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Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister complements Abdullah Al-Baroun and Abdul Lateef Al-Nesef for Arabic translations of the Ramayan and Mahabharat

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 7:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi compliments Abdullah Al-Baroun and Abdul Lateef Al-Nesef for their efforts in translating and publishing the Arabic 
    translations of the Ramayan and Mahabharat. 

    In a post on X, he wrote:

    “Happy to see Arabic translations of the Ramayan and Mahabharat. I compliment Abdullah Al-Baroun and Abdul Lateef Al-Nesef for their efforts in translating and publishing it. Their initiative highlights the popularity of Indian culture globally.”

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister visits Labour Camp in Kuwait

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 7:00PM by PIB Delhi

    As the first program of his visit to Kuwait, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited a labour camp in Mina Abdullah area of Kuwait with a workforce of around 1500 Indian nationals. Prime Minister interacted with a cross-section of Indian workers from different States of India and enquired about their well-being.

    The visit to the labour camp is symbolic of the importance attached by the Prime Minister to the welfare of Indian workers abroad. In the last few years, the Government has undertaken several technology-based initiatives such as E-Migrate portal, MADAD portal and upgraded Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana for the welfare of Indian workers abroad.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of Vice-President’s Address at 5th Global Alumni Meet of Panjab University in Chandigarh (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 6:50PM by PIB Delhi

    Hon’ble Governor of Gujarat, Acharya Devvrat Ji. Acharyaji is a doyen of Governors also, which means the senior most Governor, leading all the Governors. I have had the good fortune to be Governor with him, and therefore know his deep commitment and passion for natural and organic agriculture.He is extremely concerned with the rural sector, the farm sector, and these two taken together are fundamental to the growth of this nation. These are the two vital sectors that will pave the passage for Viksit Bharat at 2047.

    Acharya Devvrat doesn’t believe in preaching. He practices. And those of you who can get the opportunity to go to his farm will see what he talks, he performs first. I still recall before governors of all the states in the presence of the Prime Minister of the country and the Hon’ble President. He addressed us on farming. And trust me, he took much beyond his time, and no one objected. I’m extremely happy to note that he is an alumnus of Panjab University.

    Shri K. K. Paul has had the distinction of being Governor Uttarakhand, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Member UPSC and Commissioner of Police Delhi. The presence of Shri Shekhar Gupta, An alumnus of this university is very different for me. In the world of journalism, he has shown his fearless commitment to truth and facts, and presently, as editor-in-chief of the print, he is widely read, and when it comes to critical issues facing the nation, he economizes on words, 50 words. I am a regular reader of his contributions. He has headed country’s most prestigious and independent media. He being the alumnus on the dais is a matter of pride for me.

    Shri Atul Karwal ji, and mind you, he has earned for us global reputation. National disaster doesn’t give any respect to principles of natural justice. It comes, number one, uninvited. It comes with full fury and a DG of National Disaster Response Team, his performance has been exemplary. So exemplary that the nation has earned laurels and we have been accoladed globally that in similar situations on the planet, Bharat has earned the name being one of the first responders.

    He is the initiator of a new culture and I had the good fortune to get the benefit of it as Governor of the state of West Bengal. On account of geographical conditions and being a country close to the sea, our entire line, thousands of kilometers, is always a challenge. States of West Bengal, Odisha in particular suffer cyclones. It is in that capacity I came to know gradation of cyclones. But I can share with you. So remarkable was the performance that human lives were saved, hardly any mortality.

    And therefore I can say that the alumnus on the dais, Acharya Devvrat, Shri K. K. Paul, Shri Shekhar Gupta and Shri Atul Karwal, are amongst many who are legends, who are respected for their contributions, their convictions and their deep commitment, and I would be reflecting a little later if we have such a rich reservoir of human resource, such a talent that is nationally and globally acknowledged, time for us to engage into optimum output.Professor Renu Vig, the first woman Vice-Chancellor of this University, and if I may engage into some kind of self-praise, appointed by a Chancellor, who comes from rural stock. Her two years have defined this university with transparency, accountability and dedication.

    I will also not commit a mistake of not naming my dear friend, Shri Satpal Jain, a distinguished senior advocate, one of the senior constitutional functionaries in the legal field of government of India, and associated also for a number of years with the management of this university in capacity as a member of the Senate or Syndicate. Ladies and gentlemen, there is the presence of another gentleman I must take note of. He is an alumnus of IIT Kanpur.He is Shri Sunil Kumar Gupta, 1987 batch, IAS officer. And he is helping the Vice-President of the country as secretary to the Vice President.

    Countries are known by the institutions they nurture. Because it is institutions that are crucibles of innovation, change, research. They catalyse big change, they create concepts. It is their innovation that is translated by industry, by process of execution. And therefore countries that are ahead in research and develop research are the countries that emerge as world leaders. Let me give you some figures to begin with. Harvard endowment fund in 2024, ladies and gentlemen, jumps to 53 billion US dollars endowment fund. And this is larger than the GDP of 120 countries, and at the base of it is the alumni of Harvard.

    The alumni of Panjab University. They have occupied positions of the President of the country, the Vice President of the country, the Prime Minister of the country, Cabinet Ministers, Secretaries and Cabinet Secretaries, distinct positions in armed forces, in journalism, in art, in culture, in sports, Nobel laureate and what not. But then, I am here to see their commitment only as alumni of this institution. Just imagine the power of the alumni if they act in a structured manner. If they nurture their alma mater, the results will not be geometrical, they will be incremental.

    सुना था बहुत दिनों से अपना चेहरा नहीं देखा, कोई आईना तो दिखा दे। With utmost restraint at my command but out of great compulsive need मैं alumni को आज आईना दिखाना चाहता हूं। Society progresses. Why? Because we need an ecosystem that enables every citizen to fully exploit his/her potential to realize ambitions and aspirations. We accolade the prime minister of the country. Why? He created such an ecosystem. It generated an atmosphere of hope and possibility.

    He gave new dimension to development. It became people-centric. His achievements are phenomenal, reflected in our exponential economic rise, infrastructure we never dreamt of, and our outreach of inclusion in banking sector to the rural woman by way of gas connection, by way of toilets, by way of नल and नल with जल. There is a question before all of us. Has the rich resource of alumni of this prestigious university exploited its resources, its talent or potential to nurture this institution.

    I leave this soul searching to all of you. But I will make one appeal. Those who look back carry bad baggage. Let us shake off that baggage. Time to make a new beginning. Why a new beginning? We are at a turning point in our history. We are already in the last quarter of independence of our country.

    The centennial independence of our country, last quarter. We have entered the last quarter of the century of adoption of the Indian Constitution. And therefore, right time for the alumni of this prestigious university to take a call. संकल्प लेकर जाएँगे, संकल्पित होकर जाएँगे कठोर निर्णय करेंगे हर वर्ष पंजाब यूनिवर्सिटी के लिए योगदान दूँगा। It doesn’t matter, ladies and gentlemen, what your fiscal contribution is. What matters is that there is contribution.

    Ladies and gentlemen, these endowment funds are not to be analyzed in the context only of it being, let’s say, for Harvard or 50 billion US dollars. No. This generates a great integral bond with the university, with its students. And that bond reflects positively, affirmatively, in several areas. I would seek to invite a focus

    Alumni engagement is vital for curriculum development. Can you imagine of a greater human resource that can make available to you ideas as to what should go into your curriculum. Industry alignment, research in partnerships, evolution of policies, governance mechanisms, financial support is only one part of it. The other part will change the careers of many for the better. It is through your efforts that universities will be enabled to embrace critical thinking innovation. Prepare, motivate, energize and inspire our youth for entrepreneurship. Your input can shape them into future leaders.

    And it is a time when we must have mindset and culture in the country that when it comes to country’s interest, let us not have partisan approach. Let our instinct be fired only by nationalism. Let nationalism alone guide us. Let the principle of nation being always first guide us. I am pained and disturbed on two counts. One, some states have not adopted it. I am sure this is inconceivable on any rational ground. How can this happen? And this happens because the academia, the intelligentsia and the journalism, those in journalism, they don’t generate that pressure.

    We cannot afford in this country to engage into politics at the cost of nationalism or development. That is something which has to be focused. The role of alumni is much beyond. I don’t want this to be limited only to educational institutions. I have advocated from this platform. Number one, wherever I go, I find Panjab University Alumni Associations good, remarkable. It keeps people in connect but please have one confederation of alumni associations for Panjab University. Second, there must be national confederation of alumni associations, of IITs, of IIMs, of universities like Panjab University, institutes of eminence, and that will be a think tank unrivaled and matched in the world. Such kind of remarkable human resource can contribute.

    In evolution of national policies. They will bring on the table their global experience. I’m reminded of a young student who told me just a month back that there was a time when an Indian mind was not seen in global corporates. And now there is no global corporate that doesn’t see Indian genius at the apex level. That’s a big change.

    भारत ने कभी नहीं सोचा था कि भारत दुनिया में आज इतने प्रखर पर होगा। कल्पना से परे था कि जिन्होंने हम पर राज किया और उस स्थान पर मैं राज्यपाल भी रहा।पश्चिम-बंगाल का राजभवन। उनको हमने पीछे छोड़ दिया। हमें कहा जाता था कि दुनिया के अंदर पाँच हिलती डुलती अर्थव्यवस्थाएं हैं। Fragile five economies of the world, We suffered being part of it and now our economy is spinally so strong that we are among the top 5 और दो साल में जापान और जर्मनी, हम किसी को पीछे नहीं छोड़ते हम सिर्फ आगे निकलना जानते हैं।

    मैंने आँखों से देखा है। I was elected to Parliament in 1989, I was a Minister. मेरी आँखों के सामने निर्णय लिया गया कि भारत का सोना भौतिक रूप से स्विट्ज़रलैंड के बेंक में गिर्वी रखा जाएगा, और रखा गया क्योंकि Foreign Exchange डगमगा रहा था। आज उस समय के मुकाबले Foreign Exchange 700 गुना है– 700 times, मैंने वो आँखों से देखा जब 1990 में मंत्री परिषद के सदस्य के रूप में श्रीनगर गया था। डल लेक के कोने पर वो होटल है। जहां हम रुके थे, हमें 2-3 दर्जन से ज्यादा लोग दिखाई नहीं दे रहे थे और मैंने वो सीन भी देखा, जब राज्यसभा में बताया गया हर साल 2 करोड़ से ज्यादा पर्यटक जा रहे हैं। More than 2 Crores, मैंने देखा है, उस समय वातावरण क्या था। कानून के समक समानता नहीं थी, नहीं थी समानता ! Power corridors were extralegally leveraged by nefarious elements, Shekhar Gupta ji का write up है, you can go to that.

