a foundation for the private sector to build on and turn into concrete businesses.  That should be the focus going forward.

    Conclusion

    To conclude, I would just say that the China-ASEAN corridor is definitely expanding at a rapid pace, and Hong Kong is right in the middle. In performing our role as an international financial centre, apart from leveraging on our traditional strengths in banking services and capital markets, we need to focus more on three things: digitalisation, sustainability, and engagement.  I hope this introduction will help set the scene for your discussions through the day, and I wish you all a very successful conference.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: ACET (ACT) Secures MOU with Saif Belhasa Holding, Paving the Way for Blockchain-Powered Finance in the UAE

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, Feb. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ACET (ACT), a global blockchain-driven digital asset, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Saif Belhasa Holding (SBH), one of the most influential business conglomerates in the Middle East and UAE. This collaboration is set to revolutionize the region’s digital economy, integrating ACET (ACT) into financial transactions across various industries within the SBH ecosystem.

    Since Donald Trump became President with pro-crypto policies, ACET (ACT) has witnessed a remarkable price surge of over 100%, reflecting heightened market confidence and increased adoption of blockchain-based financial solutions.

    A Strategic Partnership with Multi-Billion-Dollar Impact

    The agreement, signed on February 13, 2025, marks a significant milestone for both ACET (ACT) and SBH. Led by Dr. Saif Ahmad Belhasa, SBH manages a diverse business empire spanning real estate, construction, automotive, retail, education, and finance, with a corporate valuation exceeding $5 billion USD.

    This partnership is structured around a three-year roadmap to integrate ACET (ACT) as a key financial instrument within SBH’s operations, focusing on:

    • Real Estate – ACET (ACT) will facilitate luxury real estate transactions, with plans to implement NFT-based Property Tokenization for fractional ownership.
    • Automotive – Customers will be able to purchase and lease luxury vehicles from SBH dealerships using ACET (ACT), along with crypto-backed financing options.
    • Retail & Hospitality – ACET (ACT) will be accepted in malls, restaurants, hotels, and other SBH-affiliated businesses, offering exclusive VIP perks and discounts for token holders.
    • Financial Services – The partnership will introduce blockchain-powered financial products, including staking, lending, and investment funds tailored for institutional investors and family offices.
    • Smart Contracts & AI Integration – ACET (ACT) will be embedded into SBH’s financial infrastructure, enabling automated transactions, asset transfers, and AI-enhanced business solutions.
    • Institutional Expansion & Government Collaboration – The initiative aims to align with UAE’s financial regulations, securing recognition from Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).

    Crypto Market Reacts: ACET (ACT) Gains Momentum

    Following the MOU announcement, crypto investors and influencers across the world have hailed this deal as a game-changer for real-world-asset (RWA) crypto adoption. The market response has been overwhelmingly bullish, fueling a viral hashtags like #iHoldACT, #ACTxSBH, #ACTRWA and #ACT100X dominating discussions.

    Industry Leaders on the Partnership

    Acme Worawat, founder of ACT (ACET) and one of Asia’s largest Bitcoin holders, emphasized:

            “This partnership transforms ACET (ACT) into a fundamental component of the UAE’s digital economy. With SBH’s global presence, ACET (ACT) is poised for exponential growth beyond the Middle East, driving mainstream crypto adoption worldwide.”

    Dr. Saif Ahmad Belhasa, Chairman of SBH, added:

            “This MOU marks SBH’s bold step into blockchain finance, positioning us as a leader in digital payments. ACET (ACT) will be officially integrated into our financial ecosystem, making crypto a mainstream financial tool in the UAE and beyond.”

    About ACET (ACT) & SBH

    ACET (ACT) was founded in 2021 by Acme Worawat, a veteran crypto investor with over 13 years of experience. With a current trading volume of $412million (Approximately 14Billion THB) and over 156,000 holders worldwide, ACET (ACT) is rapidly emerging as a top-tier digital asset.

    Saif Belhasa Holding (SBH), established in 2001, is one of the most powerful business groups in the UAE, with a vast portfolio spanning 50+ subsidiaries and over 10,000 employees across various industries.

    With this partnership, ACET (ACT) is set to become one of the most widely adopted cryptocurrencies in institutional finance and real-world commerce. The bull run is on!

    Social Links:

    X: https://x.com/ACTDeFansFi

    Telegram: https://t.me/ACTAcet

    Media contact:
    Brand: ACET
    Contact: Corporate Communication Division
    Email: media@acet.finance
    Website: https://acet.finance/

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Acet Finance. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the sponsor and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial, investment, or trading advice. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/62035c52-66f6-48e1-903e-015fa27ee8db

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Fabio Panetta: The global economy – navigating uncertainty and change

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    1. The international economy

    In the advanced economies, inflation is declining and nearing central banks’ targets, leading them to gradually ease monetary tightening. The exception is Japan, where rising inflation has led the central bank to raise official interest rates to 0.5 per cent, the highest level in 17 years.

    Compared with the past, disinflation has been faster and less harmful to economic activity. This is thanks to the rapid unwinding of the shocks that had pushed up consumer prices – such as high energy costs – and to monetary policy, which has kept inflation expectations anchored.

    In the United States, where inflation is falling unevenly amid robust growth, the Federal Reserve is easing monetary conditions more gradually than expected. Its decisions are also being influenced by the recent change in administration, whose new fiscal and trade policies could significantly impact the economy and inflation, with implications for monetary policy. In the midst of this, longer-term yields have risen since the beginning of December, despite the drop in short-term interest rates, spurring an appreciation of the dollar (Figure A.1).

    In the emerging economies, the inflation scenario varies from country to country.

    In China, consumer price inflation is practically nil, while producer price inflation has been negative for two years, exposing the economy to the risk of deflation. Repeated monetary and fiscal interventions have supported financial markets, but their effectiveness in restoring price stability is uncertain.

    By contrast, inflation remains high in Brazil, Türkiye and Argentina, forcing central banks to maintain tight monetary conditions.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Who are Ismaili Muslims and how do their beliefs relate to the Aga Khan’s work?

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Shariq Siddiqui, Assistant Professor of Philanthropic Studies, Indiana University

    Prince Karim Aga Khan at an event on Oct. 2, 2019, in London. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

    Prince Karim Aga Khan, who died on Feb. 4, 2025, served as the religious leader of Ismaili Muslims around the world since being appointed as the 49th hereditary imam in 1957. He came to be known around the world for his enormous work on global development issues and other philanthropic work.

    The Ismaili community considers the imam a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. Ismaili Muslims are considered to be a branch of Shiite Islam. They constitute the second-largest community within the Shiite sect.

    An estimated 15 million Ismaili Muslims live in 35 countries, across all parts of the world. In the U.S., with around 40,000 Ismailis, Texas has the largest concentration of the community.

    As a scholar of Muslim philanthropy, I have long been impressed by the philanthropic and civic engagement of the Ismailis.

    Ismaili religious beliefs

    Following the death of the Prophet in A.D. 632, differences emerged over who should have both political and spiritual control over the Muslim community. A majority chose Abu Bakr, one of the Prophet’s closest companions, while a minority put their faith in his son-in-law and cousin, Ali. Those Muslims who put their faith in Abu Bakr came to be called Sunni, and those who believed in Ali came to be known as Shiite.

    Like other Shiite sects, Ismailis believe that Ali should have been selected as the successor of the Prophet Muhammad. They also believe that he should have been followed by Ali’s two sons – the grandsons of Muhammad through his daughter Fatima.

    The key difference among other Shiites and Ismailis lies in their lineage of imams. While they agree with the first six imams, Ismailis believe that Imam Ismail ibn Jafar was the rightful person to be the seventh imam, while the majority of Shiites, known as Twelvers, believe that Imam Musa al-Kazim, Ismail’s younger brother, was the true successor. They both agree that Ali was the first imam and on the next five imams, who are direct descendant of Ali and Fatima.

    The Ismaili sect split into two branches in 1094. Aga Khan was the leader of the Nizari branch, which believes in a living imam or leader. The second branch – Musta’lian Tayyibi Ismailis – believes that its 21st imam went into “concealment”; in his physical absence, a vicegerent or “da’i mutlaq” acts as an authority on his behalf.

    Like all Muslims, Ismailis believe that God sent his revelation to the Prophet Muhammad through Archangel Gabriel. However, they differ on other interpretations of the faith. According to the Ismailis, for example, the Quran conveys allegorical messages from God, and it is not the literal word of God. They also believe Muhammad to be the living embodiment of the Quran. Ismailis are strongly encouraged to pray three times a day, but it is not required.

    Ismailis believe in metaphorical, rather than literal, fasting. Ismailis believe that the esoteric meaning of fasting involves a fasting of the soul, whereby they attempt to purify the soul simply by avoiding sinful acts and doing good deeds.

    In terms of “Zakat,” or charity – the third pillar of Islam, which Muslims are required to follow – Ismailis differ in two ways. They give it to the leader of their faith, Aga Khan, and believe that they have to give 12.5% of their income versus 2.5%.

    Pluralism and its embrace

    Ismaili history has a strong connection to pluralism – part of their philosophy of embracing difference. The Fatimid Empire that ruled over parts of North Africa and the Middle East from 909 to 1171 is said to have been a “golden age of Ismaili thought.”

    It was a pluralistic community, in which Shiite and Sunni Muslims, as well as Christian and Jewish communities, worked together for the success of the flourishing empire, under the rule of the Ismaili imams.

    In the modern period, Ismailis have sought to further pluralism within their own communities by arguing that pluralism goes beyond tolerance and requires people to actively engage across differences and actively embrace difference as a strength. For example, Eboo Patel, an Ismaili American, has established the nonprofit Interfaith America as a way to further pluralism among faith communities.

    The Aga Khan’s philanthropic work

    Prince Karim Aga Khan established the Aga Khan Development Network and Aga Khan Foundation in 1967.

    Some 53 nurses and 98 midwives from Ghazanfar Institute of Health Sciences, supported by The Aga Khan University in Karachi, Pakistan, and the United States Agency for International Development, attend a graduation ceremony in Kabul, Afghanistan, on March 29, 2009.
    Massoud Hossaini AFP via Getty Images

    The network supports health care, housing, education and rural economic development in underprivileged areas. The foundation is one of nine agencies of the network that focuses on philanthropy. The Aga Khan Development Network has hospitals serving the poor in several parts of the world. The Aga Khan Medical University in Karachi, Pakistan, is considered to be a leading medical school globally.

    While previous imams or leaders also led charity and development projects, the Aga Khan was the first to create a formal, global philanthropic foundation.

    The Aga Khan Foundation operates in countries with Ismaili populations or historical connections to the Ismaili community, such as Afghanistan, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Portugal, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania and Uganda. The foundation also has offices in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States, focusing primarily on raising funds and advocating for the foundation.

    According to the foundation, in 2023 it served over 20 million people through 23,310 civil society partner organizations.

    The Ismaili community will now be led by the Aga Khan’s eldest son, Rahim Al-Hussaini, as the 50th imam. He has been actively involved with the Aga Khan Development Network and is expected to continue the important philanthropic and development work of his global community.

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

    – ref. Who are Ismaili Muslims and how do their beliefs relate to the Aga Khan’s work? – https://theconversation.com/who-are-ismaili-muslims-and-how-do-their-beliefs-relate-to-the-aga-khans-work-249318

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Cutting funding for science can have consequences for the economy, US technological competitiveness

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Chris Impey, University Distinguished Professor of Astronomy, University of Arizona

    National Institutes of Health indirect costs, which are under the knife, go toward managing laboratories and facilities. Fei Yang/Moment via Getty Images

    America has already lost its global competitive edge in science, and funding cuts proposed in early 2025 may further a precipitous decline.

    Proposed cuts to the federal agencies that fund scientific research could undercut America’s global competitiveness, with negative impacts on the economy and the ability to attract and train the next generation of researchers.

    I’m an astronomer, and I have been a senior administrator at the University of Arizona’s College of Science. Because of these roles, I’m invested in the future of scientific research in the United States. I’m worried funding cuts could mean a decline in the amount and quality of research published – and that some potential discoveries won’t get made.

    The endless frontier

    A substantial part of U.S. prosperity after World War II was due to the country’s investment in science and technology.

