NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Security: Air, Space & Cyber Conference Wraps, PACAF’s Commitment to Indo-Pacific Continues

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NATIONAL HARBOR, Maryland  –  

    As the curtain closed today on the 2024 Air and Space Forces Association’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference, one theme resonated throughout the event – Pacific Air Forces total commitment to maintaining a decisive advantage in the Indo-Pacific region amidst growing global threats.

    Over the course of three days, Gen. Kevin Schneider, PACAF commander, laid out a strategic vision that accentuates readiness, innovation, and energized alliances to confront mounting challenges in the region.

    On day one, Schneider addressed the pressing need to enhance Agile Combat Employment. He discussed the ongoing efforts to refurbish remote Pacific locations, recover from natural disasters like last year’s typhoon in Guam, and build integrated air and missile defenses across the theater.

    “We continue to expand agile combat employment, to find ways we can move into austere airfields,” Schneider said. “Getting gas into airplanes is a key piece of that, and I give great credit to our logistics and sustainment professionals who find ways to solve those problems every day.”

    Schneider took the main stage in front of 5,000 people on day two to deliver a keynote address that captured the essence of PACAF’s priorities and the advantages it holds over any adversaries. He began by contrasting his early experiences as an F-16 pilot at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, in the early 1990s, with the challenges he faces today as commander of nearly 50,000 Airmen across the region.

    The keynote highlighted two critical components of PACAF’s strategy: Air Domain Awareness and ACE. Schneider spoke passionately about the need to stay ahead of adversaries through enhanced surveillance and rapid, flexible force deployment. He also noted the three-fold edge PACAF holds over its foes.

    “We have three asymmetric advantages that adversaries could never hope to have,” Schneider said. “One is the growing network of alliances and partnerships that we enjoy. We’re moving beyond bilats into multilateral events to be able to pull more and more partners in. The second is the professionalism, discipline and strength of our people. The third is the inherent strength of the joint force.”

    Throughout the event, PACAF’s role in fostering progress with allies and partners was a focal point. Schneider underscored the importance of complex, multi-national air exercises like Pitch Black, Arctic Defender, Red Flag Alaska, Cope Thunder and Northern Edge, as well as the Pacific Air Chiefs Symposium, which brought together 22 international Air Force leaders to strengthen military cooperation.

    On the final day, Schneider participated in a senior-leader panel discussion titled “Exercising for Great Power Competition,” which delved into the importance of high-end training, complex exercises, and key leader engagements in preparing for potential conflicts. The panel brought together commanders from mobility, space, Air Force Reserve, and the Pacific.

    During the panel, Gen. Schneider stressed the critical role exercises play in not only sharpening warfighting capabilities, but also in providing strategic deterrence.

    “The solutions to the challenges in the Indo-Pacific don’t all fall on my shoulders; it is a team effort in terms of problem-solving,” Schneider said. “We [commanders across the U.S. Air Force and Space Force] each have things we contribute to the fight, in terms of training, readiness, and our ability to deter or to fight and win if called upon.”

    Throughout the conference, PACAF’s commitment to innovation and excellence was evident. Schneider repeatedly called for the Air Force community and industry partners to bring their most complex training ideas, research, development projects, and asymmetric capabilities to the region.

    Schneider’s keynote closing remarks remain at the forefront: “Your airmen are absolutely prepared – 24/7/365 – to defend, to deter, and to prevail in the Indo-Pacific.”

    The 2024 Air, Space & Cyber Conference is over, but the hard work of maintaining a decisive advantage in an age of growing threats continues.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eight Countries work together in largest Operation Render Safe to remove WWII UXO in Solomon Islands

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SOLOMON ISLANDS  –  

    The United States, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, United Kingdom, Republic of Korea, and Japan recently joined the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force for Operation Render Safe 2024-2 in New Georgia, Solomon Islands, from Aug. 12 to Sept. 27.

    Operation Render Safe is an Australian Defence Force operation that removes the danger posed by World War II-era explosive remnants of war in Pacific Island countries. 2024 marks the 20th year that Operation Render Safe has been conducted.

    The Solomon Islands were a major battleground during the Pacific Island campaign that left behind thousands of unexploded munitions that continue to pose significant risks to the public, hindering development and threatening local livelihoods. These remnants of war have also contributed to dangerous living conditions for local residents, limiting the availability of safe land for agriculture and community expansion.

    This year’s Operation Render Safe was the largest UXO removal effort in the region’s history. 3,240 explosive remnants of war were removed from 219 sites that will directly benefit the local population by providing safer access to land and water resources. The operation’s success will help open the door to future development projects, fostering economic growth and improving infrastructure in affected areas.

    This multinational mission, led by the RSIPF, covered a vast area of 1,600 square kilometers, with 17 multinational explosive ordnance teams undertaking a rolling program of community engagement, reconnaissance, and positive action in both land and maritime domains.

    “Being Army, we’re not really used to being on the water,” said Australian Army Cpl. Daniel Siyogu, an EOD technician with the 6th Engineer Support Regiment. “But we’re getting it done, identifying and disposing of explosive remnants of war on Kolombangara island.”

    Operation Render Safe 2024-2 also featured significant tri-service interoperability between eight contributing nations, ensuring smooth coordination across a wide operational area. The 17 EOD teams, supported by U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 (Reinforced), Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 24.3, operated over a 350km internal-line supply chain to the rear echelon in Honiara.

    “Working alongside our Allies showcases the importance of our shared goals,” said U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Jesus Contreras, an EOD team leader with Combat Logistics Battalion 5 (Reinforced), MRF-D 24.3. “Leading a combined team of multinational personnel into the jungles of New Georgia has been a unique and rewarding experience. Working in a joint environment with different SOPs, [standard operating procedures], has been a challenge, but the similarities in our EOD procedures make it easier to cooperate and learn from each other.”

    The involvement of the RSIPF, with their knowledge of the area, was essential in identifying UXO caches, making the operation a success.

    “Getting input from the local community has been critical,” said Royal Canadian Navy Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Okahiro. “The people here know where the explosives are, and their guidance allows us to better assess and clear dangerous areas.”

    The operation focused on key areas like Kohinggo and Munda, contributing to improved infrastructure and a safer environment for Solomon Islands communities.

    “Ultimately, it’s about making the region safer and improving the quality of life for the local communities,” said Australian Army Lt. Col. Fabian Harrison, the commanding officer of Operation Render Safe 2024-2. “Through these partnerships and the commitment of all involved nations, we’re achieving that goal.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Director Rosie Hidalgo Delivers Remarks at the National Institute of Justice 2024 National Research Conference

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Remarks as Prepared for Delivery

    Good morning! I want to thank the National Institute for Justice (NIJ) for hosting this panel discussion today commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), and for inviting me to participate. I also want to extend my deep gratitude to each of you here for your hard work and dedication; and for coming together to see how we can continue to learn from one another.

    I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) and to collaborate with so many dedicated individuals and organizations committed to furthering our nation’s vision for ending sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking and other related forms of gender-based violence.

    OVW is tasked with overseeing the implementation of key parts of VAWA, landmark bipartisan legislation first enacted by Congress in 1994. The hallmark of VAWA is a coordinated community response (known as a CCR), which seeks to bring together agencies and community partners across many disciplines to address the needs of survivors. From victim advocates to law enforcement officers and investigators, to healthcare personnel to educational institutions, community-based organizations and judges and courtroom officials, how each person responds often determines how, of if, survivors are able to access safety, justice and healing. Since survivors’ lives do not exist in silos, it is therefore critical that no individual or entity works in a silo because it takes all of us to prevent and effectively address gender-based violence.

    Each subsequent reauthorization of VAWA has provided an opportunity for stakeholders and policymakers to identify what works well and how we can continue to scale up, as well as identify gaps and barriers that need to be addressed, ensuring that these efforts are rooted in the voices and lived realities of survivors. Research and evaluation play an important role in identifying the gaps and barriers, as well as the promising practices.

    The most recent VAWA reauthorization in 2022 is the most expansive yet, establishing numerous new grant programs and initiatives in order to enhance the ways in which we can support communities to prevent and address gender-based violence.

    Additionally, VAWA funding increased by more than 30% in just the last three years, allowing OVW to distribute a record amount of grant funding. In Fiscal Year 2024, Congress increased VAWA funding to $713 million, which is the highest amount that has ever been appropriated.

    The development of the original VAWA legislation was rooted in the lived experiences of survivors, and their courage and leadership to tell their stories to educate policy makers, as well as advocates who helped raise awareness about these critical issues. These leaders pushed for federal legislation, called for investments in research, advocated for funding to improve services and training and co-created much of the work that informs policy and legislation today.

    Just last week, we met with stakeholders and Technical Assistance (TA) providers at the VAWA 30th anniversary TA event to reflect on promising practices and discuss available data and research and how they continue to shape the evolution of policies and practices.

    Congress has appropriated some VAWA funding each year to support research on gender-based violence at NIJ. Additionally, OVW has had statutory authority since the beginning to use some of its program funds to study emerging issues and evaluate VAWA-funded approaches, including demonstration programs. In 2016, however, OVW launched the Research and Evaluation Initiative with support from NIJ and as a complement to NIJ’s longstanding portfolio of research on gender-based violence. Every year since then, OVW has issued a call for proposals that invites applicants to study a broad range of topics using a wide range of methods. We intentionally keep these grant opportunities very open, seeking to foster practitioner-research partnerships, since practitioners who work closest with survivors know about emerging innovations ripe for evaluation before we do and can partner with researchers to develop research proposals.

    To that end, at OVW, our Research and Evaluation Initiative supports collaboration between researchers and practitioners to study VAWA-funded approaches. We’ve funded studies looking at everything from victim notification protocols for cases in which a sexual assault kit is tested after having been shelved for years, to the evaluation of a therapeutic horticulture program at a domestic violence shelter. We’ve also funded a training program for faith leaders to help them support congregants who disclose domestic violence. We fund projects that employ community-based participatory research, quasi-experimental designs, randomized controlled trials and more. In fact, several of our Research and Evaluation grantees are presenting their work here at this conference!

    Since 2016, the Research and Evaluation Initiative has awarded over 50 grants, totaling more than $21 million, to study ways to improve responses to gender-based violence in victim services, law enforcement, prosecution and the courts. In fact, last year OVW awarded $3.1 million in new research grants. Among these projects is an evaluation of a flexible financial assistance program for domestic violence survivors. This study aims to show how cash assistance can help survivors for whom financial barriers impede their path to safety and recovery, recognizing that survivors often know best what they need. Another study will examine the occupational and economic needs and experiences of domestic violence victim advocates and will use its findings to adapt and pilot an innovative economic empowerment program. Preliminary research on economic empowerment programs has shown positive impacts, including improved financial management and related behaviors.

    We see our evidence-building activities not as a way of limiting the ways people work in their communities to support survivors and hold harm-doers accountable, but rather, to expand that work and better understand how, and why, under what circumstances and for whom certain strategies are helpful.

    We’re especially interested in supporting research that can help us learn from strategies created by and for survivors from historically marginalized and underserved communities. We know that gender-based violence places a disproportionately heavy toll on marginalized communities, often at the intersection with other issues that create additional barriers to seeking effective services and access to justice. It is also from these communities that especially novel and promising ways for reducing risk factors and facilitating protective factors for gender-based violence are emerging.

    As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of VAWA this month, it is an opportunity for all of us to collectively reflect on the substantial progress that has been made — but also how much further we have to go. There have been significant paradigm shifts in society’s perceptions of gender-based violence and our responses to it, but many survivors still encounter significant challenges navigating complex systems and accessing critical resources and support.

    Addressing these gaps and barriers requires consistent, long-term coordination, which is why just last year the White House launched the first-ever U.S. National Plan to End Gender-Based Violence (GBV), with the collaboration of more than 15 federal agencies. The Plan advances a whole-of-government approach to preventing and ending gender-based violence — which we refer to as a “federal coordinated community response” — and it acts as a blueprint that builds on the lessons learned and achievements made through the efforts of survivors, advocates and others in the field.

    The GBV National Plan encourages all federal agencies to strengthen their role in supporting efforts to prevent and address gender-based violence. It also calls for strengthening research efforts to better understand the needs and implement solutions. At OVW, we’re working with our colleagues across government to widen the aperture of the various tools we all use to measure social problems and evaluate ways of mitigating them.

    The GBV National Plan focuses on seven pillars, starting with prevention as Pillar 1. While Pillar 7 of the GBV National Plan focuses on Research and Data, there are clear research implications embedded throughout the other six pillars, as well as opportunities to work across and beyond systems to advance our understanding of what strategies make a real difference for preventing gender-based violence and ameliorating its impacts on people, families and communities.

    We have seen how research has had an impact on the evolution of VAWA, including helping support advocacy for the inclusion of special Tribal criminal jurisdiction to address the high rates of domestic violence and sexual assault perpetrated by non-Indian abusers in Indian country; helping provide evidence to strengthen protections at the intersection of domestic violence and firearms; and helping shine a light on the importance of addressing the disproportionate impact of GBV on historically marginalized and underserved populations, to name a few.