    ऐसे हालात में Alumni Association का role बहुत बड़ा हो जाता है। आपके मजबूत कंधों पर बहुत बड़ी जिम्मेवारी है।आज यदि अगर आप ठान लेते हैं, आज अपनी Alma mater को आप गले लगा लेते हैं, आज आप संकल्प लेते हैं कि हम इस University को भी बदलेंगे, इस University के हर छात्र जीवन को हम दिशा देंगे-क्रांतिकारी नतीजे आएंगे, क्यूंकि अपना देश बड़ा विचित्र है। Here iconic status is determined on parameters that are baffling. Look around and you’ll find iconic figures and देखें वो कैसे अपना कलर बदलते हैं। I would not name, I would leave it to your genius. The Indian Banking sector is doing good now because is handling NPAs created by earlier regime. छपा है, उनका बयान देखिए। जब जोड़ने की लंबी यात्रा हो रही थी, एक उद्घोषणा की गई की इस देश के अंदर 5% से ज्यादा की ग्रोथ तो हो ही नहीं सकती। शेखर गुप्ता जी आपने तो जरूर प्रश्न पूछा होगा उनसे की ग्रोथ तो 5 के बजाय 2.5 गुना हो गई थी।

    Ladies and gentlemen, as citizens of this country, it is our prime obligation to ensure that we do not allow in this country disorder to be order of the day. It is indigestible for us. We cannot allow people who have inimical instincts, intentions, evil design towards our progress, and trust me, these forces are powerful. These forces are powerful only on two planks — One, they are fueled by fiscal power which is very tempting. So people fall prey to it. When they fall prey to it, they for a moment forget nationalism and commitment to the nation or the nation first principle, पर जब आम नागरिक, आम भारतीय आज शासन कि सकारात्मक नीतियों को अपने पक्ष में मान रहा है। सकारात्मक नीतियों का लाभ उस तक पहुँच रहा है तो यह जरूर सामने आता है कि जो हो रहा है वो और ज्यादा होना चाहिए, but fundamental premise is we must acknowledge what is happening.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the 72ndPlenary meeting of the North Eastern Council (NEC) in Agartala, Tripura

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the 72ndPlenary meeting of the North Eastern Council (NEC) in Agartala, Tripura

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has brought the Northeast into the focus of development with his vision and sensitivity

    Modi government stands with the northeastern states for resolving their all problems

    NEC is working to identify the needs and challenges of various sectors and provide effective solutions, playing a crucial role in determining the direction of development

    The goal of the Modi government is to accelerate the pace of development in the Northeast and bring this region at par with the rest of India

    Modi government is implementing the mantra of ‘Act East, Act Fast, and Act First’

    Efforts should be made to change the approach, training and focus of the police in every state of the Northeast, transforming the culture and direction of the police force

    In last 10 years, 71% reduction in violent incidents and 86% decrease in civilian deaths in the Northeast has been registered and 10,574 insurgents have surrendered

    Modi government has achieved success in establishing peace in the Northeast through various peace agreements

    Time has come for every citizen of the Northeast to be given their constitutional rights of protection of property, dignity and their family, which are imbibed in the three new criminal laws

    Modi government has attracted investors and worked towards opening global markets for the region,to accelerate the development of the Northeast

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 6:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addressed the 72nd Plenary Session of North Eastern Council (NEC) in Agartala, Tripura today. Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Governor, Tripura, Shri Indrasena Reddy Nallu, Chief Minister, Tripura, Professor (Dr.) Manik Saha and Union Home Secretary, Shri Govind Mohan were present on the occasion. The meeting was also attended by the Governors of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim, as well as the Chief Ministers of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim, along with the Minister of Community and Rural Development of Meghalaya, and several other dignitaries.

    In his address, Union Home Minister said under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi past 10 years have been very important for the North East Region. He said that the way Prime Minister Modi has brought this region into the focus of the world is transformative for the entire Northeast. Shri Shah said that for a long time this region was mere an issue of speeches for Delhi, but Prime Minister Modi has brought this area into the focus of development with his vision and sensitivity. He said that in the last 10 years, due to the unprecedented development of infrastructure in the Northeast, not only has the physical distance been reduced, but Prime Minister Modi has also worked to bridge the distance of hearts between the people of this region and Delhi.

    Union Home Minister said that when Prime Minister Modi gave priority to the Northeast himself, it naturally became the priority of the entire central government.He said that today our Northeast region is on the path of development despite much diversity. He said that 10 years ago, more than 200 tribal groups and more than 195 dialects and languages of the region had become our weakness in a way, causing different kinds of conflicts. Shri Shah said that today, when we look back, it is Prime Minister Shri Modi ji who has done the work of converting that weakness into strength and power.He said that today, more than 200 tribal groups, due to their cultural diversity, have become the center of attraction for the entire world, and over 195 dialects and languages have contributed to making the Northeast one of the 36 biodiversity hotspots in the world.

    Union Home Minister said that there are more than 7,500 species of flowers in the Northeast alone, along with various types of wildlife and water resources. The Modi government has made significant efforts over the past 10 years to preserve these natural diversities and transform the region into a preferred tourist destination.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the Modi government has accomplished the most important task of establishing peace in the Northeast. In the past 10 years, several peace agreements have been signed and about10574 armed youths have surrendered and joined the mainstream, bringing peace to the Northeast and laying the foundation for development. He also mentioned the entire country and the world are now accepting Modi ji’s concept of ‘Ashtalakshmi’

    Union Home Minister said that today the entire country wants the prosperity for every individual and states of the Northeast so that the Northeast continues to contribute to the development of the country. He said that in the 10 years of the Modi government, efforts have been made to build all kinds of foundational structures to move forward on the path of development with such diversity. Union Home Minister added that now, it is time to build a strong, tall, and inclusive structure of development on this foundation. He said that the government has always given priority to the Northeast, and the goal of the Modi government is to bring this region on par with the rest of India by accelerating the pace of its development. Shri Shah mentioned that during former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government, the Ministry of DONER (Development of North Eastern Region) was established.Modi Ji urged the entire Cabinet to visit the Northeast and stay overnight there, resulting in central ministers’ spending over 700 nights in the region. He added that Prime Minister Modi himself has visited the Northeast 65 times, and during each visit, he has brought developmental gifts for the region.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the Modi government has left no stone unturned in preserving the culture of the Northeast. He mentioned that it was the Modi government that worked to include the most languages from the Northeast in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.Shri Shah said that in various peace agreements, the central government has not only empowered and preserved the different dialects of the Northeast but has also advocated for primary education to be provided in the local languages of the region. This has greatly benefited the preservation of our cultural heritage. He noted that now, it is time to give a big push to the country’s efforts to become a 5 trillion dollar economy through the development of the Northeast. He mentioned that for this, the ministries of DONER and the North Eastern Council (NEC) are working to implement the mantra of “Act East, Act Fast, and Act First.”

    Union Home Minister said that over the past 50 years, the NEC has served as an important platform for discussing the aspirations, needs, and potential solutions to challenges, and has worked to become the blueprint for the development of the Northeast.He said that the NEC has played a crucial role in harmonizing the policies of the Government of India and the states of the Northeast, ensuring that development reaches the grassroots level. He added that the NEC has been responsible for formulating development plans, connecting various tribal groups with development, and outlining the development of the Northeast by viewing the entire region from a unique perspective.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Modi has created a positive ecosystem and on the basis of this, the states and the Ministry of DoNERmust improve the investment ecosystem. He said that connectivity from the region is no longer a problem and in some time connectivity with the world will also no longer be a problem.ShriShah said that Prime Minister Modi has created a positive ecosystem, and based on this, the states and the DONER Ministry must improve the investment ecosystem. He stated that connectivity is no longer a problem, and connectivity with the world will also no longer be an issue.He said that after the Bangladesh Enclaves Exchange, our goal of connecting the Northeast with the world will be achieved very soon. He mentioned that this will strengthen the industrial ecosystem in the Northeast, and will also open up global market for those investing here. Shri Shah emphasized that for this, each state must strengthen its efforts. He also stated that the Government of India encourages all investors to invest in the Northeast.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that recently, the Union Cabinet has decided to establish three semiconductor units in the Northeast for the development of the semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem. He mentioned that one of these units, Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Private Limited, will be set up in Assam with an investment of approximately ₹27,000 crore, which will be the largest investment so far. He added that this will create 20,000 direct jobs and 60,000 indirect job opportunities. Shri Shah further added that keeping this future potential in mind, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, is preparing courses in collaboration with universities in the Northeast to equip the youth with relevant education and knowledge. He emphasized that this will generate a large number of jobs for the youth in all eight states of the Northeast.

    Shri Amit Shah said that it is crucial for the Northeast region to attract industrial investment, and efforts to accelerate this need to be intensified. He mentioned that the Northeast cannot remain peaceful solely through the development of the region and states; there needs to be a balance in the development of individuals, villages, and states. He emphasized that for the development of individuals, the development of villages must be ensured, and to achieve this, along with industrial development, the region must become self-reliant in the production of milk, vegetables, eggs, fish, and meat. He said that organic products, milk, vegetables, eggs, and such items are what can drive individual development in the region, and until every individual is prosperous, the vision of a prosperous Northeast cannot be realized.

    Union Home Minister said that organic farming naturally takes place throughout the Northeast. He urged all the governors, chief ministers, and chief secretaries present at the meeting to join the National Cooperative OrganicsLimited (NCOL) established by the Government of India. The objective of NCOL is to connect all farmers engaged in cooperative organic farming and build infrastructure for packaging, marketing, and export. He emphasized that all states should enter into agreements with NCOL and link their farmers to it, so that their organic products can reach the global market. Shri Shah further stated that the Modi government has decided to establish an organic certification lab in every state of the Northeast, and in larger states like Assam, one in each district. This will ensure reliable organic certification for both soil and agricultural products. He added that through brands like Amul and Bharat, our products will be able to reach global markets.

    Shri Amit Shah said that every type of connectivity in the Northeast is a priority for the Modi government. He mentioned that the Mission Palm Oil has the potential to become a significant pathway for the development of all the states in the Northeast. He highlighted that the production of oilseeds in the country is low, and we are still not self-reliant in the edible oil sector, but Mission Palm Oil can make us self-reliant in this area. Shri Shah added that so far, there is a proposal to develop 10 new oil mills in the Northeast.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the Modi government has adopted a multi-dimensional approach in the field of security, and by creating a specific strategy for each state, we have made progress over the last 10 years. He mentioned that as a result of this strategy, the police, army, Assam Rifles, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have successfully established a very good system in the Northeast. Shri Shah stated that in the last 10 years, violent incidents in the Northeast have reduced by 71%, and civilian deaths have reduced by 86%. He added that nearly 10,574 insurgents have surrendered, and due to several peace agreements, the Government of India has succeeded in establishing peace throughout the Northeast.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Modi has launched a campaign for a drug-free India, in which the Northeast has a special responsibility, as a major route for narcotics entering India passes through the states of the Northeast. He mentioned that significant work has been done in the last 6 years in this direction, but our pace is still not sufficient. Home Minister urged all the governors and chief ministers present at the meeting to emphasize organizing district-level meetings of the District Monitoring Committees and to ensure their effective monitoring. He stated that drug addiction destroys future generations, and our goal is to make India completely drug-free, with the Northeast playing a significant role in this campaign.

    Union Home Minister said that preparations are underway to fully implement three new criminal laws across all the states in the Northeast. He mentioned that after the complete implementation of these laws, justice will be delivered within three years, even in the most complex cases, including those reaching the Supreme Court. He pointed out that for years, the focus of the police in all states was solely on combating insurgency and violence. However, now that violence has almost ceased in the Northeast, it is time to ensure that every citizen in the region is granted their constitutional rights to property, honor, and family protection, which are included in these three laws.

    Home Minister emphasized that it is time to change the culture and direction of the Northeast police. He said that with peace prevailing in the region, the focus should now be on ensuring citizens receive their rightful entitlements. For this, a change is needed in the approach, training, and focus of the police in every state of the Northeast. He mentioned that the prerequisite for achieving this change is the complete implementation of these three new laws across all states in the region.

    Shri Amit Shah urged all the governors present at the meeting to personally monitor this process, as it is crucial to establish the belief in the Northeast that citizens can obtain justice through filing an FIR. He said that for four decades, the police forces in all the states of the Northeast were entirely focused on combating insurgency, and now that insurgency is no longer a major issue, the focus must shift to providing citizens with their rights. He said that if this is achieved, the constitutional rights granted to citizens across the country will also be granted to the citizens of the Northeast.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the allocation for the PM-DevINE scheme was approximately ₹6600 crore, but it will soon be increased to ₹9000 crore. He mentioned that for the development of the Northeast, there are more than 111 projects, including roads, power, education, healthcare services, sports infrastructure, and tourism projects. He added that from 2014-15, the budget for the Northeast has increased by 153%, and through the Bamboo Mission, the government has set an ambitious goal to make the entire Northeast prosperous. Shri Shah emphasized that the Modi government will provide all possible support for every type of connectivity in the Northeast, and there will be no shortage of budget for this purpose.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that plans worth ₹81,000 crore have been made for rail connectivity and ₹41,000 crore for road connectivity. He mentioned that 64 new air routes have been launched, and the remaining work will be completed in the next three years. Shri Shah emphasized that the states of the Northeast should make the most use of NESAC (North Eastern Space Applications Centre). He stated that until technology is utilized for the development of the eight northeastern states with challenging geographical conditions, the focus on development cannot be properly defined.

    Regarding the flood problem in the Northeast states, the Home Minister said that by using technology to create pathways in the natural course, the budget for constructing roads could be reduced by at least 30%. He added that by diverting floodwaters and creating large ponds, all three objectives—flood prevention, agriculture, and tourism—could be achieved. He mentioned that Assam has created 15 large ponds on an experimental basis, and all states should use this method for flood relief and water storage. Shri Shah also stated that the use of technology reduces corruption and helps in advancing Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT).

    Shri Amit Shah said that a peaceful and prosperous Northeast alone is not enough. He emphasized that preserving the cultural diversity, arts, literature, and languages of the Northeast, and ensuring their existence, is important not only for the Northeast but for the entire country. He mentioned that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government of India stands with the states of the Northeast to solve every issue they face. He expressed confidence that by 2047, when India becomes fully developed, the Northeast will be the country’s most prosperous region.