    Vannevar Bush founded the company that later became Raytheon and was the president of the Carnegie Institution. In 1945, he delivered a report to President Franklin D. Roosevelt called The Endless Frontier.

    In this report, Bush argued that scientific research was essential to the country’s economic well-being and security. His advocacy led to the founding of the National Science Foundation and science policy as we know it today. He argued that a centralized approach to science funding would efficiently distribute resources to scientists doing research at universities.

    The National Science Foundation awards funding to many research projects and early career scientists. Pictured are astronomers from the LIGO collaboration, which won a Nobel Prize.
    AP Photo/Andrew Harnik

    Since 1945, advances in science and technology have driven 85% of American economic growth. Science and innovation are the engines of prosperity, where research generates new technologies, innovations and solutions that improve the quality of life and drive economic development.

    This causal relationship, where scientific research leads to innovations and inventions that promote economic growth, is true around the world.

    The importance of basic research

    Investment in research and development has tripled since 1990, but that growth has been funded by the business sector for applied research, while federal investment in basic research has stagnated. The distinction matters, because basic research, which is purely exploratory research, has enormous downstream benefits.

    Quantum computing is a prime example. Quantum computing originated 40 years ago, based on the fundamental physics of quantum mechanics. It has matured only in the past few years to the point where quantum computers can solve some problems faster than classical computers.

    Basic research into quantum physics has allowed quantum computing to develop and advance.
    AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin

    Worldwide, basic research pays for itself and has more impact on economic growth than applied research. This is because basic research expands the shared knowledge base that innovators can draw on.

    For example, a biotech advocacy firm calculated that every dollar of funding to the National Institutes of Health generates US$2.46 in economic activity, which is why a recent cut of $9 billion to its funding is so disturbing.

    The American public also values science. In an era of declining trust in public institutions, more than 3 in 4 Americans say research investment is creating employment opportunities, and a similar percentage are confident that scientists act in the public’s best interests.

    Science superpower slipping

    By some metrics, American science is preeminent. Researchers working in America have won over 40% of the science Nobel Prizes – three times more than people from any other country. American research universities are magnets for scientific talent, and the United States spends more on research and development than any other country.

    But there is intense competition to be a science superpower, and several metrics suggest the United States is slipping. Research and development spending as a percentage of GDP has fallen from a high of 1.9% in 1964 to 0.7% in 2021. Worldwide, the United States ranked 12th for this metric in 2021, behind South Korea and European countries.

    In number of scientific researchers as a portion of the labor force, the United States ranks 10th.

    Metrics for research quality tell a similar story. In 2020, China overtook the United States in having the largest share of the top 1% most-cited papers.

    China also leads the world in the number of patents, and it has been outspending the U.S. on research in the past few decades. Switzerland and Sweden eclipse the United States in terms of science and technology innovation. This definition of innovation goes beyond research in labs and the number of scientific papers published to include improvements to outcomes in the form of new goods or new services.

    Among American educators and workers in technical fields, 3 in 4 think the United States has already lost the competition for global leadership.

    Threats to science funding

    Against this backdrop, threats made in the beginning of President Donald Trump’s second term to science funding are ominous.

    Trump’s first wave of executive orders caused chaos at science agencies as they struggled to interpret the directives. Much of the anxiety involved excising language and programs relating to diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI.

    The National Science Foundation is particularly in the crosshairs. In late January 2025, it froze the routine review and approval of grants and new expenditures, impeding future research, and has been vetting grants to make sure they comply with orders from the U.S. president.

    The National Institutes of Health announced on Feb. 7, 2024 a decision to limit overhead rates to 15% which sent many researchers reeling though it has since been temporarily blocked by a judge. The National Institutes of Health is the world’s largest funder of biomedical research, and these indirect costs provide support for the operation and maintenance of lab facilities. They are essential for doing research.

    The new administration has proposed deeper cuts. The National Science Foundation has been told to prepare for the loss of half of its staff and two-thirds of its funding. Other federal science agencies are facing similar threats of layoffs and funding cuts.

    The impact

    Congress already failed to deliver on its 2022 commitment to increase research funding, and federal funding for science agencies is at a 25-year low.

    As the president’s proposals reach Congress for approval or negotiation, they will test the traditionally bipartisan support science has held. If Congress cuts budgets further, I believe the impact on job creation, the training of young scientists and the health of the economy will be substantial.

    Deep cuts to agencies that account for a small fraction – just over 1% – of federal spending will not put a dent in the soaring budget deficit, but they could irreparably harm one of the nation’s most valuable enterprises.

    Chris Impey has received funding from NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.

    – ref. Cutting funding for science can have consequences for the economy, US technological competitiveness – https://theconversation.com/cutting-funding-for-science-can-have-consequences-for-the-economy-us-technological-competitiveness-249568

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Wallet Expands Digital Key Support for Select Volvo Cars and Polestar Vehicles

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics today announced Digital Key compatibility with select Volvo Cars1 and Polestar2 vehicles through Samsung Wallet, offering more drivers a seamless way to use their Galaxy smartphone to unlock, lock and start their vehicle.
     
    “Expanding Samsung Digital Key access is an important part of our commitment to offering connected, secure experiences within the Galaxy ecosystem,” said Woncheol Chai, EVP and Head of the Digital Wallet Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our partnership with automakers such as Volvo Cars and Polestar marks another exciting step forward in making everyday activities like driving hassle-free for more Galaxy users worldwide.”
     

     
    ▲ Volvo EX90
     
    ▲ Polestar 3
     
    Built directly into Galaxy devices, Digital Key3 lets users lock, unlock and start the paired vehicle without a physical key. Digital Key offers three ways to control the car: Ultra-wideband (UWB)4 for hands-free access, Near Field Communication (NFC) for tap-to-unlock and start, and Bluetooth low energy (BLE) control via Samsung Wallet. Users can also share Digital Keys with friends and family across OEM devices, managing access as needed.
     
    Samsung Digital Key meets EAL6+5 certification standards, the top-level security for smart devices, to protect against unauthorized access by ensuring secure embedding within the device. UWB technologies, a standardized communication protocol set by the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), further reduce the risk of unauthorized vehicle access with precise and reliable functionality. If a device containing a Samsung Digital Key is lost or stolen, users can remotely lock or delete their Digital Key via Samsung Find. Biometric and PIN-based user authentication on Samsung Wallet ensures that every interaction remains secure and private.
     
    Launched in June 2022, Samsung Wallet is a versatile platform that allows Galaxy users to organize Digital Keys, payment methods, identification cards and more in one secure application. Protected by defense-grade security from Samsung Knox and integrated across the Galaxy ecosystem, Samsung Wallet provides seamless connectivity and enhanced security for users in their everyday lives.
     
     
    Availability
    Samsung Digital Key functionality for select Volvo Cars vehicles will roll out starting this month in Europe, North America, Latin America and Asia.6 Samsung Digital Key functionality for select Polestar vehicles will roll out starting this month in Europe, North America and Asia.7
     
     
    About Volvo Car Group
    Volvo Cars was founded in 1927. Today, it is one of the most well-known and respected car brands in the world with sales to customers in more than 100 countries. Volvo Cars is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange, where it is traded under the ticker “VOLCAR B”.
     
    “For life. To give people the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way.” This purpose is reflected in Volvo Cars’ ambition to become a fully electric car maker and in its commitment to an ongoing reduction of its carbon footprint, with the ambition to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
     
    As of December 2024, Volvo Cars employed approximately 42,600 full-time employees. Volvo Cars’ head office, product development, marketing and administration functions are mainly located in Gothenburg, Sweden. Volvo Cars’ production plants are located in Gothenburg, Ghent (Belgium), South Carolina (US), Chengdu, Daqing and Taizhou (China). The company also has R&D and design centres in Gothenburg and Shanghai (China).
     
    About Polestar
    Polestar (Nasdaq: PSNY) is the Swedish electric performance car brand with a focus on uncompromised design and innovation, and the ambition to accelerate the change towards a sustainable future. Headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, its cars are available in 27 markets globally across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific.
     
    Polestar has three models in its line-up: Polestar 2, Polestar 3 and Polestar 4. Planned models include the Polestar 5 four-door GT (to be introduced in 2025), the Polestar 6 roadster and the Polestar 7 compact SUV. With its vehicles currently manufactured on two continents, North America and Asia, Polestar plans to diversify its manufacturing footprint further, with production of Polestar 7 planned in Europe.
     
    Polestar has an unwavering commitment to sustainability and has set an ambitious roadmap to reach its climate targets: halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 per-vehicle-sold and become climate-neutral across its value chain by 2040. Polestar’s comprehensive sustainability strategy covers the four areas of Climate, Transparency, Circularity and Inclusion.
     
     

    1 Volvo vehicles supporting Digital Key include: Volvo EX90. More vehicles will follow.2 Polestar vehicles supporting Digital Key include: Polestar 3. More vehicles will follow.3 Samsung Wallet Digital Key support is available on select devices, including: Galaxy S20 Ultra/S20+/S20, S21 Ultra/S21+/S21/S21 FE, S22 Ultra/S22+/S22, S23 Ultra/S23+/S23/S23 FE, S24 Ultra/S24+/S24/S24 FE, S25 Ultra/S25+/S25, Note20 Ultra/Note20, Z Fold2, Z Fold3, Z Fold4, Z Fold5, Z Fold6, Z Flip 5G, Z Flip3, Z Flip4, Z Flip5, Z Flip6.4 UWB support is available on select devices, including: Galaxy S21 Ultra/S21+, S22 Ultra/S22+, S23 Ultra/S23+, S24 Ultra/S24+, S25 Ultra/S25+, Note20 Ultra, Z Fold2, Z Fold3, Z Fold4, Z Fold5, Z Fold6.5 Evaluation Assurance Level 6 Augmented (EAL6+) is one of the highest security certifications within Common Criteria, an internationally recognized standard for computer security certification.6 Digital Key rollout for Volvo in Asia begins in Australia, Malaysia and Thailand.7 Digital Key rollout for Polestar in Asia begins in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Singapore.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – May Father Donald’s sacrifice “serve as an offering to put an end to violence”: messages from the representative of the Holy See and the Bishops of Myanmar

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Archdiocese of Mandalay

    Yangon (Agenzia Fides) – “The Holy See expresses its sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family, the religious communities and the faithful of the Archdiocese of Mandalay,” is expressed in a message addressed by Monsignor Andrea Ferrante, Chargé d’Affaires and Representative of the Holy See in Myanmar, to the Archbishop of Mandalay, Marco Tin Win. They pray “for the eternal rest of the priest who was the victim of unjustified violence.” The condolence message read to the faithful during the funeral Mass celebrated yesterday, February 16, refers to the death of the Catholic priest Donald Martin Ye Naing Win, murdered on February 14 in his parish of Our Lady of Lourdes in the Archdiocese of Mandalay (see Fides, 15/2/2025).The text expresses solidarity with the local community wounded by violence and invites priests, religious, missionaries and believers to “continue their mission with zeal, despite all difficulties, following the example of Jesus, the Good Shepherd”. “Rooted in his love”, it continues, “may you be signs of the merciful presence of the Father who welcomes his children and heals their wounds”. The text entrusts the faithful suffering from the ongoing conflict to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is described as “the certainty of our hope”, so that she “sustains the Burmese people in a spirit of communion, unity and solidarity”.The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar also expressed its deep solidarity with the people of Mandalay: “The Catholic Church throughout Myanmar mourns with Archbishop Marco Tin Win, the priests, religious and faithful of the Archdiocese of Mandalay and the parents and relatives of Fr. Donald Martin Ye Naing Win. May God the Father, the Lord of all life, comfort your and our grieving hearts,” reads the message of condolence from the Burmese bishops, who express their deep shock and sadness and hope that “the blood and sacrifices of countless innocent people, together with that of Fr. Donald Martin, may serve as an offering to end the violence that is raging throughout the country”. “May the spirit of brotherhood be reawakened from these shocking experiences: we urge an end to violence,” write the bishops, calling for peace.The message, signed by Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, President of the Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar, states: “The heinous act committed against Father Donald Martin Ye Naing Win cannot be forgotten. We therefore call on those responsible to take appropriate measures and ensure that justice is done so that such incidents are not repeated in the future.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 17/2/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – Funeral ceremony in the birthplace: ten suspects arrested in connection with the murder of Father Donald Martin Ye Naing Win