    One way that our work has been bolstered by another agency’s research is longitudinal research on the Domestic Violence Housing First model in Washington State that was funded by the Department of Health and Human Services. Among other promising discoveries from this work, we learned that flexible financial assistance contributes greatly to survivors’ safety and stability. These findings informed OVW’s request for appropriations specifically to stand up a flexible financial assistance program, for which Congress provided appropriations last year.

    Likewise, when we surveyed research on restorative justice to inform our program planning and later relied on it to support our appropriations requests, we looked to research that was funded by the National Science Foundation on a restorative justice-based abusive partner intervention program.

    And speaking of collaboration, I want to extend a special thanks to my colleagues from the NIJ and the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC). NIJ helped us establish our Research and Evaluation Initiative back in 2015 and 2016, and we work closely with NIJ and OVC to ensure we’re doing meaningful work in the spaces where science and ending gender-based violence overlap.

    I invite all of you to reach out to OVW as we strive to learn more about the protective factors and promising practices that need to be scaled up; the challenges and barriers that victims face; and how can we improve our partnership and strengthen a coordinated community response to more effectively address these issues. We’re also interested in learning more about other research and data efforts focus on helping prevent violence; support survivors to access safety, justice and healing; and equip communities with the tools they need to eliminate gender-based violence.

    As we move forward, we must continue to amplify the voices and leadership of survivors — work you all do every day — to advance a whole-of-society approach that continues to lift these issues out of the shadows, support survivors and hold offenders accountable. It is only together that we can build a world that affirms the dignity, rights and humanity of every individual, a world where gender-based violence is not tolerated, and a world where healing and justice are accessible to all. Thank you.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Murray, Rosen, Baldwin Lead Introduction of Resolution Affirming Access to Emergency Health Care, Including Abortion

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    September 20, 2024
    Washington, D.C. –  U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, Patty Murray, D-Wash., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., and Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., today introduced a resolution that would protect the right to emergency health care, including abortion care, for all patients, regardless of where they live. 
     
    The Every Woman Has the Right to Emergency Health Care resolution comes as new reporting from ProPublica shows Republican abortion bans are preventing women from receiving lifesaving emergency health care and resulting in preventable deaths. 
     
    “As Donald Trump brags about overturning Roe, women are dying because they’re not receiving the health care they need. Doctors are fearing jail time for doing their jobs,” Wyden said. “The fight to restore reproductive health care protections and the right of women everywhere to make choices about their own bodies is the fight of a lifetime – we can’t let Donald Trump and Republicans roll back the clock.”
    “I introduced this resolution alongside my colleagues to simply reaffirm the basic principle that when you go to the ER, doctors should be allowed to treat you, and when you need emergency care—including abortion care—no politician should stop you from getting it,” Murray said. “Yet here in America, in the 21st century, pregnant women die—not because doctors don’t know how to save them, but because doctors don’t know if Republicans will let them. Democrats will keep pressing to fully restore reproductive freedoms for every woman in America and we will continue to put a white-hot spotlight on the devastating, deadly fallout of Donald Trump’s abortion bans.”
    “Since Roe v. Wade was overturned more than two years ago, extreme abortion bans across our nation are restricting women’s ability to get life-saving care,” Rosen said. “All women, regardless of where they live, should be able to access the emergency medical care they need, which is why I’m helping introduce this resolution. I’ll continue standing up for women’s freedom to make decisions over their own bodies and working to restore Roe.”
    “Under our state’s 1849 criminal abortion ban, Wisconsinites learned firsthand what it meant to not have the right to access lifesaving abortion care. For 15 months, we heard stories about women with unviable pregnancies or suffering miscarriages who were denied care until they were on the brink of death all because Republicans overturned Roe v. Wade. These are not exaggerations, they are real stories about what it means when we strip Americans of their freedom to control their own bodies,” Baldwin said. “I’m in this fight until every woman has the freedom to decide what is best for her health, family, and future, without interference from judges and politicians – and that most certainly means when her life depends on it.”
    Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade more than two years ago, nearly two dozen US states led by Republicans have passed, banned, or severely restricted access to abortion. These strict laws have created confusion around the treatment doctors can provide even when a pregnant patient’s life is in danger, as physicians fear they may lose their medical license, be sued, or even be charged with a felony if they perform life-saving emergency care. Despite federal requirements that Medicare-participating hospitals treat and stabilize pregnant patients in need of emergency medical care, women are being turned away from emergency rooms following the Dobbs decision.
    In Moyle v. United States, the U.S. Supreme Court had the opportunity to reaffirm that federal law requires pregnant patients to have access to life-saving emergency care in every state, but instead, the Court dismissed the case and sent it back to the lower courts, effectively punting on making a decision on the case itself. While the litigation continues in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, the health and lives of women remain at risk as uncertainty around emergency abortion care persists. A total of 121 Congressional Republicans, including 26 Senators, filed an amicus brief arguing incorrectly that federal law does not require hospitals to provide abortion care as emergency stabilizing care in order to save a patient’s life. 
    In addition to Senators Wyden, Murray, D-Wash., Rosen, D-Nev., and Baldwin, D-Wis., the resolution is cosponsored by Senators Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Laphonza Butler, D-Calif., Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., Ben Cardin, D-Md., Tom Carper, D-Del., Bob Casey, D-Pa., Chris Coons, D-Del., Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Dick Durbin, D-Ill., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., George Helmy, D-N.J., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawai’i, Tim Kaine, D-Va., Angus King, I-Maine, Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Gary Peters, D-Mich., Jack Reed, D-R.I., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Brian Schatz, D-Hawai’i, Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Tina Smith, D-Minn., Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Mark Warner, D-Va., Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Peter Welch, D-Vt., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.
    The resolution is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Center for Reproductive Rights, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, Reproductive Freedom For All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National Women’s Law Center, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Guttmacher Institute, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, All* Above All, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, URGE: Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity, National Council of Jewish Women, and National Partnership for Women and Families.
    Last week, U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes, D-Ohio, and Mikie Sherrill, D-N.J., introduced the House companion to today’s Senate resolution. 
    The text of the resolution is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: 48 hours at the US-Mexico border story Sep 19, 2024

    Source: Doctors Without Borders –

    By Dr. Belen Ramirez, project coordinator with Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in Arizona

    It’s early morning in Arizona, just before daybreak, and I am driving on an unpaved road along the border wall between the United States and Mexico. It is raining and I can hear thunder in the distance.  

    Driving just ahead of me are volunteers from Samaritans, who for decades have provided water, food, and other essential items to migrants who cross the border into southern Arizona. We’re on our way to the End of the Wall, a volunteer-run makeshift camp located near a gap in the wall that runs along the southern United States border with Mexico.  

    This remote part of the Sonoran desert, where the 30-foot steel bollard wall ends and a chest-high fence continues to mark the border, is a crossing point for people entering the US from Mexico in hopes of claiming asylum. For the past five weeks as a project coordinator with MSF, I have been supporting Arizona-based volunteer groups like the Samaritans who are providing humanitarian aid to migrants and asylum seekers in Arizona, including in the area where the End of the Wall camp is located. 

    Migrants and asylum seekers from Bangladesh and Nepal wait for US Border Patrol to pick them up along the unpaved road next to the US-Mexico border wall in Sasabe, Arizona. United States 2024 © Maria Elena Romero/MSF

    No typical day

    There is no typical day for those who volunteer at the End of the Wall camp. On some days, volunteers spend just a few minutes with asylum seekers. On other days, they can spend hours with them before US Border Patrol takes them away to their Forward Operation Base in Sasabe, and later to a detention center in Tucson where people can start the legal process for asylum. During this time, volunteers try to make people feel welcome and provide water, food, much-needed psychological first aid, and information about what comes next.

    This morning, we are the first to arrive at the camp. Volunteers get to work and start replenishing storage bins and a cooler with snacks and water bottles, among them 77-year-old Judy Storey, who has been volunteering with Samaritans for seven years. “When it gets really hot, we soak bandanas in ice water and bring them out,” she tells me. “People put it on their heads or around their necks, and it’s been a godsend when it’s in the 90s out here, and they have to wait five hours for Border Patrol.”

    Soon, a group of men and women who have just crossed the border walk in. “Hi, welcome,” we say, “where are you from?” Some respond that they are from Cameroon. “Northwest, Bamenda,” someone explains.  

    Another man says, “We are from Sudan, from Darfur.” He shares that he fled Sudan to neighboring Chad because of the war that started in April 2023. He then traveled for two months, starting in Morocco and then going to Spain, Colombia, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Mexico, and finally to the US. “I am now on the safe side,” he says.

    I notice that the Sudanese man is shaking. He asks where he is. I tell him he is in Arizona. I make sure he is able to drink water properly before a Border Patrol agent directs him to get in the car. I can only imagine what he went through to make it to this point.

    Outside the tent, other volunteers speak with a group of men and women from Mexico. A few minutes later, around 8:00 a.m., Border Patrol agents arrive to pick them up.  

    Asylum seekers from around the world cross at the End of the Wall camp and other gaps at the border wall in this remote region. They are dropped by guides on the Mexico side of the border and told that they can surrender to Border Patrol to apply for asylum protection in the US. But the nearest Border Patrol station is miles away and asylum seekers must walk for hours through extreme terrain and weather conditions or wait to be picked up by Border Patrol agents.

    Volunteers hand the new arrivals water bottles and snacks for the road. We tell them they are safe and try to explain what will happen next.

    I notice that the Sudanese man is shaking. He asks where he is. I tell him he is in Arizona. I make sure he is able to drink water properly before a Border Patrol agent directs him to get in the car. I can only imagine what he went through to make it to this point. 

    From left: Dr. Ramirez speaks with volunteers from Samaritans at the End of the Wall camp; messages written by a volunteer in several languages on one of the tents at the camp. United States 2024 © Maria Elena Romero/MSF

    The End of the Wall

    Volunteers from Samaritans, No More Deaths, and Humane Borders cover morning, midday, and night shifts, seven days a week at End of the Wall camp. They often stay until Border Patrol picks everyone up around 8:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m.

    There are three tents that provide shade and some protection from the elements; water bottles and tanks that are periodically replenished with drinking water; snacks and diapers in plastic bins. There is also a solar powered internet service that helps migrants and volunteers stay connected with family and emergency services, and porta potties.

    Despite language barriers, and with occasional help from an asylum seeker who speaks English or an online translation app, volunteers provide some guidance about what to do next, what to expect when Border Patrol arrives, and their right to seek asylum.

    Many of the volunteers speak Spanish fluently and can provide this information to asylum seekers who come from Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America. But since last year, people from countries as far as China, Guinea, Nepal, India, Iraq, Mauritania, and Yemen have arrived. Volunteer groups have gotten some ad hoc translations in Bengali and Arabic, but still, information in more languages is needed. 

    Abdul* reads a document in Bengali with information prepared by volunteers from Samaritans, including his current location, when US Border Patrol will to come to pick him up, and his right to file for asylum. As more people that speak languages other than English continue to arrive at the End of the Wall camp, there is a need for these translations, as many migrants do not speak English. United States 2024 © Maria Elena Romero/MSF

    Unaccompanied minors

    Often volunteers see unaccompanied minors arriving at the camp. Just the day before, on a very hot summer day, Abdul*, a 17-year-old boy from Bangladesh, crossed into the US at the End of the Wall camp. He looked tired and said he needed to drink water. He said he was hungry and hot.

    Volunteers from Samaritans invited Abdul to come into a tent for shade, water, apples, and other snacks to eat. Sally Meisenhelder, a 77-year-old volunteer with Samaritans, handed him some documents in Bengali about what to expect in the next few hours and after Border Patrol picks him up. These documents have been translated recently to bridge the language gap and provide some basic information to people arriving from Bangladesh.

    That day, I decided to wait for a few hours with Abdul to make sure he felt safe and was not alone for such a long time, waiting for Border Patrol.  

    The boy, Mateo*, was clutching a small plastic bag attached to the rosary around his neck. Inside was a piece of paper with his mother’s phone number written on it. She was in the US waiting for him.

    Through our language barrier, he explained that he flew from Bangladesh to Qatar, then to Paraguay or Uruguay; he was not sure which one. He then flew to Colombia and made his way north to cross the notoriously dangerous Darién Gap into Panama and continued onward through Central America and Mexico.  

    Most of his belongings were stolen in Mexico, he said, including his phone and passport. The only document he carried with him was a piece of paper—his birth certificate.

    Another day that week, there was a group of 11 unaccompanied minors from Mexico and Guatemala at the End of the Wall camp. The youngest one was five years old. Some of the older children, aged 11 and 12, told us that they found him alone and crying when they reached the camp at dawn. They asked him to sit with them and comforted him.