    ***

    RK/VV/ASH/PS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Scaling New Heights

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Scaling New Heights

    How the PLI Scheme is Reshaping Industries

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 6:20PM by PIB Delhi

    India’s manufacturing sector is embarking on a transformative journey, driven by forward-thinking policies aimed at reshaping its global presence. Central to this evolution is the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, a cornerstone of the government’s bold vision to establish the nation as a leading global manufacturing hub while promoting innovation, enhancing efficiency, and boosting competitiveness across critical industries.

    The PLI scheme has achieved remarkable milestones in terms of investment, production, and job creation.As on August 2024, across 14 sectors, investment of Rs. 1.46 lakh crore have been realized which has resulted in incremental production/sales of over Rs. 12.50 lakh crore, employment generation of over 9.5 lakhs, and exports surpassing Rs. 4 lakh Crore with significant contributions from sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. Incentive of Rs 2,968 Crorein 8 sectors and Rs. 6,753 Crore in 9 sectors during FY 2022-23 and FY 23-24 respectively.

    Launched in 2020, the PLI Scheme is more than just a policy; it is a strategic leap toward self-reliance. Aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and the larger Make in India initiative, the PLI Scheme seeks to strengthen the manufacturing backbone, reduce reliance on imports, and balance growth with sustainability. It underscores the nation’s resolve to lead in production excellence, foster innovation, and create a thriving industrial ecosystem that powers both local progress and global competitiveness.Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes for 14 key sectors have been announced with an outlay of Rs. 1.97 lakh crore to enhance India’s Manufacturing capabilities and Exports. The 14 sectors are:

    1. Mobile Manufacturing and Specified Electronic Components,
    2. Critical Key Starting Materials/Drug Intermediaries & Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients,
    3. Manufacturing of Medical Devices
    4. Automobiles and Auto Components
    5. Pharmaceuticals Drugs
    6. Specialty Steel
    7.  Telecom & Networking Products
    8. Electronic/ Technology Products
    9. White Goods (ACs and LEDs)
    10. Food Products
    11. Textile Products: MMF segment and technical textiles
    12. High efficiency solar PV modules
    13. Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery
    14. Drones and Drone Components.

    PLI schemes have the potential of significantly boosting production, increase manufacturing activities and contribute to economic growth over the next five years or so. As on date, 764 applications have been approved under PLI Schemes across 14 sectors. Out of these 764, the Food Products sector stands out with the highest share of 182 approvals, followed by Automobiles & Auto Components sector follows with 95 approvals. Textile Products: MMF Segment and Technical Textiles received 74 applications approved, Specialty Steel secured 67 approvals, while White Goods (ACs and LEDs) received 66.Additionally, sectors such as Critical Key Starting Materials/ Drug Intermediaries & Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients received 51 approvals, Pharmaceuticals Drugs  received 55approvals, Telecom & Networking Products got 42 approvals and Electronic/ Technology Products received 27 approvals. Manufacturing of Medical devices and Mobile Manufacturing & Specified Electronic Components bothreceived 32 approvalseach. Emerging areas like Drones and Drone Components got 23approvals, High-Efficiency Solar PV Modules received 14 and Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery received 4approvals. The diversity in approvals highlight the scheme’s focus on future-ready industries, underscoring its comprehensive approach to strengthening India’s position as a global manufacturing hub.

    In conclusion, the PLI scheme is poised to create a cascading impact on India’s MSME ecosystem by fostering the development of ancillary units across value chains, predominantly within the MSME sector.By aligning with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the PLI scheme is not only driving industrial growth but also paving the way for India’s self-reliance and global leadership in manufacturing.

    References

    LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3656: https://sansad.in/ls/questions/questions-and-answers

    https://pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=153454&ModuleId=3&reg=3&lang=1

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2086347

    Click here to see in PDF:

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister expresses happiness on a heartwarming welcome from the Indian diaspora in Kuwait

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister expresses happiness on a heartwarming welcome from the Indian diaspora in Kuwait

    Prime Minister meets Shri Mangal Sain Handa Ji in Kuwait

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 6:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi  has expressed his happiness on receiving a heartwarming welcome from the vibrant Indian diaspora in Kuwait. Prime Minister Shri  Modi remarked that their energy, love and unwavering connection to India are truly inspiring. 

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has also expressed his happiness in meeting Shri Mangal Sain Handa Ji in Kuwait this afternoon. 

    In a post on X, he wrote:

    “Received a heartwarming welcome from the vibrant Indian diaspora in Kuwait. 

    Their energy, love and unwavering connection to India are truly inspiring. Grateful for their enthusiasm and proud of their contributions to strengthening ties between our nations.”
     

     

    “Delighted to have met Shri @MangalSainHanda Ji in Kuwait this afternoon. I admire his contribution to India and his passion for India’s development.”

     

     

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    MJPS/VJ

    (Release ID: 2086810) Visitor Counter : 16

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda holds meeting with Chief Ministers on the 100-day Intensified TB Elimination Campaign

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda holds meeting with Chief Ministers on the 100-day Intensified TB Elimination Campaign

    Urges support of Chief Ministers to monitor the progress of the campaign, involve other ministries and departments, and encourage the support of Members of Legislative Assemblies and Councils, as well as PRIs to ensure community mobilization

    Rate of TB decline in India has doubled from 8.3% in 2015 to 17.7% which is much ahead of the global average: Shri JP Nadda

    “Deaths due to TB have reduced significantly in India by 21.4% in the last 10 years”

    “States already have nearly two months stock of TB medicines, Centre is working towards ensuring advance stock of at least 6 months of TB medicines available in the states”

    The 100-day campaign is being implemented across 347 identified priority districts where comprehensive and novel patient-centric services are being provided

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda held a meeting with Chief Ministers/LGs and State Health Ministers of States/UTs, requesting their support toward the ongoing 100-day Intensified TB Elimination Campaign via video conference, here today. Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav joined the meeting virtually. The Chief Ministers/LGs and Health Ministers were provided an overview of the campaign, its objectives, the key strategic activities being undertaken, and the role of states/UTs in ensuring the successful implementation of the campaign. 

     

     

    State Ministers who were present in the meeting included Shri Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh; Dr Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister, Madhya Pradesh; Shri Bhupendra Patel, Chief Minister, Gujarat; Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief Minister, Rajasthan; Shri Manik Saha, Chief Minister, Tripura; Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister, Uttrakhand; Shri Satya Kumar Yadav, Health Minister (Andhra Pradesh); Shri Biyuram Wahge, Health Minister (Arunachal Pradesh); Shri Ashok Singhal, Health Minister (Assam); Smt. Arti Rao, Health Minister (Haryana); Smt. Sakeena Itoo, Health Minister (Jammu & Kashmir); Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, Health Minister (Himachal Pradesh); Shri Vishwajit P. Rane, Health Minister (Goa); Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, Health Minister (Karnataka); Shri P. Paiwang Konyak, Health Minster (Nagaland); Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, Health Minister (Odisha); Dr. Balbir Singh, Health Minister (Punjab); Smt. Veena George, Health Minister (Kerala); Shri Ma. Subramanian, Health Minister (Tamil Nadu); Shri Irfan Ansari, Health Minister (Jharkhand); Shri Damodar Rajanarasimha, Health Minister (Telangana); Smt. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Health Minister (Meghalaya) and Shri Ramakant Goswami, Labour Minister (Delhi);

    Shri Nadda urged the States/UTs to monitor the campaign at the state level and ensure the same is done by the political and administrative leadership at the district levels. He suggested that to ensure a whole-of-government approach, other ministries and departments can be roped in to support campaign activities, similar to the approach taken at the national level. He also requested the Chief Ministers to involve elected representatives, especially Members of Legislative Assemblies and Councils, as well as Panchayati Raj Institutions and encourage their active participation to help mobilize communities.

     

     

    Shri Nadda highlighted that the rate of TB decline in India has doubled from 8.3% in 2015 to 17.7% which is much ahead of the global average. He also informed that deaths due to TB have reduced significantly in India by 21.4% in the last 10 years.

    Crediting the state ministers for the achievements made towards TB eradication, the Union Minister thanked them for their support towards the campaign. He highlighted the importance of test, track and diagnostics for active TB testing, screening and diagnosis of patients and urged the dignitaries to actively monitor the campaign in the identified districts in their respective states. Underlining the support that state ministers can provide on the TB campaign, he requested them to promote the campaign in their meetings and rallies and also urged them to come forward as Ni-Kshay Mitras to adopt TB patients.

    The Union Health Minister noted that states already have nearly two months stock of TB medicines and stated that the Centre is working towards ensuring advance stock of at least 6 months of TB medicines available in the states. He concluded his address by encouraging all the stakeholders to reiterate their commitment to end TB.

    An overview of the 100-day campaign which aims to reduce TB incidence and mortality due to TB in 347 priority districts across the country was presented at the event. It was informed that to increase detection, intensified case finding drives will be conducted using advanced screening and diagnostic technologies to reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment initiation. Parallelly, to reduce mortality due to TB, the programme will expand access to novel initiatives such as the Differentiated TB Care to provide specialised care for high-risk patients and increased nutritional support through Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana.

    The State Ministers were also informed about the various community mobilization activities that should be undertaken during the campaign, including over 80,000 Ni-kshay Shivirs to monitor progress. Building on the Jan Bhagidaari approach, the campaign aims to mobilize community members to undertake Ni-kshay Shapaths, urge community leaders, individuals, NGOs and corporates to become Ni-kshay Mitras. Alongside, TB Vijaetas (TB champions) and Ni-kshay Mitras will be recognized for their contributions that will further inspire collective action. Lastly, involvement of Panchayati Raj Institution members will be critical and regular Gram Sabhas on TB will be organized to raise community awareness while ensuring the uptake of essential TB services.

     

     

     

    The Chief Ministers expressed their appreciation for the Union Government’s intensified efforts in the TB campaign and pledged their support toward achieving the goal of TB elimination. The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh shared details about the state’s Jan Jagrukta Abhiyan, aimed at raising awareness about TB, and highlighted its leadership role in providing food baskets to TB patients. Chief Ministers from Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh also discussed their progress in enhancing TB testing and screening services. The dignitaries further shared their experiences with the TB campaign and offered valuable feedback and suggestions.

    Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary; Smt. Aradhana Patnaik, Addl. Secretary, Union Health Ministry; senior officers of the Union Health Ministry and Mission Directors (NHM) from states were present on the occasion.

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    MV

    HFW/HFM 100 Days TB Meeting with States/21 December 2024/1

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri George Kurian, MoS expresses sincere thanks to Railway Minister for granting special train services for Kerala on the occasion of Christmas and Sabarimala pilgrimage

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 5:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri. George Kurian, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying expresses his sincere thanks to Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways, Electronics and Information Technology and Information & Broadcasting, for granting approval based on his request, for granting special train services for Kerala on the occasion of Christmas and Sabarimala pilgrimage.

    The Ministry of Railways, Government of India has announced the operation of 10 special trains to specifically cater to the increased travel demand to and from Kerala during the Christmas Festival in 2024 and 149 special train trips across various Railway Zones for Christmas. Further, 416 special train trips to and from Kerala have been announced for smooth travel for the Sabarimala pilgrims.

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways has granted approval for the special train operations for Kerala based on the request of Shri George Kurian Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. These announcements have been made to enhance convenience for the people during the festive season and are an embodiment of responsive and effective governance under the visionary leadership of  Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi.

    A total of 149 special train trips across various zones have been announced for Christmas Festival 2024. The details of the train services are as follows:

    ● South Western Railway (SWR): 17 trips

    ● Central Railway (CR): 48 trips

    ● Northern Railway (NR): 22 trips

    ● South East Central Railway (SECR): 2 trips

    ● Western Railway (WR): 56 trips

    ● West Central Railway (WCR): 4 trips

    The details of the 416 special train trips for Kerala for Sabarimala pilgrimage is as follows:

    ● South Western Railway (SWR): 42 trips

    ● Southern Railway (SR): 138 trips

    ● South Central Railway (SCR): 192 trips

    ● East Coast Railway (ECOR): 44 trips

    These trains aim to ensure smooth and convenient travel for passengers while addressing the surge in demand during the holiday season.