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Monday, 17 February 2025

    Archdiocese of Mandalay

    Yangon (Agenzia Fides) – More than 5,000 people, despite the dangers and general violence, gathered in the village of Pyin Oo Lwin to pay their last respects to Catholic priest Donald Martin Ye Naing Win, who was brutally murdered on February 14 in his parish of Our Lady of Lourdes in the Archdiocese of Mandalay (see Fides, 15/2/2025). The mountain village of Pyin Oo Lwin is the birthplace of Father Donald, where his family lives. There, priests, religious, faithful gathered around the Archbishop of Mandalay, Marco Tin Win, in the Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary to celebrate the funeral mass and offer consolation to Father Donald’s family, who attended the funeral mass. The moving participation of the people, according to Fides sources present at the celebration, set the scene for the Mass during which the Archbishop read the message of the Apostolic Nunciature in Yangon and the condolences of the Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar, which express deep and sincere solidarity with the local population (see Fides, 17/2/2025).Archbishop Marco Tin Win, who presided over the Eucharist, urged the faithful to wake up, “because violence only brings death and destruction, it is always a defeat”, and he made a heartfelt appeal “to all armed groups and actors involved in the conflict to lay down their weapons and take a path of peace and reconciliation”. He then entrusted Father Donald, his family and the entire community present to the loving hands of the Virgin Mary: “May Our Lady accompany him to paradise and protect all under her mantle, giving comfort and hope,” said the Archbishop.The local community is asking about the reasons for the senseless murder of a priest who devoted himself with ardour to others. According to local sources, Father Donald was particularly involved in organizing educational work for children and young people in the area around his parish of Our Lady of Lourdes, where he was the first parish priest and where about 40 Catholic families live. Faced with civil war, violence and displacement, schools are closed, there are no teachers and only informal classes given voluntarily by priests, religious and catechists ensure a minimum level of continuity in the education of children and young people.The area is controlled by the People’s Defence Force (PDF), which is fighting against the military junta. The leadership of these forces has been asked to investigate the armed groups that attacked and murdered the priest. The militias, meanwhile, have arrested ten men from the village of Kan Gyi Taw, where Father Donald was murdered. The People’s Defense Forces, according to Fides sources, are themselves interested in identifying and punishing the culprits and have transferred those arrested to a court set up by the People’s Defense Force in the areas currently defined as “liberated areas”, that is, not under the control of the Burmese government. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 17/2/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Why is there so much gold in west Africa?

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Raymond Kazapoe, Senior lecturer, University for Development Studies

    Militaries that have taken power in Africa’s Sahel region – notably Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger – have put pressure on western mining firms for a fairer distribution of revenue from the lucrative mining sector.

    Gold is one of the resources at the heart of these tensions. West Africa has been a renowned gold mining hub for centuries, dating back to the ancient Ghana empire, which earned its reputation as the “Land of Gold” because of its abundant reserves and thriving trade networks. The region remains a global leader in gold production. As of 2024, west Africa contributed approximately 10.8% of the world’s total gold output.

    But why is there so much gold in this region? The Conversation Africa asked geologist Raymond Kazapoe to explain.

    How is gold formed?

    The simple answer here is that we are not certain. However, scientists have some ideas.

    Gold, like all elements, formed through high energy reactions that occurred in various cosmic and space environments some 13 billion years ago, when the universe started to form.

    However, gold deposits – or the concentration of gold in large volumes within rock formations – are believed to occur through various processes, explained by two theories.

    The first theory – described by geologist Richard J. Goldfarb – argues that large amounts of gold were deposited in certain areas when continents were expanding and changing shape, around 3 billion years ago. This happened when smaller landmasses, or islands, collided and stuck to larger continents, a process called accretionary tectonics. During these collisions, mineral-rich fluids moved through the Earth’s crust, depositing gold in certain areas.

    A quartz vein rock specimen with visible gold. Mangiwau/Getty Images

    A newer, complementary theory by planetary scientist Andrew Tomkins explains the formation of some much younger gold deposits during the Phanerozoic period (approximately 650 million years ago). It suggests that as the Earth’s oceans became richer in oxygen during the Phanerozoic period, gold got trapped within another mineral known as pyrite (often called fool’s gold) as microscopic particles. Later, geological processes – like continental growth (accretion) and heat or pressure changes (metamorphism) released this gold – forming deposits that could be mined.

    Where in west Africa is gold found and what are its sources?

    Most gold production and reserves in west Africa are found within the west African craton. This is one of the world’s oldest geological formations, consisting of ancient, continental crust that has remained largely unchanged for billions of years.

    West African Craton. Wikipedia

    The craton underlies much of west Africa, spanning parts of Mali, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Senegal and Mauritania. In fact, most west African countries that have significant gold deposits have close to 50% of their landmass on the craton. Notably, between 35% and 45% of Ghana, Mali and Côte d’Ivoire’s territory sits on it – which is why these areas receive so much attention from gold prospectors.

    Gold deposits were formed within west Africa’s craton rocks during a major tectonic event, known as the Eburnean Orogeny, 2.2 billion to 2.08 billion years ago. This event was accompanied by the temperature, pressure and tectonic conditions which promote gold mineralisation events. Most of the gold resources in the west African craton are found within ancient geological formations formed by volcanic and tectonic processes about 2.3 billion to 2.05 billion years ago. These are known as the Rhyacian Birimian granitoid-greenstone belts.

    These gold-bearing belts in Ghana and Mali are by far the most endowed when compared with other countries in the region. Ghana and Mali currently, cumulatively account for over 57% of the combined past production and resources of the entire west Africa sub-region.

    Gold bearing geological structures in Ghana. Gerhard Michael Free/Shutterstock

    Ghana is thought to be home to 1,000 metric tonnes of gold. The country produces 90 metric tonnes each year – or 7% of global production. Gold production in Mali reached around 67.7 tonnes in 2023. Mali has an estimated 800 tons of gold deposits.

    By comparison, the world’s two largest gold producers are China (which mined approximately 370 metric tonnes of gold in 2023) and Australia (which had an output of around 310 metric tonnes in 2023).

    What are some of the modern exploration tools used to find gold?

    Gold was traditionally found by panning in riverbeds, where miners swirled sediment in water to separate the heavy gold particles, or by digging shallow pits to extract gold-rich ores. Over time, methods have evolved to include geochemical exploration techniques, advanced geophysical surveys, and chemical extraction techniques, like cyanide leaching.

    Geological mapping techniques are always evolving, and at the moment, there is a lot of interest in combining remote sensing data with cutting-edge data analytics methods, like machine learning. By combining these two methods, geologists can get around some of the problems caused by traditional methods, like the reliance on subjective judgement to create reliable maps and the need to spend money prospecting in areas with low chances of success.

    In recent years, deep learning computer techniques have made significant progress. They examine various geological data-sets to reduce uncertainty and increase the chances of finding gold mineralisation through advanced artificial intelligence techniques. These methods have proved highly beneficial in identifying specific features and discovering new mineral deposits when applied to remote sensing data.

    Another method, which I’ve researched and which could serve as a complementary gold exploration tool, is the use of stable isotopes. Stable isotopes are elements – like carbon, hydrogen and oxygen – that do not decay over time. Some are responsible for helping to carry gold, in fluids, through rocks to form the deposits. As the gold-bearing fluids interact with the rocks, they transfer the stable isotopes to the rocks, thereby imbuing them with their unique signature. The thinking here is to identify the signature and then use it as a proxy for finding gold, since gold itself is hard to identify directly.

    Advancements in analytical techniques have reduced the cost, volume, and time involved. This makes it a viable alternative to geochemical approaches – the most widely used and relatively efficient method.

    – Why is there so much gold in west Africa?
    – https://theconversation.com/why-is-there-so-much-gold-in-west-africa-248599

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why is there so much gold in west Africa?

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Raymond Kazapoe, Senior lecturer, University for Development Studies

    Militaries that have taken power in Africa’s Sahel region – notably Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger – have put pressure on western mining firms for a fairer distribution of revenue from the lucrative mining sector.

    Gold is one of the resources at the heart of these tensions. West Africa has been a renowned gold mining hub for centuries, dating back to the ancient Ghana empire, which earned its reputation as the “Land of Gold” because of its abundant reserves and thriving trade networks. The region remains a global leader in gold production. As of 2024, west Africa contributed approximately 10.8% of the world’s total gold output.

    But why is there so much gold in this region? The Conversation Africa asked geologist Raymond Kazapoe to explain.

    How is gold formed?

    The simple answer here is that we are not certain. However, scientists have some ideas.

    Gold, like all elements, formed through high energy reactions that occurred in various cosmic and space environments some 13 billion years ago, when the universe started to form.

    However, gold deposits – or the concentration of gold in large volumes within rock formations – are believed to occur through various processes, explained by two theories.

    The first theory – described by geologist Richard J. Goldfarb – argues that large amounts of gold were deposited in certain areas when continents were expanding and changing shape, around 3 billion years ago. This happened when smaller landmasses, or islands, collided and stuck to larger continents, a process called accretionary tectonics. During these collisions, mineral-rich fluids moved through the Earth’s crust, depositing gold in certain areas.

    A newer, complementary theory by planetary scientist Andrew Tomkins explains the formation of some much younger gold deposits during the Phanerozoic period (approximately 650 million years ago). It suggests that as the Earth’s oceans became richer in oxygen during the Phanerozoic period, gold got trapped within another mineral known as pyrite (often called fool’s gold) as microscopic particles. Later, geological processes – like continental growth (accretion) and heat or pressure changes (metamorphism) released this gold – forming deposits that could be mined.

    Where in west Africa is gold found and what are its sources?

    Most gold production and reserves in west Africa are found within the west African craton. This is one of the world’s oldest geological formations, consisting of ancient, continental crust that has remained largely unchanged for billions of years.

    The craton underlies much of west Africa, spanning parts of Mali, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Senegal and Mauritania. In fact, most west African countries that have significant gold deposits have close to 50% of their landmass on the craton. Notably, between 35% and 45% of Ghana, Mali and Côte d’Ivoire’s territory sits on it – which is why these areas receive so much attention from gold prospectors.

    Gold deposits were formed within west Africa’s craton rocks during a major tectonic event, known as the Eburnean Orogeny, 2.2 billion to 2.08 billion years ago. This event was accompanied by the temperature, pressure and tectonic conditions which promote gold mineralisation events. Most of the gold resources in the west African craton are found within ancient geological formations formed by volcanic and tectonic processes about 2.3 billion to 2.05 billion years ago. These are known as the Rhyacian Birimian granitoid-greenstone belts.

    These gold-bearing belts in Ghana and Mali are by far the most endowed when compared with other countries in the region. Ghana and Mali currently, cumulatively account for over 57% of the combined past production and resources of the entire west Africa sub-region.

    Ghana is thought to be home to 1,000 metric tonnes of gold. The country produces 90 metric tonnes each year – or 7% of global production. Gold production in Mali reached around 67.7 tonnes in 2023. Mali has an estimated 800 tons of gold deposits.

    By comparison, the world’s two largest gold producers are China (which mined approximately 370 metric tonnes of gold in 2023) and Australia (which had an output of around 310 metric tonnes in 2023).

    What are some of the modern exploration tools used to find gold?

    Gold was traditionally found by panning in riverbeds, where miners swirled sediment in water to separate the heavy gold particles, or by digging shallow pits to extract gold-rich ores. Over time, methods have evolved to include geochemical exploration techniques, advanced geophysical surveys, and chemical extraction techniques, like cyanide leaching.

    Geological mapping techniques are always evolving, and at the moment, there is a lot of interest in combining remote sensing data with cutting-edge data analytics methods, like machine learning. By combining these two methods, geologists can get around some of the problems caused by traditional methods, like the reliance on subjective judgement to create reliable maps and the need to spend money prospecting in areas with low chances of success.

    In recent years, deep learning computer techniques have made significant progress. They examine various geological data-sets to reduce uncertainty and increase the chances of finding gold mineralisation through advanced artificial intelligence techniques. These methods have proved highly beneficial in identifying specific features and discovering new mineral deposits when applied to remote sensing data.