    Ramirez comforts a 3-year-old boy who was just stung by a bee at the End of the Wall camp. The boy’s mom, who is from Guatemala, is holding him, and shared that she fled to the US after she was extorted by gangs. “They told me that I would have to pay, or they would take my children,” she said. United States 2024 © Maria Elena Romero/MSF

    The boy, Mateo*, was clutching a small plastic bag attached to the rosary around his neck. Inside was a piece of paper with his mother’s phone number written on it. She was in the US waiting for him.

    When I met him, he kept telling me this paper was for the police. He seemed very worried about it.  

    I was able to call Mateo’s mother on video.  

    I am accustomed to stories of hardship and fear, but I have never gotten used to hearing these stories from children who undergo this traumatic journey, especially those who travel alone.

    “Mommy, mommy,” he said, so happy to see her. Mateo’s mom told him to be brave and not to cry. I explained to both of them that Border Patrol would take the boy to a special center for unaccompanied minors, and that I did not know exactly how long it would be before she heard from officials. I wanted to make sure that she knew he was fine.

    I am accustomed to stories of hardship and fear, but I have never gotten used to hearing these stories from children who undergo this traumatic journey, especially those who travel alone.

    It was just one of those days. We provide psychological first aid to people crossing the border to make sure their basic needs are covered. Connecting with family members to let them know that you are safe is one of the most impactful mental health interventions, especially during the critical moments after a traumatic event. 

    The End of the Wall camp is located across from this gap between the border wall and a chest-high fence. The area is used as a crossing point by migrants and asylum seekers entering the US.
    United States 2024 © Maria Elena Romero/MSF

    Day Two at End of the Wall camp

    On another nontypical day, as I drive toward the End of the Wall camp, I encounter a group of 18 men from Nepal and Bangladesh who have walked about three miles west towards Sasabe along the hilly road next to the border wall. They crossed into the US overnight and kept on walking, and now they are tired and had sat down to rest. The shoes of one of the men had no soles, so he had used his shoelaces to secure the insoles to his feet.

    We give them water and snacks and ask them not to walk anymore, as the road is steep and there is little shade. The sun is about to come up for another hot day.

    Further ahead, I come across another group of nine men from India walking along the road. We tell them to stop walking because it’s dangerous, and to wait for Border Patrol.

    There are also more asylum seekers at the End of the Wall camp. There is a family from Chiapas, Mexico, who told us they fled cartel violence, leaving everything they owned behind. They feared their teenage daughter could be recruited into a prostitution ring.  

    I also meet a young mother from Guatemala and her three-year-old child. She said she used to own a corner store in the capital, Guatemala City, and was extorted by local gangs. “They told me that I would have to pay, or they would take my children,” she says.

    A group of volunteers from Samaritans drives out to check on people who left the camp on foot. Sally Meisenhelder is worried about those walking on the hilly road. “I have written messages in multiple languages on the tent telling people not to walk. They can be hit by a car,” she says. “When you come up over the hills [the driver] cannot see who is on the other side until they start to drop down. That is dangerous. Plus, they can’t make it all the way [to Sasabe].”

    Several cars from Border Patrol arrive on schedule around 8:00 a.m. They ask people to line up and inform us that some of the asylum seekers have been picked up on the road. They ask unaccompanied minors, families, and women to get in the cars first.

    We say goodbye and wish them good luck, waving as they are driven away. After cleaning up, we drive for about 40 minutes to the place we are staying. When we arrive, we get a message from volunteers from Samaritans. More asylum seekers had arrived at the End of Wall camp after we left, and they stayed behind to help.  

    * Name changed to protect privacy.

    Our work in Arizona

    Since early 2024, MSF has worked alongside volunteers from Humane Borders, Samaritans, No More Deaths, and other Arizona-based groups helping asylum seekers and migrants crossing the US-Mexico border in the Sonoran desert. Initially, a small team evaluated medical needs in the region, and suggested ways to develop capacity and increase services and collaboration. In August 2024, MSF resumed its support to local groups. MSF will consider additional support based on the needs that might arise from a surge in numbers of people crossing the border.  

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Butler Joins Senate Resolution: “Every Woman Has the Right to Emergency Health Care”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for California – Laphonza Butler

    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.) joined Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) in introducing a resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that every patient has the basic right to emergency health care, including abortion care, regardless of where they live. The introduction comes as new reporting from ProPublica makes plain that Republican abortion bans are preventing women from receiving lifesaving emergency health care and resulting in preventable deaths.

    Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade over two years ago, nearly two dozen US states led by Republicans have passed, banned, or severely restricted access to abortion. These strict laws have created confusion around the treatment doctors can provide even when a pregnant patient’s life is in danger, as physicians fear that they may lose their medical license, be sued, or even charged with a felony if they perform life-saving emergency care. Despite the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act’s (EMTALA) requirements that Medicare-participating hospitals treat and stabilize pregnant patients in need of emergency medical care, women are being turned away from emergency rooms following the Dobbs decision.

    In Moyle v. United States, the U.S. Supreme Court had the opportunity to reaffirm that federal law requires pregnant patients to have access to life-saving emergency care in every state, but instead, the Court sent the case back to the lower courts, effectively punting on the issue. Senator Butler was one of 258 Congressional Democrats who filed an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to clarify that hospitals must provide abortion care as emergency stabilizing care in order to save a patient’s life. While the litigation continues in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, the health and lives of women remain at risk as uncertainty around emergency abortion care persists. 

    In addition to Senators Butler, Murray, Rosen, Baldwin, and Wyden the resolution is cosponsored by Senators Schumer (D-N.Y.), Bennet (D-Colo.), Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Booker (D-N.J.), Cantwell (D-Wash.), Cardin (D-Md.), Carper (D-Del.), Casey (D-Pa.), Coons (D-Del.), Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Duckworth (D-Ill.), Durbin (D-Ill.), Fetterman (D-Pa.), Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Hassan (D-N.H.), Heinrich (D-N.M.), Helmy (D-N.J.), Hirono (D-Hawaii), Kaine (D-Va.), King (I-Maine), Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Merkley (D-Ore.), Padilla (D-Calif.), Peters (D-Mich.), Reed (D-R.I.), Sanders (I-Vt.), Schatz (D-Hawaii), Shaheen (D-N.H.), Smith (D-Minn.), Stabenow (D-Mich.), Van Hollen (D-Md.), Warner (D-Va.), Warnock (D-Ga.), Warren (D-Mass.), Welch (D-Vt.), Whitehouse (D-R.I.).

    The resolution is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Center for Reproductive Rights, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, Reproductive Freedom For All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National Women’s Law Center, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Guttmacher Institute, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, All* Above All, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, URGE: Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity, National Council of Jewish Women, and National Partnership for Women and Families.

    Last week, U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio-13) and Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.-11) introduced the House companion to today’s Senate resolution.

    The full text of the resolution can be read HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Cortez Masto Delivers Remarks at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute 47th Annual Awards Gala

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    In Case You Missed It, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) delivered remarks at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) 47th Annual Awards Gala as celebrations of Hispanic Heritage Month kick off across the United States. Cortez Masto celebrated the Latino community’s immeasurable contributions to our country and discussed Congressional Democrats’ fight to continue delivering for all American families.
    A third generation Nevadan, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto is the first and only Latina in the U.S. Senate and the highest ranking Hispanic Senator in the Democratic Caucus. She passed a bipartisan resolution recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month in the Senate. She helped create a new series of commemorative circulating coins highlighting remarkable American women trailblazers in the U.S.—including Latinas like Celia Cruz, Nina Otero-Warren, and Jovita Idar. And she’s leading the charge in the Senate to build the National Museum of the American Latino on the National Mall.
    Below are her remarks as prepared for delivery.
    I want to thank CHCI Chair Representative Adriano Espaillat, CHCI’s President and CEO Marco Davis, and all the CHCI staff for inviting me and putting such a great event together.
    Looking out at this crowd, I feel so much pride in our Latino community and how much it’s grown.
    When my grandfather, a baker from Chihuahua, Mexico, came to Nevada to pursue the American Dream, the Latino community was pretty small.
    As my father grew up and became a larger part of the community, he started regularly getting together with a key group of Latinos in Southern Nevada to discuss how to promote Latino businesses, education, and workers.
    That was 40-50 years ago. Today, Latinos make up one third of the population in Nevada! It’s incredible.
    The Latino community is growing throughout this country. But we all know we continue to face challenges to our success.
    That’s why the CHC is working together with the Biden-Harris administration to lower costs for Latino families, create clean energy jobs that will help us address the climate crisis, build more homes that working Latinos can afford, and ensure our small businesses have the resources they need to thrive.
    Latino families deserve every opportunity – just look at how much we’ve contributed to this country! The 2024 report on U.S. Latino GDP was just released, and from 2019 to 2022, the Latino GDP in the United States grew faster than the GDP of any of the world’s top 10 economies – including China and India!
    And yet, we still have a huge pay gap in this country. Imagine how much it would help Latino families if we close that gap.
    It’s our goal as the CHC to close that gap by ensuring every Latino across this country has a seat at the table.
    And what better way to continue to promote who we are than by celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month?
    This is our time to share our achievements as Latinos, our culture, our food – to share who we are with this country we love so much.
    And our stories deserve to be told! That’s why we’re working to build a The Museum of the American Latino on the National Mall here in Washington! And it’s why we passed a bill out of Congress to put Latinas like Celia Cruz, Jovita Idar, and Nina Otero-Warren on American quarters!
    But the CHC is just getting started.
    We will continue to stand with Latinos across this country as we fight to restore a woman’s right to choose, bring down prices at the grocery store, expand affordable housing, and create a pathway to citizenship for our Dreamers and their families.
    Together, we will keep working to ensure future generations of Latinos can live, work, and thrive in this country.
    Thank you!

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Collins, King Announce More Than $2,000,000 for Police Departments in Maine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Angus King announced that six Maine police departments have been awarded a total of $2,075,000 through the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant programs. The various programs overseen by the COPS office support numerous initiatives for local police departments, including improved hiring practices, school violence prevention, community policing development, and mental health wellness for law enforcement officers and their families.

    “Law enforcement officers willingly place themselves in harm’s way to protect our communities. It is our responsibility to equip them with the resources they need,” said Senators Collins and King. “This important funding will help improve community policing across the State of Maine, enhance school safety, and provide essential mental health support for law enforcement officers.”

    The COPS grant funding awarded to Maine law enforcement agencies falls into four distinct categories:

    • COPS Hiring Program (CHP): More than $157 million was awarded to 235 agencies nationwide to hire nearly 1,200 entry-level law enforcement officers, aimed at increasing community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts.
      • In Maine, the recipients include:
        • Town of Rangeley: $125,000
        • Rumford Police Department: $250,000
        • City of Westbrook: $250,000
    • School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP): Approximately $73 million was awarded to 203 school districts and government entities across the country to enhance security on school grounds, improving safety measures for students and staff.
      • In Maine, the recipients include:
        • Lewiston Public Schools: $500,000
        • Maine School Administrative District 17: $500,000
    • Community Policing Development (CPD): This program provided more than $25.1 million nationwide to support crisis intervention teams, accreditation efforts, and innovative policing strategies, all aimed at improving community relations and law enforcement capabilities.
      • In Maine, the recipient of this funding is:
        • Rumford Police Department (supporting law enforcement agencies seeking accreditation in Oxford County): $250,000
    • Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness (LEMHWA) Program: More than $9 million was awarded nationwide to improve the delivery of mental health and wellness services for law enforcement officers and support staff.
      • In Maine, the recipient of this funding is:
        • Maine Indian Township Tribal Government: $200,000

    These grants are part of a broader national effort by the DOJ’s COPS office to combat opioid and methamphetamine distribution, prepare for active shooter situations, and support technical assistance and hiring programs for law enforcement agencies.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley Introduces Legislation to Correct Past Injustices Against Pregnant Servicemembers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) introduced the Women Involuntary Separated Earnings Remittance (WISER) Act to rectify a wrong perpetuated against women servicemembers from 1951 to 1976. Specifically, this bill establishes a process for upgrades to military records and discharges for women who were wrongfully and involuntarily separated due to parenthood and/or pregnancy, provides a one-time payment to eligible veterans, and expands U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care eligibility to these veterans.

    “Despite their great sacrifice and commitment to defending our nation, women veterans have faced a long history of systemic inequities both in the military and within the VA,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. “As the founder and former chair of the Women Veterans Task Force, my goal has been to identify disparities in access to care and benefits for women veterans, and where necessary, introduce, advocate for, and pass legislation that rectifies past injustices. The unfair practice of discharging women from the military because they became pregnant or became a mother was not only wrong but it perpetuated a harmful cycle of gender prejudice. 

    “My bill, the WISER Act, corrects this wrong, and it also provides recompense for this transgression and often overlooked attack on women servicemembers. This bill is a critical step forward in not only rectifying the impact of this discriminatory practice and restoring fairness for these women veterans, but it brings true equity closer to the two million women who have served our nation in uniform.”

    Background on the WISER Act

    In June 1948, the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act was enacted, which formally authorized the appointment and enlistment of women in the regular components of the U.S. Armed Forces. Three years later, Executive Order 10240 changed everything for women with family obligations.