    ***

    SS/PRK

    (Release ID: 2086800) Visitor Counter : 58

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Mines Successfully Organized Landmark Roadshow on Offshore Areas Mineral Blocks Auction in Porbandar, Gujarat

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 4:57PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Mines successfully organized an exclusive roadshow today at Porbandar, Gujarat, to unveil the auction process for India’s first-ever Offshore Areas Mineral Blocks. The event marked a significant step in unlocking the mineral potential of India’s offshore regions, bringing together industry leaders, key stakeholders, and government representatives.

    The event commenced with a welcome address by Joint Secretary, Shri Vivek Kr. Bajpai and Administering Authority, Ministry of Mines, Government of India outlined the government’s vision for revolutionizing the mining sector through innovation and sustainability. He emphasized the significance of unlocking offshore mineral resources to support India’s economic growth and infrastructure development.

    Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Shri V. L. Kantha Rao, Government of India in his address, highlighted the transformative potential of lime-mud mining in India’s offshore regions. He underscored the critical role of lime-mud, a vital raw material for cement manufacturing, in diversifying the industry’s resource base and enhancing supply chain resilience. Shri Rao elaborated on how the exploration and sustainable utilization of offshore mineral resources align with the nation’s vision of achieving self-reliance in critical sectors. He also emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering a transparent and investor-friendly auction process, ensuring these resources are harnessed to drive economic growth, support infrastructure development, and create new employment opportunities.

    IAS, Commissioner, Geology and Mines, Shri Dhaval Patel, Government of Gujarat, delivered a key address at the event, emphasizing Gujarat’s strategic importance in India’s offshore mining sector. Highlighting the state’s vast mineral potential, especially in the offshore regions, he reiterated Gujarat’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment for exploration and sustainable resource utilization.

    SBICAPS, provided a step-by-step guide to the auction process, ensuring clarity for potential bidders. GSI, presented key technical findings, focusing on the vast lime-mud deposits off Gujarat’s coast.  MSTC showcased the robust and transparent auction platform designed for seamless participation.

    The roadshow reflects the government’s commitment to innovation and transparency in mining, paving the way for sustainable offshore resource utilization and new collaborations.All details of the auction, including terms and mineral blocks, can be accessed on the MSTC auction platform at

    https://www.mstcecommerce.com/auctionhome/mlcln/.

    *****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    (Release ID: 2086788) Visitor Counter : 42

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HMoJ Shri C.R. Patil, inaugurates Climate Smart Agro-Textile Demonstration Center in Navsari, Gujarat

    Source: Government of India (2)

    HMoJ Shri C.R. Patil, inaugurates Climate Smart Agro-Textile Demonstration Center in Navsari, Gujarat

    This initiative aligns with the Ministry’s vision of promoting technical textiles under the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) and advancing India’s agriculture sector towards sustainable and innovative solutions.

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 3:54PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Textiles, in collaboration with the Synthetic & Art Silk Mills’ Research Association (SASMIRA) launched Climate Smart Agro-Textile Demonstration Center in Navsari, Gujarat, in the presence of Shri C.R. Patil, Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti, Government of India.

    This demonstration center represents a significant step forward in promoting the adoption of Agro-Textiles as transformative solutions for India’s agricultural sector. These are designed to educate and empower farmers, features live demonstrations of Agro-Textile products, their applications, and practical training modules to help integrate these innovations into daily farming practices. Spread across 15,000 sq. meters, the center will be maintained by SASMIRA for three years, covering eight crop cycles. The facility includes live applications of Agro-Textile technologies such as  Shade nets (par-perfect, photo-selective, and vertical farming applications), Medicinal nurseries, Vermicomposting under shade nets, Ground covers (natural and HDPE), Pond liners and crop covers. 

    Shri C.R. Patil, in his inaugural address, emphasised the critical role of Agro-Textiles in improving crop productivity, conserving resources, and enabling sustainable farming. He urged farmers to visit the demonstration center and integrate Agro-Textile technologies into their practices for enhanced agricultural outcomes.

    This initiative aligns with the Ministry’s vision of promoting technical textiles under the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) and advancing India’s agriculture sector towards sustainable and innovative solutions. The demonstration center is equipped with IoT-based monitoring systems to track real-time conditions, crop yield, and growth performance. Additionally, the center will host approved seminars at regular intervals to educate farmers and stakeholders.

    Shri Raghavjibhai Patel, Cabinet Minister of Agriculture, assured full state support for the initiative and suggested organizing meetings with state governments to expand the adoption of Agro-Textiles. Dr. Z.P. Patel, Vice Chancellor of Navsari Agricultural University, expressed his enthusiasm for the demonstration center’s potential to bridges the gap between academia and real-world farming, equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to increase productivity while conserving resources. Shri Rajeev Saxena, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Textile highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to encouraging the adoption of technical textiles in agriculture.

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    DSK

     

    (Release ID: 2086778) Visitor Counter : 53

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Key stakeholders from NPS ecosystem to come together with the launch of Association of NPS Intermediaries (ANI) today

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Key stakeholders from NPS ecosystem to come together with the launch of Association of NPS Intermediaries (ANI) today

    Necessary to plan early for pension, ANI may create awareness about it: Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Government of India

    ANI to strengthen & redouble efforts to expand pension coverage in India through collective efforts and feedback mechanism: PFRDA Chairperson Dr. Deepak Mohanty

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 3:34PM by PIB Mumbai

     

    : Mumbai, December 21, 2024

    The Association of NPS Intermediaries (ANI) was officially launched today at a conference titled “Securing Tomorrow, With Pension” held at the Insurance Institute of India, Mumbai today. On the occasion, the association’s logo was also unveiled by the Chairperson of PFRDA, Dr. Deepak Mohanty.  This landmark initiative brings together key stakeholders from the National Pension System (NPS) ecosystem to foster collaboration, strengthen subscriber welfare, and promote the continued growth of NPS as a critical retirement planning tool for the citizens of India.

    The Secretary, Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, virtually delivered the keynote address on the occasion. DFS Secretary congratulated the newly formed Association of NPS Intermediaries. It was emphasised that, with the changing demographics, rapid urbanisation and changes in family structure, early planning for the pension product by an individual is a necessity. In this regard, he urged advocacy by the newly formed association. The association was assured that any feedback from them will be examined with utmost care and urgency.

    Speaking at the conference, PFRDA Chairperson Dr. Deepak Mohanty, emphasized,
    “The launch of the Association of NPS Intermediaries is a significant milestone for the pension sector. I am confident it will further strengthen & redouble our efforts in creating awareness to expand pension coverage in India through collective efforts and feedback mechanism. The Association will lead the charge, with guidance from its members and regulators, to become a global benchmark for financial security.”

    Dr. Mohanty stated, National Pension System (NPS) has seen tremendous growth in recent years, establishing itself as a cornerstone for long-term retirement planning in India. With assets under management (AUM) exceeding ₹13.8 lakh crore, both Atal Pension Yojana (APY) and NPS, having a total subscriber base of 8 crores, has emerged as one of the most efficient, tax-advantageous, and low-cost retirement solutions available today. This remarkable growth underscores the increasing acceptance of pension schemes and the vital role it plays in securing the future of India’s working population, he added.

    Dr. Mohanty also said that the NPS industry is expanding rapidly, driven by growing awareness, government initiatives through PFRDA and NPS Trust and support from a robust network of intermediaries. The system’s flexibility, transparency, and ability to cater to a wide range of investors—from salaried employees to self-employed individuals—have made it a preferred choice for retirement planning across the country. The steady rise in subscribers and growing assets reflect the confidence Indian citizens place in NPS as a trusted retirement product, said the PFRDA Chairperson.

    Speaking about the important role to be played by ANI, Dr. Mohanty said, as the NPS ecosystem evolves, the formation of the Association of NPS Intermediaries marks a significant milestone. This association unites various stakeholders, including Pension Fund Managers.

    The conference titled “Securing Tomorrow, With Pension” featured an insightful address by Shri Siddhartha Mohanty, Chairperson of LIC of India, who focused on the pivotal role of increased pension assets in the development of the financial sector in India. Shri Rama Mohan Rao Amara, MD of State Bank of India, and Shri Amitabh Chaudhry, MD & CEO of Axis Bank Ltd., shared their perspectives on the critical role financial institutions play in driving the adoption and growth of the NPS. Shri Animesh Mishra, Additional Central Provident Fund Commissioner, EPFO, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the lack of advocacy about the need for sustainable pension and EPF alone will not be sufficient to reach the desired replacement rate.

    A panel discussion on “Pension Society in Viksit Bharat@2047”, moderated by Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Anand, Whole-Time Member (Finance), PFRDA, with participation of experts from the Government, Industry and Academia.  During moderation, Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Anand, Whole-Time Member (Finance), PFRDA in its opening remark highlighted on the increased longevity, need for financial literacy and long-term sustainable investment options focussed on ESG. Shri Pankaj Sharma, Joint Secretary, DFS emphasized that Government is taking adequate steps to increase the penetration and the young generation should be sensitised the saving for pension. Dr Ritu Anand, Thought Leader, Human Resources stated that lot of work has to be done by the HR Community to introduce NPS starting from the top management of the corporates. Sh. Dhirendra Kumar, CEO, Value Research mentioned that Pension Funds should aim to make investment provisions for the longer term considering the longer investment horizon of the product. Smt Bahroze Kamdin, Partner, Deloitte Haskins & Sells informed that NPS is a tax efficient product and at the same time ensures that the investments are safe and secure with decent returns. Prof S.V.D. Nageswara Rao, Prof and Head, SJM School of Management, IIT Bombay mentioned that Financial Literacy is most important step to ensure better penetration of pension across the society.

    About Association of NPS Intermediaries (ANI)

    The Association of NPS Intermediaries is a collective platform representing all stakeholders in the NPS ecosystem. It is committed to enhancing the effectiveness of the system, strengthening subscriber welfare, and collaborating with policymakers to shape the future of retirement planning in India. The ANI stakeholders are Points of Presence (Bank and Non-Bank), Central Record Keeping Agencies, Trustee Banks, Custodians, Aggregators, Annuity Service Providers, Pension Agents, Retirement Advisors, and other industry participants.

    The primary objectives of the association are to:

    • Promote NPS as a reliable, flexible, and tax-efficient retirement product.
    • Focus on subscriber welfare by ensuring smooth and transparent processes within the system.
    • Collaborate with regulators and policymakers to improve the NPS framework and contribute to developing the pension market in India.

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    Sriyanka Chatterjee/ Edgar Coelho/P.Kor

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Stakeholder Workshop on ‘Strengthening Camel Milk Value Chain in India’ Organized in Bikaner as part of International Year of Camelids

    Source: Government of India

    Stakeholder Workshop on ‘Strengthening Camel Milk Value Chain in India’ Organized in Bikaner as part of International Year of Camelids

    From Desert Heroes to Nutraceutical Superfood – India Aims to Conserve Camels; Unlock Potential of Camel Milk Industry

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 1:23PM by PIB Delhi

    The United Nations has declared 2024 as the International Year of Camelids. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and ICAR – National Research Center on Camel organized a day-long stakeholder workshop on ‘Strengthening Camel Milk Value Chain in India’ on Friday, 20 December 2024 in Bikaner, Rajasthan.

    The event aimed to stimulate and facilitate a dialogue between different stakeholders to unlock the challenges that can contribute to the sustainable development of the non-bovine (camel) dairy value chain, along with its nutraceutical and therapeutic values. The event saw participation of more than 150 individuals representing the camel rearers of the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, government officials, social enterprises, scientists and academicians along with representatives from National Rainfed Area Authority, National Dairy Research Institute- Karnal, Sarhad Dairy- Kutch, Lotus Dairy and Amul. The participants brainstormed to identify the challenges faced by the non-bovine milk sector in India, especially the camel milk and finding sustainable solutions for development of the camel rearers by involving all stakeholders in the value-chain.

    During the keynote address, Ms. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD), highlighted about the dwindling camel population in India. She called for immediate action to prevent their further decline in population, stressing upon the role of the National Livestock Mission in ensuring sustainable grazing lands and supporting camel-rearing communities. Highlighting the need for a robust camel milk value chain, she emphasized on its economic potential while encouraging conservation efforts. Her address urged stronger outreach to camel farmers to understand their challenges and provide targeted interventions to secure both their livelihoods and the future of camels in India.

    Dr Abhijit Mitra, Animal Husbandry Commissioner, DAHD called for the need to conduct a brief study on reasons for the decline in the camel population in the country. He underscored the importance of camel milk for its nutraceutical and therapeutic properties rather than just its supplementary considerations. He also emphasized the need to promote nucleus breeding farms and breeders’ societies for camels.