    Another method, which I’ve researched and which could serve as a complementary gold exploration tool, is the use of stable isotopes. Stable isotopes are elements – like carbon, hydrogen and oxygen – that do not decay over time. Some are responsible for helping to carry gold, in fluids, through rocks to form the deposits. As the gold-bearing fluids interact with the rocks, they transfer the stable isotopes to the rocks, thereby imbuing them with their unique signature. The thinking here is to identify the signature and then use it as a proxy for finding gold, since gold itself is hard to identify directly.

    Advancements in analytical techniques have reduced the cost, volume, and time involved. This makes it a viable alternative to geochemical approaches – the most widely used and relatively efficient method.

    Raymond Kazapoe receives funding from the African Union and Pan African University to carry out some of the research referenced in this article

    – ref. Why is there so much gold in west Africa? – https://theconversation.com/why-is-there-so-much-gold-in-west-africa-248599

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Thailand’s TV lesbian romances captured a global audience

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Eva Cheuk-Yin Li, Lecturer in Sociology (Media & Cultural Studies Team), Lancaster University

    While dramas about male same-sex romance (known as “boys’ love”, or BL) have been popular in Asia since 2010, “girls’ love” (GL) dramas are only now seeing a meteoric rise in popularity – and they are coming out of Thailand.

    On January 23 2025, Thailand became the first country in south-east Asia to legalise same-sex marriage. Although the country is often imagined as a “gay paradise”, Thai society remains largely conservative and homophobia is still commonplace. Against this social backdrop, the rise of LGBTQ+ storytelling is intriguing – perhaps revealing the emergence of more tolerant and progressive attitudes.

    In Thailand, these BL and GL dramas are known as series “Y”, an industry estimated to be worth 3 billion baht (approximately £72 million) in 2024. Thailand’s GL dramas now reshaping sapphic storytelling and bringing it to the mainstream.

    Besides the central romance plotline, GL stories often explore pertinent issues such as family expectations and societal pressure, coming-out struggles, and age and class differences. Adding depth to the narrative, these issues chime with young queer audiences seeking more realistic, relatable experiences.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    A hub for BL series since the mid-2010s, Thailand only produced its first full-length GL series in 2022. Despite investor doubts, the producer of a then-small production house financed a pioneering series called Gap, telling the story of an office romance between a royal-descendant CEO and a junior member of staff.

    Airing on domestic TV and later uncut on YouTube with multilingual subtitles, Gap amassed over 850 million views by January 2025, proving a global appetite for queer women-oriented stories. By February 2025, more than 20 GL series had aired, with at least 30 more in production.

    Trailer of Gap (2022), Thailand’s first full-length GL series.

    Series like Blank, 23.5, The Secret of Us, Affair, and The Loyal Pin illustrate the genre’s growing popularity, with uncut versions available on platforms like YouTube and Netflix, complete with subtitles in various languages such as English, Korean, Vietnamese, Spanish, Portuguese and Turkish.

    Thailand’s GL dramas have adopted successful practices from their BL counterparts: adapting novels, scouting and training actors, incorporating product placement, hosting fan events and appearing on variety shows. One notable practice is the making of khu-jin (imagined couple), where celebrities perform same-sex intimate moments on stage or social media to serve fans’ fantasies.

    “Shipping” culture – the practice of imagining or supporting a romantic relationship between fictional or real individuals – is pivotal to GL’s success. The two Gap leads, Freen Sarocha and Becky Armstrong have created the “FreenBecky” ship, and each have more than four million Instagram followers. Actresses of other “ships” such as LingOrm, EngLot, and FayeYoko, command similarly devoted followings. Their fan meetings across Asia regularly draw tens of thousands, blending fiction and reality to create an immersive fan ecosystem.

    Celebrating Girls Love

    As we discussed in our recent research, Thai GL series also emphasises joy and resilience, unlike the tragic endings often seen in western LGBTQ+ narratives. US-produced content has been criticised for the “bury your gays trope”, where LGBTQ+ characters are frequently killed off in tragic or unnecessary ways.

    Another objection is “dead lesbian syndrome”, where lesbian and bisexual characters are even more likely to be killed on screen. Notorious examples include Killing Eve and The 100.

    In contrast, Thai GL stories celebrate love and acceptance, despite the challenges experienced by protagonists. Series like Gap, The Secret of Us, and Mate feature grand wedding finales with the blessing of parents and friends, portraying queer love overcoming obstacles and thriving.

    GL series also speak directly to the queer women’s community. Many actresses, such as Engfa Waraha in Show Me Love and Petrichor, and Faye Malisorn in Blank, are openly queer or vocal queer allies.

    Although many GL series have male directors, love scenes are respectful, focusing on sensuality and desire rather than being graphic and exploitative. This contrasts with films such as Blue is the Warmest Colour, in which love scenes were criticised as being exploitative, and where actresses have reported problematic practices during filming.

    Opportunities and challenges

    From their inception, Thai GL dramas have aired locally but have quickly been made available on streaming platforms with multilingual subtitles for a global audience. Social media platforms amplify their reach, with production houses curating trends and fostering interactive fan experiences.

    Recognising the potential for cultural export, the Thai government has partnered with BL and GL production companies to promote Thai culture and products. It is unusual for governments to embrace queer culture as a vehicle for soft power, which highlights the growing cultural and economic significance of these series. Though this development has sparked concerns over the intentions behind such support, it signals a future where queer narratives hold global, cultural and political relevance.

    Despite its success, GL entertainment faces challenges. Many series are still adaptations of novels, limiting thematic diversity. While themes like schoolyard dramas and sweet romances such as Love Senior, Unlock Your Love, and Us prevail, some series are pushing boundaries with themes like disability (Pluto), supernatural power (Reverse 4 You), and crime (Petrichor).

    GL romances provide a vital space for queer women’s stories, connecting audiences across borders through global visibility and fan culture. Most remarkably, this shift isn’t coming from Hollywood.

    As the genre evolves, it holds the potential to continue redefining representation and amplifying underrepresented voices. It’s not just reshaping how queer women’s stories are told and viewed globally, it’s proving to be commercially viable and culturally transformative.

    In the face of rising global reactionary politics and growing hatred against the LGBTQ+ community following Trump’s re-election, Thai GL series offers not only a safe escape and fantasy, but also a sense of solidarity through their worldwide fandom.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How Thailand’s TV lesbian romances captured a global audience – https://theconversation.com/how-thailands-tv-lesbian-romances-captured-a-global-audience-248261

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Shree Balaji Urban Co-operative Bank Ltd., Satna, Madhya Pradesh

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated February 13, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1.10 lakh (Rupees One Lakh Ten Thousand only) on Shree Balaji Urban Co-operative Bank Ltd., Satna, Madhya Pradesh (the bank), for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Priority Sector Lending (PSL) – Targets and Classification’ and specific directions issued by RBI on making contribution to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSE) Refinance Fund due to shortfall in achievement of PSL. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The bank was directed by RBI through specific direction to deposit a certain amount in the MSE Refinance Fund administered by Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) against the shortfall in achievement of PSL target for the Financial Year (FY) 2022-23. On failure to deposit the specified amount, a cautionary letter was issued by RBI advising the bank to deposit the specified amount, but the bank failed to deposit the same. Based on the above-mentioned non-compliance and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the RBI directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, oral submissions made during the personal hearing and examination of additional submissions made by it, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had failed to deposit the prescribed amount in the MSE Refinance Fund maintained with SIDBI against the shortfall in achievement of PSL target for FY 2022-23, even after the issuance of cautionary letter, within the prescribed time.

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

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2187

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Too distracted to watch? Netflix has the perfect ‘second-screen’ show for you

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Daphne Rena Idiz, Postdoctoral fellow, Department of Arts, Culture and Media, University of Toronto

    Overly expository dialogue, repeating plot points and lots of voice-overs to narrate action help distracted viewers along. (Shutterstock)

    Netflix knows we’re on our phones while we watch TV. Recent articles discuss Netflix’s or streamers’ requests for creatives to produce content optimized for casual viewing, meaning intentionally scripted for distracted viewers.

    I’ve spent the last few years researching how Netflix shapes European screen production, a region where the streaming giant has invested billions in original content.

    I first encountered the concept of “second-screen shows” — created with distracted viewing in mind — in 2022.

    At the time, I was doing interviews with producers, showrunners, screenwriters and directors who had worked on European Netflix originals (due to confidentiality, they have been given pseudonyms here). Two of my interviewees described what they saw as very unusual feedback coming from Netflix executives: make a show that the audience can follow without looking at the screen.

    Recipe for a ‘second-screen show’

    So, how exactly do you make a second-screen show?

    One of my interviewees, Eleven, said that Netflix explicitly labels certain series “second-screen shows” and develops them as such. Another, Tokyo, shared their experience encountering similar directives:

    “[Netflix] basically said, ‘What you need to know about your audience here is that they will watch the show, perhaps on their mobile phone, or on a second or third screen while doing something else and talking to their friends, so you need to both show and tell, you need to say much more than you would normally say. […] You need your audience to understand what’s going on, even if they’re not looking at the screen.’”

    These series are designed around the viewing behaviours of their target audience, described by my interviewees as “younger” and “young adult” viewers.

    As Eleven explained, a Netflix executive would talk about how “in this show, we have to make sure that the points come through, even though kids are watching TikTok while they watch it.”

    Because Netflix knows a certain target audience will be “second-screening” these series, the streamer wants the show’s writing to facilitate this practice. Concretely, this means overly expository dialogue, repeating plot points and adding lots of voice-overs to narrate the action and help the distracted viewer follow along.

    Other sources cite examples where screenwriters were told to have characters announce what they’re doing and make the show less distracting from the viewer’s “primary screen” (their phone).

    Eleven joked about how if a character was sad, Netflix would ask to include a line of dialogue for the character saying, “I’m sad” with tears streaming down their face, while rain pours, and mournful violins play in the background.

    Here, the golden rule of screenwriting “show, don’t tell,” is cast aside for “show and tell” (and tell again). Joking aside, they reflected: “It saddens me, on behalf of great storytelling traditions.”

    The revival of casual viewing

    But are second-screen shows really the final nail in the coffin for prestige TV? The idea of casual or background viewing is not new.

    There is a long history of content targeting the distracted viewer.
    (Shutterstock)

    From soap operas to sitcoms to reality TV, there is a long history of content targeting the distracted viewer.

    Sometimes we’re just tired and need an easy watch. But these types of series are a far cry from the era of HBO-style Netflix, hyping itself as the home of quality TV, a place where showrunners could find unprecedented creative freedom.

    There is still a time and place for complex storytelling. But data suggests
    that over half of viewers in many national markets — including in India, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, the United States, Britain and Denmark — are periodically checking their phones while watching TV. And Netflix is creating shows that enable this ritual.

    ‘Cult’ of data

    Netflix’s strategy has always hinged on a granular understanding of its users. Netflix collects a huge amount of data on its subscribers and their viewing behaviors: what they’re watching, how, when, where and on what device. This information is used by teams of data scientists to not only improve Netflix’s personalization but also to help with decisions about what content to develop and how.

    Yet research suggests Netflix has really cultivated the “myth of big data,” flip-flopping over the years about how much data influences the creative process of Netflix productions.

    And while screen workers may resist what they sense about analytics as they participate in creative processes, ultimately, it is the executives greenlighting content who interpret data and choose how to use it.

    Geralt, another producer I interviewed, described how “whenever you talk to the algorithm people and the data people at Netflix, it feels like a cult. They talk about the algorithm like it’s a god, like ‘Well the algorithm tells us…’”

    One part of the content strategy

    With that said, it’s critical to take blanket statements about Netflix’s operations with a grain of salt.

    The behemoth operates in more than 190 countries, with offices in 30, housing different teams and producing content around the globe. It’s estimated that 589 new Netflix originals were added in 2024.

    Recent articles about “second screen” productions focused on the U.S. context, and my research did not seek to determine how many Netflix productions are made this way.

    Netflix’s goal these days, according to CEO Ted Sarandos, is to be “equal parts HBO and FX and AMC and Lifetime and Bravo and E! and Comedy Central.”

    Second-screen shows, it seems, are one part of this strategy.

    Outlook for storytellers

    It’s clear that viewing behaviours are driving changes in storytelling. But for screenwriters today, second-screen shows are only a symptom of bigger problems.