    Specifically, from 1951 to 1976, many women servicemembers were involuntarily separated from the military due to motherhood, living with a stepchild for more than 30 days per year, becoming pregnant, adopting a child, and/or gaining custody of a child. These women were not afforded separation benefits and lost their ability to earn an income and to continue serving our country in uniform. In 1976, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit ruled that Executive Order 10240 was unconstitutional and the corresponding policy was rescinded. However, there was no action to make the affected women whole.

    To begin to right this wrong, I authored language (Section 530) acknowledging this discriminatory policy was wrong. The language was included in the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. While this resolution was a step forward, now is the time for Congress to act on that sentiment.

    The WISER Act would establish a process for discharge upgrades for those who were wrongfully and involuntarily separated and provide a one time payment to eligible veterans, as well as expand VA health care eligibility for these veterans. 

    This bill is endorsed by Minority Veterans of America (MVA), Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), and American Veterans (AMVETS).

    Read the full text of the bill here.  

    ###

    Issues: 118th Congress, Veterans’ Affairs, Women Veterans Task Force

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: CNO Remarks at Lone Sailor Awards Dinner

    Source: United States Navy

    Good evening, everyone! Wow – what a fantastic video highlighting out Navy in action!

    It is an honor to be here with such a distinguished group of leaders, members of Congress, Industry partners, Department of the Navy civilians, Flag and General Officers, MCPONs lots of MCPONs, veterans, and our servicemen and women – here to celebrate our Navy – and most importantly, our people – tonight.

    Let me start by saying thank you very much to Admiral John Nowell and to the Navy Memorial team for putting together this spectacular event year after year. And thank you for bringing to life our Navy story and the stories of all our Sailors and all the people in the sea services day in and day out at the Navy Memorial, which is the home to one of the largest maps in the world, the “Granite Sea,” where you already heard that I danced with many veterans from the Armed Forces Retirement Home, and I had a really good time thanks to them and the Navy Band.

    If you haven’t seen the “Granite Sea” or been to the Navy Memorial, I encourage you to do so. The Granite Sea,” it’s a map and it really show the sheer size, the expansiveness and the interconnectedness of the world’s oceans. And the sheer responsibility we have to keep them free and open for all.

    Tonight, we are here to celebrate the contributions of Sailors, past and present and let me say right upfront there is a lot to celebrate.  After visiting our Navy team around the world and then just watching them again in that video I am filled with pride. I could not be more proud of our active and Reserve Sailors, our civilians, our Navy – Marine Corps team that is out there executing our Navy’s mission every single day – operating far forward, from seabed to space to deter aggression, to promote our Nation’s prosperity and security, and provide options to our Nation’s decision makers.

    So, tonight, it is both an honor and a privilege for me to be here to recognize the bold and daring actions of our Sailors the ones you just saw in the video from Carrier Strike Group TWO. There are Sailors from – the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower the aircraft carrier – Carrier Air Wing 3 and its nine squadrons. We have The Philippine Sea a guided missile cruiser. Destroyers from Destroyer Squadron Twenty Two – the Gravely,  the Mason, the Laboon, and USS Carney. USS Florida, a guided missile submarine. All joined by a full complement of logistics ships run by our amazing civilian mariners – USNS Supply, Kanawha, and Alan Shepard – who did their part to deliver fuel, supplies, munitions, other goods, and of course mail to sustain our people and our Fleet at sea. How about a big round of applause for all those Sailors out there.  

    Every one of them played a critical role in what I like to call a “Deployment of Firsts”: The first shoot down of an anti-ship ballistic missile; the first SM-6 engagement. the first air-to-air engagement of a hostile Unmanned Aerial Vehicle; and, the first employment of a hellfire against naval surface threats in combat.

    And while I could go on and on and on about their contested straits transits and the number of threats intercepted, but I instead want to tell you about the story of this amazing team as I saw it.

    For nine months our incredible Sailors prevailed operating inside an adversary Weapons Engagement Zone with an intensity not seen since WWII. They were saving lives, preventing the escalation of conflict, escorting merchants, ensuring the free flow of commerce, defending and working alongside our Allies and partners, and standing up for the values that we all hold so dear.

    For nine months, they demonstrated to the American people that naval power is – and will continue to be – an essential element of our nation’s security.

    And for nine months, these Sailors proved to our adversaries that we are truly the world’s preeminent fighting force and that no other Navy can train, deploy and sustain such a lethal, combat force at the scale and the tempo that we do. 

    These Sailors are truly America’s Warfighting Navy.

    And again, I could not be more excited to recognize some of those courageous IKE Strike Group Sailors here with us tonight teammates please stand. Please join me in giving them a round of applause.

    The story of the IKE Strike Group and the story of these warfighters is one of many stories across America’s Warfighting Navy it’s a Navy that works around the globe and around the clock. And tonight, thousands more of our Navy Sailors, our Marines, our Coast Guardsmen and actually all of our servicepeople are operating far forward at risk in multiple weapons engagement zones around the world.

    From the Eastern Mediterranean to the Indo-Pacific, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Red Sea, and everywhere in between our Sailors are standing the watch in every domain ready to preserve the peace, to respond in crisis, and if necessary, win decisively in war. 

    So, as we recognize the outstanding achievements of these Sailors here tonight, of our Lone Sailor Award recipients I ask that we also take a moment to reflect on all of our Sailors, our Marines, our service members, and their families. They serve everyday with Honor, Courage, and Commitment and it is because of their selfless service to our Nation that we can be here tonight to enjoy this wonderful evening.

    Thank you very much.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Government Official Arrested for Acting as Unregistered Agent of South Korean Government

    Source: US State of California

    Sue Mi Terry Provided South Korean Intelligence Officers Access, Information and Advocacy in Exchange for Luxury Goods and Funding

    Note: View the indictment here.

    Sue Mi Terry, 54, of New York, New York, was arrested yesterday and presented on criminal charges related to offenses under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA).

    According to court documents, after leaving U.S. government service and for more than a decade, Terry worked as an agent of the government of the Republic of Korea (ROK), commonly known as South Korea, without registering as a foreign agent with the Attorney General, as required by law. As covertly directed by ROK government officials, Terry publicly advocated ROK policy positions, disclosed non-public U.S. government information to ROK intelligence officers and enabled ROK officials to gain access to U.S. government officials. In exchange for these actions, ROK intelligence officers provided Terry with luxury goods, expensive dinners and more than $37,000 in funding for a public policy program focusing on Korean affairs that Terry controlled.

    From in or about 2001 to in or about 2011, Terry served in a series of positions in the U.S. government, including as an analyst on East Asian issues for the Central Intelligence Agency, as the Director for Korea, Japan and Oceanic Affairs for the White House National Security Council and as the Deputy National Intelligence Officer for East Asia at the National Intelligence Council. Since leaving government service in or about 2011, Terry has worked at academic institutions and think tanks in New York City and Washington, D.C. Terry has made media appearances, published articles and hosted conferences as a policy expert specializing in, among other things, South Korea, North Korea and various regional issues impacting Asia. Terry has also testified before Congress on at least three occasions regarding the U.S. government’s policy toward Korea.

    As she admitted in a voluntary interview with the FBI in 2023, Terry served as a valuable “source” of information for the ROK National Intelligence Service (ROK NIS), the primary intelligence agency for the ROK. For example, in or about June 2022, Terry participated in a private, off-the-record group meeting with a U.S. Secretary level official regarding the U.S. Government’s policy toward North Korea. Immediately after the meeting, Terry’s primary ROK NIS point of contact, or handler, picked up Terry in a car with ROK Embassy diplomatic plates. While in the car, Terry passed her handler detailed handwritten notes of her meeting, which were written on the letterhead of a think tank where Terry had recently worked. Terry’s handler then photographed the notes while still sitting in the car with Terry.

    Weeks later, at the request of her ROK NIS handler, Terry hosted a happy hour for Congressional staff. Although the happy hour was ostensibly on behalf of the think tank where Terry worked, the ROK NIS paid for it with Terry’s knowledge. Terry’s handler attended the event and posed as a diplomat, mingling with Congressional staff without disclosing that he was, in fact, an ROK intelligence officer. 

    ROK government rewarded Terry for her services. For example, Terry’s ROK NIS handlers gifted her a $2,950 Bottega Veneta handbag and a $3,450 Louis Vuitton handbag, both of which Terry selected during shopping trips with her handlers. One of Terry’s ROK NIS handlers also gifted her a $2,845 Dolce & Gabbana coat. In addition to luxury goods, Terry’s ROK NIS handlers provided her expensive meals, including at Michelin-starred restaurants. Terry’s ROK NIS handlers also deposited approximately $37,000 into an unrestricted “gift” account that Terry controlled at the think tank where she worked. In addition, ROK government officials paid Terry to write articles in both the U.S. and Korean press conveying positions and phrases dictated by the ROK government.

    Terry is charged with one count of conspiracy to violate FARA and one count of failure to register under FARA. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Damian Williams for the Southern District of New York and Executive Assistant Director Robert R. Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch made the announcement. 

    The FBI’s Counterintelligence Division and New York Field Office are investigating the case with assistance from the FBI Washington Field Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kyle A. Wirshba, Alexander Li and Sam Adelsberg for the Southern District of New York are prosecuting the case, with assistance from Trial Attorney Christopher M. Rigali of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Minister of State for Education and Development of North East Region, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Highlights Landmark Developments in Assam

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 10:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Minister of State for Education and Development of the North East Region, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, visited Guwahati today to inaugurate key projects and review advancements in the educational and research sectors.

    Inauguration of Central Animal and In Vitro Drug Testing Facilities at NIPER

    At the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) – Guwahati, the first national pharma institute in Northeast India, Dr. Majumdar inaugurated the Central Animal and In Vitro Drug Testing Facilities. Sponsored by the North Eastern Council under the aegis of Ministry of DoNER, these facilities were funded under the Science & Technology Intervention in North Eastern Region (STINER) programme.

    “This project aligns with the visionary leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji, transforming Northeast India into a beacon of development and innovation,” Dr. Majumdar stated. The facilities, with an investment of ₹20 crore, will advance research on herbal medicines from indigenous plants.

    Key Objectives of the Facility:

    • Establish a fully equipped Animal House for drug discovery.
    • Evaluate the efficacy and safety of traditional medicines.
    • Create a breeding facility for Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) animals.
    • Conduct skill development programs for students.

     

     

     

    During his visit, Dr. Majumdar planted a sapling as part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, which aims to plant 80 crore trees by September 2024 and 140 crore by March 2025. This initiative reflects a deep commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

    Review Meeting at IIT Guwahati on Higher Education

    Dr. Majumdar chaired a review meeting at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati to assess the status and prospects of Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) in Assam and North East India. Discussions focused on enhancing education quality and infrastructure development, with the goal of empowering the youth of our nation.

     

    Inauguration of the Centre for Brahmaputra Studies at Gauhati University

    Later, Dr. Majumdar inaugurated the Centre for Brahmaputra Studies Building at Gauhati University, aimed at sustainable development and research on the Brahmaputra River. The Centre will be a hub for research, policy-making, and knowledge sharing, providing critical insights for the millions reliant on the river.

    “This Centre reflects our government’s vision for holistic development in the North East, rooted in sustainability and innovation,” he remarked.

    Key Features of the Centre for Brahmaputra Studies:

    • Conduct multidisciplinary research on the Brahmaputra’s impact.
    • Establish a data repository for research and policymaking.
    • Collaborate with national and international institutions to address challenges like floods and erosion.
    • Focus on capacity building through training and awareness programs.

    Supported by the North Eastern Council (NEC) with a funding of ₹28 crores, the Centre is poised to become a globally recognized institution dedicated to addressing the challenges of the Brahmaputra River.

    Dr. Majumdar emphasized that under Hon’ble Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the Ministry of DoNER is committed to enriching the education sector in North East India, positioning it as a hub of knowledge and development that contributes to the nation’s progress.

    SB/

    (Release ID: 2057234) Visitor Counter : 12

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Public Service Commission declares result based on written part of the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (Ii), 2024

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 9:27PM by PIB Delhi

    On the basis of the result of the written part of the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination, (II) 2024 held by the Union Public Service Commission on 1st September, 2024, candidates with the under mentioned Roll Nos. have qualified for interview by the Services Selection Board(SSB) of the Ministry of Defence for Admission to Army, Navy and Air Force Wings of the National Defence Academy for the 154th Course and for the 116thIndian Naval Academy Course (INAC) commencing from 2nd July, 2025. The result is also available at Commission’s website www.upsc.gov.in.

    2. The candidature of all the candidates, whose Roll Nos. are shown in thelist is provisional. In accordance with the conditions of their admission to the examination, “candidates are requested to register themselves online on the Indian Army Recruiting website joinindianarmy.nic.in within two weeks of announcement of written result. The successful candidates would then be allotted Selection Centres and dates, of SSB interview which shall be communicated on registered e-mail ID. Any candidate who has already registered earlier on the site will not be required to do so. In case of any query/ Login problem, e-mail be forwarded to dir-recruiting6-mod[at]nic[dot]in.”