    Mr Takayuki Hagiwara, FAO Representative in India, said, “Through collaborative efforts with DAHD and other key stakeholders, FAO is committed to strengthening the non-bovine milk value chain in India. By combining expertise from government, research, and industry, we aim to unlock new opportunities for sustainable growth, enhance livelihoods, and promote the nutritional and therapeutic benefits of non-bovine milk. Together, we can build a resilient, market-driven ecosystem that empowers farmers and improves food security across the nation”.

    Dr. Samit Sharma, Secretary, Animal Husbandry Department, Government of Rajasthan addressed the gathering and informed the action taken by the State for development of the Camel sector. He also highlighted the need to protect the camel population through organizing more pashumelas, camel competitions, promoting eco-tourism and value added products.

    Further inputs were sought from the stakeholders on prospects and challenges along with the identification of a socially inclusive institutional model that can strengthen procurement, milk standardization, pricing mechanism and market feasibility to develop pathways for value addition. Detailed deliberations also took place on the importance of value chain development including value addition and pricing mechanism of camel milk as well as research development. During the discussion entrepreneurs demanded that the Government should handhold the entrepreneurs to develop the infrastructure for milk processing at the initial steps that will encourage entrepreneurs to invest in the sector. The workshop also highlighted the efforts made towards conservation of camels through its breed development, having a concerted clinical trial on therapeutic properties of camel milk and value chain development in breeding, production, milking capacities, product development and creating a niche market for the camel milk. Vibrant camel races and decoration competitions were also organized during the event. The event forms an integral part of the UN International Year of Camelids 2024 with the slogan – “Heroes of the deserts and highlands:  nourishing people and culture” – to recognize and celebrate the vital contribution camelids make to livelihoods, food security, nutrition and culture, thus achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    The workshop was also attended by Mr Jayen Mehta, Managing Director, AMUL (virtual participation), Dr Falguni Thakar, Director, Department of Animal Husbandry, Gujarat, Dr RK Sawal. Director, NRCC, Pro Vice Chancellor, Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner  and Mr Valumji Bhai Humble, Chairman, Kutch Milk Union & VC, GCMMF, Gujarat amongst others. The event also witnessed participation of representatives from the Border Security Force that has a camel corps and plays an important role in border patrolling and other services.

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    AA

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Bhupender Yadav Releases India State of Forest Report 2023

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 1:06PM by PIB Delhi

    Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav released the ‘India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR 2023) today at Forest Research Institute, Dehradun. The ISFR is brought out by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) on a biennial basis since 1987. FSI carries out in-depth assessment of the forest and tree resources of the country based on interpretation of Remote Sensing satellite data and field based National Forest Inventory (NFI), and the results are published in the ISFR. The India State of Forest Report 2023 is 18th such report in the series.

    The report contains information on forest cover, tree cover, mangrove cover, growing stock, carbon stock in India’s forests, instances of forest fire, Agroforestry, etc. To present a detailed picture of the forest health at country level, special thematic information on forest cover and important characteristics of forests have been reported in the ISFR. As per the present assessment, the total Forest and Tree cover is 8,27,357sq km, which is 25.17 percent of the geographical area of the country. The Forest Cover has an area of about 7,15,343sq km (21.76%) whereas the Tree Cover has an area of 1,12,014 sq km (3.41%).

    The Minister expressed happiness over the fact that as compared to 2021, there is an increase of 1445 sq km in the total forest and tree cover of the country. He also highlighted the near real time fire alerts and forest fire services provided by FSI using advance technology.

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    MAJOR FINDINGS

    ● The Forest and Tree cover of the country is 8,27,357 sq km which is 25.17 percent of the geographical area of the country, consisting of 7,15,343 sq km (21.76%) as forest cover and 1,12,014 sq km (3.41%) as tree cover.

    ● As compared to assessment of 2021, there is an increase of 1445 sq km in the forest and tree cover of the country which includes 156 sq km increase in the forest cover and 1289 sq km increase in tree cover.

    • Top four states showing maximum increase in forest and tree cover are Chhattisgarh (684 sq km) followed by Uttar Pradesh (559 sq km), Odisha (559 sq km) and Rajasthan (394 sq km).
    • Top three states showing maximum increase in forest cover are Mizoram (242 sq km) followed by Gujarat (180 sq km) and Odisha (152 sq km).
    • Area wise top three states having largest forest and tree cover are Madhya Pradesh (85,724 sq km) followed by Arunachal Pradesh (67,083 sq km) and Maharashtra (65,383 sq km).

    ● Area wise top three states having largest forest cover are Madhya Pradesh (77,073 sq km) followed by Arunachal Pradesh (65,882 sq km) and Chhattisgarh (55,812 sq km).

    • In terms of percentage of forest cover with respect to total geographical area, Lakshadweep (91.33 percent) has the highest forest cover followed by Mizoram (85.34 percent) and Andaman & Nicobar Island (81.62 percent).
    • The present assessment also reveals that 19 states/UTs have above 33 percent of the geographical area under forest cover. Out of these, eight states/UTs namely Mizoram, Lakshadweep, A & N Island, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur have forest cover above 75 percent.

    ● The total mangrove cover is 4,992 sq km in the country.

    • The total growing stock of India’s forest and trees outside forests is estimated as 6430 million cum, of which 4479 million cum is inside the forests and 1951 million cum outside the forest area. There is an increase of 262 million cum of total growing stock as compared to the previous assessment which includes an increase of 91 million cum inside the forest and 171 million cum outside the forest area.
    • The extent of bamboo bearing area for the country has been estimated as 1,54,670sq km. As compared to the last assessment done in 2021 there is an increase of 5,227 sq km in bamboo area.
    • The total annual potential production of timber from trees outside forest has been estimated as 91.51 million cum.
    • In the present assessment total carbon stock in country’s forest is estimated to be 7,285.5 million tonnes. There is an increase of 81.5 million tonnes in the carbon stock of country as compared to the last assessment.
    • Regarding status on achievement of target under NDC related to carbon sequestration, the current assessment shows that India’s carbon stock has reached 30.43 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent; which indicates that as compared to the base year of 2005, India has already reached 2.29 billion tonnes of additional carbon sink as against the target of 2.5 to 3.0 billion tonnes by 2030.

    Besides providing vital information for monitoring the country’s forest and tree resources, the data given in the ISFR serves as a useful source of information for the policy makers, planners, State Forest Departments, research organisation, line agencies involved in various developmental works, academicians, civil society and others interested in natural resource conservation and management.

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    VM/GS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister calls upon everyone to make meditation a part of their daily lives

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 12:28PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi  has called upon everyone to make meditation a part of their daily lives on World Meditation Day, today.  Prime Minister Shri Modi remarked that Meditation is a powerful way to bring peace and harmony to one’s life, as well as to our society and planet. 

    In a post on X, he wrote:

    “Today, on World Meditation Day, I call upon everyone to make meditation a part of their daily lives and experience its transformative potential. Meditation is a powerful way to bring peace and harmony to one’s life, as well as to our society and planet. In the age of technology, Apps and guided videos can be valuable tools to help incorporate meditation into our routines.”

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister looks forward to meet 101-year-old ex-IFS officer in Kuwait

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 11:20AM by PIB Delhi

    In response to a request made  to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister has responded that he is looking forward to meet Shri Mangal Sain Handa ji, 101-year-old ex-IFS officer in Kuwait today, during interaction with the Indian Diaspora.
     
    In a post on X, he wrote:

    “Absolutely! I look forward to meeting @MangalSainHanda  Ji in Kuwait today.”

     

     

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    MJPS/VJ

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: BharatNet: Bridging the Digital Divide

    Source: Government of India

    BharatNet: Bridging the Digital Divide

    From Remote Villages to Smart Communities

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 9:55AM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction to BharatNet

     

    In a world increasingly driven by digital innovation, internet connectivity has become a cornerstone for economic growth, education, healthcare, and governance. Digital divide was significant challenge, especially in rural India, and to address this, the government of India launched BharatNet in October 2011, an ambitious project aimed at providing affordable high-speed internet access to every Gram Panchayat in the country. This initiative, under the Ministry of Communications, seeks to empower rural India, fostering inclusive growth and bridging the gap between urban and rural communities. BharatNet is not merely an infrastructure project; it is the backbone of India’s journey towards a truly digital nation.

    Amended BharatNet 2023

     

    In August 2023, the government approved the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP). The program provides for internet access by Optical Fibre (OF) connectivity to 2.64 lakh GPs in ring topology and also to provide OF connectivity to the remaining non-GP villages (approx. 3.8 lakhs) on demand basis. The design improvement, at a cost of Rs. 1,39,579 crores, in ABP is aiming at:

    • Optical fiber connectivity from Block to GP in Ring topology
    • IP- MPLS network with Routers at Blocks and GPs
    • Provision of optical fiber connectivity to non-GP villages on demand basis
    • Provision for Operation and maintenance for 10 years, including monitoring of network uptime through Centralized Network Operating Centre (CNOC) and payment to Project Implementation Agency (PIA) as per Service Level Agreement (SLA)
    • Provision of Power backup of adequate level at GPs and Blocks
    • Provision of Remote Fibre Monitoring System (RFMS) at Block for fibre monitoring

     

    Digital Bharat Nidhi: Funding BharatNet

     

    Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) is a fund that aims to improve the quality and accessibility of telecommunications services in India. It was established by the government of India as a replacement for the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF). The DBN’s goals are to:

    • Provide affordable and high-quality mobile and digital services in rural and remote areas
    • Ensure equitable access to knowledge and information
    • Promote economic growth by increasing digital connectivity and services
    • Narrow the digital divide and remove barriers to access

    Working of BharatNet

     

    BharatNet operates as the world’s largest rural broadband connectivity program. The project is being executed by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) namely Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), which has been incorporated on 25.02.2012. On 30.04.2016, the Telecom Commission approved to implement the project in three phases:

    1. Phase I: Focused on laying optical fiber cables to connect 1 lakh Gram Panchayats by utilizing existing infrastructure. Completed in December 2017, this phase established the foundational network.
    2. Phase II: Expanded the coverage to an additional 1.5 lakh Gram Panchayats using optical fiber, radio, and satellite technologies. This phase incorporated collaborative efforts with state governments and private entities.
    3. Phase III: Aims at future-proofing the network by integrating 5G technologies, increasing bandwidth capacity, and ensuring robust last-mile connectivity. This phase is ongoing, with a focus on improving accessibility and reliability.

    The network’s core relies on optical fiber cables, satellite links for remote regions, and wireless technologies for last-mile connectivity. Implemented under the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), BharatNet adopts a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to ensure efficient execution and maintenance.

     

    Impact of BharatNet

     

    BharatNet has had a transformative impact on rural India, contributing to socioeconomic development in multiple ways:

    1. Digital Inclusion: The project has connected remote villages to high-speed internet, enabling access to e-governance services, online education, and telemedicine. Initiatives like the Digital India program thrive on BharatNet’s infrastructure.
    2. Economic Opportunities: With internet access, rural communities can participate in digital commerce, access financial services, and explore entrepreneurial opportunities. This has significantly boosted income generation in underserved areas.
    3. Education and Healthcare: BharatNet has enabled digital classrooms and telehealth services, bridging the resource gap in rural areas. Students and patients now have access to quality education and medical expertise from urban centers.
    4. Empowering Local Governance: Gram Panchayats use BharatNet to implement e-governance projects, improving transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement in public services.

     

    Key Achievements and Milestones

    Internet Inclusivity in India

    Internet access is available in the country including rural areas through the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) through wireless mobile and fixed wireline broadband. Government has taken numerous initiatives to enhance internet connectivity in India through mobile connectivity and optical fiber rollout. As a result, as of October, 2024:

    • Number of 4G Base Transceiver Station (BTS) have reached 24,96,644, spread across 783 districts.
    • India has seen the fastest rollout of 5G services in the world with 4,62,084 BTS deployed across 779 districts.
    • The cost of data has reduced drastically from Rs 269 per GB (in March 2014) to Rs. 9.08 per GB.
    • The Median mobile broadband speed has increased from 1.30 Mbps in March 2014 to 95.67 Mbps.
    • The average wireless usage of data per subscriber has increased to 22.24 GB per subscriber per month.
    • Out of 6,44,131 villages, 6,15,836 number of villages are having 4G mobile connectivity in the country.