    Between a shrinking drama market and the competition for attention from platforms like YouTube and TikTok, streamers are investing a lot less in content than they used to. They’re also much more risk-averse with these investments.

    Even before now, producing for streamers brought its own set of challenges.

    Writer advocates with the 2023 TV writers strikes highlighted how streaming introduced new and exciting formats for TV writing, but also a new kind of precarity. And concerns continue to loom around how AI might impact creativity, career sustainability and IP rights.

    Last year, the Canadian Media Producers Association joined production organizations around the world in issuing a call for streaming regulation that underscores independence, IP rights and fair remuneration.



    Read more:
    Online Streaming Act: As we revisit Netflix support for Canadian content, it’s about more than money

    It’s no surprise the mantra across the media industries last year was “survive ‘til ’25.”

    As media creators become increasingly dependent on data-driven tech companies, they will continue producing content to the whims of executives following the holy algorithm.

    The next time you’re watching a Netflix show and feel the urge to scroll during another repetitive voice-over, the question is: Are some shows written like this because the audience is disengaged, or is the audience disengaged because shows are written like this?

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

    – ref. Too distracted to watch? Netflix has the perfect ‘second-screen’ show for you – https://theconversation.com/too-distracted-to-watch-netflix-has-the-perfect-second-screen-show-for-you-249012

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Pinnacle Capital Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Jharkhand

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated February 11, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹2.00 lakh (Rupees Two Lakh only) on Pinnacle Capital Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Jharkhand (the company) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Credit Card and Debit Card – Issuance and Conduct Directions’ and ‘Digital Lending’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 58G(1)(b) read with Section 58B(5)(aa) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

    The onsite scrutiny of the company with regard to its digital lending operations was conducted by RBI. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the company advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the company’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the company was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The company had:

    1. issued credit line in the nature of credit card to certain borrowers, without prior approval from RBI; and

    2. disbursed loans to borrowers through a pass-through account of a third party.

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

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2182

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Muzzafarpur Central Co-operative Bank Ltd

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated February 11, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1.00 lakh (Rupees One Lakh only) on The Muzzafarpur Central Co-operative Bank Ltd. (the bank) for non-compliance with the certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Know Your Customer’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

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

    The bank had not conducted periodic updation of KYC of its customers.

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

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2183

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Hamas, PIJ slam Israel’s ‘barbaric’ raid on Palestinians at Ofer Prison

    Asia Pacific Report

    Two Palestinian resistance groups have condemned “the brutal assault” on prisoners at Ofer Prison, saying it was “barbaric criminal behaviour that reflects the fascist and terrorist nature of” Israel.

    In the joint statement, Hamas and Palestine Islamic Jihad (PIJ) called the attack a “miserable attempt” by Israel “to restore its shattered prestige”, reports Al Jazeera.

    They called on the world to expose “these inhuman crimes against the prisoners”, which “blatantly violate all international conventions and norms”.

    The statement called on the international community to intervene to protect the “prisoners, stop criminal violations against them, document them and work to hold the criminal occupation leaders accountable”.

    The statement came after Palestinian authorities said Israeli forces had raided a section of Ofer Prison, west of Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, and assaulted detainees.

    “Prisoners were beaten and sprayed with gas,” the Palestinian Prisoners Media Office said.

    Persistent serious allegations of torture and abuse of Palestinian prisoners — many who have not been charged or are held on administrative detention — and beatings right up until the release of detainees under the ceasefire have been made over all six exchange events so far.

    Medical director severely tortured
    Last week, lawyers representing Kamal Adwan Hospital’s medical director Dr Hussam Abu Safiya met him for the first time since he was detained by Israeli forces in north Gaza last December 27.

    He told them he was severely tortured with electric shocks and was being denied needed medication.


    Lawyer spells out torture allegations over Israeli detention of doctor.  Video: Al Jazeera

    Samir Al-Mana’ama, a lawyer with the Al Mazan Center for Human Rights, described his brutal torture in a failed attempt to “extract a confession” from him in an interview with Al Jazeera.

    Al-Mana’ama said Dr Abu Safiya suffered from “an enlarged heart muscle and from high blood pressure” and was beaten up and refused treatment for the heart condition.

    Transferred to Ofter Prison on January 9, he was held in solitary confinement for 25 days and interrogated nonstop by the Israeli army, Israeli intelligence and police, the lawyer added.

    There was “no legal justification” for Abu Safia’s arrest and no evidence against him, the lawyer said.

    Since the interview, Israeli authorities said he was being held under an “unlawful combatant” law — despite his status as a civilian doctor — stripping him of any rights as a detainee.

    Al Jazeera’s Nour Odeh, reporting from Amman in Jordan, said the doctor was one of hundreds of medical workers taken from Gaza by Israeli forces to the notorious Sde Teiman detention camp and other Israeli military prisons.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: District initiatives followed up

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing today chaired the seventh meeting of the Task Force on District Governance to follow up on the implementation details and progress of four district initiatives endorsed by the Steering Committee on District Governance.

     

    On improving the waiting environment at public transport interchanges, the Transport Department, in collaboration with the Highways Department (HyD), the Architectural Services Department (ArchSD), and the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department, has selected a covered public transport interchange in each of the 18 districts for enhancement works.

     

    The enhancement works include upgrading the lighting, improving the ventilation system, and refurbishing the walls and ceilings to provide a more comfortable waiting environment for passengers. Such works have commenced this year with 11 for completion in 2025 and the remaining in 2026.

     

    As regards combatting air-conditioner water dripping, the Food & Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) will strengthen inspections and enforcement actions against about 30 air-conditioner dripping blackspots from May to September this summer.

     

    The FEHD will also launch a publicity and public education campaign to appeal to residents to address the issue of air conditioners dripping water as a means to avoid affecting environmental hygiene in public places and causing a nuisance to citizens.

     

    To improve Hong Kong’s cityscape, starting from this month, the FEHD has deployed mini street-washing vehicles equipped with pressure washer surface cleaners and high-pressure hot water cleaners at about 80 blackspots across the city on a regular basis to step up street scrubbing and remove stains or moss.

     

    Additionally, the Development Bureau, along with the Leisure & Cultural Services Department, the HyD, the ArchSD, the Civil Engineering & Development Department and the Housing Department, will enhance thematic planting in selected development projects and venues to beautify the cityscape.

     

    The task force also followed up on the performance of the 1823 Enhanced Complaint Handling Mechanism and received reports from relevant departments on their work progress regarding the eight key issues identified at the first three meetings of the steering committee.

     

    Mr Cheuk urged all departments to continue advancing these initiatives and enhancing district governance efficacy, so that the Government can deliver district services more effectively, leading to a more comfortable and better life for citizens.

     

    Moreover, Mr Cheuk thanked the departments for their efforts over the past two years in implementing the directives of the steering committee and the task force, which has brought significant achievements in combatting hygiene blackspots for the benefit of the public.

     

    He added that relevant departments should critically review the situation of all 738 hygiene blackspots and continue to actively follow up on those requiring improvement while identifying others that are suitable for removal from the blacklist.

     

    The hygiene blackspot website will be updated in the first quarter to reflect the actual situation.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Light Public Housing to open for Phase 2 application from February 24 (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Housing Bureau (HB) today (February 17) announced that the Light Public Housing (LPH) will be open for the Phase 2 application from February 24. The Phase 2 application will cover four projects, including Olympic Avenue, Kai Tak (Phase 1); Tsing Fuk Lane, Tuen Mun (i.e. Tuen Mun Area 3A); Shun On Road, Kwun Tong (renovated from school premises), and Choi Yuen Road, Sheung Shui (renovated from school premises), which will provide a total of about 5 060 units for gradual intake anticipated from the fourth quarter of this year onwards.

    Eligible applicants will receive the application forms by post on or before February 24 sent by the HB in batches. Application forms submitted between February 24 and March 17 will be handled with priority. Those who have submitted an application form during the Phase 1 application do not need to submit another application.

    A spokesman for the HB said, “The LPH Phase 1 application has received an overwhelming response, with about 14 200 applications received as of mid-February. Under the leadership of the HB, the operating organisations responsible for the operation and management of the LPH projects at Yau Pok Road, Yuen Long and Choi Hing Road, Ngau Tau Kok have been taking forward the pre-management works, including publicity, conducting eligibility verification and preparing intake arrangements. We anticipate that the LPH project at Yau Pok Road will be the first to start intake by batches within March, and applicants who successfully pass the eligibility verification will gradually receive their offer letters.”

    The spokesman added, “The Phase 2 LPH projects are located in various districts with different scales and merits. We believe that they can cater for the needs of different applicants. More importantly, the living environment, ancillary facilities and services of all LPH projects are far better than any inadequate housing, such as substandard sub-divided units. Additionally, the LPH projects offer a highly affordable rent, which is only about 90 per cent of that of traditional public rental housing (PRH) in the same district. There will also be a removal allowance on top of various services and supports offered to residents by the operating organisations.”

    Details of the LPH Phase 2 application are as follows:

    (1) Eligibility for priority application: General applicants who have been on the waiting list for traditional PRH for three years or more are eligible, with priority given to family applicants. Those meeting the eligibility criteria will receive by post the application forms sent by the HB in batches.

    (2) Application period: Applicants who submit duly completed application forms between February 24 and March 17 will be handled with priority. From March 18 onwards, the HB will continue to accept applications.

    (3) Submission methods: Interested applicants may submit their duly completed application forms by post to P.O. Box of the Dedicated Team on Light Public Housing of the Housing Bureau (P.O. Box 28222, Gloucester Road Post Office, Wan Chai, Hong Kong); or by depositing them into drop-in boxes during office hours (from 9am to 6pm, Mondays to Fridays, except Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays) at the following locations:

    Light Public Housing Information Counter at Podium Level 2, Hong Kong Housing Authority Customer Service Centre, 3 Wang Tau Hom South Road, Kowloon
    Office of the Dedicated Team on Light Public Housing at Room 801, 8/F, Revenue Tower, 5 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

    In addition, if the applicant and all family members have registered for “iAM Smart+”, they may opt to complete, sign and submit the e-Form by scanning the exclusive QR code pre-printed on the application form.

    The HB will process the application forms received as soon as possible and make arrangements for the allocation. To give priority to those families in need to move into LPH, if the applicants are currently living in inadequate housing; having special medical conditions; or having minor children, newborn babies, elderly persons, etc, in the family, they will be given a higher priority for LPH allocation.

    Information of the projects in the Phase 2 application is as follows:

    (1) Olympic Avenue, Kai Tak (Phase 1): Providing about 2 970 units (including units for one to two persons, three to four persons and four to five persons), adjacent to Kai Tak MTR Station, and with a number of franchised bus and minibus routes in the vicinity travelling to/from various places in Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territories. The estimated monthly rent ranges from about $1,310 to $2,990 (Note 1).

    (2) Tsing Fuk Lane, Tuen Mun (i.e. Tuen Mun Area 3A): Providing about 1 850 units (including units for one to two persons, three to four persons and four to five persons), adjacent to the Light Rail Ching Chung Stop, with a number of franchised bus, MTR bus and minibus routes in the vicinity to/from various places in Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territories. The estimated monthly rent ranges from about $860 to $1,990 (Note 1).

    (3) Shun On Road, Kwun Tong (renovated from school premises) (Note 2): Providing about 130 units (including units for one to two persons, three to four persons and four to five persons), about a five-minute walk to the Shun Tin Bus Terminus, which provides a number of franchised bus and minibus routes to/from Choi Hung MTR Station and various places in Hong Kong and Kowloon. The estimated monthly rent ranges from about $1,360 to $3,270 (Note 1).

    (4) Choi Yuen Road, Sheung Shui (renovated from school premises) (Note 2): Providing about 110 units (including units for one to two persons, three to four persons and four to five persons), adjacent to Sheung Shui MTR Station, about a 10 to 12-minute walk to different bus/minibus terminuses and San Wan Road Sheung Shui Bus-Bus Interchange, which provide a number of franchised bus and minibus routes to/from Fanling and various places in Hong Kong and Kowloon. The estimated monthly rent ranges from about $1,020 to $2,320 (Note 1).