     “Candidates are also requested to submit original certificates of Age and Educational Qualification to respective Service Selection Boards (SSBs) during the SSB interview.” The candidates must not send the Original Certificates to the Union Public Service Commission. For any further information, the candidates may contact Facilitation Counter near Gate ‘C’ of the Commission, either in person or on telephone Nos. 011-23385271/011-23381125/011-23098543 between 10:00 hours and 17:00 hours on any working day. In addition for SSB/interview related matter the candidates may contact over telephone No. 011-26175473 or joinindianarmy.nic.in for Army as first choice, 011-23010097/

    Email:officer-navy[at]nic[dot]in or joinindiannavy.gov.in for Navy/Naval Academy as first choice and 011-23010231 Extn.7645/7646/7610 or www.careerindianairforce.cdac.in for Air Force as first choice.

    3 The mark-sheets of the candidates, will be put on the Commission’s website within fifteen (15) days from the date of publication of final result.(After concluding SSB Interviews) and will remain available on the website for a period of thirty (30) days.

    Click here to see Result:

    ****

    AG

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG) has institutionalizes the National e-Governance Webinar Series (NeGW) 2023-24 to disseminate and replicate award-winning e-governance initiatives

    Source: Government of India (2)

    The Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG) has institutionalizes the National e-Governance Webinar Series (NeGW) 2023-24 to disseminate and replicate award-winning e-governance initiatives

    DARPG organizes the Webinar on National e-Governance Award-Winning Initiatives under the theme “Excellence in Providing Citizen-Centric Delivery at the State/UT Level,” where two award-winning initiatives were presented

    “Excellence in Providing Citizen-Centric Delivery at the State/UT Level” theme of the 8th National e-Governance Webinar

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 9:21PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG) launched the monthly National e-Governance Webinar Series (NeGW 2023-24) on September 22, 2023, to disseminate and replicate India’s award-winning e-governance initiatives. NeGW 2023-24 is held monthly, typically on the third Friday of each month.

    The 8th National e-Governance Webinar, under the theme “Excellence in Providing Citizen-Centric Delivery at the State/UT Level,” was held today.

    The webinar was chaired by Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary, DARPG. He commended the award-winning initiatives—e-Registration (Self Help Portal) and Chikitsa Setu, for leveraging emerging technologies to enhance service delivery and foster innovation in governance practices. He recommended replicating these initiatives.

    The following award-winning initiatives were presented:

    • Shri Shravan Hardikar (IAS), Managing Director, Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited, Govt. of Maharashtra, showcased the e-Registration (Self Help Portal) for document registration. This initiative allows developers to register themselves, their projects, and schemes; prepare templates for agreements; and complete data entry forms. Joint District Registrars can verify and approve projects and schemes online. Similar to other e-Registration applications, Sub-Registrars can verify documents, payments, and the identity of the parties involved, and complete the registration process. The application benefits real estate developers, purchasers, and the Department of Registration & Stamps, serving citizens across all sectors of society—from premium flat buyers to PMAY beneficiaries—across the state’s 36 districts.
    • Shri Prashant Sharma (IAS), Special Secretary, Department of Additional Sources of Energy, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh, highlighted the Chikitsa Setu mobile application. Launched by the Department of Medical Education, Government of Uttar Pradesh, “Chikitsa Setu” is designed to train doctors, paramedical staff, and other COVID-19 frontline workers. The platform includes videos created by medical experts from King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow—the state government’s premier medical education institution. One of the key aspects of the application is the availability of training material from medical experts at users’ fingertips, with short videos (1 to 7 minutes) that retain audience engagement. More than 30 topics, based on extensive field surveys and research, are covered. Chikitsa Setu has trained over 200 doctors and more than 1,200 paramedical and associated staff.

    The webinar was attended by around 400 officials from across the nation, including Principal Secretaries, Administrative Reforms Secretaries, IT Secretaries of States/UTs, District Collectors, Police Departments, State Information Officers, and academia from IITs/IIITs/NITs and other institutions. The webinar was also broadcastedon YouTube.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Join Murray, Senate Democrats in Introducing Resolution to Recognize Patients’ Rights to Emergency Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    September 20, 2024
    Abortion Bans Have Delayed Emergency Medical Care. In Georgia, Experts Say Were This Mother’s Death Was Preventable.
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and 38 of their Democratic colleagues in introducing a Senate resolution to reinforce the standard that every patient has the basic right to emergency health care, including abortion care, regardless of where they live. The introduction comes as new reporting from ProPublica makes plain that Republican abortion bans are preventing women from receiving lifesaving emergency health care and resulting in preventable deaths.
    “When we warned Donald Trump and Senate Republicans that women would die if they succeeded in overturning Roe, they called us fearmongers. Tragically, it’s now painfully obvious that we were right,” Duckworth said. “We cannot wait for more women to die a preventable death because of Republicans’ draconian abortion bans—we must protect reproductive rights and women’s access to emergency medical care nationwide, and Democrats are working tirelessly to do just that.”
    “When a woman arrives at the emergency room, she should not be worried about whether or not she will receive necessary medical treatment.  Her family should not have to worry that their loved one may die because politics interfered with medical decision making.  But because the right-wing supermajority on the Supreme Court overruled Roe v. Wade, as Donald Trump promised, that is exactly what is happening,” said Durbin.  “I’m joining my colleagues in introducing this legislation to make clear that we will not give up the fight for women to receive the medical care they need, especially in emergency circumstances where access to care is a matter of life and death.”
    Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade over two years ago, nearly two dozen US states led by Republicans have passed, banned or severely restricted access to abortion. These strict laws have created confusion around the treatment doctors can provide even when a pregnant patient’s life is in danger, as physicians fear that they may lose their medical license, be sued, or even charged with a felony if they perform life-saving emergency care. Despite the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act’s (EMTALA) requirements that Medicare-participating hospitals treat and stabilize pregnant patients in need of emergency medical care, women are being turned away from emergency rooms following the Dobbs decision.
    In Moyle v. United States, the U.S. Supreme Court had the opportunity to reaffirm that federal law requires pregnant patients to have access to life-saving emergency care in every state, but instead, the Court dismissed the case and sent it back to the lower courts, effectively punting on making a decision on the case itself. While the litigation continues in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, the health and lives of women remain at risk as uncertainty around emergency abortion care persists. 121 Congressional Republicans, including 26 Senators, filed an amicus brief arguing that EMTALA does not require hospitals to provide abortion care as emergency stabilizing care in order to save a patient’s life.
    In addition to Duckworth, Durbin and Murray, this resolution is co-led by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) and co-sponsored by U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tom Carper (D-DE), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Marin Heinrich (D-NV), George Helmy (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
    The resolution is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Center for Reproductive Rights, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, Reproductive Freedom For All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National Women’s Law Center, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Guttmacher Institute, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, All* Above All, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, URGE: Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity, National Council of Jewish Women and National Partnership for Women and Families.
    Last week, U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes (D-OH-13) and Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11) introduced the House companion to yesterday’s Senate resolution.
    The full text of the resolution can be found on Senator Murray’s website.
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Bera, Rep. Wittman, Sen. Duckworth, and Sen. Ricketts Launch Bipartisan, Bicameral Quad Caucus Ahead of Quad Leaders Summit

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ami Bera (D-CA)

    Today, U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Indo-Pacific Subcommittee, Representative Rob Wittman (R-VA) and U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE)—members of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee—launched the bipartisan House and Senate Quad Caucuses. 

    This announcement comes ahead of this weekend’s Quad Leaders Summit in Wilmington, Delaware where President Biden will welcome heads of state from Australia, India, and Japan. 

    The Quad is committed to supporting the region’s development, stability, and prosperity to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific. The leaders’ ambitious efforts include major initiatives on infrastructure, maritime security, public-private partnership, climate, health, critical and emerging technologies, and space.

    “As the Indo-Pacific becomes increasingly important to global security and economic prosperity, it is essential that the United States continues to strengthen relationships with our Quad partners,” said Representative Bera. “The launch of the Quad Caucus underscores our shared commitment to fostering peace, stability, and development in the region. By promoting collaboration on key issues like maritime security, infrastructure, and climate, we can ensure a safer and more prosperous future for all.” 

    “Cooperation between the United States, Japan, India, and Australia is crucial for the future stability of the Indo-Pacific,” said Representative Wittman. “The Quad’s support for the governance of emerging technologies, countering illegal fishing, and enhanced maritime domain awareness proves that we will build a better future for the region by working together. I am proud to join my colleagues to launch this bicameral, bipartisan Quad Caucus to foster stable collaboration for years to come.”  

    “Over the years, the Quad has represented the United States’ steadfast commitment to the current and future prosperity, strength and stability of the Indo-Pacific region—and proof of our ability to come together with allies and partners to uphold our shared principles,” said Senator Duckworth. “In a strong display of bipartisan support for the region, I’m proud to help launch the Senate’s first-ever Quad Caucus alongside co-chair Senator Ricketts ahead of President Biden’s leaders’ summit this weekend. Together, we’re sending a strong message to our allies and partners—and our competitors—that the United States is here for the long haul.”

    “Partnerships like the Quad are our greatest strength in protecting a prosperous, free and open Indo-Pacific against coercion and malign aggression The launch of the bipartisan Senate Quad Caucus should send a clear signal about the growing importance of the United States, Australia, Japan, and India working closely together in the region. We are committed to finding tangible ways to bolster collaboration with our Quad partners,” said Senator Ricketts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHAI Awards Toll, Operate, Transfer (TOT) Bundle 16 for Rs. 6,661 Crores

    Source: Government of India (2)

    NHAI Awards Toll, Operate, Transfer (TOT) Bundle 16 for Rs. 6,661 Crores

    TOT Plays a Key Role in Enhancing Road Network Value, Raises ₹6,661 Crores from TOT Bundle 16 with 100% Success in FY24: NHAI Chairman, Sh. Santosh Kumar Yadav

    The award is for 251 km long stretch on the Hyderabad-Nagpur corridor of NH-44 in the state of Telangana

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 8:08PM by PIB Delhi

    NHAI has awarded Toll, Operate and Transfer (TOT) bundle 16 for Rs. 6,661 Crores. The financial bids for TOT Bundle-16 were opened on 18 September 2024, for a 251 km long stretch on the Hyderabad-Nagpur corridor of NH-44 in the state of Telangana and it has been awarded to M/s Highway Infrastructure Trust for Rs. 6,661 crores.

    The concession period of TOT bundle is for 20 years in which Concessionaire will be required to maintain and operate the stretch. In lieu of this, Concessionaire will collect and retain user fee for the stretch in accordance with prescribed fee rates under NH Fee Rules.  

    The TOT model has been developed to encourage private participation in the Highway sector. NHAI from time to time has awarded contracts for tolling, operation and maintenance of various National Highway stretches on Toll, Operate Transfer basis. In FY 2023-24, NHAI awarded Four TOT bundles worth Rs. 15,968 crores against the monetization target of Rs.10,000 crores for that fiscal.

    Commenting on the successful award of the TOT Bundle-16, NHAI Chairman Shri Santosh Kumar Yadav said “TOT has been instrumental in unlocking the value of road network and has immensely contributed towards the development of the National Highway Network in the country. I am pleased that we have raised Rs. 6,661 crores from TOT bundle 16. The success rate of TOT mode in FY24 was 100% and we have seen very encouraging response from the bidders. The Government of India has been very supportive to achieve the National Monetization targets, and we are committed to work towards realizing this vision.”

    In line with the National Monetization Plan, NHAI’s Total Asset Monetization Program has crossed Rs.1 Lakh Crore which includes Rs. 48,995 Crore through TOT, Rs. 25,900 Crore through InvIT and Rs. 42,000 Crore through Securitization.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The 33rd Capacity Building Programme for the Civil Servants of Maldives successfully completed today at NCGG, New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    The 33rd Capacity Building Programme for the Civil Servants of Maldives successfully completed today at NCGG, New Delhi

    This was the first programme of the second phase post signing of MoU between NCGG and CSC, Maldives to Train 1,000 Civil Servants over next five years (2024-2029)

    34 civil servants from key departments and ministries participated in the programme

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 8:45PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) successfully completed the 33rd Capacity Building Programme (CBP) for Civil Servants of Maldives today in New Delhi. The two-week program, was organized from 9th to 20th September 2024, in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Notably, this is the first program under the second phase for civil servants of Maldives following the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to train 1,000 Maldivian civil servants. The MoU was signed by India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, and the Maldives’ Foreign Minister, Mr. Moosa Zameer, for the period 2024-2029. The current program was attended by 34 civil servants from the Maldives, including Assistant Directors, Senior Administrators, Council Officers, Faculties and Community Health Officers, representing key ministries and departments from Maldives.