     

    Conclusion

     

    BharatNet holds the promise of transforming rural India into a digitally empowered society. By addressing these challenges and maintaining its momentum, the initiative can pave the way for a more inclusive and connected future. BharatNet is more than an infrastructure project; it is a lifeline for millions of rural Indians aspiring to connect with opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings. With robust execution and sustained efforts, BharatNet will continue to bridge the digital divide and empower every corner of India with the transformative power of the internet.

     

    References

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/183/AS329_R1XIRX.pdf?source=pqals

    https://usof.gov.in/en/usof-dashboard

    https://usof.gov.in/en/home

    https://pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=151993&ModuleId=3&reg=3&lang=1

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2077908

    https://usof.gov.in/en/bharatnet-project

    https://bbnl.nic.in/

    BharatNet: Bridging the Digital Divide

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    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Rishita Aggarwal

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister urges everyone to discover the pristine White Rann, to explore the spectacular culture and warm hospitality of Kutch during the ongoing Rann Utsav

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 10:08AM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi  has invited everyone to Rann Utsav, which will go on till March 2025.  Prime Minister Shri Modi underscored that the festival promises to be an unforgettable experience.

    In a post on X, he wrote:

    “Kutch awaits you all! 

    Come, discover the pristine White Rann, the spectacular culture and warm hospitality of Kutch during the ongoing Rann Utsav. 

    The festival, which goes on till March 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience for you and your family.”
     

     

    “कच्छ की परंपरा, संस्कृति और विरासत का प्रतीक रण उत्सव हर किसी का मन मोह लेने वाला है। अद्भुत क्राफ्ट बाजार हो, सांस्कृतिक कार्यक्रम या फिर खान-पान की परंपरा, यहां का आपका हर अनुभव अविस्मरणीय बन जाएगा। आप सभी से मेरा आग्रह है कि एक बार अपने परिवार के साथ इस रण उत्सव में जरूर आएं।”

     

     

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    MJPS/VJ

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister’s Departure statement ahead of his visit to Kuwait

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 9:21AM by PIB Delhi

    Today, I am embarking on a two-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait.

    We deeply value the historical connection with Kuwait that has been nurtured over generations. We are not just strong trade and energy partners, but also have shared interest in peace, security, stability and prosperity in the West Asia region.

    I look forward to my meetings with His Highness the Amir, the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister of Kuwait. It would be an opportunity to chalk out a roadmap for a futuristic partnership for the benefit of our people and the region. 

    I eagerly look forward to meeting the Indian diaspora in Kuwait who have immensely contributed to strengthening of bonds of friendship between the two nations.

    ​I express my gratitude to the leadership of Kuwait for the special gesture of inviting me to the inauguration ceremony of the Arabian Gulf Cup, a premier sporting event in the Gulf region. I look forward to being a part of this celebration of athletic excellence and regional unity.

    I am confident that this visit will further strengthen and reinforce the special ties and bonds of friendship between the people of India and Kuwait.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju reviews the construction of Western regional campus of IIMC in Amravati – Gives instructions to CPWD for completing the process of the construction of the Campus infrastructure in a time bound manner

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 22 DEC 2024 8:07PM by PIB Mumbai

     

    Nagpur/Amravati 22 Dec 2024

    The Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sh. Sanjay Jaju today appealed to contractors from across the country and Vidarbha region in particular, to take initiative and participate in the bidding process for the construction of the infrastructure of western region campus of Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) at Amravati.  Sh. Jaju took a review of the construction status of IIMC Amravati campus from   the officials of Central Public Works Department-CPWD and also held a meeting with the heads of the offices of Akashvani, Doordarshan, Press Information Bureau and Central Bureau of Communication under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in Nagpur today. He specifically gives instructions to the CPWD officials for speeding up the tendering process   in order to complete this institute which will be instrumental in imparting world class education in the field of mass communication to the students in this region.

    Situated in the western Vidarbha region of Maharashtra and established in 2012, IIMC Amravati is an apex institution in the field of media and communication and it is a deemed university under the Ministry of Education and an autonomous body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. It is being constructed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting with a budgetary provision of 90 crore rupees in Badnera town of Amravati district at about 15 acres of land.

    Secretary Sh. Jaju while giving more information about the construction of this campus said, the tenders are being invited on the CPWD website etender.cpwd.gov.in and the last date for submitting tenders is   27 of this month.  He also expressed hope that the construction of some of the educational facilities in IIMC Amravati would be completed by the academic year 2026-27.

    This new educational complex will include administrative and academic buildings, hostels for students, staff quarters as well as an auditorium with 200 seat capacity.    

    IIMC has five Regional Centres across the country that offer Journalism courses in English, Hindi and in the local languages. Amravati in Maharashtra Dhenkanal in Odisha, Aizawl in Mizoram, Jamm in Jammu and Kashmir and Kottayam in Kerala currently cumulatively run the Post-Graduate courses in Journalism.

    Deputy Director General of Akashvani Nagpur Ramesh Gharde, Chief Engineer of the Central Public Works Department-CPWDSh Pradeep Dixit,Regional Director of IIMC Amravati Dr. Rajesh Kushwaha and other officials were present in this review meeting.

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    DW/DD/PK

     

    Follow us on social media:  @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com

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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Africa Investment Forum 2024 Market Days highlights Japan’s Role in Africa’s agricultural and energy revolution

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    African Development Bank President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina painted a compelling picture of the potential of Africa’s agricultural and energy transition during a plenary session at the Africa Investment Forum 2024 Market Days, highlighting the deepening Japan-Africa partnership, emphasizing how Japanese technology and innovation could help unlock them.

    He spoke on 9 December as part of two panel discussions on Africa’s agriculture and energy transition, that brought together 100 Japanese investors, showcased how digital solutions , innovative technologies and business models are transforming Africa’s business  landscape.

    “Agriculture is the place to be,” declared Dr. Adesina, highlighting Africa’s possession of 65% of the world’s remaining arable land. “You may like oil and gas, that’s fine. But nobody drinks oil, and nobody smokes gas. But everybody eats food three times a day.” With the global food and agricultural market in Africa projected to reach $1 trillion by 2030, the continent presents unprecedented opportunities for investment and innovation.

    Digital Revolution in Agriculture

    Space Shift Inc. demonstrated their groundbreaking use of satellite technology for crop monitoring in Nigeria. Chief Business Officer Tamao Tada presented how their AI-powered system combines optical and radar satellite data to provide continuous monitoring of crop growth, harvest timing predictions, and historical farming activity records – even through cloud cover. This technology is enhancing credit scoring for farmers and improving agricultural decision-making.

    AAIC Partners Africa Limited, through Director Hiroki Ishida, shared their success story in Rwanda and Tanzania, where they’ve implemented smart agriculture projects covering 1,700 hectares. Their work demonstrates how Japanese technology can transform large-scale agricultural operations in Africa through IoT solutions and satellite technology optimization.

    VunaPay’s COO, Koya Matsuno, addressed one of agriculture’s most pressing challenges through their digital platform that enables instant payments to farmers upon produce delivery. “Imagine working hard for a month and your boss tells you that you’re not going to get paid for another six months,” Matsuno illustrated, highlighting how their solution is transforming agricultural finance.

    Green Carbon Inc.’s Manager, Ryo Harada, introduced innovative approaches to generating carbon credits in agriculture. Their projects, including biochar and alternate wetting and drying (AWD) in rice fields, can reduce methane emissions by 30-50% while generating valuable carbon credits for farmers.

    Strategic Partnership Framework

    The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), represented by Jin Wakabayashi, Deputy Director General for Private Sector Investment Finance, outlined their comprehensive support for agricultural development, emphasizing three key pillars for private finance window: Climate-resilient agriculture; Food security enhancement and financial inclusion facilitation.

    The African Development Bank’s Director of Private Sector Operations, Richard Ofori-Mante, highlighted successful collaborations with Japanese institutions, including a $600 million of the Enhanced Private Sector Assistance for Africa (EPSA) facility with JICA and ongoing partnerships with major Japanese corporations like Mitsubishi.

    “What I see here is what Executive Director Nomoto and I envisioned,” reflected Dr. Adesina, describing the creation of a comprehensive ecosystem supporting Japanese investment in African agriculture. This ecosystem spans agricultural technology and innovation; infrastructure development; financial services; private equity and venture capital and government support mechanisms.

    The Bank’s collaboration with MasterCard on the Community Pass program, aiming to provide 100 million African farmers with digital access to financial services and agricultural information, exemplifies this ecosystem approach.

    Green Transition and Digital Solutions

    Uncovered Fund specializes in supporting start-ups in Africa, including climate technology company and electric vehicle (EV) battery service provider, through their funds to support net zero in the continent. “Not just financing, the Uncovered Fund also provides Japanese technology to the start-ups”, explained Mr. Takuma Terakubo, CEO & General Partner.

    Hitachi Energy is also working towards clean energy transition and carbon neutral. Through its technologies and partnerships, Hitachi is implementing infrastructure projects which deliver reliable renewable energy to cities and rural areas, contributing to electrification of Africa. Mr. Bekim Tahiri, Executive & Global Sales Manager, emphasizes the importance of digitalization to make all the information visible to identify any issues to maintain their power supply and critically of investing into the Electrical Grid to successfully integrate clean energy whilst supporting access to power for the African continent.

    Mizuho, one of the global systemically important banks, has been a bridge between Africa and Asia through strong partnerships with African financial institutions. In his presentation, Mr. Junaid Belo-Osagie, Executive Director, focused on two sectors: hydrogen and clean cooking. “In terms of clean cooking, four in five Africans are exposed to harmful gases, and only 4 billion USD are required to move towards clean cooking scenario”, he added.

    The mission of the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) is to ensure a stable and affordable supply of energy and mineral resources. Ms. Yuri Uchida, Deputy General Manager of JOGMEC, underscored that in terms of hydrogen and ammonia sector, JOGMEC has a support system that focuses on the price gap, where they try to promote low-carbon hydrogen society.

    Nippon Export and Investment Insurance’s (NEXI) business in Africa has been growing in the past 20 years at an annual growth rate of 18%. Mr. Yuichiro Akita, General Manager, illustrated several cases including two wind power projects in Egypt and one solar power project in Kenya, where they underwrote insurances to facilitate green energy transition. “We have projects pipeline worth 5 billion USD in the coming years”, Mr. Akita emphasized.

    Catalyzing Action

    Ken Shibusawa, Vice-chairperson of Africa Project Team, Keizai Doyukai (Japan Association of Corporate Executives), brought urgency to the discussions. Moderator of the second session, he challenged his Japanese peers to move from interest to action, emphasizing that beyond the commonly discussed “cost of inaction” in sustainability, there was another critical cost: Japan’s missed opportunities in Africa. “In Japan, we have the technology, we have the people, we have the money, but what we lack is the Action,” Shibusawa noted, urging Japanese businesses to realize the cost they’re paying for future generations by not acting in Africa.

    Japan’s Long-term Commitment to Africa

    In closing remarks, Deputy Vice Minister of Finance of Japan, Daiho Fujii, underscored Japan’s long-standing commitment to African development, dating back to the country’s first participation in the African Development Fund in 1973. He highlighted Japan’s pioneering role in private sector mobilization, notably through the establishment of the EPSA at the Bank in 2006, which has provided around $9 billion to date.

    “Africa undoubtedly has huge potential to attain high growth, create jobs and build a solid economic structure for future generations,” Fujii emphasized. He particularly noted how the day’s focus on agricultural innovation and green growth addresses critical development challenges while respecting African ownership of its development path.

    The Deputy Vice Minister stressed that “it is time for us to co-create innovative solutions together with Africa,” highlighting how Japanese solutions and innovative business models presented during the session could be “real game-changers” in addressing the continent’s challenges and unleashing its potential.

    Looking ahead to TICAD 9

    With Japan’s upcoming Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), set to take place in Yokohama in August 2025, and the African Development Fund’s 17th replenishment negotiations on the horizon, the partnership between Japan and Africa in agricultural innovation and green growth is poised for further expansion. This momentum is evidenced by Executive Director Takaaki Nomoto’s successful mobilization of 100 Japanese participants for the Forum, up from 80 investors last year.

    Looking toward TICAD 9, Deputy Vice Minister Fujii reaffirmed Japan’s commitment: “Japan respects African ownership and will continue to encourage sustainable development driven by Africa… I believe if we work together, we can see an Africa where all people enjoy healthy and productive lives.”