    For more information about the LPH Phase 2 application, please refer to the enclosed LPH Promotional Pamphlet, or browse the LPH website of the HB (www.hb.gov.hk/eng/lph). For enquiries, please call 3464 0700, or send email to lphapp@hb.gov.hk.

    Note 1: Rents vary depending on the unit size and the district. The rental level is set at around 90 per cent of the rent of newly completed traditional PRH in the same district. Having regard to the biennial rent review of the traditional PRH, the rent of LPH will be adjusted accordingly.

    Note 2: For the LPH converted from school premises, the internal floor area of some of the units may vary due to limitations posed by the existing structural partitioning.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mahakumbh 2025: CRPF Personnel ensuring Safety and Security of Pilgrims round the clock; Prepared to handle every Emergency Situation

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 4:49PM by PIB Delhi

    Amidst the grandeur of Mahakumbh 2025, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is fully committed to ensuring the safety and service of devotees. Their dedication and patriotism are setting a remarkable example at this grand religious gathering.

    CRPF personnel are maintaining security round the clock at ghats, the Mela grounds, and key routes. With modern technology and vigilant monitoring, they are well-prepared to handle any emergency situation.

    Crucial Role in Crowd Management and Guidance

    In the midst of massive crowds, CRPF personnel are actively providing guidance and assistance to devotees. Their polite demeanor and readiness are ensuring a smooth experience for visitors. The CRPF’s disaster management team is on high alert to respond swiftly to any crisis. Additionally, the force is playing a crucial role in reuniting lost children and elderly individuals with their families.

    Nation First: A Testament to Service and Dedication

    Every CRPF personnel is performing their duty at Maha Kumbh with the spirit of ‘Nation First’. Their unwavering commitment and dedication are further enhancing the spiritual essence of the event. The selfless service and devotion of CRPF at Mahakumbh 2025 are not only instilling a sense of security but also serving as an inspiration for the entire nation.

    *****

    AD/VM

    (Release ID: 2104096) Visitor Counter : 5

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of Vice-President’s address at National Agri-Food and Biomanufacturing Institute, Mohali (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 2:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Every success demands greater success, when we have phenomenal development, exponential economic upsurge, people get aspirational. Expectations soar high and every success therefore, brings in the wake a greater challenge to outperform oneself.

    If we look into our historical past, India was known to be a land of knowledge and wisdom, particularly in science, astronomy and whatnot. Every aspect of human life finds reflection in our Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas. We are a nation that takes pride in having ancient institutions like Nalanda, Takshashila and the kind. Something happened around 11th or 12th century, and there was a digression. Marauders came, invaders came, and they were reckless in destroying our institutions, Nalanda being one of them. Our cultural centres, going to the extent of being so retributive, perversion of a very different kind, that over our religious centres they built their own. The nation faced it. Then came the British rule. Systematically, we got laws that were meant to serve them. We got education that destroyed ours and created not an ecosystem of full exploitation of our talent but then, the best part is, we are springing back.

    The century belongs to Bharat. This is being doubted by no one except some in our country. My appeal to them, as an Indian, as a Bhartiya, our commitment to our nation, belief in the principle of the nation being first, and subscribing to the ideology that no interest—personal, political, or otherwise is higher than national interest. Being citizens of this country is our identity and we need to take pride, for a good reason. No country in the world can claim to have that kind of civilizational depth, that richness of culture. And what does it indicate? Inclusivity. People are misleading. India, in the world, is the nerve center, the epicenter of culture.

    What is inclusivity is best defined in our life. Never ever in history of the civilization. Expansion has been a methodology of our ruling clans. We suffered invasion, never undertook any invasion. In that perspective that no nation in the world has grown so fast in last decade in terms of economic rise or impact of people centric policies as Bharat. Therefore, we are faced with a great challenge, a challenge before our scientists, a challenge before all institutions. The challenge is, we have the largest global population which is aspirational.

    I looked at NABI, I immediately thought of नाभि, नाभि in the human body. And I take the two to be similar. In our religions, Nabi, a birth of rebirth, a center of universe, a symbol of life, connection and vitality, reminding the one taking birth, the source of it, a mark and remnant of the umbilical cord that connects us in the womb of the mother. Your role distinguished audience is no different. You have to nurture every policy that can blossom our motherland, Bharatma, or Bharat Maa ki Atma.

    Most people must learn that while our economy is rising, fifth at the moment, shortly to be third globally. A developed nation would require, there must be an eightfold jump in our per capita income, eightfold that can be brought about only when larger population of this country participates.

    In this perspective, I take it as a great privilege and honor to inaugurate the Advanced Entrepreneurship Skill Development Program. Focus on entrepreneurship and focus on skill development, according to me, is synonymous with focus on development, focus on economic growth.

    This place must be North Star for the farm sector, for rural youth how to be in agro startups and you must be a lighthouse also, if they encounter some difficulties, which are natural. Our ethos of civilisation tell us there is nothing like failure. If an attempt fails, it is not failure. It is a step toward success.

    There was time in ancient India when a village was self-sufficient. वहां खाद्य भी था, व्यवहार भी था, चमड़े का काम भी था सब था। Now, the cooperatives are embedded in the Constitution as an institution.

    There must be evolution of a mechanism in a village or in a cluster of villages where you have micro industries at the farm that add value to the agro produce, that add value to the livestock produced, milk produced. This will help evolve a sustainable society and the nutritional food value will certainly go up. Right now, if you look around, milk is in the villages the only value addition I see is that दूध की छाछ बना देंगे, दही बना देंगे।

    What stops us? From having entrepreneur skills getting into ice creams, paneer, sweets and the kind in a cluster. This is very important because it will generate employment. It will satisfy rural youth.

    Startups are there in tier two and tier three cities. They have to trickle to villages now because agriculture produce is lifeline of economy, raw material for industry and when this takes place, close to the farmland in the rural firmament, evolving as a cluster, economy will take a jump, and people will believe in the farmland.

    How best to earn money out of farm should not be limited only to the agriculture produced. It must extend to marketing, value addition and small industries.

    All institutions in the country will have to pass the litmus test and the litmus test is what you are doing, is there some impact somewhere? In a positive sense, it should be like an earthquake, impact should be felt. A research for the sake of research, a research that is for the self, a research that is to be kept on the shelf, the research that comes out as a personal embellishment is not the research which the nation needs. Research is not giving a paper by scratching the surface. Research is not to impress the one who is ignorant of the subject. Research is to impress those who know the subject as much as you know or more than you know at a global benchmark and that research can’t be just abstract academics. The research has to have impact on what we are doing. I’m sure this is an area where you have enough scope.

    I am son of a farmer, interest of the farmer is in my heart. I know the potential of farmers. I know the potential of the children in farm families. I know the kind of challenges they face right from the beginning. During my time the challenges were more, not any longer. We never imagined Indian household will have a toilet, a gas connection, an electricity connection, an internet connection, something like pipe water on the way, a road connectivity, health center close by. We never thought of that. Good education, it is happening now. Therefore, an ecosystem by transforming our education that brings about equality, labels all, and cuts into inequities is in place.

    Technology transfer to the farm is essential. A farmer is by and large clinging to his tractor. He wants to use the tractor for as long as it can last. Ignorant that the technology of the tractor is undergoing big changes. It is becoming environment friendly, fuel efficient, multifunctional and highly subsidized. There has to be awareness campaign. There has to be awareness campaign to the farmer that you don’t need anybody’s help. You only have to know your inner strength to change your economy to a very high level. Form small groups, market your product at a price of your choice; you can.

    But by and large, I see farm produce is sold when it is not farmers’ market, it is buyers’ market. The government provides facilities to hold on to the stock by massive warehousing and cooperative movement. I can tell you the farm policies of the government are so helping the farmer. The farmer has to know about it. You can play a great role because we cannot allow that our farmers get anything but the very best. No short-change for the farm sector, no short-change for the farmer that has to be our motto. Institutes like yours must have live connect with Krishi Vigyan Kendras, with Institutes of Indian Council of Agriculture Research.

    We need to introspect also. We can feel proud that we are doing good but, like learning, which never stops, your goalpost must be shifting, shifting on one parameter. To what degree is our research, our involvement, making a difference in the life of the ordinary person? Such self-audit, self-assessment, self-introspection will lead to deep reflection. It will fire us with the zeal to serve the nation, and it will be a satisfying experience. The aspirations of our people have been propelled, as I said, by people-centric policies, reaching the ground. We cannot allow our youth to be restive now. They must know what opportunities they have. The son of the farmer, the daughter of the farmer, must get attracted to starting their ventures.

    There were some districts where the district magistrates never wanted to go. Prime Minister Modi created them as aspirational districts with a definite mission, uplift them. The number of their aspirational districts is going down. But bureaucrats who seek to go to those districts, the queue is getting longer because anybody wants to contribute and transform. Prime Minister has now come to the second stage, aspirational blocks, that the district is by and large not aspirational because developed, but some blocks are there. Time for us to nurture aspirational agro zones across rural India

    I am son of a farmer like there was a movie, Son of a Sardar. A son of the farmer will always commit himself to truth.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Observing non-earthquake signals on the Yellowstone Seismic Network

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Yellowstone Caldera Chronicles is a weekly column written by scientists and collaborators of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory. This week’s contribution is from Jamie Farrell, associate research professor with the University of Utah Seismograph Stations and Chief Seismologist of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.

    It is well-known that the Yellowstone region, with an average of 1,500-2,500 earthquakes per year, is one of the most-seismically active areas in the western U.S.  The Yellowstone Seismic Network is designed to record the ground shaking from these earthquakes and send the data back to the University of Utah in real time for analysis.  There are a lot of other things that cause the ground to shake, however, and this shaking is recorded by seismic stations in and around Yellowstone.  Most of the time, it is easy to differentiate these signals from those of real earthquakes.

    So, what else besides earthquakes makes the ground shake in Yellowstone?

    Webicorders of Yellowstone Seismic Network stations YMR (West Entrance road) and YNM (Norris Geyser Basin Museum) showing traffic signals (left) and visitors walking (right) during daytime hours.  Both records span the entire 24-hour period of July 23, 2024, MDT. 

    Some of the most common causes of non-earthquake ground shaking are humans and the vehicles that they drive.  As a general guideline, seismic stations are located far away from roads to avoid these signals, but there are some that are close enough to record every car/truck/bus/RV that drives by.  A seismic station that is located near the Madison-West Entrance Road, designated YMR, is notorious for recording road noise. In addition, a seismic station that is located in the Norris Geyser Basin Museum (designated YNM) records the thousands of visitors that walk by it every day during the summer.  Signals that are related to human activity can be identified by their prevalence during the daytime hours and their absence during nighttime hours.

    Signals recorded at station YDD in Yellowstone National Park from the 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai volcanic eruption. The seismometer at YDD recorded both the direct seismic phase (top left) as well as the atmospheric Lamb Wave that coupled to the ground as it propagated (top right).  The infrasound microphone at YDD recorded the atmospheric disturbance from the Lamb wave (bottom right) that arrived in Yellowstone ~9 hours after the eruption.  Seismic waves travel through the earth much faster than sound waves travel through the atmosphere, which explains the long delay in timing between when the two signals were recorded.

    Signals related to non-earthquake geologic events far from Yellowstone can sometimes be seen as well.  An example of this is the 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai volcanic eruption in the south Pacific.  The volcano is located about 9,742 km (6,053 miles) from Yellowstone National Park, but the signals from that violent eruption are clearly seen on many stations in the Yellowstone Seismic Network.  In fact, that eruption produced two signals that are evident in the Yellowstone seismic record.  The first signal is the direct P-wave (seismic phase) that traveled through the earth from the eruption site to Yellowstone—the wave arrived ~27 minutes after the eruption occurred.  The eruption also produced very powerful atmospheric waves.  The most energetic of these atmospheric waves was something called a Lamb wave, which travelled through the atmosphere but along the Earth’s surface. The Lamb waves from the eruption traveled around the earth 4 times over 6 days.  The first of these arrived in Yellowstone ~9 hours after the eruption—moving at the speed of sound, which is much slower than the speed of earthquake waves through the ground—and is evident on both seismometers and infrasound microphones. This shows that as the Lamb wave propagated along the Earth’s surface, not only did it cause an atmospheric disturbance (as recorded by the infrasound microphone) but energy was also transferred into the Earth (as recorded by the seismometer).  In this sense, the wave was similar to a sonic boom or thunderclap.