    The valedictory session was chaired by Shri V. Srinivas, Director General of NCGG and Secretary of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), Government of India. In his address, he reflected on the achievements of the first phase capacity building programmes (2019-2024), during which over 1,000 Maldivian civil servants visited the NCGG. In his address he highlighted how technology has been used in the country to transform institutions and bring citizens closer to the government. He discussed about use of technology in Direct Benefit Transfers, Health, Education and Secretariat and use of Aadhar to bring about governance. He asked the participants to take the learnings from the programme as most of the challenges are common and apply them to bring about greater transparency and efficiency in government processes.

    During the Valedictory the participants also presented three insightful presentations on Bringing Transparency in Government Procurement in Maldives, Climate Change & its impact on Biodiversity in Maldives and Tourism in Maldives showcasing the learnings gained during the programme.

    Mrs. Fathmath Inaya from Civil Service Commission, Maldives and head of delegation, expressed her gratitude to the Indian government and the NCGG for the opportunity. She stated that all of them learnt and gained extensively from the program.

    Dr. B S Bisht, Associate Professor, NCGG and Course Coordinator of the programme while giving the welcome address and summary of the programme highlighted how the focus of the capacity building programme was to share India’s good governance models and best practices from various development schemes among others. He also shared that the second week of the programme had visits planned to Smart City Project and ITDA and Forest Research Institute (FRI) Dehradun, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), International Solar Alliance, Exposure visit to Indira Prayavaran Bahwan: India’s first Zero Energy Building, PM Sangrahalaya and visit to Taj Mahal to give a first hand view of India’s rich culture and heritage.

    The NCGG has till now trained civil servants from 33 countries including Bangladesh, Kenya, Tanzania, Tunisia, Seychelles, Gambia, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Laos, Vietnam, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, South Africa, Indonesia, Madagascar, Fiji, Mozambique, Cambodia, Madagascar, Fiji, Indonesia, South Africa among others.

    The programme was supervised and coordinated by Dr. B. S. Bisht, Course Coordinator, Dr. Sanjeev Sharma, Co-Course Coordinator, Shri. Brijesh Bisht, Training Assistant and Ms. Monisha Bahuguna, Young Professional along with the capacity building team of NCGG.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt Savitri Thakur participated in Suposhan Maah activities in Indore

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 8:47PM by PIB Delhi

    The Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt Savitri Thakur participated in a program organized to celebrate Poshan Maah in Indore,Madhya Pradesh.

    Indore is celebrating Poshan Maah 2024 with Suposhan week from 22nd September to 29th September 2024.

    On this occasion a human chain of 1500+ participants was formed to raise awareness about nutrition, with enthusiastic support from local communities.

     ****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Labour and Employment Organizes Fourth Regional Meeting with Eastern States at Bhubaneswar, Odisha

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Labour and Employment Organizes Fourth  Regional Meeting with Eastern States at Bhubaneswar, Odisha

    Government committed to supporting both large enterprises and MSMEs for employment generation, promoting employability and formalisation of labour force under the ELI schemes: Secretary L&E

    Government committed to promoting Labour Reforms, Labour Welfare, Quality Employment Generation and Social Protection for all workers

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 7:50PM by PIB Delhi

    Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India chaired a regional meeting with eastern States viz., Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh in Bhubaneswar today. This is the fourth meeting in a series of regional consultations being held by the Ministry of Labour & Employment nationwide with the States/Union Territories (UTs) on key labour and employment issues.

    In her opening address, Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Labour and Employment (L&E) set the context by highlighting the need for strengthening collaboration and dialogue between the Central Government and States/UTs for bringing synergy in efforts to facilitate generation of quality employment and ensuring welfare of all workers.

    Smt. Dawra said employment generation and enhancement of skilling and employability are key aspects to the realization of the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. In this direction, the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme was announced in Union Budget 2024-25 with an outlay of Rs 1,07,000 Crores, she noted. The Government is committed to supporting both large enterprises and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) for employment generation, promoting employability and formalisation of labour force under the ELI schemes, she added.

    Further, the labour reforms undertaken by Government of India, including the Labour Codes were discussed. In a landmark initiative, the Government of India has updated, simplified and consolidated 29 labour laws into 04 Labour Codes, Secretary added, with the objective of promoting labour welfare, as well as promoting investments and employment generation.

    The Ministry has been holding a series of consultations to build consensus on the operationalisation of the Codes with workers’ and employers’ associations, besides with States and UTs. In this context, the States were urged to plug the gaps and divergences in their respective draft rules by harmonizing and aligning them with the Central rules under the Labour Codes.

    Government’s vision to provide comprehensive social protection for the unorganized workers at par with organized workers was highlighted through demonstration of progress under eShram. The importance of onboarding workers in the unorganised sector, including Building and Construction Workers (BoCW), street vendors, auto drivers etc. onto eShram portal to access social security schemes including access to skilling and jobs, on one portal, was discussed.  

    It was noted that over 30 crore unorganised workers have registered on eShram portal since its launch in 2021. The need for States to expedite two-way integration with e-Shram portal to make it a more effective ‘one stop solution’ for easier access to welfare schemes of Centre and States for unorganised workers including migrant workers, was flagged as an action point.

    The meeting emphasized the role of the recently launched BoCW Management Information System (MIS) portal in aiding the States/UTs in data-driven planning and more effective implementation of welfare schemes for BoC workers. States were requested to complete onboarding on the MIS portal, for verified information of coverage of social security including education of wards for BoC workers.

    Discussion was also held on the need for the Centre and States/UTs to set up a joint mechanism for timely compilation of more accurate employment related data, feeding into a centralized dashboard equipped with advanced analytics, which will aid States/UTs in developing better policies for stimulating quality employment generation.

    The representatives of States shared their ideas, insights and best practices on key labour and employment issues, particularly the digital interventions undertaken for ease of compliance and web-based inspections. The State Principal Secretaries, Secretaries, Labour Commissioners appreciated the interactive meeting and assured on collaborative efforts.

    The next meeting is this series of regional consultations with States/UTs is scheduled to be held in Lucknow for the central States and the NCT of Delhi on 27th September 2024.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Food and Consumer Affairs Minister, Shri Pralhad V Joshi conducts office inspection of Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution to mark Swachhata Hi Sewa Campaign 2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 7:59PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, through its various subordinate offices, attached and autonomous offices observed day 4 of the Swachhata Hi Sewa Campaign 2024, themed “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata,” today.

    In order to ensure cleanliness, healthy working environment for effective operational efficiency within the Department, Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Shri Pralhad V Joshi along with Secretary and other senior officers conducted an inspection of departmental offices. During this inspection, the Minister visited various offices, engaging with staff members and advised the officials to maintain good working environment

    Cleanliness Activities continued: Cleanliness drive was held in BIS, NRL, Mohali. The employees cleaned the roadside area near the office and 4 tonnes garbage was collected and disposed properly. NTH, Varanasi and NCCF, New Delhi cleaned its office equipment like Lights, Fans, and ACs along with other electrical items.

    Before and after images of cleanliness drive held at BIS, NRL, Mohali (20-09-2024)

     

     

     

     

    Employees and staff of NTH, Varanasi cleaning office space and equipment (20-09-2024)

     

     

     

     

    Cleanliness Activities at NCCF, New Delhi

     

    Swachhata Workshop : A swachhata workshop was held at NTH (HQ) today with 12 events to discuss the importance of swachhata in office spaces and surroundings.

    Swachhata Workshop at NTH headquarters.

    Hindi Slogan Writing competition: 25 employees of the NTH (NWR) Jaipur  participated in slogan writing competition on the theme-Cleanliness and Hygiene which was organized on dated 20.09.2024.

     

     

     

    Hindi Slogan Writing competition held at NTH (NWR) Jaipur

     

    Swachhata hi Seva Selfie Points in NTH, Mumbai: NTH, Mumbai installed a 6 Selfie Booth outside office premises and 4 selfie booths inside the office premises to increase Jan Bhaagidari in the campaign. Many employees took photographs and selfies at the booth holding placards of Swachhata hi Sewa.

     

    NTH , Mumbai employees at the SHS Selfie Booth

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Swachhta Hi Seva Abhiyan 2024: Ministry of Law and Justice Celebrates with Tree Plantation Drive

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 8:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Nationwide “Swachhta Hi Seva Abhiyan 2024”is  being observed from September 17, 2024, to October 1, 2024. As part of this, the Legislative Department and the Department of Legal Affairs and Legislative Department under the Ministry of Law and Justice is actively participating in the As part of this initiative, a series of activities are planned to promote cleanliness, sustainability, and environmental conservation.

    In line with the campaign, a tree plantation drive will be conducted, led by Dr. Rajiv Mani, Law Secretary, on 20.09.2024. The tree plantation symbolizes the Ministry’s commitment to environmental protection and the promotion of a cleaner and greener India.

    The Swachhta Hi Seva Abhiyan 2024 aims to create greater awareness about the importance of cleanliness and environmental stewardship, with tree plantation being a key activity. The Ministry of Law and Justice is committed to participating in and supporting the mission for a cleaner and healthier India.

    This event underscores the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to uphold the values of cleanliness and environmental responsibility as part of its larger mission to serve the public good. “Trees play an important role in keeping our environment clean. By providing clean air, they make us healthy,”

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Voter turnout of 61.38 % recorded in phase-1 of J&K Assembly Elections

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 8:06PM by PIB Delhi

    In continuation of ECI’s two press notes no. 134 & 135 dated 18.09.2024, Voter turnout of 61.38 % has been recorded in phase-1 for 24 ACs in the ongoing J&K Assembly Elections 2024. The gender wise voter turnout figures for phase 1 are given below:

    Phase

    Male Turnout

    Female turnout

    Third gender turnout

    Overall turnout

    Phase 1

    (24 ACs)

    63.75%

    58.96%

    40%

    61.38%

     

    2. Voting turnout trends at the polling stations on the poll day was facilitated by the Commission through its Voter turnout App, every two hours starting 9:30 am onwards. CEO J&K has confirmed that all polling parties have returned safely. The Assembly Constituency and gender wise voter turnout data for Phase 1 of J&K Assembly Elections is given at Table 1. Further, a copy of Form 17C is also provided to the candidates through their polling agents.

    3. The voter turnout given in Table 1 is at the polling stations and final votes polled will be available post-counting with counting of postal ballots. Postal Ballots include Postal Ballots given to service voters, absentee voters (85+, PwD, Essential Services etc.) and Voters on Election Duty. Daily account of such Postal ballots received, as per established guidelines, are given to all candidates.

     

    Table 1: AC wise and Gender wise Voter turnout at polling stations for Phase 1 of J&K Assembly Elections

     

    Voter Turnout Percentage

    Sl. No.

    AC No.

    AC Name

    Total Registered Electors

    Male

    Female

    TG

    Total Percentage

    1

    32

    PAMPORE

    1,00,403

    50.67%

    39.47%

    16.67%

    45.01%

    2

    33

    TRAL

    98,167

    49.27%

    37.92%

    42.86%

    43.56%

    3

    34

    PULWAMA

    99,560

    55.36%

    46.27%

    50.00%

    50.78%

    4

    35

    RAJPORA

    1,09,562

    53.57%

    43.35%

    33.33%

    48.44%

    5

    36

    ZAINAPORA

    1,08,499

    61.40%

    49.86%

    50.00%

    55.62%

    6

    37

    SHOPIAN

    1,00,563

    63.79%

    53.12%

    60.00%

    58.51%

    7

    38

    D. H. PORA

    99,052

    71.01%

    66.69%

    16.67%

    68.88%

    8

    39

    KULGAM

    1,17,339

    68.15%

    58.75%

    NIL

    63.44%

    9

    40

    DEVSAR

    1,12,391

    61.80%

    53.73%

    14.29%

    57.76%

    10

    41

    DOORU

    1,16,770

    63.17%

    60.03%

    100.00%

    61.62%

    11

    42

    KOKERNAG(ST)

    91,280

    62.08%

    62.42%

    100.00%

    62.25%

    12

    43

    ANANTNAG WEST

    1,26,016

    52.59%

    44.85%

    0.00%

    48.73%

    13

    44

    ANANTNAG

    61,070

    48.89%

    42.33%

    NIL

    45.62%

    14

    45

    SRIGUFWARA – BIJBEHARA

    1,02,102

    62.38%

    58.52%

    NIL

    60.43%

    15

    46

    SHANGUS – ANANTNAG EAST

    1,00,909

    58.47%

    54.96%

    NIL

    56.72%

    16

    47

    PAHALGAM

    69,696

    73.00%

    69.50%

    NIL

    71.26%

    17

    48

    INDERWAL

    64,111

    81.47%

    82.90%

    0.00%

    82.16%

    18

    49

    KISHTWAR

    74,488

    76.62%

    79.93%

    66.67%

    78.24%

    19

    50

    PADDER – NAGSENI

    40,775

    80.77%

    80.57%

    0.00%

    80.67%

    20

    51

    BHADARWAH

    1,24,579

    66.23%

    68.07%

    50.00%

    67.12%

    21

    52

    DODA

    98,592

    69.34%

    75.82%

    100.00%

    72.49%

    22

    53

    DODA WEST

    87,442

    73.91%

    78.24%

    NIL

    75.98%

    23

    54

    RAMBAN

    98,102

    70.01%

    69.30%

    100.00%

    69.67%

    24

    55

    BANIHAL

    1,26,112

    72.54%

    69.94%

    0.00%

    71.28%

    *NIL means there are no registered third gender electors

    *****

    PK/RP

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Preparation of Special Campaign 4.0 in the Department of Fisheries

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 7:23PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying is gearing up for the Special Campaign 4.0, an initiative by the Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG). The campaign to be launched from 2nd October to 31st October 2024 aims to institutionalize Swachhata (cleanliness) and minimize pendency in government offices. Special Campaign 4.0 will be carried out in two phases namely Preparatory Phase from 16th – 30th September 2024 and Implementation Phase from 02nd – 31st October, 2024.