    The convergence of Japanese technology, investment, and Africa’s agricultural and energy transition potentials is creating unprecedented opportunities for sustainable development and food and energy security, marking a new chapter in Japan-Africa relations.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ’s Z Energy renames stations with ‘correct’ kupu

    By Emma Andrews, Henare te Ua Māori Journalism Intern at RNZ News

    The New Zealand fuel company Z Energy is swapping out street names for “correct” kupu on service stops around the country, with the help of local hapū.

    When Z took over 226 fuel sites from Shell in 2010, the easy solution was to name the respective stations after the streets they were on, or near.

    But when it named the Kahikatea Drive station in Kirikiriroa Z — K Drive, the company’s Māori advisor questioned the abbreviation.

    “Kahikatea is the correct name. That led to a bigger conversation about where are we with our knowledge as we start to learn a bit more about te reo Māori and acknowledging interconnected-ness of all things, like, where else are there opportunities to do it,” Z Energy customer general manager Andy Baird said.

    After 12 months of whakawhanaungatanga (relationship building), the company was guided by Te Hā o te Whenua o Kirikiriroa on changing the name of Z Dinsdale to Z Tuhikaramea.

    That led to two other stations being renamed — New Plymouth’s Z Courtenay Street became Z Huatoki, while Hamilton’s Five Cross Roads station became Z Te Papanui.

    “This is not about ticking a box per se, this is about a bigger sort of commitment that we have to te reo Māori and obviously to the communities that we operate in, so it’s a much bigger broader long-term programme,” Baird said.

    Z Energy . . . an internal drive to incorporate more use of te reo Māori. Image: RNZ

    Internal te reo drive
    There had also been an internal drive to incorporate more use of te reo, kicking off each day with karakia, Baird said.

    It added more of a connection between the company and Māori traditions.

    “We’ve been adding bilingual language inside the sites but we have equally taken the time to make sure that we’re getting the right dialects as the regions as we go through it.

    “Part of the project this year was to sort of understand the process that we go through in terms of engagement with mana whenua and how they want things to happen and occur, and how we can come together to make that really a great outcome for local communities we operate in.”

    The company could have changed the station names off the bat, but Baird said consulting with local hapū and iwi was the right thing to do.

    “The opportunity to meet them, to start to engage with mana whenua and to build a relationship with them and to do something that they’re just as proud of as we are, was just as important as the actual name.”

    Each site’s name was gifted by the hapū, with careful consideration of the history of the whenua.

    Facebook community included
    Ngāti Te Whiti hapū in Ngāmotu was thrilled to play a big part in renaming the Courtenay Street petrol station and included its Facebook community in making the decision.

    It had a kete of three names that went to a vote — the name Huatoki was favoured.

    Julie Healey of Ngāti Te Whiti said it was only fitting to have the name Huatoki, as the awa flowed just around the corner from the petrol station.

    “Huatoki is probably all the life essence of New Plymouth at the beginning. We have the pā Puke Ariki at the front and then we have the other pā around, I think there’s about five or six different pā in that area.”

    The hapū was in its rebuilding phase and was working towards a Huatoki restoration plan with the New Plymouth District Council, so when Z approached it at the start of the year, the timing could not have been better, she said.

    “When we were approached, I just thought straight away ‘this is going to work brilliantly with our Huātoki’, and I was hoping whānau would vote that way, and they did. It just made sense, it was consistent.”

    A plaque on the left-hand side of entrance has a brief mihi and the meaning of the word. Image: RNZ/Emma Andrews

    She praised Z for taking the right steps to engage with locals.

    “One of our whānau, Damon Ritai, met the people outside Puke Ariki Museum, talked to them about the museum, the designs, the cultural expression on the museum, the meaning of the different things of whakapapa on the ceremonial doors, all the names that were in the foyer, and explained everything about those.”

    Cultural induction hīkoi
    The cultural induction hīkoi ended at Te Whare Honanga (Taranaki Cathedral) where they had refreshments.

    Then, the hapū worked on the dialect, something Healey triple-checked before giving the nod of approval.

    “This is about reclaiming our language and culture, not as a political act, but as a celebration.

    “It’s always a good opportunity for hapū to try and get those names, you know, renaming before the colonial names, taking things back to language and culture.”

    Z Energy aimed to rename more petrol stations but first, more whakawhanaungatanga, Baird said.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Riding dirty: Two in custody following motorbike flee

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A pair of motorcycle riders who fled from Police in Stanmore Bay will be reconsidering their actions after being caught.

    Just before 3.30am, officers observed two off road motorcycles being ridden by riders wearing minimal safety gear.

    Waitematā North Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector Roger Small, says the pair spotted Police and allegedly fled the area.

    “Ground staff conducted areas but were unable to locate the riders so the Police Eagle helicopter took over in an attempt to find them.

    “Eagle located one motorcycle with two riders travelling around the area.

    “After a short period the pair abandoned the bike at Whangaparāoa College and both the rider and pillion fled on foot.

    Acting Inspector Small says officers entered the school grounds on foot and were directed to where the two people were hiding.

    “They were then taken into custody without incident.

    “This was great work from Police staff from different areas of Tāmaki Makaurau to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.”

    Two people, aged 17 and 18, have been referred to Youth Aid Services.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Boorloo Bridge now open for pedestrians and cyclists

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    One of the most iconic structures ever delivered in Perth is now open, with thousands of walkers, runners and cyclists heading across the new Boorloo Bridge today.

    The bridge has been constructed 90 metres downstream of the existing heritage-listed Causeway Bridge, and measures six metres wide and one kilometre long.

    Stretching from Victoria Park to Point Fraser in Perth’s CBD via Heirisson Island, the new bridge will significantly enhance connectivity, safety, and amenity for approximately 3,000 pedestrians and cyclists that currently use the significantly constrained path on the Causeway Bridge.

    Despite only opening today, the iconic design of the bridge has already positioned the structure as one of the most defining landmarks on the Swan River and Perth skyline.

    The bridge features a 52-metre-high boomerang pylon on the city side and two 46-metre-high digging stick pylons on the Victoria Park side. A total of 64 steel cables help to suspend the bridge from the three pylons.

    Around 17,000 LED lights have been installed around the 64 steel cables, turning the bridge into a stunning lighting feature over the Swan River.

    The lighting will turn the bridge into a digital canvas using colour, movement, and imagery, and promote Perth and Western Australia to local, national, and global audiences.

    The area around the bridge has also been transformed with significant landscaping, including around 100,000 new plants, trees and shrubs. New seating and rest areas, as well as public art on the bridge abutments have also been completed.  

    The project has provided a critical source of local jobs, with the entire bridge structure being manufactured in Western Australia. During the construction phase, an estimated 700 local jobs have been created.

    Boorloo Bridge recognises Boorloo as the Noongar name for Perth and the design has embedded Whadjuk Noongar cultural recognition, acknowledging the Aboriginal heritage significance of Heirisson Island and the Swan River.

    Quotes attributed to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

    “Today is a historic day for Perth, with the new Boorloo Bridge creating a more vibrant, liveable, and connected city.

    “Our Government is proud to have been a partner in such an extraordinary project and we’ll continue to invest in the infrastructure projects that help drive the economy, create jobs and set Western Australia up for the future.”

    Quotes attributed to Western Australian Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

    “This was a once in a generation opportunity to not only deliver a desperately needed piece of critical infrastructure, but to also create an iconic structure that Western Australians can be proud of.

    “We’ve never seen a structure like this in Perth and I think the community will be blown away when they see it for the first time.

    “Not only do we have a new bridge that will serve the community for many decades to come, but we also now have a stunning new light feature that will be an iconic landmark on the Swan River.

    “Our Government will continue to invest in the infrastructure our State needs, helping drive the economy, create jobs and set Western Australia up for the future.”

    Quotes attributed to Western Australian Lands Minister and Perth MLA John Carey:

    “It is brilliant to mark the completion and opening of the new Causeway Bridge, recently named Boorloo Bridge, and this iconic infrastructure project will now provide a new gateway and entrance to Perth.

     “People that travel on the existing Causeway Bridge path know how challenging it can be, and the new Boorloo Bridge will significantly enhance connectivity, safety, and amenity.

    “The Causeway Bridge project is part of the Cook Labor Government’s revitalisation of our city, and we’re investing hundreds of millions of dollars to build new infrastructure, create jobs and support economic growth to attract more people to Perth.”

    Quotes attributed to the Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister and Federal Member for Perth Patrick Gorman:

    “The Albanese Government is delivering to make Perth a more family-friendly and beautiful city, just some of the things I know that are important to my community.

    “The 17,000 LED lights adorning the 64 steel cables, reflected on the surface of the Swan River is such a beautiful addition to our city.

    “I am so pleased to see our local values achieving national results for our community.”

    Quotes attributed to Federal Member for Swan Zaneta Mascarenhas:

    “This project has also been a testament to the local manufacturing capabilities in Western Australia, with the entire bridge structure built and manufactured here,

    creating an estimated 700 local jobs along the way.”

    Quotes attributed to Victoria Park MLA Hannah Beazley:

    “Delivery of this spectacular piece of infrastructure is a game changer for our community, ensuring Victoria Park, Matagarup (Heirisson Island) and Boorloo (Perth City) are more connected than ever before. 

    “Not only will the improved safety and amenity of Boorloo Bridge encourage more people to walk, wheel and ride across the Swan River but the structure is set to become a defining landmark that we can all be proud of. 

    “Significant landscaping works have also transformed the public areas around the bridge with about 100,000 new plants, trees and shrubs added, as well as new seating, rest areas and public art creating welcoming spaces for the community to enjoy.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police crack multi-suburb crime spree, recover stolen cars, and arrest teen

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are seeking assistance from the public following a number of break ins, attempted break ins and stolen cars.

    Saturday 21 December at 2.30am: Police received reports of a house being broken into on Maria Street at Findon. Offenders broke into the house through the garage door while the occupants were at home. The occupant’s wallet and car keys, as well as the car the keys belonged to a brown Ford Focus sedan were stolen from the property.

    Sunday 22 December at 2.15am: Occupants of an Arcoona Avenue address at Rostrevor woke to find an unknown person trying to break into a vehicle parked in their driveway. The occupant observed the unknown person approach their front door, before fleeing when the security lights came on. The suspect and other unknown people fled in a Honda Civic and a brown Ford sedan, believed to be the vehicle stolen from Findon the night before.

    Sunday 22 December at 2.20am: Occupants of Buchanan Drive address at Woodforde woke to find someone had attempted to break into their house. No entry was gained to the property, and the suspects fled the address on foot. Police conducted enquiries in the street, which revealed the neighbour’s property had also been broken and there grey Hyundai sedan had been stolen. This vehicle was recovered a short distance away.

    Sunday 22 December at 3am: Occupants were asleep in their Knox Terrace, Skye home, when an unknown man unsuccessfully attempted to break into the property through the front door. When entry couldn’t be gained, the suspect then broke into the victim’s vehicle on the driveway and stole property before running away.

    Sunday 22 December at 3.20am: Police were called to Caloroga Street at Wattle Park after reports of people trying door handles on cars. As patrols arrived in the area, a grey Honda Civic sedan was seen travelling towards police at speed in company with the stolen brown Ford Focus. Police conducted a short pursuit of the vehicles west along Kensington Road. The Honda was seen to turn right into East Street, Kensington Gardens, however police-maintained pursuit of the stolen Ford which continued on Kensington Road, before turning into May Terrace, and then last seen in Park Road where police terminated for safety reasons.

    Police conducted enquiries at the Honda’s registered owners address in Hambledon Road Campbelltown, and identified that whilst the occupants were asleep, someone had broken into their house and stole a wallet and a set of keys to the car, before making off in the Honda.

    Sunday 22 December at 7pm: Eastern District Volume Crime Section and Operation Mandrake attended an Albert Park address where they found numerous stolen items from the crime series. They arrested a 16-year-old boy and located the stolen Honda on Grace Street in Albert Park. The Ford focus has not been located.

    The 16-year-old boy from Albert Park has been charged with two counts of aggravated serious criminal trespass, two counts of illegal use of a motor vehicle, three counts of theft, one count of unlawfully on premises and one count of breach of bail. He has been refused bail and will appear in the Adelaide Youth Court today.

    Police are continuing to investigate the involvement of other people involved in the crime series. Anyone who may have information relating to this investigation or may know the whereabouts of the stolen Ford Focus, South Australian registration S403AYX, are asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Doorstop interview, Wollongong City Centre

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    STEPHEN JONES:

    I want to start by expressing on behalf of the Albanese government our deepest sympathy for the people of Germany who have lost their lives or suffered terrible injury in a terrible tragedy overnight. The mind boggles what might lead somebody to drive a car into a crowded market in the days before Christmas. It’s a tragedy and I know all Australians share their sympathy to the people of Germany. And, of course, our consular officials are busy to ensure that all Australians are safe and there’ll be more information on the matter in the course of the day. But, first and foremost, our message of sympathy goes out to the German people, particularly the families of those involved.

    Now Christmas time and particularly in the few days before Christmas, everybody is out there trying to do their Christmas shopping and get a bargain. Whenever something big like this is going on, the criminals, the fraudsters and the scammers are out as well. So the government’s sending a message to all Australians just to be careful, particularly when shopping online. We know that the scammers like to take advantage of people in a rush, spending their money, people going online perhaps for the first time and making a purchase. Scammers like to take advantage of people going online for the first time to make a purchase. So a few quick tips. Never press those blue links that you’re getting in an email or an SMS. That’s how scammers drag you off to a fake website. If something looks too good to be true, then it probably is too good to be true. Just stop, check, protect your information. Don’t give your information out to people who are calling you with unsolicited calls and just be careful online over the Christmas period.

    We know a lot of people are shopping online but a message for all of our shoppers. Bear in mind your local retailers. They’ve been doing it tough this year. If you’ve got a few dollars to spend, do some shopping at one of your local shops to ensure that we’re spreading the love around. Happy to take questions.

    JOURNALIST:

    Thank you, Stephen. Just on Germany before I go to retail spending, if that’s okay. I know that the government’s put out a travel warning for Australians in Germany and they’ve labelled this a suspected terrorist incident, what’s your message to Australian travellers in Germany right now and would you go as far as calling this out as a terrorist incident?

    JONES:

    We’re not going to get ahead of ourselves. I’ll leave it to the authorities in Germany who are doing the investigation for them to determine the motivation behind this terrible tragedy. And any Australians who are travelling in Europe, particularly in Germany at the moment, just check in with the consular information. Smartraveller is always up‑to‑date on the latest advice for people travelling in that region, but we won’t get ahead of ourselves before we start labelling the motivation behind this terrible tragedy.

    JOURNALIST:

    Thank you. Now, on retail spending, there’s the new data out that Australians are tipped to spend 2.7 per cent more this Christmas than they did last Christmas. Good news for retail outlets but definitely not for an interest rate cut. Is this extra spending what Labor really wants right now, especially heading into an election?

    JONES:

    Our thoughts are with the retailers who’ve had a really tough year and we want to ensure that they can continue to keep their doors open into next year. So, for Aussie shoppers who are bagging a bargain over the next few weeks, don’t forget your local retailers. Shop locally. Sure, you’re going to shop online as well but we want you to spread some love around your local retailers. Good news for retailers who’ve been doing it tough. But, of course, when it comes to the independent Reserve Bank, we know they tend to look through these seasonal periods. We know that every year there’s an uptick in consumption around Christmas time, as there should be. People have had a tough year. They’re looking forward to taking some time out with family and celebrating with their loved ones. We welcome that and want to ensure that people can have a great Christmas. And, as far as the Australian Government’s concerned, we’re doing our job to ensure that we’re providing cost‑of‑living support while we can while responsibly managing our spend through the Budget.

    JOURNALIST:

    Even though people are spending more this Christmas, they are doing it tough and there’s some concerns that it means they could be – if they’re not being savvy and looking at, you know, savings and sales, they could be cutting out on other things like essentials. And it’s yeah, obviously clear that Australians are still doing it tough. What would your response be to how people are feeling right now in this climate and any criticism that Labor is to blame for particularly inflation?

    JONES:

    Well, look, I think the government has really tried to balance this right to ensure that we provide cost‑of‑living support and tax relief support where we can. Had we followed the advice of Peter Dutton, we’d be in recession today. We know that Australians have saved up over the course of the year to spend a little more with their family and loved ones over Christmas time and that’s a great thing. We won’t be taking the advice of Peter Dutton who would have seen Australian retailers in an even tougher position today, Australia in recession and those million people who are in a job today who wouldn’t have been, would be out of work. And that’s not a price that we’re willing to pay for a few headlines. We want to ensure that we’re responsibly managing the economy, keeping Australians in jobs and keeping the economy out of recession and that’s been our priority.

    JOURNALIST:

    And as far as, is this the burst that businesses need right now who are struggling with, you know, rising energy costs, wages, the increasing costs everywhere they look.

    JONES:

    Look, after a tough year with retailers, I know a lot of businesses in my area and around the country are hoping to make some good money over Christmas so they can even things out a bit and keep trading in the new year, but we acknowledge it’s been a really tough time for Australian business, particularly retailers and small businesses, which is why we hope they’re going to have a profitable time over the next month or so.

    JOURNALIST:

    I understand there’s more details on the cash mandate you’re pursuing and there’s carve‑outs for bottle shops, cafés, jewellers, takeaway food and hairdressers. Can you talk me through the reasoning behind this?

    JONES:

    We know that the majority of Australians, for the majority of their purchases are using some form of tap‑and‑go digital payment but around about 13 per cent of retail transactions are still using cash and around 1.5 million Australians are using cash for over 80 per cent of their purchases. We’ll protect their right to do so, and that’s what the cash mandate’s all about. But we also know that it does impose some costs on small businesses. Most small businesses, in fact close to 99 per cent of businesses, are still accepting cash. We want to ensure that it stays that way for essential transactions. We’re consulting. We’ve put some proposals out overnight on what we think the right balance is. But what’s our objective? Ensuring that those Australians who want to use cash can. But there’s another reason for it as well. Every Australian’s had the experience where they’ve got to the cash register, the machine’s not working, their tap‑and‑go won’t work, so we need cash as a backup for when digital payments aren’t working. So whether you’re an Australian who loves using cash or you’ve got an insurance that you’ve got a payment method when electronic payment systems go down, we’ve all got an interest in ensuring this works properly.

    JOURNALIST:

    Why not have a blanket rule? Why carve out some businesses? For example, a person might be able to go to a pharmacist and have cash accepted and they could go to the next shop which is a café or a bottle shop and the business might say, ‘Sorry, we don’t accept cash.’

    JONES:

    This is a genuine consultation. We’ve put some proposals out there around where we think the boundaries are for essential versus non‑essential goods. We’re not going to have a situation where every online purchase or every small marketplace in the country is required to go back to accepting cash when they’ve been digital from the very beginning. We want to get the balance right. It’s about essential purchases. It’s about protecting the right of Australians to use cash for those essential purchases if they choose to do so.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Protect your consumer rights during post-Christmas sales

    Source: Government of Victoria 2

    It’s a great time of the year for a post-Christmas shopping bargain, but Victorian shoppers are being reminded of their consumer rights if they end up with a faulty product. 

    Consumer Affairs Victoria Director Nicole Rich said a great post-Christmas deal should save shoppers money, not their rights. 

    More than 6,600 people contacted Consumer Affairs Victoria in 2023–24 with refund and return questions or problems – the top shopping rights issue reported. 

    We remind consumers they may be entitled to a refund, repair or replacement under law if there is a problem with an item, whether it was bought on sale or received as a present. 

    Keeping receipts for products you buy as well as gift receipts for presents you receive can make it easier to claim your rights where something goes wrong. 

    Traders can face penalties if they misrepresent consumer rights, such as those around refunds.

    Shoppers, however, do not have the automatic right to return a product if they simply change their mind, order the wrong product, or find a better product elsewhere. 

    Consumers jumping online to beat the Boxing Day crowds are entitled to the same rights as someone shopping in store. But these same rights do not apply to purchases from private sellers, such as individuals selling pre-loved goods on eBay, Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace.

    Gift cards are an increasingly popular gift that come with specific rights. Consumers have a minimum of three years to use a gift card and it must clearly show the expiry date. If a gift card has an earlier expiry date at the time of purchase, consumers are still entitled to the mandatory three-year period. 

    Traders are also encouraged to understand their rights and obligations when dealing with customer returns. Consumer Affairs Victoria provides a range of business resources to support traders.

    Penalties for breaching the Australian Consumer Law are serious, with maximum penalties ranging from $2.5 million for a person to $50 million for businesses.

    “Christmas is a time for cheer and celebration, and we want all Victorians to have a stress-free festive season,” said Ms Rich. 

    “Consumers should know their rights and feel empowered to speak up if they think these rights have been compromised.”

    “Traders who aren’t sure of their obligations can access our business resources to help them set up good policies and practices and avoid any issues or disputes after the busy festive trading season.”

    For more information, go to Products and services.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Stanley Point

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A cyclist has died following a crash in Stanley Point last week.

    The crash, on Calliope Road, was reported to Police at 10.30am on Friday 20 December.

    There were no other vehicles involved in the incident.

    Sadly, the cyclist received critical injuries and has since died in hospital.

    Police extend our condolences to their family and friends at this time.

    An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash remains ongoing.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public asked to check properties as search for Maia Johnston continues

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are continuing to search for 19-year-old Maia Johnston, who is still missing from Totara Park, Upper Hutt.

    Maia was last seen leaving a family home in Totara Park at around 8.30pm on Saturday 21 December.

    We are continuing to ask those who live Totara Park as well as surrounding areas of Harcourt Park and Brown Owl to check any CCTV footage for sightings of Maia.

    We are now also asking anyone in these suburbs to check their properties including any outbuildings such as sheds or sleep outs to see if Maia might have gone in there.

    We believe that Maia was wearing a black cardigan or light top, short shorts, and black and white converse shoes.

    Police have received a number of calls from members of the public, which we thank them for. We have assessed each bit of information and followed up where relevant. Unfortunately this has not led us to Maia and we, along with her family, would like to find her and make sure she is safe.

    If you have any information or CCTV footage that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105. Please use the reference number 241222/0237.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Gang associates charged in methamphetamine operation

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are continuing to disrupt the supply of methamphetamine into Rotorua’s communities.

    Late last week, a four-month operation culminated in the arrest of two Black Power associates.

    Detective Sergeant Jonathon Brady, from Rotorua Police, says the pair were identified as persons of interest in the investigation.

    “Our investigation has been ongoing and came to a conclusion when both men were taken into custody without incident,” he says.

    “We have recovered quantities of cash and methamphetamine as part of the termination phase, and we’re pleased with the outcome.”

    Two men, aged 38 and 52, both initially appeared in the Rotorua District Court on 20 December.

    They are facing numerous drugs charges relating to the possession for supply and supply of methamphetamine.

    Both men will reappear in the Court next year.

    “These arrests will in no doubt cause a dent in supply,” Detective Sergeant Brady says.

    “Our work doesn’t end there, and the community can be assured that we will continue to target those who are choosing to peddle this misery for profit.

    “We know how harmful methamphetamine is to so many communities and the lasting impacts the drug has.”

    Rotorua Police continue to urge those in the community with information about those involved in the supply of harmful and illicit drugs to contact us.

    “There is a range of ways you can provide information to us, including through Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

    As the matter is before the Court, Police are not in a position to comment further at this time.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The ACCC’s holiday operation hours

    Source: Australian Competition and Consumer Commission

    The ACCC wishes to inform you of our operations over the Christmas and New Year period.

    Key functions of the ACCC will still operate but at limited capacity.

    ACCC offices

    Our offices will be closed from 12pm AEDT on Tuesday 24 December until 9am local time, Thursday 2 January 2025.

    Infocentre

    The Infocentre phone lines will be closed from 3pm AEDT on Monday 23 December, and will reopen at 11am AEDT on Thursday 2 January 2025. Consumers and small businesses who would like to make a report to the Infocentre are encouraged to submit a web form.

    Media enquiries

    For journalists with urgent enquiries, please call 0408 995 408 (no texts). The team will be back in the office from 2 January 2025.

    Product safety

    Please visit the Product Safety Australia website to report an unsafe product, or submit a mandatory report or recall notification.

    Merger enquiries

    Any queries or information in relation to a merger or acquisition (whether or not the ACCC is presently reviewing it) should be emailed to mergers@accc.gov.au.

    Notifications and authorisation applications

    Applicants wishing to lodge a notification or application for authorisation should follow the instructions set out on the ACCC website at How to apply for an authorisation and How to lodge a notification and use the Authorisations and notifications web form.

    For any urgent queries over this period, please email exemptions@accc.gov.au.

    FOI requests

    All applications lodged under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 will be assessed when the ACCC office reopens on 2 January 2025.

    The ACCC wishes you a safe and enjoyable holiday period.

    MIL OSI News –