    Other non-earthquake signals are sometimes recorded on seismometers around rivers due to ground shaking from large floods in Yellowstone, like those that occurred in June 2022.  Near Yellowstone Lake, seismometers record “icequakes” from cracking of the ice cover during winter, and when the lake is free of ice during summer months ground shaking can be caused by wave action on the lake during daytime hours.  In addition, seismometers record signals related to hydrothermal activity and even hydrothermal explosions.

    Even though these non-earthquake signals are not what the Yellowstone Seismic Network was originally designed to record, they still provide valuable insights into the Yellowstone volcanic and tectonic system.  Scientists are increasingly using these data to better understand the dynamic nature of geologic activity in the Yellowstone region.

    Signals from a suspected icequake that occurred on Yellowstone Lake recorded at Yellowstone Seismic Network stations YLA on Lake Butte (top) and YTP at The Promontory (bottom 3 plots). Plot shows about 2 minutes of data from January 24, 2022, starting at about 7:43:34 p.m. MST.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Japan e-commerce payments to surpass $200 billion 2025, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Japan e-commerce payments to surpass $200 billion 2025, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Banking

    The e-commerce market in Japan is poised for 7.7% growth in 2025, reaching JPY29 trillion ($206.8 billion). This surge is driven by shifting consumer preferences towards online shopping and strong mobile penetration, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “Japan Cards and Payments – Opportunities and Risks to 2028,” reveals that Japanese e-commerce market registered 8.4% growth in 2024 to reach JPY26.9 trillion ($191.9 billion).

    Shivani Gupta, Senior Banking and Payments Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Japan is among the leading e-commerce markets in the Asia-Pacific region, trailing just behind China. This is supported by high mobile and online penetration, as well as a strong preference for online shopping due to its ease and time-saving benefits. Furthermore, the popularity of online shopping events such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Singles’ Day has further fuelled the expansion of e-commerce.”

    To capitalize on the growth potential in the e-commerce sector, international brands are also venturing into this space. For instance, Chinese digital commerce group Alibaba launched a new cross-border e-commerce application “TAO” in October 2024 to compete with rivals such as Amazon and Rakuten.

    TAO provides a wide array of around three million products across various categories and incorporates a range of features, including dedicated customer service, reliable delivery and return policies, multiple payment options, and personalized product recommendations, tailored to Japanese customers. The platform also supports various payment methods such as PayPay, the leading digital wallet in Japan, as well as credit cards and convenience store payments.

    Payment cards remain the preferred payment method for online purchases. According to the GlobalData’s 2024 Financial Services Consumer Survey* credit cards alone accounted for over 50%. This can be attributed to the added benefits they offer, such as interest-free instalment payment options, reward programs, cashback, and discounts.

    Alternative payment solutions are the second most preferred payment method. PayPay remains the most preferred alternative payment option, with international brands such as Amazon Pay and PayPal also making their presence felt.

    Gupta concludes: “The upward trajectory of e-commerce sales is expected to persist in the coming years, driven by evolving consumer preferences, the growing popularity of online shopping festivals, and the emergence of new e-commerce companies in the market. Consequently, the e-commerce market is anticipated to increase at a CAGR of 6.1% between 2025 and 2029 to reach JPY36.7 trillion ($261.8 billion) in 2029.”

    *GlobalData’s 2024 Financial Services Consumer Survey was carried out in Q2 2024. Approximately 67,292 respondents aged 18+ were surveyed across 41 countries.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Digital health adoption in China to accelerate with rapidly evolving AI landscape, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Digital health adoption in China to accelerate with rapidly evolving AI landscape, says GlobalData

    Posted in Medical Devices

    The artificial intelligence (AI) sector in China is undergoing swift evolution, positioning it as a key driver for the expansion of the country’s digital health market. Accordingly, the digital health market in China is forecasted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 30% between 2024 and 2033, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s report, “China Digital Health Market Outlook and Forecast to 2033 – Electronic Health Records, Regulatory Approved Apps and Telehealth,” reveals that in 2024, China accounted for approximately 20% of the digital health market in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The considerable market share highlights the growing investments in AI-powered solutions and their increasing implementation in the healthcare industry.

    Pratibha Thammanabhatla, Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData, comments, “The shift towards digital health represents a substantial advancement in conventional healthcare practices. These latest solutions possess the potential to improve convenience and accessibility for patients, especially in remote and resource-constrained environments. The increasing focus on preventive care and continuous health monitoring is anticipated to catalyze widespread adoption of these models.”

    Chinese firms such as DeepSeek, Panoptic AI, Tencent, and Alibaba are substantially investing in AI technologies. In the face of intensifying competition within China’s AI industry, Baidu has announced that its artificial intelligence chatbot, Ernie Bot, featuring an enhanced search function, would be accessible free of charge starting in April of this year. Given the availability of choices, the selection of a suitable model is imperative in healthcare applications to ensure that patients benefit from enhanced disease diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.

    Thammanabhatla concludes: “The growing utilization of digital health applications among the Chinese consumers, combined with significant investments from both private and public sectors including the latest National AI Industry Investment Fund, is anticipated to further propel innovations in the forthcoming years. This trend also suggests the possibility of considerable investment opportunities within China’s digital health industry.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Government securities transactions between a Primary Member (PM) of NDS-OM and its own Gilt Account Holder (GAH) or between two GAHs of the same PM

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    RBI/2024-25/115
    FMRD.MIOD.No.15/11.01.051/2024-25

    February 17, 2025

    To

    All participants in Government Securities market

    Madam/Sir,

    Government securities transactions between a Primary Member (PM) of NDS-OM and its own Gilt Account Holder (GAH) or between two GAHs of the same PM

    Transactions in Government securities in the Over the Counter (OTC) market are currently undertaken either on Negotiated Dealing System – Order Matching (NDS-OM) platform or are bilaterally negotiated outside the system and subsequently reported on NDS-OM. All transactions matched on NDS-OM platform are cleared and settled through the Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL), which acts as a Central Counter Party (CCP) for transactions in Government securities.

    2. At present, transactions between a Primary Member (PM) and its own Gilt Account Holder (GAH) and between two GAHs of the same PM are not permitted to be matched on NDS-OM and are also not cleared and settled through CCIL. On a review and based on the feedback received, it has been decided to:

    1. Permit matching of transactions between a PM and its own GAH or between two GAHs of the same PM on both the anonymous Order Matching segment and the Request for Quote (RFQ) segment of NDS-OM. Transactions matched on NDS-OM shall be cleared and settled through CCIL.

    2. Extend the facility of clearing and settlement through CCIL to transactions between a PM and its own GAH or between two GAHs of the same PM which are bilaterally negotiated and reported to NDS-OM, on an optional basis.

    3. Any failure in the settlement of these transactions shall be treated as an instance of ‘SGL bouncing’ in terms of RBI circular “Government securities Act, 2006, Section 27 and 30 – Imposition of penalty for bouncing of SGL forms” dated July 14, 2010, as amended from time to time, and will be subjected to the applicable penal provisions, as specified therein.

    4. Detailed operational guidelines in this regard will be issued by CCIL.

    5. The Directions contained in this circular have been issued under Section 45W of Chapter IIID of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 and are without prejudice to permissions/ approvals, if any, required under any other law.

    Yours faithfully,

    (Dimple Bhandia)
    Chief General Manager

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Journey of NQM’s Quantum Sensing and Metrology Hub with lab grown technologies at IIT Bombay

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

    The Photonics and Quantum Sensing Technology Lab at IIT Bombay is ready with some technologies that can give the newly initiated Quantum Sensing and Metrology Hub a kick start into the world of quantum technologies.

    These include the quantum diamond microscope and the portable magnetometer at the P-Quest Lab headed by Professor Kasturi Saha.

    Prof Saha is the Project Director of the newly initiated Quantum Sensing and Metrology Hub, Qmet Tech Foundation, established by IIT Bombay under the National Quantum Mission (NQM).

    The young Professor who along with her group explores and pushes the boundaries of precision metrology, sensing and imaging, using unprecedented opportunities presented by novel interdisciplinary research in fields like nano-photonics, classical and quantum information processing and life sciences, is now playing a crucial role in bringing together top minds, groundbreaking research, and transformative ideas to accelerate the quantum revolution.

    The structure of Qmet, one of the four thematic hubs created under NQM being implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India comprises of 16 institutes and 40 researchers located across India who are working with a shared sense of purpose to achieve the common goal through collaboration, cooperation, and effective communication.

    It aims to bridge fundamental research and practical applications in Quantum Sensing and Metrology—one of the four focus areas under NQM.

    Diamonds are a major focus of Prof Saha’s research.  Her team works with defects called Nitrogen Vacancy (NV) centre in diamond which are very precise magnetic field and temperature sensors. She manipulates them to make systems that can probe your neurons or delve into your cells.

    When the NV centres in the quantum diamond microscope being developed in Prof Saha’s lab are excited with fluorescent green light, they emit red light. This NV centre defect exhibits a unique “spin” property. The spins couple with magnetic fields and they emit red light. So, they essentially act like ultra-sensitive magnetic field sensors.

    The team aims to use the quantum diamond microscope to enable non-destructive testing of semiconductor chips by mapping magnetic field in 3D layers within an encapsulated chip.

    They are also trying to extend this application into different other domains like biological sensing. They probe into neuronal cultures that exchange electrical pulses resulting in magnetic fields associated with them.

    These magnetic fields, albeit extremely small, can be measured to trace the location of the neurons and this measurement can help identify and correlate how the neurons are actually interacting with the magnetic fields by producing single neuron resolution. This could be one of the potential ways in which one can really go to the fundamental limits of magnetic field sensitivity.

    Diamonds mined in India, which Professor Saha specializes in, have a rich history dating back to ancient times and are renowned for their exceptional gemstone quality. The diamonds used for quantum applications, are however lab-grown CVD diamonds.

    The team is working with a lot of diamond companies to enable indigenous, development of diamond within India for quantum applications. Enabling benchmarking of diamond samples is a crucial step in the process. In it they measure the different properties of the diamond NV spins or their lifetime technically called coherence time.

    Apart from this they are working on the portable magnetometer that can be converted to chips which can be used in drones for surveillance.

    In their dilettante with fundamental physics, the team is also looking at different kinds of magnetic materials to explore their viability as quantum materials. The set up they have developed will help them understand how different materials work, form magnetic maps extending even to the video of a magnetic map and understand the direction of the magnetic field being generated.

    This opens up scope of commercialising it under the NQM. Improving the sensitivity of such a set up could help imaging of neurons. Their goal under NQM is to provide the highest kind of spatial resolution possible for a quantum microscope by pushing the sensitivity down absolutely to the fundamental limits and understanding the noise constraints that need to be corrected. In this manner, they plan to develop practical quantum devices via design and experimentation, thus connecting quantum theory to engineering applications.

     

    Quantum Diamond Microscope

     

    Quantum sensing of mimicked neural activities

     

    Set up for testing quantum materials

    ***

     NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2104088) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LegCo to consider Road Tunnels (Government) (Amendment) Bill 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LegCo to consider Road Tunnels (Government) (Amendment) Bill 2024
    LegCo to consider Road Tunnels (Government) (Amendment) Bill 2024
    *****************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:     The Legislative Council (LegCo) will hold a meeting on Wednesday (February 19) at 11am in the Chamber of the LegCo Complex. During the meeting, the Second Reading debate on the Road Tunnels (Government) (Amendment) Bill 2024 will resume. If the Bill is supported by Members and receives its Second Reading, it will stand committed to the committee of the whole Council. After the committee of the whole Council has completed consideration of the Bill and its report is adopted by the Council, the Bill will be set down for the Third Reading.     The Second Reading debate on the Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Deductions for Assisted Reproductive Service Expenses) Bill 2024 will also resume. If the Bill is supported by Members and receives its Second Reading, it will stand committed to the committee of the whole Council. After the committee of the whole Council has completed consideration of the Bill and its report is adopted by the Council, the Bill will be set down for the Third Reading.     In addition, The Chinese Medicine Hospital of Hong Kong Bill will be introduced into the Council for the First Reading and the Second Reading. The Second Reading debate on the Bill will be adjourned.     On Members’ motions, Mr Stanley Ng will move a motion on protecting the mental health of employees. The motion is set out in Appendix 1. Mr Kwok Wai-keung will move separate amendment to Mr Ng’s motion.     Mr Edward Leung will move a motion on comprehensively regulating unsolicited calls. The motion is set out in Appendix 2. Dr Johnny Ng and Mr Shiu Ka-fai will move separate amendments to Mr Leung’s motion.     During the meeting, the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Mr Shiu Ka-fai, will present the “Report of the Public Accounts Committee on Report No. 83 of the Director of Audit on the Results of Value for Money Audits” and address the Council.     Members will also ask the Government 22 questions on various policy areas, six of which require oral replies.     The agenda of the above meeting can be obtained via the LegCo Website (www.legco.gov.hk). Members of the public can watch or listen to the meeting via the “Webcast” system on the LegCo Website. To observe the proceedings of the meeting at the LegCo Complex, members of the public may call 3919 3399 during office hours to reserve seats.