    The Department of Fisheries is playing a key role in this nation-wide initiative to promote cleanliness, expedite the disposal of pending references, and streamline record management. The campaign is aligned with the government’s broader vision of improving governance through better office space management and operational efficiency.

    In preparation for the Special Campaign 4.0, Shri Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, chaired a preparatory meeting with Shri Sagar Mehra, JS (Administration), Department of Fisheries and other officers of the Department. The meeting focused on planning and execution of the activities and drive during the campaign at the Departmental level, as well as in all filed offices/units. Additionally, Shri Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary, Department of Fisheries, chaired a meeting with officers and officials from the Department’s field units, including Fishery Survey of India (FSI), Central Institute of Coastal Engineering for Fishery (CICEF), National Institute of Fisheries Post-Harvest Technology and Training (NIPHATT), National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), Central Institute of Fisheries Nautical & Engineering Training (CIFNET), Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA). The meeting assessed the ongoing preparations for the Special Campaign across these institutions.

    During the Implementation Phase, the Department will be conducting special drives to dispose of pending references, with a specific focus on:

    • Disposal of pending references from the Hon’ble Ministers, Members of Parliament, State Governments, Inter-Ministerial communications, PMO references, Public Grievances, and Parliamentary Assurances.
    • Reviewing, Recording and weeding out physical files/records in compliance with the Central Secretariat Manual of Office Procedure (CSMOP) and the Public Records Act, 1993.
    • Segregating and disposal of unserviceable stores & office equipments to free up office space, Promoting cleanliness in office accommodation and complexes, reducing clutter, and ensuring an organized and productive work environment.

    As a preparatory exercise for the campaign, the Secretary (Fisheries), along with senior officials, conducted an inspection of the Department’s offices at Krishi Bhawan and Chanderlok Building in New Delhi. The inspection revealed an accumulation of old file/records, unserviceable stores and old magazines/newspapers in various sections/units. Immediate instructions were issued to ensure the timely segregation and disposal of old records/files and stores to improve record management and efficient use of office space.

    Special Campaign 4.0 is a reflection of the government’s commitment to improving governance through enhanced office management, cleanliness, and prompt resolution of pending matters.  The Department of Fisheries is  dedicated to making Swachhata a permanent part of its organizational culture and will continue to engage actively in the campaign to ensure a cleaner and more efficient work environment.

    *******

    SS

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Revolutionizing Nutrition: Industry, Academia, Regulator Deliberate to Leverage the Potential of Ayurveda Aahar

    Source: Government of India

    Revolutionizing Nutrition: Industry, Academia, Regulator Deliberate to Leverage the Potential of Ayurveda Aahar

    Exclusive session dedicated to ‘Ayush Food Innovations for a Sustainable World’ held on day -2 of World Food India 2024

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 7:38PM by PIB Delhi

    On the second day of World Food India 2024, the Ministry of Ayush organized an exclusive session on “Revolutionizing Nutrition: Ayush Food Innovations for a Sustainable World,” at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The session brought industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovative startups together to explore the vast potential of Ayush foods and nutraceuticals from global markets perspective.

    The 90-minute session focused on how Ayurvedic principles and products can be adapted to modern nutritional needs while retaining their ancient therapeutic benefits. All speakers actively engaged in the discussion that covered topics around the theme including, startup growth, international market expansion, and the science behind Ayush-based nutrition.

    Director All India Institute of Ayurveda Prof. Tanuja Nesari mentioned in her opening remarks that “Ayurvedic food is not only healthy but also tastes great. However, many people still think that if it’s Ayurvedic, it won’t be tasty.”There is a need to emphasize that Ayurvedic food can be both nutritious and flavorful, addressing the misconception that health-oriented food might lack taste.

    Dr. Anupam Srivastava, Professor & Head, Department of Ras Shastra & Bhaishjya Kalpana, National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) emphasized on Revolutionizing Nutrition: Ayush Food Innovations for a Sustainable World. He highlighted the significance of food security in India and the concept of Ayurveda Ahara. He discussed its benefits, various categories and the regulatory requirements.

    Mr. Viral Tiwari, Co-Founder, Nuskha Kitchen shared insights on ‘Accelerating Growth and Innovation in Ayush Startups, Mr. Ashish Dixit, Head Regulatory Affairs, Dabur, Expanding Global Reach explained the the topic ‘Elevating Ayush Nutrition for International Markets’. Dr. Manish Pande, Director & Head of Project Analysis and Documentation Division (PAD Division), Quality Council of India (QCI) delved deeply on the subject of ‘Ensuring Quality and Compliance’ and Dr. Sonali Mohan, VP – R&D & BD (North), Avesthagen shared here views on ‘Ensuring Holistic Health while Addressing Stigma and Perceptions’.

    The session moderator Dr. Radhe Krishan, Senior Media Advisor, Ministry of Ayush proposed the vote of thanks and lauded the participants of the session for their inputs and anticipated that this will help the stakeholders, especially, startups to gain multifaceted insights into the innovations happening around Ayurveda Aahar.

    The well attended event was tailored for professionals in the Ayush and wellness sectors, including policymakers, business leaders, investors, regulatory officials, and academics. It was an opportunity to explore innovations and expand the global market for Ayush practices.

    The session was aimed to build awareness and drive growth in the Ayush sector. All the Participants gained insights into strategies for market expansion, enhancing quality standards, and leveraging collaboration for international success.

    *****

    SK

    (Release ID: 2057165) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 Campaign

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 Campaign

    Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar presides over inauguration of Mechanized Cleaning Vehicle, procured by Safaimitras under NAMASTE scheme, in Visakhapatnam

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 7:14PM by PIB Delhi

    Government of India is organizing the Swacchata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 campaign, with the theme – ‘Swabhaav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata’. Under this campaign a gamut of activities is being organized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to integrate Swachhata in day-to-day life.

    In pursuance of this goal, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar presided over the event at Visakhapatnam, on 19th September 2024, that witnessed the inauguration of mechanized cleaning vehicle procured by Safaimitras under the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) scheme.

    One of the important components of the NAMASTE scheme is providing capital subsidies to Swachhata Karmis, who enter into long term work contracts with the Urban Local Bodies, for purchase of mechanized cleaning equipments/vehicles and make them Swachhata entrepreneurs.

    In pursuance of this aim, Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has released capital subsidy worth Rs. 2.29 crores to identified target groups in Visakhapatnam. This will enable 75 beneficiaries to purchase 15 mechanized cleaning equipments/vehicles worth Rs. 5.39 crores. Out of this, 10 vehicles have already been purchased by 50 Safaimitras, who have entered into contract with the Visakhapatnam Nagar Nigam.

    During the event, Dr. Virendra Kumar noted that the NAMASTE scheme is going a long-way in not only empowering the Safai Karamcharis socially and economically, but safeguarding their self-respect as well. He informed that till date under the scheme, profiling of around 46,035 sewer septic tank workers has been done. Further, PPE Kits have been allocated to around 3,498 such workers, while 3,617 workers have received Ayushmann Cards, the Minister added.

    Senior officers of the Visakhapatnam Nagar Nigam, District Administration, as well as Safai Karamcharis were present during the event.

    *****

    VM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Joins Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 Campaign

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Joins Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 Campaign

    Public Participation, Mega Cleanliness Drives, and Safai Mitra Welfare at the Core of the Initiative

    Shri Sarbananda Sonowal and Shri Shantanu Thakur Lead Tree Plantation and Cleanliness Drives across Ports

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 7:08PM by PIB Delhi

    In alignment with the Government of India’s Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 campaign, launched on 13th September 2024 under the theme ‘Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata’, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways has spearheaded various cleanliness and public engagement activities. Spanning from 16th September to 2nd October 2024, the campaign is centered around three key pillars: Swachhata Ki Bhaagidari, Sampoorna Swachhata, and Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivirs.

    During this Preparatory Phase of the Campaign, review of all pending references and physical & electronic files/records is being undertaken across the Ministry and its Organizations/PSUs to set the targets to be achieved during the campaign phase which will be implemented from 2nd October to 31st October, 2024.

    Recently, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, alongside Minister of State Shri Shantanu Thakur and Secretary Shri T.K. Ramachandran, initiated a mass plantation drive themed “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” at V.O. Chidambaranar Port, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu. The campaign continues with tree plantation, cleanliness drives, and pledges at various ports, inspiring stakeholders and employees to make cleanliness a way of life.

    Shri Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, visited Syamaprasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, where he led the Swachhata Pledge as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 campaign. The event featured activities such as Shramdaan, tree plantations, the launch of the Pension App, and the inauguration of the Circular Management Portal.

    The Ministry’s various organizations, including Vishakhapatnam Port Authority, Mumbai Port Authority, and others, have also undertaken activities that reflect the core pillars of the SHS 2024 campaign. The participation of port employees and local communities showcases a collective commitment to Swachhata and environmental sustainability.

    *****

    NB/AK

     

    (Release ID: 2057149) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DEPwD actively taking part in Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) Campaign 2024 from 17.09.2024 to 02.10.2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 SEP 2024 7:13PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, is undertaking the Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) Campaign 2024 from 17.09.2024 to 02.10.2024. The campaign is part of the Government of India’s larger initiative to promote cleanliness and hygiene, coinciding with the celebration of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary on 02nd October.

    Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission, this year’s theme, ‘Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskar Swachhata’, aims to make cleanliness a natural habit and core societal value in each and every citizen of India. Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) is emphasizing the importance of cleanliness in fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for persons with disabilities. DEPwD is committed to ensuring that all its initiatives contribute towards a cleaner, healthier, and more accessible India for everyone.

    Union Minister Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, administered Swachhata Pledge during the ADIP Camp organized in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh on 17.09.2024. He also administered Swachhata Pledge in Divya Kala Mela held on 19.09.2024 at Visakhapatnam.

    DEPwD and its organizations have actively launched the Swachhata hi Seva Campaign 2024 with inaugural ceremony, themed ‘Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata’. At the event, Secretary, DEPwD, joined by other officers/officials, took a collective Swachhata Pledge.

    During the 15 day campaign, DEPwD has prepared an action plan with a focus of importance of cleanliness and maintaining hygiene by conducting various activities through field units of the Department with focus on the following components:

    • Organization of Swachhata Pledge
    • Tree Plantation Drive –‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’
    • Indoor and Outdoor Cleaning of the Institute/Organizations premesis
    • Expert Talk on ‘Safai Mitra Suraksha’
    • Felicitation of Safai Karamchari
    • Extensive Cleaning of Toilets
    • Undertaking Pest Control Activities on Office premises
    • Organization of various Competitions and generating awareness.
    • Street Plays on Swachhata hi Sewa
    • Walkathon/Rally for generating awareness regarding Swachhata hi Sewa
    • Special Cleanliness drive by Special Adults
    • Extensive cleaning of toilets
    • Cleaning of Officials desks/ work stations/ almirahs etc. by the staff
    • Pest Control activities at workplaces
    • Maintenance of Indoor and Outdoor plants

    Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) is committed to make the Swachhata hi Seva Campaign 2024 a huge success with sincere and dedicated efforts.

    *****

    VM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Urges Congress to Pass Legislation to Stop Gun Trafficking into Caribbean Countries

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today led a coalition of 12 attorneys general calling on Congress to take action to stop gun trafficking from the United States to Caribbean countries. In their letter, the attorneys general write that gun trafficking from the United States has contributed to gun violence in Caribbean countries, where many New Yorkers and Americans have families. The coalition outlines a number of measures Congress can take to help reduce gun trafficking into the Caribbean, including ensuring inspectors at ports have enough resources to make inspections and passing the Caribbean Arms Trafficking Causes Harm (CATCH) Act. The CATCH Act would provide state and federal governments with more information about gun trafficking into the Caribbean and determine which anti-gun trafficking methods are working to reduce gun violence.

    “American-made guns are flowing into Caribbean nations and communities and fueling violence, chaos, and senseless tragedies throughout the region,” said Attorney General James. “This issue hits especially close to home, as many New Yorkers have family in Caribbean nations who are enduring dangerous conditions, partially because of easy access to dangerous weapons from our country. We have a responsibility to address this crisis, and that is why I am calling on Congress to take action to stop gun trafficking into Caribbean countries. When we tackle the gun violence crisis from every angle, we protect everyone.”

    In their letter, Attorney General James and the coalition of attorneys general write that the number of guns smuggled into the Caribbean from the United States has surged in recent years and contributes significantly to gun violence in those countries. For instance, a 2023 United Nations report indicated that the United States has been a “principal source of firearms and munitions in Haiti.” Additionally, the Jamaican Security Ministry estimates that at least 200 guns are trafficked from the United States into the country each month. The attorneys general write that addressing the outbound flow of guns from the United States is “a service to our constituents,” many of whom have ties to family and loved ones in the Caribbean.

    Attorney General James and the coalition of attorneys general are calling on Congress to pass the CATCH Act, which would give both state and federal governments much-needed information about gun trafficking into Caribbean countries and anti-trafficking measures. In addition, the attorneys general are asking Congress to take additional steps to stop gun trafficking into those countries, including by:

    • Ensuring that inspectors at American ports are given sufficient resources to inspect shipments being sent from the United States to countries in the Caribbean; 
    • Ensuring that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has sufficient funding to inspect federal firearms licensees that are responsible for a disproportionate number of firearms that are traced after having been used in crimes in countries in the Caribbean; and
    • Requesting briefings from the United States Postal Service, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Justice about their ongoing efforts to interdict shipments of guns from the United States to countries in the Caribbean, with a focus on what additional resources and legal tools they need to accomplish this important task.

    Joining Attorney General James in sending today’s letter are the attorneys general of California, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and the District of Columbia.

    “I am appreciative of Attorney General James on these latest actions to stop gun trafficking from the U.S. to Caribbean nations,” said U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat. “I introduced legislation in Congress to reauthorize funding for the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), which further strengthens our actions to combat crime and illicit drug trafficking, while supporting peace and stability to the region. I commend Attorney General James and each of the attorneys general for their ongoing state-federal collaboration to stop the flow of gun trafficking between our nations.”

    “American gun manufacturers aren’t just flooding our own streets with weapons of war, they’re exporting our gun violence epidemic to neighboring nations like Haiti,” said U.S. Representative Dan Goldman. “I welcome Attorney General James’ leadership in calling for the stemming of illegal international gun trafficking and will continue working in Congress to crack down on illegal gun traffickers by finally passing commonsense gun safety legislation that safeguards communities both at home and abroad.” 

    “Gun trafficking is having devastating impacts on families here at home and around the world. We must do everything in our power to stop this illegal flow of weapons that is leading to deadly gun violence,” said U.S. Representative Joe Morelle. “As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have continually called for sufficient funding for ATF and increased resources to stop gun trafficking. I am grateful to Attorney General James for her leadership and partnership on this important issue and I look forward to our continued work together.” 

    “The unfettered flow of illegal guns from States without gun safety laws doesn’t just harm Americans—these weapons are being trafficked out of the country to facilitate crimes in Caribbean countries,” said U.S. Representative Jerrold Nadler. “I applaud Attorney General James’ leadership to fight the epidemic of gun violence and will continue to support these commonsense efforts to end the trafficking of weapons both within and from the United States.”  

    “As we work to root out gun violence at home, we must also act to eliminate the scourge of arms trafficking on our neighbors,” said U.S. Representative Nydia M. Velázquez. “Weapons trafficking is currently fueling instability in Caribbean nations, particularly in Hati, where guns from the United States are empowering gangs to terrorize their communities, and I thank Attorney General James for highlighting this issue. Congress must pass the CATCH Act to help provide authorities with the information needed to disrupt trafficking networks and ultimately make the U.S. and the nations of the Caribbean safer.”  

    “We’ve long known that firearms are being trafficked around the US, flooding our communities with deadly weapons and putting our lives and safety at risk,” said Senator Zellnor Y. Myrie. “I’m proud to have written the nation’s first law to hold bad actors in the gun industry liable for reckless conduct that allows this situation to occur, and honored to stand with our Attorney General as she leads the fight against gun trafficking from the US to Caribbean nations.”              

    “We cannot turn a blind eye to the devastating impact that gun trafficking from the United States is having on our Caribbean neighbors and it is our duty to take action. The CATCH Act is a crucial step toward implementing effective measures to combat this crisis,” said Senator Roxanne J. Persaud. “I thank Attorney General James and the attorneys general for helping to protect communities both here and abroad from the scourge of gun violence.” 

    “Attorney General James’ leadership in calling for the CATCH Act is a vital step toward protecting our communities,” said Senator Luis Sepulveda. “Gun trafficking from the U.S. into the Caribbean has devastating consequences, and we must do everything in our power to combat this crisis. I stand firmly with the Attorney General in urging Congress to take action.”

    “America’s deadly gun epidemic is spreading like wildfire to vulnerable Caribbean nations,” said Assemblymember Khaleel M. Anderson. “Weapons trafficking from within the United States exports violence into the Caribbean, destabilizes island nations, and jeopardizes their sovereignty. We owe it to the millions in diaspora in New York to take meaningful action to stem the flow of illegal firearms into the Caribbean. I am proud to stand with Attorney General James in urging swift federal action to ensure justice and save countless innocent lives.” 

    “The unchecked flow of illegal guns from the United States into the Caribbean is fueling violence and destabilizing communities across the region,” said Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest. “Congress must act now to pass comprehensive legislation to stop gun trafficking, and I applaud Attorney General James for her leadership on this issue. Our Caribbean neighbors deserve safety, stability, and the ability to thrive without the constant threat of gun violence, which we know all too well here at home. By strengthening enforcement, closing loopholes, and promoting regional cooperation, we can protect lives on both sides of our borders and build a safer future for all.” 

    “Thank you, Attorney General James, for enforcing laws meant to protect the lives of Americans,” said Assemblymember Charles Lavine. “We all must continue to fight the pandemic of gun violence using all means necessary which includes action such as this and passing strong but sensible gun legislation.”   

    “The inexcusable violence that continues in the Caribbean cannot be fueled by trafficked American weapons,” said Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages. “Congress must work collaboratively with states, local governments, and our international partners to ensure enough is being done to stop this gun trafficking. Passing the CATCH Act will help stop this outflow of weaponry which is making the humanitarian situation worse in Haiti and across the region. I commend Attorney General James and this coalition of state attorneys general for their efforts to make everyone safer from gun violence.” 

    “We commend Attorney General James for leading the charge to urge Congress to pass the CATCH Act which will help curb the devastating gang violence occurring in the Caribbean, most notably in Haiti,” said Assemblymember Clyde Vanel. “Curbing the flow of illegal firearms from the United States is critical to promote security in our hemisphere and it also deeply impacts families and communities here in New York, including many New Yorkers like myself who have direct ties to these regions. We must do all we can to protect our loved ones and foster stability both at home and abroad.” 

    “I join Attorney General James and concerned residents here and abroad in calling on Congress to take action to stop the illegal trafficking of guns from America to Caribbean countries,” said Assemblymember Latrice Walker. “Passing the Caribbean Arms Trafficking Causes Harm (CATCH) Act will help federal and local authorities figure out the best ways to combat the flow of weapons, which inevitably fall into the hands of criminals. I have many friends in my district in Brownsville, Brooklyn, and in neighboring communities who have relatives in Jamaica and Haiti, two of the countries that, unfortunately, are far too often destinations for these guns. This legislation would pay safety dividends to the people of the Caribbean. I urge Congress to pass it.” 

    “As the co-chair of the Anti-Gun Violence Subcommittee of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus, and an advocate for over 20 years, representing one of the largest Caribbean communities in New York, it is imperative that in efforts to heal our communities of gun violence, we continue to advocate for support beyond our borders by putting an end to gun trafficking,” said Assemblymember Monique Chandler-Waterman. “I stand with Attorney General James and my fellow colleagues in the legislature to highlight the urgent need to reduce gun trafficking impacting the peace and security of our beloved Caribbean nations. Supporting the CATCH Act is vital for state and federal governments to ensure we receive the necessary information to activate working methods to reduce gun trafficking.” 

    “As a strong supporter of long-overdue gun safety initiatives in the United States, I am especially cognizant of how preventing the flow of illegal firearms is both a matter of public safety and promoting in Caribbean nations just a short distance from America’s shores,” said Nassau County Legislature Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker. “I applaud Attorney General James for spearheading a vital effort to disrupt international crime syndicates that enhances America’s security both at home and abroad.” 

    Since taking office in 2019, Attorney General James has removed more than 7,400 firearms from New York streets and communities through buyback events and takedowns of illegal gun trafficking rings. In May 2024, Attorney General James took more than 200 guns off the streets in Kingston and Watervliet. Attorney General James has also been a national leader in protecting New Yorkers from gun violence. In August 2024, Attorney General James led a coalition of 22 attorneys general in support of commonsense state and federal laws that regulate the sale of guns to keep communities safe. In April 2024, Attorney General James took down gun traffickers for selling ghost guns and other firearms in Central New York. In March 2024, Attorney General James secured a $7.8 million judgment against gun retailer Indie Guns for illegally selling ghost gun components in New York. In February 2024, Attorney General James announced the takedowns of a gun trafficking network that sold ghost guns and assault-style rifles and a narcotics trafficking network in Dutchess County.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USINDOPACOM and National Guard senior leaders gather to discuss State Partnership Program

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    CAMP H.M. SMITH, Hawaii  –  

    The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command hosted the annual Senior Leaders Forum (SLF) for the State Partnership Program (SPP) here, Sept. 10-16.

    SPP links a state’s National Guard with the military or security forces of a partner country in a cooperative, mutually beneficial relationship that supports theater campaign plan objectives. SPP establishes connections between National Guard units and partner nations, fostering long-term, advantageous relationships. These partnerships work to improve global security, deepen mutual understanding, and promote greater cooperation on a range of defense and security issues.

    “One of the greatest things that the State Partnership gives us is longevity of relationships,” said United Kingdom Royal Navy Cdre. Jonathan Lett, J5 Deputy for Policy, USINDOPACOM. “The relationships and the partnerships that the National Guard builds in this region just go on for years and years and years. They grow up together. They develop together.”

    The State Partnership Program, which started over 30 years ago with just 13 partners, has expanded to include 106 partner nations.

    In the Indo-Pacific, there are currently 16 relationships, made up of nine US states and one territory: Alaska is partnered with Mongolia; Idaho with Cambodia; Hawaii with the Philippines and Indonesia; Montana with Sri Lanka and Maldives; Nevada with Tonga, Fiji, and Samoa; Oregon with Bangladesh and Vietnam; Rhode Island with Timor-Leste, Washington with Malaysia and Thailand; and Guam with Palau and a shared partnership with the Philippines.

    “I champion the State Partnership program in this area of responsibility, said Cdre. Lett. “On a daily basis, Guardsmen are out there as a genuine force multiplier for the United States and for USINDOPACOM. It’s fantastic. I celebrate the amazing work they do and congratulate them on it!”

    During the forum, more than 50 officials from all partner states, including adjutant generals, State Partnership Program directors, bilateral affairs officers and other senior leaders learned about key topics and areas of concern. This enabled them to observe what has been successful, the challenges each one faces, and the actions they are taking with their partner nations; as well reviewing initiatives and discussing their programs with INDOPACOM staff and other National Guard units.

    “It’s important to have this Senior Leader Forum because it helps highlight all the excellent work that SPP partnerships are doing out into the region,” said U.S. Army Maj. Dustin Petersen, State Partnership Program Director for the Nevada National Guard. “There’s something to be said about being together with likeminded people, being in the COCOMs building, and hearing it from all the players and stakeholders into the region and show how we are aligned with the national vision.”

    Highlighted presenters also noted the importance of current initiatives including: Women, Peace and Security, Overseas Humanitarian Disaster and Civic Aid, Climate Resilience, Office of the Command Surgeon and the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

    “We do everything we can to really strengthen our friendships, our partnerships and mutually benefit each other,” Petersen explained. “At some point we might have to lean on one another. And it’s better to build our friendships now, it’s hard to surge trust, it’s better to have it before there’s anything going wrong.”

    Oregon Air Force National Guard Maj. Angelica Hayes, Oregon’s bilateral affairs officer (BAO) in Vietnam, is new to the position. She speaks on how beneficial attending the Senior Leaders Forum has been for her.

    “I’ve had a lot of theory, a lot of how I’ll fit in, what I’ll be doing but now I am actually there doing it and getting some hands-on application,” Hayes said. “So, coming here is just reinforcing and reconnecting all those theories and making sure I am applying and making those connections correctly.”

    The new BAO expresses the importance of recognizing networks and connections when it comes to the success of SPP and personal growth.

    “The biggest thing that I think I’m getting out of this is just the networking, meeting a lot of people that are in the area, hearing their challenges or their successes is helpful when I go to problem-solve in the future,” Hayes said. “We’re building relationships in the nation, with our partner nation, but we are also building relationships within each other. That’s going to make us more successful if we have to respond to any type of emergency in the future.”

    MIL Security OSI –