     
    Ends/Monday, February 17, 2025Issued at HKT 18:57

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Clusters of Norovirus and Influenza A cases announced at Kowloon Hospital

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Clusters of Norovirus and Influenza A cases announced at Kowloon Hospital
    Clusters of Norovirus and Influenza A cases announced at Kowloon Hospital
    *************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority.The spokesman for Kowloon Hospital made the following announcement today (February 17):     Four patients (aged 81 to 94) in a male rehabilitation ward have presented with symptoms of fever or respiratory symptoms since February 7. Appropriate viral tests were arranged for the patients, and their test results were positive for Influenza A. One patient is in critical condition due to his underlying illness. The three remaining patients are in stable condition.     In addition, five patients (aged 50 to 98 years old) in a female respiratory medicine ward have presented with vomiting or diarrhoea symptoms since February 3 and were positive for Norovirus after viral tests. The five patients are now being treated in isolation and are in stable condition. The hospital has enhanced the following infection control measures in accordance with prevailing guidelines in the two wards concerned:

    thorough cleaning and disinfection of the wards concerned, including the environment and medical equipment;
    enhanced medical surveillance of the patients and environmental screening procedures in the wards concerned; and
    applied stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene of staff.

          The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.  

     
    Ends/Monday, February 17, 2025Issued at HKT 18:35

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Pabitra Margherita, Union Minister of State for Textiles & Foreign Affairs inaugurates the CSB’s International Conference – SILKTECH 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, , New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Shri Pabitra Margherita, Union Minister of State for Textiles & Foreign Affairs inaugurates the CSB’s International Conference – SILKTECH 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, , New Delhi

    Central Silk Board organizes this International Conference on Emerging Technologies in Silk Sector – SilkTech-2025

    HMoST highlights the Zero waste technologies in silk value chain

    06  MoUs were signed between R&D Institute of Central Silk Board and other R&D organization and NGOs during the conference 

    Two  Souvenir cum book of abstracts on  Emerging Technologies in the Silk Sector  were also released by HMoST during conference

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 4:02PM by PIB Delhi

     

    Shri Pabitra Margherita, Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles & Foreign Affairs inaugurated the CSB’s International Conference – SILKTECH 2025 in the august presence of Smt. Neelam Shami Rao IAS, Secretary,  Ministry of Textiles on today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi as a part of the mega textile event – Bharat Tex 2025. CSB-Central Tasar Research & Training Institute, Ranchi & CSB-Central Silk Technological Research Institute (CSTRI) under Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India organised this International Conference on “Emerging Technologies in Silk Sector – SILKTECH 2025”. 

     

    In his address, HMoST Shri Pabitra Margherita mentioned about the exclusive muga&eri silks of North East. Highlighted the Zero waste technologies in silk value chain. And, quoted the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s appeal to triple the production & exports of textiles through quality research & collaborations.

     

    Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles cited the momentous change in sericulture after Silk Samagra. The by-products of silk should occupy the main stream through the next age technologies.

    Two Souvenir cum book of abstracts on Emerging Technologies in the Silk Sector -SILKTECH 2025 & Pradhyogiki Vivranak (a Technology descriptor) were also released by Hon’ble Minister of state of Textiles during conference and other  dignitaries unveiled the CSB’s publications on the occasion. During the conference, 06  MoUs were signed between R&D Institute of Central Silk Board and other R&D organization and NGOs.

     

    The Conference focused on the discussions and promotion of the novel applications of silk beyond textiles in the field of cosmetics, pharma and so on, and, the development of appropriate technologies for improving the quality of silk emphasizing global market trends and sustainable innovations across the silk production chain to become India atmanirbhar.

    Smt. Prajakta L. Verma, IAS, Joint Secretary (Fibres), Shri Ajay Gupta, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Textiles and Shri P. Sivakumar, Member Secretary, Central Silk Board were present at the event.

    Click here to download Explainer

    ***

    Dhanya Sanal K, IIS

    Director

    (Release ID: 2104075) Visitor Counter : 17

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: M C Mary Kom, Avani Lekhara, and Suhas Yathiraj participate in 7th episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 3:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Continuing the insightful discussions initiated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in the inaugural episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025, the seventh episode aired today, featured iconic sportspersons M C Mary Kom, Avani Lekhara, and Suhas Yathiraj. They talked about goal setting, resilience, and stress management through discipline. They also shared personal anecdotes from their own lives and what they have learned from sports in their life.

    Mary Kom spoke about how she defied the popular belief that boxing is not a women’s sport, challenging societal perceptions not just for herself but for women across the country. Citing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s advice to become one’s own anchor, she reflected on her 20-year journey as a daughter, wife, and mother. She also stressed the importance of hard work, emphasizing that dedication and perseverance are the true drivers of success.

     

     

    Suhas Yathiraj encouraged students to harness the power of the mind to overcome negative emotions like fear, which he identified as a major obstacle to success. He emphasized that overcoming fear is the only way to perform naturally and excel. Quoting, “To shine like the Sun, one must be ready to burn like the Sun,” he urged students to embrace challenges with resilience and determination. He also introduced them to music therapy to channel positive energy and highlighted the importance of mindful thinking, as thoughts shape one’s destiny.

    Avani Lekhara underscored the significance of skill development, explaining how acquiring the right skills builds confidence and reduces fear. Drawing parallels from sports, she stressed the importance of rest and recovery in studies, advocating for adequate sleep before examinations to ensure peak performance. She also guided students through an activity to boost confidence.

    During the session, students raised questions on topics such as convincing parents about career choices, developing the courage to face challenges, and staying focused. Students from Dubai and Qatar also participated, sharing their queries with the guests.

    All the guests unanimously emphasized that hard work is the key to success and that nothing can be achieved through shortcuts.

    To ensure comprehensive development, distinguished personalities from various fields—including sports icons, technical experts, toppers of competitive exams, entertainment industry professionals, and spiritual leaders—are enriching students with insights beyond textbooks. With three more episodes already aired, each session continues to provide students with essential tools and strategies to excel academically and personally. After the show the students reflected and shared their learning from the session.

    The eighth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC) 2025, in its revamped and interactive format, has been receiving widespread appreciation from students, teachers, and parents across the nation. Breaking away from the traditional Town Hall format, this year’s edition commenced with an engaging session featuring Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the scenic Sunder Nursery, New Delhi, on 10th February 2025.

    In the inaugural episode, the Prime Minister interacted with 36 students from across the country, discussing insightful topics such as Nutrition and Wellness, Mastering Pressure, Challenging Oneself, The Art of Leadership, Beyond Books – 360º Growth, Finding Positives, and more. His valuable guidance offered students practical strategies to tackle academic challenges with confidence while fostering a growth mindset and holistic learning.

    As Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 continues to unfold, it remains a beacon of inspiration for students, equipping them with confidence and resilience to face academic and life challenges with a positive mindset.

    Link to watch the 1st episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5UhdwmEEls

    Link to watch the 2nd episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrW4c_ttmew

    Link to watch the 3rd episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgMzmDYShXw

    Link to watch the 4thepisode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CfR4-5v5mk

    Link to watch the 5thepisode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GD_SrxsAx8

    Link to watch the 6thepisode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhI6UbZJgEQ

    Link to watch the 7thepisode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9Zg7B_o8So

    *****

    MV/AK

    MOE/PPC/17 February 2025/11

    (Release ID: 2104072) Visitor Counter : 64

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at South China Morning Post China Conference: Southeast Asia 2025 (English only) (with video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the video speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the South China Morning Post China Conference: Southeast Asia 2025 today (February 17):
          
    Your Excellency Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz (Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry of Malaysia), officials and friends from ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and around the world, Ms Catherine So (Chief Executive Officer of South China Morning Post), Ms Tammy Tam (Editor-in-Chief of South China Morning Post), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
          
         Good afternoon. I am pleased to join you today, virtually, at this remarkable conference in Kuala Lumpur.
          
         For that, I am grateful to the South China Morning Post for organising the China Conference: Southeast Asia, and for putting a prime spotlight on the substantive roles played by China, our country, and Southeast Asia in shaping the global agenda, now and long down the road.
          
         To that end, you have heard today from His Excellency Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, as well as a wealth of senior governmental, business and financial leaders and decision-makers from Malaysia, throughout ASEAN and around the world.
          
         For the next few minutes, allow me to speak about Hong Kong – about the role we play in working with our country and in connecting with member states of ASEAN and far beyond.
          
         Long a “super connector”, Hong Kong takes pride in creating value for traditional and emerging markets. We are the natural bridge for ASEAN business looking to Mainland Chinese markets and opportunities. We are, as well, the conduit for Mainland businesses looking to explore overseas opportunities, whether in ASEAN, the Middle East or elsewhere.
          
         Indeed, the Mainland and ASEAN are our two largest trade-in-goods partners, with total trade value reaching US$619 billion and US$165 billion respectively last year.
          
         We are home to about 2 600 offices with parent companies on the Mainland, up 20 per cent over 2023 totals. Last year, too, some 730 offices with parent companies in ASEAN maintained an office in Hong Kong. That’s an increase of about 10 per cent year on year.
          
         And I am confident of continuing growth in the coming years, given the ASEAN-Hong Kong, China Free Trade Agreement and related Investment Agreement, as well as the recently signed amendment to the Agreement on Trade in Services of CEPA – the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement.
          
         The new CEPA Agreement introduces service-sector liberalisation measures, making it easier for Hong Kong suppliers, and international companies with offices in Hong Kong, to do business on the Mainland.
          
         As you know, CEPA is nationality neutral, so I encourage ASEAN companies to enjoy Hong Kong’s world-class professional services and, in doing so, make full use of CEPA in accessing the Mainland market. 
          
         Alongside strong business ties with ASEAN, our people-to-people bonds are long-standing and mutually rewarding. 
          
         Since assuming office, in July 2022, I have led high-profile Hong Kong delegations to seven of the 10 ASEAN countries. Nearly 90 co-operation agreements between Hong Kong and ASEAN countries have been signed over that period – and in so many areas, from economic and trade matters to innovation and technology, cultural exchange, education and more.
          
         And I am committed to building on our gratifying ties.
          
         We have relaxed the criteria for nationals of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam applying for multiple-entry visas to Hong Kong. We have, as well, extended their validity period from two to three years. 
          
         We will also provide self-service immigration clearance for invited ASEAN-country visitors participating in business, development and related activities in Hong Kong.
          
         And for ASEAN and other non-Chinese residents working in Hong Kong and wishing to travel to the Mainland, the multiple-entry visas have been extended for up to five years, making Mainland entry from Hong Kong fast and efficient.
          
         And to make our ASEAN friends feel at home in Hong Kong, we are compiling a list of restaurants offering halal food, while encouraging hotels and other establishments to provide appropriate worship services.
          
         There’s more. We’re making it easier to communicate with ASEAN business. In addition to our Economic and Trade Offices in Singapore, Jakarta and Bangkok, we are working with the Malaysian government to establish a trade office in Kuala Lumpur.
          
         Allow me to thank ASEAN member states for their staunch support of our accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the world’s largest free trade agreement. I count on leaders like your good selves to support Hong Kong’s accession bid. 
          
         Ladies and gentlemen, I wish you all the best of business, health and well-being in this auspicious Chinese New Year – the Year of the Snake.
          
         Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –