NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘The customer is always right’: why some uni teachers give higher grades than students deserve

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ciprian N. Radavoi, Associate Professor in Law, University of Southern Queensland

    Pixels Effect/ Getty Images

    Grade inflation happens when teachers knowingly give a student a mark higher than deserved. It can also happen indirectly, when the level of difficulty of a course is deliberately lowered so students achieve higher grades.

    The practice threatens to undermine the quality of a university degree and the prestige of higher education.

    Is it happening in Australia and if so, why?

    To better understand grade inflation, we sought the opinions of those closest to the phenomenon: university teachers. The findings of our survey were recently published in the Journal of Academic Ethics.

    Increases in grades

    Over the past 50 years, many countries have reported an increase in higher university grades. This includes the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and Australia.

    For example, a 2024 Australian report found a 234% increase in the number of distinction grades awarded to students at the University of Sydney between 2011 and 2021.

    But are grades improving due to changes in teaching and student performance, or rather is marking generally more lenient to keep students happy?

    Our study

    To investigate the causes of grade inflation in Australian universities, we surveyed lecturers and tutors who have direct contact with students, teaching them and marking their work.

    Our main question was:

    [What is] your opinion regarding grade inflation? Does it occur, and if yes, why, and how does it impact the student, profession, institutional reputation, society, and yourself?

    In July 2024, we sent the survey to the deans (heads) of research at all Australian universities, asking them to distribute it to their academics. Academics then had two months to answer the questions.

    In total, we had 110 respondents, of which 88 answered all the questions of the survey. The majority were aged 31-55 (55%), women (56%), born in Australia (about 70%), with more than five years in academia (more than 80%). There were more respondents from regional Australia (44%) than from urban locations (24.5%). About 30% had experience in both types of locations.

    The disciplines most represented were legal studies (37%), education (21%), science, nursing and psychology (each around 7%).

    Overall opinions

    The majority (73%) said they had seen grade inflation in their universities.

    Academics’ dominant feelings about grade inflation were frustration (50% of respondents), powerlessness (44%) and dissatisfaction (31%).

    Of those surveyed, about 11% were indifferent and 7% were satisfied with the situation they experienced around grade inflation.

    The fact that many academics surveyed felt frustrated and powerlessness indicates they do not inflate grades willingly. Previous studies have suggested university management encourages grade inflation as students are seen as clients and they want to keep the client happy.

    Pressure from university administration

    Our respondents supported this idea. Most said grade inflation was due to student evaluations – and the role they play in management decisions about staff.

    Student evaluations are anonymous questionnaires completed by students after the course about their teachers’ performance. Studies, including those in Australia, have shown the results can be insulting and even abusive, often a “punishment” of unpopular teachers. These studies also question students’ capacity to objectively assess the quality of their educators.

    Because students evaluations are commonly used in promotion and retention decisions, this means teachers may inflate grades to get positive evaluations. One respondent to our survey explained the link between these evaluations and grade inflation:

    there is a lot of pressure […] as students will often provide strong negative feedback in [student evaluations].

    Other academics similarly lamented how the quality of their teaching was assessed “based on student surveys”. Or as another academic told us:

    Everyone I know who admits to grade inflation cites student evaluations, promotion, and workload as drivers.

    Complaints generate more work

    On top of this, if a student complains about their grade, there is automatically more work for an academic who needs to review it and potentially respond to seniors or others in university management. As one academic admitted:

    I have inflated grades slightly for students who have failed the course by less than two marks. This saves hundreds of hours of work time.

    In this climate, university teachers told us they do not feel supported if a student challenges their grades. They reported it was “very hard” to fail a student and described a “fear” of students’ reactions.

    The customer is always right and if they are not happy, you are asked to grade again.

    Is it always a problem?

    Some respondents justified grade inflation as an acceptable trade-off when done to a limited extent, or as something morally neutral. As one noted, higher grades are the result of more people studying at university:

    It is simply a corollary of shifting from tertiary education for the elites to tertiary education for the masses. It is no big deal.

    Another said if the increase was small – depending on the context – it would not make a big difference.

    1–5 marks do not make a significant difference on professional competence for some course content.

    Only three respondents presented grade inflation in a positive light, as an act of social justice or compassion. As one noted:

    Students experience many competing demands and many experience mental health issues. Teachers need to be compassionate to students’ situation.

    An honest discussion is needed

    While countless studies debate grade inflation, ours was the first to invite academics to express their feelings. Despite the relatively small sample, the survey suggests a worrying picture of a frustrated and at times, fearful academic workforce.

    Meanwhile, the extent of grade inflation reported raises questions about the quality of some degrees, and more generally about the culture of learning in Australian universities.

    To maintain the quality and reputation of higher education in Australia, we need to have an open and honest discussion about grade inflation in our universities.

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

    – ref. ‘The customer is always right’: why some uni teachers give higher grades than students deserve – https://theconversation.com/the-customer-is-always-right-why-some-uni-teachers-give-higher-grades-than-students-deserve-258923

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘The customer is always right’: why some uni teachers give higher grades than students deserve

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ciprian N. Radavoi, Associate Professor in Law, University of Southern Queensland

    Pixels Effect/ Getty Images

    Grade inflation happens when teachers knowingly give a student a mark higher than deserved. It can also happen indirectly, when the level of difficulty of a course is deliberately lowered so students achieve higher grades.

    The practice threatens to undermine the quality of a university degree and the prestige of higher education.

    Is it happening in Australia and if so, why?

    To better understand grade inflation, we sought the opinions of those closest to the phenomenon: university teachers. The findings of our survey were recently published in the Journal of Academic Ethics.

    Increases in grades

    Over the past 50 years, many countries have reported an increase in higher university grades. This includes the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and Australia.

    For example, a 2024 Australian report found a 234% increase in the number of distinction grades awarded to students at the University of Sydney between 2011 and 2021.

    But are grades improving due to changes in teaching and student performance, or rather is marking generally more lenient to keep students happy?

    Our study

    To investigate the causes of grade inflation in Australian universities, we surveyed lecturers and tutors who have direct contact with students, teaching them and marking their work.

    Our main question was:

    [What is] your opinion regarding grade inflation? Does it occur, and if yes, why, and how does it impact the student, profession, institutional reputation, society, and yourself?

    In July 2024, we sent the survey to the deans (heads) of research at all Australian universities, asking them to distribute it to their academics. Academics then had two months to answer the questions.

    In total, we had 110 respondents, of which 88 answered all the questions of the survey. The majority were aged 31-55 (55%), women (56%), born in Australia (about 70%), with more than five years in academia (more than 80%). There were more respondents from regional Australia (44%) than from urban locations (24.5%). About 30% had experience in both types of locations.

    The disciplines most represented were legal studies (37%), education (21%), science, nursing and psychology (each around 7%).

    Overall opinions

    The majority (73%) said they had seen grade inflation in their universities.

    Academics’ dominant feelings about grade inflation were frustration (50% of respondents), powerlessness (44%) and dissatisfaction (31%).

    Of those surveyed, about 11% were indifferent and 7% were satisfied with the situation they experienced around grade inflation.

    The fact that many academics surveyed felt frustrated and powerlessness indicates they do not inflate grades willingly. Previous studies have suggested university management encourages grade inflation as students are seen as clients and they want to keep the client happy.

    Pressure from university administration

    Our respondents supported this idea. Most said grade inflation was due to student evaluations – and the role they play in management decisions about staff.

    Student evaluations are anonymous questionnaires completed by students after the course about their teachers’ performance. Studies, including those in Australia, have shown the results can be insulting and even abusive, often a “punishment” of unpopular teachers. These studies also question students’ capacity to objectively assess the quality of their educators.

    Because students evaluations are commonly used in promotion and retention decisions, this means teachers may inflate grades to get positive evaluations. One respondent to our survey explained the link between these evaluations and grade inflation:

    there is a lot of pressure […] as students will often provide strong negative feedback in [student evaluations].

    Other academics similarly lamented how the quality of their teaching was assessed “based on student surveys”. Or as another academic told us:

    Everyone I know who admits to grade inflation cites student evaluations, promotion, and workload as drivers.

    Complaints generate more work

    On top of this, if a student complains about their grade, there is automatically more work for an academic who needs to review it and potentially respond to seniors or others in university management. As one academic admitted:

    I have inflated grades slightly for students who have failed the course by less than two marks. This saves hundreds of hours of work time.

    In this climate, university teachers told us they do not feel supported if a student challenges their grades. They reported it was “very hard” to fail a student and described a “fear” of students’ reactions.

    The customer is always right and if they are not happy, you are asked to grade again.

    Is it always a problem?

    Some respondents justified grade inflation as an acceptable trade-off when done to a limited extent, or as something morally neutral. As one noted, higher grades are the result of more people studying at university:

    It is simply a corollary of shifting from tertiary education for the elites to tertiary education for the masses. It is no big deal.

    Another said if the increase was small – depending on the context – it would not make a big difference.

    1–5 marks do not make a significant difference on professional competence for some course content.

    Only three respondents presented grade inflation in a positive light, as an act of social justice or compassion. As one noted:

    Students experience many competing demands and many experience mental health issues. Teachers need to be compassionate to students’ situation.

    An honest discussion is needed

    While countless studies debate grade inflation, ours was the first to invite academics to express their feelings. Despite the relatively small sample, the survey suggests a worrying picture of a frustrated and at times, fearful academic workforce.

    Meanwhile, the extent of grade inflation reported raises questions about the quality of some degrees, and more generally about the culture of learning in Australian universities.

    To maintain the quality and reputation of higher education in Australia, we need to have an open and honest discussion about grade inflation in our universities.

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

    – ref. ‘The customer is always right’: why some uni teachers give higher grades than students deserve – https://theconversation.com/the-customer-is-always-right-why-some-uni-teachers-give-higher-grades-than-students-deserve-258923

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: We don’t need deep-sea mining, or its environmental harms. Here’s why

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Justin Alger, Associate Professor / Senior Lecturer in Global Environmental Politics, The University of Melbourne

    Potato-sized polymetallic nodules from the deep sea could be mined for valuable metals and minerals. Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

    Deep-sea mining promises critical minerals for the energy transition without the problems of mining on land. It also promises to bring wealth to developing nations. But the evidence suggests these promises are false, and mining would harm the environment.

    The practice involves scooping up rock-like nodules from vast areas of the sea floor. These potato-sized lumps contain metals and minerals such as zinc, manganese, molybdenum, nickel and rare earth elements.

    Technology to mine the deep sea exists, but commercial mining of the deep sea is not happening anywhere in the world. That could soon change. Nations are meeting this month in Kingston, Jamaica, to agree to a mining code. Such a code would make way for mining to begin within the next few years.

    On Thursday, Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, released research into the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining. It aims to promote better environmental management of deep-sea mining, should it proceed.

    We have previously challenged the rationale for deep-sea mining, drawing on our expertise in international politics and environmental management. We argue mining the deep sea is harmful and the economic benefits have been overstated. What’s more, the metals and minerals to be mined are not scarce.

    The best course of action is a ban on international seabed mining, building on the coalition for a moratorium.

    The Metals Company spent six months at sea collecting nodules in 2022, while studying the effects on ecosystems.

    Managing and monitoring environmental harm

    Recent advances in technology have made deep-sea mining more feasible. But removing the nodules – which also requires pumping water around – has been shown to damage the seabed and endanger marine life.

    CSIRO has developed the first environmental management and monitoring frameworks to protect deep sea ecosystems from mining. It aims to provide “trusted, science-based tools to evaluate the environmental risks and viability of deep-sea mining”.

    Scientists from Griffith University, Museums Victoria, the University of the Sunshine Coast, and Earth Sciences New Zealand were also involved in the work.

    The Metals Company Australia, a local subsidiary of the Canadian deep-sea mining exploration company, commissioned the research. It involved analysing data from test mining the company carried out in the Pacific Ocean in 2022.

    The company has led efforts to expedite deep-sea mining. This includes pushing for the mining code, and exploring commercial mining of the international seabed through approval from the US government.

    In a media briefing this week, CSIRO Senior Principal Research Scientist Piers Dunstan said the mining activity substantially affected the sea floor. Some marine life, especially that attached to the nodules, had very little hope of recovery. He said if mining were to go ahead, monitoring would be crucial.

    We are sceptical that ecological impacts can be managed even with this new framework. Little is known about life in these deep-water ecosystems. But research shows nodule mining would cause extensive habitat loss and damage.

    Do we really need to open the ocean frontier to mining? We argue the answer is no, on three counts.

    How does deep-sea mining work? (The Guardian)

    1. Minerals are not scarce

    The minerals required for the energy transition are abundant on land. Known global terrestrial reserves of cobalt, copper, manganese, molybdenum and nickel are enough to meet current production levels for decades – even with growing demand.

    There is no compelling reason to extract deep-sea minerals, given the economics of both deep-sea and land-based mining. Deep-sea mining is speculative and inevitably too expensive given such remote, deep operations.

    Claims about mineral scarcity are being used to justify attempting to legitimise a new extractive frontier in the deep sea. Opportunistic investors can make money through speculation and attracting government subsidies.

    2. Mining at sea will not replace mining on land

    Proponents claim deep-sea mining can replace some mining on land. Mining on land has led to social issues including infringing on indigenous and community rights. It also damages the environment.

    But deep-sea mining will not necessarily displace, replace or change mining on land. Land-based mining contracts span decades and the companies involved will not abandon ongoing or planned projects. Their activities will continue, even if deep-sea mining begins.

    Deep-sea mining also faces many of the same challenges as mining on land, while introducing new problems. The social problems that arise during transport, processing and distribution remain the same.

    And sea-based industries are already rife with modern slavery and labour violations, partly because they are notoriously difficult to monitor.

    Deep-sea mining does not solve social problems with land-based mining, and adds more challenges.

    Hidden Gem was the world’s first deep-sea mineral production vessel with seabed-to-surface nodule collection and transport systems.
    Photo by Charles M. Vella/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

    3. Common heritage of humankind and the Global South

    Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the international seabed is the common heritage of humankind. This means the proceeds of deep-sea mining should be distributed fairly among all countries.

    Deep-sea mining commercial partnerships between developing countries in the Global South and firms from the North have yet to pay off for the former. There is little indication this pattern will change.

    For example, when Canadian company Nautilus went bankrupt in 2019, it saddled Papua New Guinea with millions in debt from a failed domestic deep-sea mining venture.

    The Metals Company has partnerships with Nauru and Tonga but the latest deal with the US creates uncertainty about whether their agreements will be honoured.

    European investors took control of Blue Minerals Jamaica, originally a Jamaican-owned company, shortly after orchestrating its start up. Any profits would therefore go offshore.

    Australian Gerard Barron is Chairman and CEO of The Metals Company, formerly DeepGreen.
    Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

    A wise investment?

    It is unclear whether deep-sea mining will ever be a good investment.

    Multiple large corporate investors have pulled out of the industry, or gone bankrupt. And The Metals Company has received delisting notices from the Nasdaq stock exchange due to poor financial performance.

    Given the threat of environmental harm, the evidence suggests deep-sea mining is not worth the risk.

    Justin Alger receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    D.G. Webster receives funding from the National Science Foundation in the United States and various internal funding sources at Dartmouth University.

    Jessica Green receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Kate J Neville receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

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

    – ref. We don’t need deep-sea mining, or its environmental harms. Here’s why – https://theconversation.com/we-dont-need-deep-sea-mining-or-its-environmental-harms-heres-why-260401

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: We don’t need deep-sea mining, or its environmental harms. Here’s why

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Justin Alger, Associate Professor / Senior Lecturer in Global Environmental Politics, The University of Melbourne

    Potato-sized polymetallic nodules from the deep sea could be mined for valuable metals and minerals. Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

    Deep-sea mining promises critical minerals for the energy transition without the problems of mining on land. It also promises to bring wealth to developing nations. But the evidence suggests these promises are false, and mining would harm the environment.

    The practice involves scooping up rock-like nodules from vast areas of the sea floor. These potato-sized lumps contain metals and minerals such as zinc, manganese, molybdenum, nickel and rare earth elements.

    Technology to mine the deep sea exists, but commercial mining of the deep sea is not happening anywhere in the world. That could soon change. Nations are meeting this month in Kingston, Jamaica, to agree to a mining code. Such a code would make way for mining to begin within the next few years.

    On Thursday, Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, released research into the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining. It aims to promote better environmental management of deep-sea mining, should it proceed.

    We have previously challenged the rationale for deep-sea mining, drawing on our expertise in international politics and environmental management. We argue mining the deep sea is harmful and the economic benefits have been overstated. What’s more, the metals and minerals to be mined are not scarce.

    The best course of action is a ban on international seabed mining, building on the coalition for a moratorium.

    The Metals Company spent six months at sea collecting nodules in 2022, while studying the effects on ecosystems.

    Managing and monitoring environmental harm

    Recent advances in technology have made deep-sea mining more feasible. But removing the nodules – which also requires pumping water around – has been shown to damage the seabed and endanger marine life.

    CSIRO has developed the first environmental management and monitoring frameworks to protect deep sea ecosystems from mining. It aims to provide “trusted, science-based tools to evaluate the environmental risks and viability of deep-sea mining”.

    Scientists from Griffith University, Museums Victoria, the University of the Sunshine Coast, and Earth Sciences New Zealand were also involved in the work.

    The Metals Company Australia, a local subsidiary of the Canadian deep-sea mining exploration company, commissioned the research. It involved analysing data from test mining the company carried out in the Pacific Ocean in 2022.

    The company has led efforts to expedite deep-sea mining. This includes pushing for the mining code, and exploring commercial mining of the international seabed through approval from the US government.

    In a media briefing this week, CSIRO Senior Principal Research Scientist Piers Dunstan said the mining activity substantially affected the sea floor. Some marine life, especially that attached to the nodules, had very little hope of recovery. He said if mining were to go ahead, monitoring would be crucial.

    We are sceptical that ecological impacts can be managed even with this new framework. Little is known about life in these deep-water ecosystems. But research shows nodule mining would cause extensive habitat loss and damage.

    Do we really need to open the ocean frontier to mining? We argue the answer is no, on three counts.

    How does deep-sea mining work? (The Guardian)

    1. Minerals are not scarce

    The minerals required for the energy transition are abundant on land. Known global terrestrial reserves of cobalt, copper, manganese, molybdenum and nickel are enough to meet current production levels for decades – even with growing demand.

    There is no compelling reason to extract deep-sea minerals, given the economics of both deep-sea and land-based mining. Deep-sea mining is speculative and inevitably too expensive given such remote, deep operations.

    Claims about mineral scarcity are being used to justify attempting to legitimise a new extractive frontier in the deep sea. Opportunistic investors can make money through speculation and attracting government subsidies.

    2. Mining at sea will not replace mining on land

    Proponents claim deep-sea mining can replace some mining on land. Mining on land has led to social issues including infringing on indigenous and community rights. It also damages the environment.

    But deep-sea mining will not necessarily displace, replace or change mining on land. Land-based mining contracts span decades and the companies involved will not abandon ongoing or planned projects. Their activities will continue, even if deep-sea mining begins.

    Deep-sea mining also faces many of the same challenges as mining on land, while introducing new problems. The social problems that arise during transport, processing and distribution remain the same.

    And sea-based industries are already rife with modern slavery and labour violations, partly because they are notoriously difficult to monitor.

    Deep-sea mining does not solve social problems with land-based mining, and adds more challenges.

    Hidden Gem was the world’s first deep-sea mineral production vessel with seabed-to-surface nodule collection and transport systems.
    Photo by Charles M. Vella/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

    3. Common heritage of humankind and the Global South

    Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the international seabed is the common heritage of humankind. This means the proceeds of deep-sea mining should be distributed fairly among all countries.

    Deep-sea mining commercial partnerships between developing countries in the Global South and firms from the North have yet to pay off for the former. There is little indication this pattern will change.

    For example, when Canadian company Nautilus went bankrupt in 2019, it saddled Papua New Guinea with millions in debt from a failed domestic deep-sea mining venture.

    The Metals Company has partnerships with Nauru and Tonga but the latest deal with the US creates uncertainty about whether their agreements will be honoured.

    European investors took control of Blue Minerals Jamaica, originally a Jamaican-owned company, shortly after orchestrating its start up. Any profits would therefore go offshore.

    Australian Gerard Barron is Chairman and CEO of The Metals Company, formerly DeepGreen.
    Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

    A wise investment?

    It is unclear whether deep-sea mining will ever be a good investment.

    Multiple large corporate investors have pulled out of the industry, or gone bankrupt. And The Metals Company has received delisting notices from the Nasdaq stock exchange due to poor financial performance.

    Given the threat of environmental harm, the evidence suggests deep-sea mining is not worth the risk.

    Justin Alger receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    D.G. Webster receives funding from the National Science Foundation in the United States and various internal funding sources at Dartmouth University.

    Jessica Green receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Kate J Neville receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

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

    – ref. We don’t need deep-sea mining, or its environmental harms. Here’s why – https://theconversation.com/we-dont-need-deep-sea-mining-or-its-environmental-harms-heres-why-260401

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A Māori worldview describes the immune system as a guardian – this could improve public health in Aotearoa NZ

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tama Te Puea Braithwaite-Westoby, Tautoro Māori Engagement Advisor, Malaghan Institute of Medical Research

    Getty Images

    In biomedical science, the immune system is described as a cellular defence network that identifies and neutralises threats. In te ao Māori (the Māori worldview), it can be seen as a dynamic system of guardianship, known as te pūnaha awhikiri.

    For Māori, wellbeing is relational and interconnected. It encompasses physical, mental, spiritual and environmental health. Within this understanding, we can think about the immune system as a living guardian that protects and regulates an individual’s internal balance and connection to the wider world.

    Te pūnaha (system) awhikiri (immunity) expresses how the immune system functions through the lens of mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge), including through concepts such as kaitiakitanga (guardianship), whakapapa (genealogy) and tautika (balance).

    The image of a guardian that embraces and protects, and invites empathy and identity, may engage better with people who traditionally have been left out of science and health system discussions.

    Framing the immune system through this cultural perspective offers an opportunity to engage Māori communities and to better support public health in Aotearoa New Zealand.

    Protecting the land

    The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues and signalling pathways designed to detect and eliminate pathogens. In te ao Māori, this function can be likened to that of a kaitiaki, or guardian, who acts to preserve and protect whenua – which means both land and placenta – and everything in it.

    To understand this perspective, it is worth considering several key ideas around the mythological origin, significance and guardianship of land.

    In te ao Māori, the universe was formed from Te Kore, a place of potential without form or shape (like the formless void of Greek mythology). From this space, the two major deities of Māori mythology – Ranginui the Sky Father and Papatūānuku the Earth Mother – emerged tightly bound to one another.

    Then came Te Pō, a place of darkness in which the deities’ children came into being; foremost among them was Tāne Mahuta who eventually forced his parents apart to reveal Te Ao Mārama, the world of light.

    Hence the intermingling of placenta and land, referring to Papatūānuku having begot all life. Land itself becomes a living entity from whence all things come. From Tāne Māhuta we get the first person, Hine-ahu-one, forged from sacred red earth, giving rise to tangata whenua or people of the Earth.

    Parallels between immunology and te ao Māori

    Taken as a starting point for understanding te ao Māori, te pūnaha awhikiri guards the integrity of the body and its essential life force (mauri). It is imbued with intelligence, memory and purpose, constantly working to sustain balance (tautika) within the body.

    There are numerous ways in which we can overlay ideas from mātauranga Māori with the scientific understanding of te pūnaha awhikiri. At its core, the immune system detects foreign agents entering the body, mobilises immune cells to respond appropriately, regulates the strength of response and creates memory of the incursion. These functions map onto concepts in te ao Māori.

    Detecting foreign agents is akin to the idea of tauhou, which describes a foreign entity to the body (in terms of a culture or society, a landmass or a person). This term brings to mind the experience of colonisation to Māori people and is associated with the notion of cultural and social institutions displacing tribal authority.

    Mobilisation of immune cells reflects the call to action embodied by kaitiaki, people who respond when the need arises to protect their whenua and whānau (family). Often this response may begin with an individual, but that individual can promote an entire whānau, hapū or even iwi to mobilise.

    Immunological memory mirrors the ways in which tūpuna (ancestors) pass on inter-generational knowledge to their whānau. This knowledge transfer means people learn lessons from the past, which helps formulate responses for future events or fighting pathogens.

    Signal regulation is conceptually similar to how tapu (sacred) and noa (ordinary) regulate the spiritual, social and physical order of things. In te ao Māori, someone may enter a state of tapu (sacredness or spiritual potency) for many reasons, such as to learn sacred knowledge or go to war. However, it is not sustainable to remain in this state for too long and rituals are used to return that person to a state of noa. These rituals are ordained by particular individuals imbued with the correct teachings.

    Māori culture values time spent in forests, rivers or coastal areas as a source of wellbeing.
    Getty Images

    Beyond the body

    Mātauranga Māori recognises that wellbeing is not just a condition of the body but a state of balance across a network of relationships – between people, land, spirit and ancestors. When these bonds are intact, the system operates with integrity. But when disconnection or trauma occurs, the life force can be diminished, leaving the body and spirit more vulnerable to imbalance and illness.

    Te taiao (the natural world) plays a key role for maintaining balance. Time spent in forests, rivers or coastal areas, especially those of ancestral significance, has long been understood in Māori culture to nourish wellbeing. Contemporary science now supports this, showing that immersion in nature can reduce inflammation, lower stress hormones and strengthen immune function.

    For Māori, the value is not just physiological; it is spiritual and genealogical. The land is not an external environment. It is kin.

    Just as inflammation or infection signals imbalance in Western medicine, in te ao Māori it may indicate a deeper disharmony – one that cannot be resolved without restoring the relationships that sustain life.

    Te pūnaha awhikiri responds not only to pathogens or physical threats, but to disconnection, breach of tapu and the lingering effects of cultural trauma. Healing, therefore, is not just a return to physical wellness but a return to relationships. It is an embrace of the people, places and practices that keep us whole.

    Te pūnaha awhikiri offers a cultural narrative that unifies numerous strands of mātauranga Māori with science. These ideas affirm Māori ways of knowing, using concepts that reflect inter-connectedness and ancestral insight. They invite understanding of health not as mechanistic, but as a dynamic state of tautika between multiple dimensions.

    This opens space for blending Indigenous knowledge and science, supporting inclusive dialogue about different ways of reaching Te Ao Mārama – enlightenment.

    Tama Te Puea Braithwaite-Westoby works for the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research. Tama has also recently become an affiliate investigator for the Maurice Wilkins Centre.

    – ref. A Māori worldview describes the immune system as a guardian – this could improve public health in Aotearoa NZ – https://theconversation.com/a-maori-worldview-describes-the-immune-system-as-a-guardian-this-could-improve-public-health-in-aotearoa-nz-259025

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A Māori worldview describes the immune system as a guardian – this could improve public health in Aotearoa NZ

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tama Te Puea Braithwaite-Westoby, Tautoro Māori Engagement Advisor, Malaghan Institute of Medical Research

    Getty Images

    In biomedical science, the immune system is described as a cellular defence network that identifies and neutralises threats. In te ao Māori (the Māori worldview), it can be seen as a dynamic system of guardianship, known as te pūnaha awhikiri.

    For Māori, wellbeing is relational and interconnected. It encompasses physical, mental, spiritual and environmental health. Within this understanding, we can think about the immune system as a living guardian that protects and regulates an individual’s internal balance and connection to the wider world.

    Te pūnaha (system) awhikiri (immunity) expresses how the immune system functions through the lens of mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge), including through concepts such as kaitiakitanga (guardianship), whakapapa (genealogy) and tautika (balance).

    The image of a guardian that embraces and protects, and invites empathy and identity, may engage better with people who traditionally have been left out of science and health system discussions.

    Framing the immune system through this cultural perspective offers an opportunity to engage Māori communities and to better support public health in Aotearoa New Zealand.

    Protecting the land

    The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues and signalling pathways designed to detect and eliminate pathogens. In te ao Māori, this function can be likened to that of a kaitiaki, or guardian, who acts to preserve and protect whenua – which means both land and placenta – and everything in it.

    To understand this perspective, it is worth considering several key ideas around the mythological origin, significance and guardianship of land.

    In te ao Māori, the universe was formed from Te Kore, a place of potential without form or shape (like the formless void of Greek mythology). From this space, the two major deities of Māori mythology – Ranginui the Sky Father and Papatūānuku the Earth Mother – emerged tightly bound to one another.

    Then came Te Pō, a place of darkness in which the deities’ children came into being; foremost among them was Tāne Mahuta who eventually forced his parents apart to reveal Te Ao Mārama, the world of light.

    Hence the intermingling of placenta and land, referring to Papatūānuku having begot all life. Land itself becomes a living entity from whence all things come. From Tāne Māhuta we get the first person, Hine-ahu-one, forged from sacred red earth, giving rise to tangata whenua or people of the Earth.

    Parallels between immunology and te ao Māori

    Taken as a starting point for understanding te ao Māori, te pūnaha awhikiri guards the integrity of the body and its essential life force (mauri). It is imbued with intelligence, memory and purpose, constantly working to sustain balance (tautika) within the body.

    There are numerous ways in which we can overlay ideas from mātauranga Māori with the scientific understanding of te pūnaha awhikiri. At its core, the immune system detects foreign agents entering the body, mobilises immune cells to respond appropriately, regulates the strength of response and creates memory of the incursion. These functions map onto concepts in te ao Māori.

    Detecting foreign agents is akin to the idea of tauhou, which describes a foreign entity to the body (in terms of a culture or society, a landmass or a person). This term brings to mind the experience of colonisation to Māori people and is associated with the notion of cultural and social institutions displacing tribal authority.

    Mobilisation of immune cells reflects the call to action embodied by kaitiaki, people who respond when the need arises to protect their whenua and whānau (family). Often this response may begin with an individual, but that individual can promote an entire whānau, hapū or even iwi to mobilise.

    Immunological memory mirrors the ways in which tūpuna (ancestors) pass on inter-generational knowledge to their whānau. This knowledge transfer means people learn lessons from the past, which helps formulate responses for future events or fighting pathogens.

    Signal regulation is conceptually similar to how tapu (sacred) and noa (ordinary) regulate the spiritual, social and physical order of things. In te ao Māori, someone may enter a state of tapu (sacredness or spiritual potency) for many reasons, such as to learn sacred knowledge or go to war. However, it is not sustainable to remain in this state for too long and rituals are used to return that person to a state of noa. These rituals are ordained by particular individuals imbued with the correct teachings.

    Māori culture values time spent in forests, rivers or coastal areas as a source of wellbeing.
    Getty Images

    Beyond the body

    Mātauranga Māori recognises that wellbeing is not just a condition of the body but a state of balance across a network of relationships – between people, land, spirit and ancestors. When these bonds are intact, the system operates with integrity. But when disconnection or trauma occurs, the life force can be diminished, leaving the body and spirit more vulnerable to imbalance and illness.

    Te taiao (the natural world) plays a key role for maintaining balance. Time spent in forests, rivers or coastal areas, especially those of ancestral significance, has long been understood in Māori culture to nourish wellbeing. Contemporary science now supports this, showing that immersion in nature can reduce inflammation, lower stress hormones and strengthen immune function.

    For Māori, the value is not just physiological; it is spiritual and genealogical. The land is not an external environment. It is kin.

    Just as inflammation or infection signals imbalance in Western medicine, in te ao Māori it may indicate a deeper disharmony – one that cannot be resolved without restoring the relationships that sustain life.

    Te pūnaha awhikiri responds not only to pathogens or physical threats, but to disconnection, breach of tapu and the lingering effects of cultural trauma. Healing, therefore, is not just a return to physical wellness but a return to relationships. It is an embrace of the people, places and practices that keep us whole.

    Te pūnaha awhikiri offers a cultural narrative that unifies numerous strands of mātauranga Māori with science. These ideas affirm Māori ways of knowing, using concepts that reflect inter-connectedness and ancestral insight. They invite understanding of health not as mechanistic, but as a dynamic state of tautika between multiple dimensions.

    This opens space for blending Indigenous knowledge and science, supporting inclusive dialogue about different ways of reaching Te Ao Mārama – enlightenment.

    Tama Te Puea Braithwaite-Westoby works for the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research. Tama has also recently become an affiliate investigator for the Maurice Wilkins Centre.

    – ref. A Māori worldview describes the immune system as a guardian – this could improve public health in Aotearoa NZ – https://theconversation.com/a-maori-worldview-describes-the-immune-system-as-a-guardian-this-could-improve-public-health-in-aotearoa-nz-259025

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Just $7 extra per person could prevent 300 suicides a year. Here’s exactly where to spend it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Karinna Saxby, Research Fellow, Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, The University of Melbourne

    xinlan/Shutterstock

    Medicare spending on mental health services varies considerably depending on where in Australia you live, our new study shows.

    We found areas with lower Medicare spending on out-of-hospital mental health services had poorer mental health outcomes, including more suicides.

    This variation across the country was mostly related to factors such as a shortage of mental health providers and GPs, rather than people in some regions being in poorer mental health in the first place.

    We also looked at how much extra government funding in today’s money would make a difference to people’s mental health across the population, using the latest data.

    We worked out increasing government spending on out-of-hospital mental health services by A$153 million a year – about $7.30 per adult per year – could lead to:

    • 28,151 fewer mental health emergency department visits (a 10% reduction)

    • 1,954 fewer hospitalisations due to self-harm (a 20% reduction)

    • 313 fewer suicides (a 10% reduction).

    Here’s where our research suggests it’s best to target this extra funding.

    What we did

    We looked at Medicare-funded out-of-hospital mental health services, such as GP mental health visits, as well as visits to psychologists and psychiatrists. For the purposes of this article, we’ll call these Medicare-funded mental health services.

    We also looked at mental health prescriptions (such as for depression or anxiety).

    We looked at these services and prescriptions for the entire Australian population from 2011 to 2019.

    We followed adults as they moved between regions to see how their use of mental health services and prescriptions changed after the move. This meant we could account for underlying individual factors, such as someone’s mental health needs.

    Our study allowed us to assess how differences in the availability of mental health care across regions impacted how much the government spends on mental health services and prescriptions, and how this links to people’s mental health outcomes.

    What we found

    We found that only 28% of variation in spending on mental health services across regions was driven by patient-related factors, such as their need for mental health care. The rest was due to geographical reasons, such as availability of mental health providers and GPs.

    But about 81% of the regional variation in spending on mental health scripts was due to patient factors.

    In other words, when people experience mental health distress, accessing mental health medications, largely provided by a GP, is much easier than accessing care from a psychiatrist or a psychologist.

    Areas with lower spending on out-of-hospital mental health services had higher rates of mental health-related emergency department visits, hospitalisations for self-harm, and suicides.

    We mapped access to mental health services

    We also compared funding for people with the same “need” for mental health services across different regions. This was from the best access (the most funding) at 100% down to 0% (no access).

    After controlling for factors such as socioeconomic background and underlying mental health-care need, the region with the best access was the Gold Coast, with the highest Medicare spending on out-of-hospital mental health services.

    The regions with the worst access were western Queensland and the Northern Territory. Here, a person with similar mental health-care needs would receive about 50% less in mental health service spending compared to someone on the Gold Coast.

    How can we use our findings?

    Recent analyses suggest government mental health expenditure has barely changed in 30 years. It now sits at about 7.4% of the total health budget.

    Our results suggest there is unmet need for mental health services across the board. But some regions are more affected than others.

    So we should target extra funding to rural and low-income regions – particularly when considering expanding access to psychologists and psychiatrists.

    Recent policy initiatives have tried to improve access to GPs. This includes creating financial incentives for providers to bulk bill and to practise in underserved regions.

    However, these policies have had little or modest effects on boosting access to GPs. There has also been much less focus on attracting more specialty mental health providers, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, to underserved areas.

    To address the disparities and unmet needs in mental health care, we recommend:

    • expanding the mental health workforce: implementing targeted incentives to attract and retain psychologists, psychiatrists, and mental health-trained GPs in underserved areas

    • reforming funding models: adjusting funding allocations and incentives to target regions where there is significant unmet need. Our map shows which regions should be targeted first

    • improving access to digital mental health services: using technology to provide accessible mental health support, particularly in areas with limited in-person services, while ensuring digital solutions are integrated with traditional care pathways.

    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

    Karinna Saxby receives funding from the University of Melbourne McKenzie Fellowship.

    Dennis Petrie receives funding from National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), Australian Research Council (ARC), Transport Accident Commission (TAC), National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), Department of Health, Disability and Aged Care, Department of Social Services (DSS), Breast Cancer Trials and WISE (Employment Service Provider).

    Sonja de New receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

    – ref. Just $7 extra per person could prevent 300 suicides a year. Here’s exactly where to spend it – https://theconversation.com/just-7-extra-per-person-could-prevent-300-suicides-a-year-heres-exactly-where-to-spend-it-259890

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Much to celebrate as NAIDOC Week turns 50, but also much to learn

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lynette Riley, Co-chair of the National NAIDOC Committee and Professor in the Sydney School of Education and Social Work; and Chair, Aboriginal Education and Indigenous Studies.original Education & Indigenous Studies., University of Sydney

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised this article contains names and/or images of deceased people.

    In 1938, when Australia celebrated the sesquicentenary – 150 years since Captain Phillip and the First Fleet landed in Sydney Cove – the organisers wanted Aboriginal people to be involved in a re-enactment.

    More than 25 Aboriginal men were rounded up from Menindee in western New South Wales. They were told if they did not perform the role of running up the beach away from the British, their families would starve.

    Ngiyaampaa elder Beryl (Yunghadhu) Philp Carmichael, who was three at the time, recollected years later that all she could remember was the crying:

    All the women were crying. Whether they were taking them away to be massacred, no one knew.

    The re-enactment was of course a fallacy of what really happened on January 26 1788 – it was a “white-washing” of history.

    The mistreatment of the Menindee men illustrates the anger that was simmering over the status and treatment of fellow Aboriginal kin.

    Protests against Australia Day, which had been growing since the 1920s, led to the Aboriginal Day of Mourning, the first national gathering of Indigenous people speaking up against discrimination and dispossession.

    The Aboriginal Day of Mourning was regarded as one of the first major civil rights movements in the world.
    National Museum of Australia, CC BY

    The emergence of Aboriginal protest groups nearly a century ago gave birth in the 1970s to what eventually came to be known as the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC), which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary.

    Celebrating culture

    NAIDOC’s role is to encompass all Indigenous/First Nations peoples in Australia.

    One week is set aside each July:

    to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

    NAIDOC Week is essentially a celebration of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth. Numerous events are held across the country – performances, art and photographic exhibitions, smoking ceremonies and the popular National NAIDOC Awards.

    They present a crucial opportunity to increase awareness in the wider community of Indigenous history and excellence, while acknowledging the challenges that remain.

    It is distinct from Reconciliation Week, which focuses on relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.

    As a current co-chair of the NAIDOC Committee, I recognise the ongoing need, as initially established by our Elders as the founders of NAIDOC Week, to highlight the continuing issues for us as Indigenous peoples in Australia.

    NAIDOC themes

    We do this by setting a theme each year focused on a specific challenge.

    The themes are determined through deep consideration of the significant issues facing Indigenous peoples. They have evolved through political protests, social change, recognition, respect and appreciation of Indigenous rights.

    Some examples down the years from the 1970s include:

    • Advance Australia Where? (1972)
    • Self Determination (1974)
    • White Australia has a Black History (1987)
    • Understanding It Takes the Two of Us (1985)
    • Justice not Tolerance (1995)
    • Gurindji, Mabo, Wik – Three Strikes for Justice (1997)
    • Bringing Them Home (1998)
    • Advance Australia Fair? (2008)
    • Our Languages Matter (2017)
    • Voice. Treaty. Truth. (2019)
    • Always Was, Always Will Be (2020).

    NAIDOC Week helps promote to the wider community the importance of truth-telling and learning of societal issues, the heritage of culture and languages, and the history of interactions between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.

    Ask yourself: what do you know about the themes? Why are they relevant and what impact do they have on Indigenous peoples across Australia?

    Next generation

    The theme for 2025 is “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy”.

    It was selected following the committee’s distress at the way in which our youth are often demeaned in the media and presented as social pariahs and potential risks to the wider community’s safety.

    To us, our youth are our cultural and social strength, and the continuity for our communities.

    We therefore celebrate our youth. We wish to highlight these amazing young people in our communities, as our vision and legacy for our future.

    Look no further than our past NAIDOC Youth winners:

    • Dante Rodrigues 2024: a professional martial arts and kickboxer who runs health and wellbeing programs for young Indigenous people

    • Courtney Burns 2023: a marine biologist who is deeply passionate about the connection between ocean, Country and our Mob

    • Elijah Manis 20022: Young islander working in the fields of social justice issues and the effects of climate change on the Torres Strait.

    In NAIDOC and the ABC’s educational resource Culture Is Life, three young people speak of the kind of ancestor they would like to be to inspire future generations.

    Visual artist Irwin Lewis said he would want to be known for his conservation of cultural knowledge, stories and language.

    Foster care worker Shaylem Wilson nominated never turning away from hard truths, and working with young people who continue to be taken away from their families and Country, as well as maintaining and strengthening their family and cultural ties.

    Youth advocate Manny Williams noted he wanted to seek deeper connection to Country to help guide the next generations of young people:

    I want to be an ancestor who always nurtured everything
    from people to Country — guiding those who seek a deeper
    connection; sharing wisdom and knowledge to those who listen. An ancestor who is there to remind our people of the light we all have within ourselves.

    The future is in the hands of these remarkable Indigenous youth as they grapple with the human rights, political and societal issues facing their communities.

    Many Australians have much to learn from NAIDOC Week.

    All of us have much to celebrate.

    Lynette Riley is the co-chair of the National NAIDOC Committee

    – ref. Much to celebrate as NAIDOC Week turns 50, but also much to learn – https://theconversation.com/much-to-celebrate-as-naidoc-week-turns-50-but-also-much-to-learn-259900

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Ageing bridges around the world are at risk of collapse. But there’s a simple way to safeguard them

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andy Nguyen, Senior Lecturer in Structural Engineering, University of Southern Queensland

    The Story Bridge, with its sweeping steel trusses and art deco towers, is a striking sight above the Brisbane River in Queensland. In 2025, it was named the state’s best landmark. But more than an icon, it serves as one of the vital arteries of the state capital, carrying more than 100,000 vehicles daily.

    But a recent report revealed serious structural issues in the 85-year-old bridge. These included the deterioration of concrete, corrosion and overloading on pedestrian footpaths.

    The findings prompted an urgent closure of the footpath for safety reasons. They also highlighted the urgency of Brisbane City Council’s planned bridge restoration project.

    But this example – and far more tragic ones from around the world in recent years – have also sparked a broader conversation about the safety of ageing bridges and other urban infrastructure. A simple, proactive step known as structural health monitoring can help.

    A number of collapses

    In January 2022, the Fern Hollow Bridge in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the United States collapsed and injured several people. This collapse was caused by extensive corrosion and the fracturing of a vital steel component. It stemmed from poor maintenance and failure to act on repeated inspection recommendations. These problems were compounded by inadequate inspections and oversight.

    Three years earlier, Taiwan’s Nanfang’ao Bridge collapsed. Exposure to damp, salty sea air had severely weakened its suspension cables. Six people beneath the bridge died.

    In August 2018, Italy’s Morandi Bridge fell, killing 43 people. The collapse was due to corrosion in pre-stressed concrete and steel tendons. These factors were worsened by inspection and maintenance challenges.

    In August 2007, a bridge in the US city of Minneapolis collapsed, killing 13 people and injuring 145. This collapse was primarily due to previously unnoticed problems with the design of the bridge. But it also demonstrated how ageing infrastructure, coupled with increasing loads and ineffective routine visual inspections, can exacerbate inherent weaknesses.

    A technology-driven solution

    Structural health monitoring is a technology-driven approach to assessing the condition of infrastructure. It can provide near real-time information and enable timely decision-making. This is crucial when it comes to managing ageing structures.

    The approach doesn’t rely solely on occasional periodic inspections. Instead it uses sensors, data loggers and analytics platforms to continuously monitor stress, vibration, displacement, temperature and corrosion on critical components.

    This approach can significantly improve our understanding of bridge performance compared to traditional assessment models. In one case, it updated a bridge’s estimated fatigue life – the remaining life of the structure before fatigue-induced failure is predicted to occur– from just five years to more than 52 years. This ultimately avoided unnecessary and costly restoration.

    Good structural health-monitoring systems can last several decades. They can be integrated with artificial intelligence techniques and bridge information modelling to develop digital twin-based monitoring platforms.

    The cost of structural health monitoring systems varies by bridge size and the extent of monitoring required. Some simple systems can cost just a few thousand dollars, while more advanced ones can cost more than A$300,000.

    These systems require ongoing operational support – typically 10% to 20% of the installation cost annually – for data management, system maintenance, and informed decision-making.

    Additionally, while advanced systems can be costly, scalable structural health monitoring solutions allow authorities to start small and expand over time.

    A model for proactive management

    The design of structural health monitoring systems has been incorporated into new large-scale bridge designs, such as Sutong Bridge in China and Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge in the US.

    But perhaps the most compelling example of these systems in action is the Jacques Cartier Bridge in Montreal, Canada.

    Opened in 1930, it shares design similarities with Brisbane’s Story Bridge. And, like many ageing structures, it faces its own challenges.

    Opened in 1930, the Jacques Cartier Bridge in Montreal, Canada, shares design similarities with Brisbane’s Story Bridge.
    Pinkcandy/Shutterstock

    However, authorities managing the Jacques Cartier Bridge have embraced a proactive approach through comprehensive structural health monitoring systems. The bridge has been outfitted with more than 300 sensors.

    Acoustic emission monitoring enables early detection of micro-cracking activity, while long-term instrumentation tracks structural deformation and dynamic behaviour across key spans.

    Satellite-based radar imagery adds a remote, non-intrusive layer of deformation monitoring, and advanced data analysis ensures that the vast amounts of sensor data are translated into timely, actionable insights.

    Together, these technologies demonstrate how a well-integrated structural-health monitoring system can support proactive maintenance, extend the life of ageing infrastructure – and ultimately improve public safety.

    A way forward for Brisbane – and beyond

    The Story Bridge’s current challenges are serious, but they also present an opportunity.

    By investing in the right structural health monitoring system, Brisbane can lead the way in modern infrastructure management – protecting lives, restoring public confidence, preserving heritage and setting a precedent for cities around the world.

    As climate change, urban growth, and ageing assets put increasing pressure on our transport networks, smart monitoring is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity.

    Andy Nguyen receives funding from the Queensland government, through the Advance Queensland fellowship. He is on the executive committee of Australian Network of Structural Health Monitoring.

    – ref. Ageing bridges around the world are at risk of collapse. But there’s a simple way to safeguard them – https://theconversation.com/ageing-bridges-around-the-world-are-at-risk-of-collapse-but-theres-a-simple-way-to-safeguard-them-260005

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New Development Bank’s Board of Governors Convened its 10th Annual Meeting in Rio de Janeiro

    Source: New Development Bank

    On July 5, 2025, the Board of Governors (Board, BoG) of the New Development Bank (NDB) convened the Business Session of its Tenth Annual Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under the theme of “Driving Development: Fostering Innovation, Cooperation, and Impact through a Multilateral Development Bank for the Global South”.

    The BoG Meeting was chaired by H.E. Mr. Fernando Haddad, the Minister of Finance of the Federative Republic of Brazil and the NDB Governor for Brazil.

    The Board welcomed the achievements of NDB in the past year and provided guidance in steering the New Development Bank towards a path of sustainable growth in the future at the juncture of its Ten-year Anniversary.

    The Board of Governors officially admitted Colombia and Uzbekistan as borrowing members of the New Development Bank.

    The Board of Governors discussed the General Strategy of the Bank and its implementation and provided guidance thereon.

    The Board of Governors adopted its resolution on appointment of incoming Vice-President of the New Development Bank. Mr. Roman Serov was appointed as Vice-President of NDB from September 7, 2025, to September 6, 2030.

    The Board elected H.E. Mr. Anton Siluanov, the Minister of Finance of the Russian Federation and the NDB Governor for Russia as the next Chairperson of the Board of Governors. H.E. Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman, the Minister of Finance of the Republic of India and the NDB Governor for India was elected as the next Vice-Chairperson of the Board of Governors. It was agreed that they would hold their respective offices until the end of the Eleventh Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors in 2026.

    The Board of Governors decided that Russia will host the Eleventh Annual Meeting of the New Development Bank in 2026.

    H.E. Mr. Anton Siluanov, the Minister of Finance of the Russian Federation and the NDB Governor for Russia; H.E. Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman, the Minister of Finance of the Republic of India and the NDB Governor for India; H.E. Mr. LAN Fo’an, the Minister of Finance of the People’s Republic of China and the NDB Governor for China; Dr. David Masondo, Deputy Minister of Finance of the Republic of South Africa and the NDB Alternate Governor for South Africa; Mr. Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, Secretary, Economic Relations Division, Ministry of Finance of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh and the NDB Alternate Governor for Bangladesh; Mr. Mr. Mohamed Bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs and the NDB Governor for the United Arab Emirates; Mr. Atter Hannoura, Director of the PPP Central Unit, Ministry of Finance of Egypt of the Arab Republic of Egypt and the NDB Temporary Alternate Governor for Egypt, participated in the Meeting.

    Background Information

    New Development Bank was established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging market economies and developing countries, complementing the existing efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development.

    For more information on NDB, please visit www.ndb.int.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • Good catching up with my friend: PM Modi meets South African President Ramaphosa

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi met South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday on the sidelines of the BRICS summit, shortly before Ramaphosa backed his call for reform of the United Nations Security Council.

    “Good catching up with my friend, President Ramaphosa of South Africa,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

    Speaking at the summit, Ramaphosa backed the demand for reform, saying the Council “has become too rigid, too narrow and too disconnected from today’s multipolar realities”, and is unable to fulfil its primary function of maintaining international peace and security.

    Ramaphosa said the Council cannot react effectively to global dangers “ranging from humanitarian crises to open acts of aggression”. “Reform is a necessity. The Security Council must be made more democratic, more regionally representative and more accountable,” he said.

    Sunday’s ‘catch-up’ was the second meeting between PM Modi and Ramaphosa in 19 days, having last met in Canada during the G7 Summit.

    India and South Africa have several joint projects covering skills development, trade, economic cooperation and technology. They plan to deepen their strategic partnership, focusing on sectors such as agro-processing, defence, mining and finance. Bilateral trade between the two countries currently stands at nearly $20 billion.

    PM Modi last visited South Africa in 2023 for the BRICS summit and held bilateral talks with leaders there.

    Notably, Ramaphosa was the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations in 2019 and last visited India in 2023 to attend the G20 summit.

    As one of Africa’s leading voices, South Africa joins India in representing the Global South in international forums.

    IANS

  • Condemning terrorism should be our “principle”, not just “convenience”: PM Modi at BRICS summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called terrorism the “most serious challenge” facing humanity and said condemning it must be a matter of principle, not convenience.

    Speaking at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, PM Modi cited the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 tourists were killed, as a reminder of the threat terrorism poses to global peace.

    “Recently India faced an inhuman and cowardly terrorist attack. On 22 April, the terrorist attack in Pahalgam was a direct attack on the soul, identity, and dignity of India. This attack was a blow not only to India but to the entire humanity. In this hour of grief, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the friendly countries who stood with us, who expressed support and condolences,” he said.

    “Terrorism has become the most serious challenge for humanity today. Condemning terrorism should be our ‘principle’, not just a ‘convenience’. If we first see in which country the attack took place and against whom, then it would be a betrayal against humanity,” the PM added.

    PM Modi stressed the need for decisive global action, including sanctions, and warned against double standards in tackling terror.

    “There should be no hesitation in imposing sanctions against terrorists. The victims and supporters of terrorism cannot be weighed on the same scale. For personal or political gain, giving silent consent to terrorism and supporting terror or terrorists should not be acceptable under any circumstances. There should be no difference between words and actions regarding terrorism. If we cannot do this, then the question naturally arises: are we serious about the fight against terrorism or not?” the Prime Minister said.

    PM Modi also underlined the threat of terrorism in the context of global conflicts and the humanitarian fallout in Gaza.

    “From West Asia to Europe, today the world is surrounded by disputes and tensions. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is a cause of great concern. India firmly believes that no matter how difficult the circumstances are, the path of peace is the only option for the welfare of humanity,” he said.

    “India is the land of Lord Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. There is no place for war and violence for us. India supports every effort that takes the world away from division and conflict and leads it towards dialogue, cooperation, and coordination, and increases solidarity and trust,” the Prime Minister said, reiterating India’s belief in peace.

    Highlighting BRICS’s role in promoting global stability, the Prime Minister said, “Global peace and security is not just an ideal; it is the foundation of our common interests and future. The development of humanity is possible only in a peaceful and secure environment. BRICS has a very important role in fulfilling this objective. We have to unite and make collective efforts to face our common challenges. We have to move forward together.”

    PM Modi invited BRICS leaders to India for the next summit in 2026, under India’s chairmanship.

    The summit, hosted by Brazil from July 7 to 9, is being attended by leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa and new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia.

    ANI

  • India bury Birmingham blues, script record 336-run win over England in 2nd Test

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India created history with a 336-run win over England in the second Test at Birmingham, securing not only their first-ever victory at Edgbaston but also their biggest Test win away from home in terms of runs.

    Skipper Shubman Gill, along with pacers Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj, spearheaded a collective team effort as India levelled the series, overcoming the Birmingham blues with a win that will be remembered for ages.

    This is India’s biggest away win in Tests, surpassing their 318-run victory over the West Indies at North Sound in 2016, as they defended a total of 419. Jasprit Bumrah picked up a memorable five-wicket haul in the match, while Ajinkya Rahane was named Player of the Match for his knocks of 81 and 102.

    Gill, besides breaking an endless list of records with the bat, also made history as captain. At 25 years and 301 days old, he became the youngest Indian captain to win a Test overseas, surpassing Sunil Gavaskar, who was 26 years and 202 days old when he led India to victory against New Zealand in Auckland in 1976.

    Coming to the match, England once again opted to field first. After removing KL Rahul (2) early, an 80-run stand between Yashasvi Jaiswal (87 off 107 balls, 13 fours) and Karun Nair (31 off 50 balls, five fours) helped India recover. Skipper Gill stitched valuable partnerships — 203 runs with Ravindra Jadeja (89 off 137 balls, 10 fours and a six) and a 144-run stand with Washington Sundar (42 off 103 balls, three fours and a six) — steering India to a mammoth 587. Gill scored a marathon 269 off 387 balls, hitting 30 fours and three sixes.

    Shoaib Bashir (3/167) was England’s most successful bowler, while Chris Woakes and Josh Tongue claimed two wickets each.

    In England’s first innings, India reduced them to 84/5. However, a 303-run stand between Harry Brook (158 off 234 balls, 17 fours and a six) and wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith (184* off 207 balls, 21 fours and four sixes) kept England alive. But Siraj (6/70) and Akash Deep (4/88) made the new ball count, bundling out the last five wickets for just 20 runs, dismissing England for 407 and giving India a 180-run lead.

    In reply, India’s batters piled on the pressure. Jaiswal (28 off 22 balls, six fours) and Rahul (55 off 84 balls, 10 fours) set the tone with a brisk half-century stand. A 110-run fourth-wicket stand between Rishabh Pant (65 off 58 balls, eight fours and three sixes) and Gill accelerated the charge, before Gill forged another epic 175-run stand with Jadeja. Gill smashed 161 off 162 balls, with 13 fours and eight sixes, while Jadeja remained unbeaten on 69* off 118 balls (five fours and a six). India declared at 427/6, setting England an improbable target of 608.

    In the run chase, England were quickly reduced to 50/3. Jamie Smith (88 off 99 balls, nine fours and four sixes) offered the only resistance before England were bundled out for 271, losing by 336 runs. Akash Deep’s brilliant spell of 6/99 gave him a ten-wicket haul for the match.

    Gill was named Player of the Match as India levelled the series 1-1. 

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: First Person: Japanese UN volunteer ‘motivated by the passion of others’ to support peace

    Source: United Nations 2

    Haruki Ume spoke to UN News at the UN Pavilion at Expo 2025 currently being held in the Japanese city of Osaka.

    One section of the pavilion features a rotating presentation focusing on a specific UN agency or entity and recently, attention turned to the UN Volunteers programme.

    “As a 17-year-old, I travelled to the United States on an educational exchange programme and my main motivation was to play baseball and experience American culture.

    I met a lot of other people from Africa and Asia as well as Europe and I was shocked and then impressed by their passion and motivation to support their villages and communities back home.

    One boy from Azerbaijan told me he was selected for the exchange from over 100 applicants as the only student from his country. As a result, he said that he had a responsibility not to waste his time and represent all those other applicants and his country to the best of his ability.

    © Haruki Ume

    Haruki Ume plays with two boys during a visit to the Philippines in 2017.

    It was at this moment that I decided that I wanted to contribute more to society and so I started studying development issues. I travelled as much as I could during my vacations, to places like Cambodia, the Philippines, India, Peru, Egypt and Uganda.

    As a volunteer, I supported education and other initiatives during the field missions and was really driven by helping people who were less fortunate than I.  I also learnt a lot from these people, so I definitely valued it an exchange of experiences and knowledge.

    Understanding the outside world

    I was raised in a small town in rural Japan where there were no foreigners. People grow up, work and die there and many do not ever experience foreign cultures or really understand the outside world.

    UN News/Daniel Dickinson

    A UN Volunteers staff member explains the role of the organization to visitors at the UN Pavilion.

    I remember being nervous about speaking English and eating food that I was not used to, but I was keen to break through these personal barriers and broaden my world.

    Being open to new experiences has made it easier to adapt to other cultures and this understanding promotes peace and friendship and ultimately international cooperation.

    I have been working at the UN Pavilion at Expo 2025 to promote the UN and the work of UN Volunteers. I’m doing this in the spirit of building cooperation and creating positive change in the world.

    Expo 2025 is bringing the world to Osaka and is providing the opportunity for Japanese people to discuss how we can work together more effectively to create a fairer and more peaceful world.”

    The UN and volunteering

    • Headquartered in Bonn, Germany, UNV was established 1970 and is active in around 169 countries and territories every year.
    • In 2024, UNV deployed over 14,500 volunteers to almost 60 UN entities across the world.
    • They serve in diverse roles including: community development, human rights, humanitarian assistance, peacebuilding, medical services and communications.
    • 2026 has been designated by the UN as the International Year of Volunteers
    • Become a UN Volunteer

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 31st Lanzhou Investment and Trade Fair attracted participants from all over the world

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    LANZHOU, July 6 (Xinhua) — The 31st China (Lanzhou) Investment and Trade Fair opened Sunday in Lanzhou, capital of northwest China’s Gansu Province, with more than 2,000 Chinese and foreign enterprises participating.

    This year, Indonesia was the guest of honor at the fair. The number of participants exceeded the figures of previous years: representatives from more than 20 countries, including Germany, Spain, Russia, Malaysia and Iran, as well as 18 Chinese provincial-level regions and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, came to the fair.

    The fair is divided into four thematic zones, focusing on international cooperation along the Silk Road, inter-regional exchanges, consumer goods and specialized industries of Gansu Province, the organizers said. The exhibition features products in such fields as equipment manufacturing, petrochemicals, biomedicine, new materials, new energy, aviation and astronautics, agriculture, information and data.

    The fair program includes more than 30 forums and trade and economic events.

    Indonesian Ambassador to China Jauhari Oratmangun noted that 16 Indonesian companies are presenting coffee, food, handicrafts and traditional batik at the fair. The diplomat expressed hope for deepening cooperation between Indonesia and China in renewable energy, modern agriculture and cultural tourism.

    As the largest international economic and trade event in Gansu Province since 1993, this year’s fair has already secured deals on 1,181 investment projects worth over 650 billion yuan (about 90.9 billion U.S. dollars) in sectors including alternative energy equipment, agricultural processing, new materials and digital technology. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious Crash, Kennedy Good Bridge

    Source: New Zealand Police

    The Kennedy Good Bridge intersection with State Highway 2 is closed due to a serious crash.

    Emergency services are in attendance, one person has sustained serious injuries.

    Police request motorists to avoid the area and find an alternative route to access State Highway 2.

    Access to the highway at this junction is likely to be restricted for at least 2 hours.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tech founders get keys to home ownership with BNZ’s new home loan solution

    Source: BNZ Statements

    Tech founders creating innovative, high growth companies can face a surprising obstacle outside the startup ecosystem – they frequently struggle to secure home loans.

    Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) has addressed this challenge with the launch of Founder Housing: a new home loan solution designed specifically for tech entrepreneurs.

    The new proposition addresses a common frustration in the tech community: founders of tech companies often have business losses counted against their personal income, which can make them ineligible for home loans, even when their businesses are thriving and backed by significant investment.

    “We kept hearing the same story from tech founders and entrepreneurs,” says Tim Wixon, Head of Technology Industries at BNZ.

    “They’d built promising companies, secured investment, and were earning good salaries, but couldn’t buy homes because traditional lending criteria didn’t recognise the way high-growth tech startups operate. It just didn’t make sense.”

    One founder’s journey

    Startup founder Emily Blythe’s experience illustrates this challenge. As CEO of Pyper Vision, an innovative aerospace startup developing AI-powered fog forecasting technology, Blythe has built a company with strong financial backing and major partnerships, including trials with Air New Zealand and British Airways CityFlyer. Yet when she tried to buy her first home, traditional lending criteria worked against her.

    “I had a stable salary and a consistent track record of Pyper Vision paying me, but that wasn’t recognised by most banks,” Blythe explains. “What was particularly frustrating was that two of my team had recently secured bank loans easily, but because they were employees rather than the founder, banks viewed their positions as more secure than mine.”

    Despite Pyper Vision’s strong fundamentals – including Startmate accelerator backing, government support, and enterprise partnerships – Blythe was rejected by eight different banks over a three-month period.

    “I spoke to other founders going through the same struggle who couldn’t find a solution,” she says.

    “They were having their partners buy houses instead or setting up complex trust structures – anything to work around the system.”

    Blythe’s experience highlights exactly why BNZ developed Founder Housing.

    The problem stems from how growth-focused tech companies structure their finances. Early-stage businesses typically prioritise R&D, marketing and expansion over profit, creating accounting losses that appear on founders’ personal financial assessments despite potentially strong business fundamentals.

    BNZ’s Founder Housing takes a different approach by evaluating business viability and potential rather than focusing solely on profit and loss statements. The solution recognises institutional investment as a positive indicator and includes specialised assessment criteria tailored to tech companies.

    “It’s about applying the right approach and metrics for this type of business model,” Wixon says.

    “A founder running an equity-backed company with strong growth metrics is often a very different proposition from what traditional lending criteria might suggest.”

    For Blythe, BNZ’s approach proved different.

    “It wasn’t the standard black-and-white response of ‘you’re a founder, therefore we can’t approve this.’ BNZ actually evaluated both the company’s financial position as a tech business and my personal circumstances together. It was a much more logical and rational approach.”

    Securing her Christchurch home has provided crucial stability for her role leading an international business.

    “Having my own home gives me the freedom to travel for work, knowing I have a secure base to return to. It’s the first time I’ve felt properly grounded.”

    Her advice to other tech founders facing similar challenges is clear: “I’d strongly recommend working with BNZ’s team. The traditional banking approach to founders is just ridiculous.”

    Banking on growth

    Founder Housing builds on BNZ’s established commitment to supporting New Zealand’s tech ecosystem.

    The bank has pioneered several innovative financing solutions for technology companies, including Revenue Based Financing for SaaS businesses launched in 2021, and Contracted Receivables Financing introduced in 2023 to help high-tech manufacturing, infrastructure, software-enabled hardware and biotech companies access capital based on signed contracts rather than traditional profit measures.

    Last month, BNZ also announced fast-approval unsecured business loans up to $50,000 that can be confirmed in just three minutes, recognising that businesses need to move quickly when opportunities arise.

    “We’ve been working to rewrite the playbook for how banks can better support tech companies at every stage of their journey,” Wixon says.

    “Founder Housing is the natural extension of that work – supporting the founders themselves, not just their businesses.”

    The solution’s introduction comes at a time when supporting innovation and competitive business settings are increasingly recognised as vital for economic development.

    “We’re proud to be the first major bank to turn this approach into a formal proposition,” Wixon says.

    “By understanding the unique challenges these founders face, we can help them build personal assets while they continue growing their businesses here in New Zealand, helping to attract and retain talent in Aotearoa.

    *All home loans are subject to BNZ lending criteria (including minimum equity requirements), terms and fees.

    The post Tech founders get keys to home ownership with BNZ’s new home loan solution appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • BRICS leaders condemn Pahalgam terror attack, call out “double standards” on terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Leaders of BRICS nations on Sunday strongly condemned the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists.

    In a joint declaration at the summit in Rio de Janeiro, the leaders described terrorism as “criminal and unjustifiable”, regardless of the motive or perpetrators.

    “We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, during which at least 26 people were killed and many more injured. We reaffirm our commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and safe havens,” the declaration said.

    BRICS leaders underlined that terrorism should not be linked with any religion, nationality, civilisation or ethnic group, and demanded that those involved be held accountable under national and international law.

    “We urge zero tolerance for terrorism and reject double standards in countering it. We stress the primary responsibility of States in combating terrorism and that global efforts must comply with international law, including the UN Charter and relevant conventions on human rights, refugees and humanitarian law,” the declaration added.

    The leaders welcomed the work of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) and its five subgroups under the Counter-Terrorism Strategy and Action Plan, and called for further cooperation. They also pushed for early adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism within the UN framework and urged “concerted action” against all UN-designated terrorists and terror entities.

    The statement comes weeks after National Security Advisor Ajit Doval raised the Pahalgam attack at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Security Council Secretaries’ meeting in Beijing. Doval had underlined the continued threat from groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed operating with state support from Pakistan, as well as Al Qaeda, ISIS and their affiliates.

    India has repeatedly urged SCO members to reject double standards on terrorism and to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of cross-border terror accountable.

    IANS

  • PM Modi calls for urgent reforms in global governance at 17th BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for urgent reforms in global governance institutions, emphasising that the interests of the Global South must be given due importance in decision-making bodies that were built in the 20th century but continue to shape 21st-century challenges.

    Addressing the BRICS session on the ‘Reform of Global Governance’ in Rio de Janeiro, the Prime Minister extended his gratitude to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for the “excellent organisation” of the summit and praised his “vision and unwavering commitment” in energising the bloc.

    PM Modi remarked that under Brazil’s leadership, BRICS cooperation had received not just an “espresso” but a “double espresso shot”, applauding President Lula’s dynamic role. He also congratulated Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto on Indonesia’s inclusion in the BRICS grouping, calling it a welcome expansion of the bloc’s partnership.

    Highlighting the persistent neglect faced by the Global South, the PM said that developing nations have often been met with “double standards” on issues such as development, fair distribution of resources, and security. He pointed out that promises on climate finance, sustainable development, and technology transfer have frequently amounted to “nothing more than token gestures”.

    “Two-thirds of humanity still lack proper representation in global institutions built in the 20th century,” the Prime Minister noted, adding that this lack of inclusion affects the credibility and effectiveness of such bodies. Drawing an analogy, PM Modi said, “Without the Global South, these institutions are like a mobile phone with a SIM card but no network.”

    Calling for a new “multipolar and inclusive world order”, the Prime Minister urged BRICS nations to push for reforms in major global institutions, including the UN Security Council, the World Trade Organization, and Multilateral Development Banks. He stressed that these changes must go beyond symbolism and deliver tangible results, including reforms in governance structures, voting rights, and leadership roles.

    “In an age where technology evolves every week, it is unacceptable for global institutions to go eighty years without reform. You can’t run 21st-century software on 20th-century typewriters,” PM Modi said.

    The Prime Minister underscored India’s commitment to work constructively with BRICS partners to advance the interests of the Global South and humanity at large.

    “India has always considered it a duty to rise above self-interest and work for the greater good of humanity. We remain fully committed to contributing to this shared goal,” he said.

  • PM Modi calls for urgent reforms in global governance at 17th BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for urgent reforms in global governance institutions, emphasising that the interests of the Global South must be given due importance in decision-making bodies that were built in the 20th century but continue to shape 21st-century challenges.

    Addressing the BRICS session on the ‘Reform of Global Governance’ in Rio de Janeiro, the Prime Minister extended his gratitude to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for the “excellent organisation” of the summit and praised his “vision and unwavering commitment” in energising the bloc.

    PM Modi remarked that under Brazil’s leadership, BRICS cooperation had received not just an “espresso” but a “double espresso shot”, applauding President Lula’s dynamic role. He also congratulated Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto on Indonesia’s inclusion in the BRICS grouping, calling it a welcome expansion of the bloc’s partnership.

    Highlighting the persistent neglect faced by the Global South, the PM said that developing nations have often been met with “double standards” on issues such as development, fair distribution of resources, and security. He pointed out that promises on climate finance, sustainable development, and technology transfer have frequently amounted to “nothing more than token gestures”.

    “Two-thirds of humanity still lack proper representation in global institutions built in the 20th century,” the Prime Minister noted, adding that this lack of inclusion affects the credibility and effectiveness of such bodies. Drawing an analogy, PM Modi said, “Without the Global South, these institutions are like a mobile phone with a SIM card but no network.”

    Calling for a new “multipolar and inclusive world order”, the Prime Minister urged BRICS nations to push for reforms in major global institutions, including the UN Security Council, the World Trade Organization, and Multilateral Development Banks. He stressed that these changes must go beyond symbolism and deliver tangible results, including reforms in governance structures, voting rights, and leadership roles.

    “In an age where technology evolves every week, it is unacceptable for global institutions to go eighty years without reform. You can’t run 21st-century software on 20th-century typewriters,” PM Modi said.

    The Prime Minister underscored India’s commitment to work constructively with BRICS partners to advance the interests of the Global South and humanity at large.

    “India has always considered it a duty to rise above self-interest and work for the greater good of humanity. We remain fully committed to contributing to this shared goal,” he said.

  • BRICS nations urge advanced economies to scale up climate finance for developing countries

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    BRICS member nations have called on advanced economies and the international financial system to provide “substantial” financing to support climate mitigation efforts in developing economies.

    “We call on advanced economies and other relevant actors in the international financial system, as well as the private sector, to provide substantial finance for climate actions in developing countries, including by expanding concessional finance and increasing private capital mobilisation,” Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors of BRICS countries said in a joint statement on Sunday, just ahead of the Summit.

    Highlighting the growing needs of emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs), the group urged international financial institutions to scale up adaptation support and create conditions that would attract greater private sector participation in mitigation efforts.

    BRICS members also acknowledged the structural challenges posed by climate change, energy transitions, biodiversity loss and conservation efforts.

    “We reaffirm that predictable, equitable, accessible and affordable climate finance is indispensable for just transitions, in line with country circumstances and development priorities, and for meeting the goals of the UNFCCC and its Paris Agreement,” the statement said.

    India, a BRICS member, has consistently advocated for stronger climate finance arrangements, primarily from developed countries that are historically major carbon emitters. India has repeatedly underlined the need for adequate financial support, particularly for the Global South.

    Climate finance generally refers to funding directed at mitigation and adaptation measures to tackle climate change. Developing countries have long argued that developed nations, being historically larger emitters, must shoulder greater responsibility for funding mitigation and adaptation.

    Against the backdrop of global economic uncertainty and volatility, BRICS members said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) must remain adequately resourced and flexible to protect its members, particularly the most vulnerable.

    The statement also welcomed the New Development Bank’s steady efforts to expand its funding capacity, promote local currency financing, diversify funding sources, and back projects that advance sustainable development, reduce inequality and drive investment in infrastructure and economic integration.

    “As the New Development Bank is set to embark on its second golden decade of high-quality development, we recognise and support its growing role as a robust and strategic agent of development and modernisation in the Global South,” it said.

    BRICS members also reaffirmed that they would continue working through the second half of 2025 to push forward these initiatives and strengthen coordination for a smooth transition to India’s presidency in 2026.

    Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors of BRICS countries met in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 5 under the theme, “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.”

    Together, BRICS countries — Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa — account for nearly half of the world’s population, spread across four continents, and nearly 40 per cent of global GDP. The bloc has become more integrated with the world economy and now represents about a quarter of global trade and investment flows.

    The joint statement underlined that more needs to be done to ensure the benefits of globalisation, economic growth and productivity are shared more equally.

    According to a report by Rubix Data Sciences, total international trade (exports plus imports) of BRICS countries stood at USD 10.5 trillion in 2024, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 7.9 per cent between 2020 and 2024.

    BRICS nations remain net exporters, collectively selling more goods abroad than they import, underlining their strong production capacity and growing clout in global trade.

  • BRICS expands footprint, eyes stronger Global South cooperation under Brazil’s 2025 chairship

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The BRICS grouping, which brings together major emerging economies, has continued to expand its global footprint, adding new members and partners while outlining ambitious plans to deepen cooperation across sectors under Brazil’s ongoing chairship in 2025.

    Originally coined as BRIC by Goldman Sachs in 2001 in its paper The World Needs Better Economic BRICs, the acronym referred to Brazil, Russia, India and China, which the firm projected would occupy larger shares of the global economy in the coming decades. The idea took formal shape in 2006, when the leaders of Russia, India and China met on the sidelines of the G8 Outreach Summit in St. Petersburg. That same year, the first BRIC Foreign Ministers’ meeting was held alongside the UN General Assembly in New York, setting the stage for structured dialogue.

    The first BRIC Summit was hosted in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in 2009. The group became BRICS with the inclusion of South Africa in 2010. South Africa formally joined the third BRICS Summit held in Sanya in 2011.

    More than a decade later, the bloc witnessed its most significant expansion yet. In January 2024, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates became full members, followed by Indonesia’s entry as a full member in January 2025. Nine other countries — Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda and Uzbekistan — were inducted as BRICS partner countries this year, underlining the group’s growing influence in the Global South.

    Together, the expanded BRICS now represents nearly half of the world’s population, contributes about 40 percent of global GDP, and accounts for roughly a quarter of global trade.

    Two pillars of cooperation

    BRICS functions through two broad mechanisms: consultations on issues of common interest through summits and ministerial meetings, and practical cooperation through working groups and senior officials in sectors such as trade, finance, health, education, science and technology, agriculture, environment, energy, labour, disaster management, anti-corruption and counter-narcotics efforts.

    Business linkages are promoted through the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women Business Alliance, while other exchanges span parliamentary forums, conferences and people-to-people initiatives.

    India’s 2021 chairship

    India last held the chairship in 2021, coinciding with the 15th anniversary of the bloc. Operating under the theme ‘BRICS@15: Intra-BRICS Cooperation for Continuity, Consolidation and Consensus’, India set priorities that focused on multilateral reform, counter-terrorism cooperation, digital tools for Sustainable Development Goals and wider people-to-people engagement.

    Over 150 meetings were convened during India’s term, including the Leaders’ Summit held virtually on September 9, 2021, and meetings of Foreign Ministers, National Security Advisers and key sectoral ministers. Several new initiatives were launched, including the first BRICS Digital Health Summit, the first Water Ministers’ Meeting, the adoption of a Counter-Terrorism Action Plan, the launch of the BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism and the signing of an agreement on a BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation.

    Brazil takes charge in 2025

    Brazil assumed the BRICS chairship on January 1, 2025, under the theme ‘Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance’. Brazil’s agenda focuses on deepening partnerships within the Global South and enhancing social, economic and environmental development across member states.

    The priorities for Brazil’s presidency include cooperation on global health, trade, investment and finance, climate change action, governance of artificial intelligence, institutional development and a push for reform of the global peace and security architecture.

    Nearly 120 events are planned under Brazil’s chairship this year, signalling the group’s intent to maintain momentum on issues that resonate with emerging economies.

  • ICC ODI rankings: West Indies slip to 10th spot, automatic qualification for 2027 WC at risk

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In the latest International Cricket Council (ICC) ODI Rankings, two-time champions West Indies have slipped out of the automatic qualification spots for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, putting them at risk of missing another appearance at the marquee tournament.

    The latest ICC rankings update came after Bangladesh’s victory in the second ODI against Sri Lanka, where they defended a total of 248 runs in Colombo, thanks to a brilliant five-wicket haul from Taijul Islam. The win helped Bangladesh level the three-match series 1-1 and lifted them to ninth place in the men’s ODI team rankings, according to Wisden.

    However, the West Indies still have time to climb back into the required qualification spots before the cutoff date for the World Cup rankings.

    The West Indies have now dropped to the 10th spot and sit outside the automatic qualification places for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup. The 2027 edition will feature 14 teams, with South Africa and Zimbabwe automatically qualifying as co-hosts. However, Namibia, the third co-host, will not receive automatic entry as they are not a full ICC member playing Test cricket.

    The top eight teams (excluding the hosts) will qualify based on their ODI rankings as of March 31, 2027. The remaining four spots will be decided through a qualifier tournament featuring 10 teams.

    The Men in Maroon will be keen to avoid the qualifiers, having been forced to play them for the 2023 edition and subsequently missing their first World Cup since the tournament’s inception in 1975, after losing to the Netherlands and Sri Lanka in the qualifiers.

    Elsewhere in the latest ICC ODI Rankings, Sri Lanka dropped to fifth after their loss, while Pakistan moved up to fourth. The ICC Champions Trophy holders India remain at the top with 124 points, followed by second-placed Australia and third-placed New Zealand, who both have 109 rating points.

    (ANI)

     

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: The oldest rocks on Earth are more than four billion years old

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Hanika Rizo, Associate Professor, Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University

    Earth formed about 4.6 billion years ago, during the geological eon known as the Hadean. The name “Hadean” comes from the Greek god of the underworld, reflecting the extreme heat that likely characterized the planet at the time.

    By 4.35 billion years ago, the Earth might have cooled down enough for the first crust to form and life to emerge.

    However, very little is known about this early chapter in Earth’s history, as rocks and minerals from that time are extremely rare. This lack of preserved geological records makes it difficult to reconstruct what the Earth looked like during the Hadean Eon, leaving many questions about its earliest evolution unanswered.

    We are part of a research team that has confirmed the oldest known rocks on Earth are located in northern Québec. Dating back more than four billion years, these rocks provide a rare and invaluable glimpse into the origins of our planet.

    Geologists Jonathan O’Neil and Chris Sole examine rocks in northern Québec.
    (H. Rizo), CC BY

    Remains from the Hadean Eon

    The Hadean Eon is the first period in the geological timescale, spanning from Earth’s formation 4.6 billion years ago and ending around 4.03 billion years ago.

    The oldest terrestrial materials ever dated by scientists are extremely rare zircon minerals that were discovered in western Australia. These zircons were formed as early as 4.4 billion years ago, and while their host rock eroded away, the durability of zircons allowed them to be preserved for a long time.

    Studies of these zircon minerals has given us clues about the Hadean environment, and the formation and evolution of Earth’s oldest crust. The zircons’ chemistry suggests that they formed in magmas produced by the melting of sediments deposited at the bottom of an ancient ocean. This suggests that the zircons are evidence that the Hadean Eon cooled rapidly, and liquid water oceans were formed early on.

    Other research on the Hadean zircons suggests that the Earth’s earliest crust was mafic (rich in magnesium and iron). Until recently, however, the existence of that crust remained to be confirmed.

    In 2008, a study led by one of us — associate professor Jonathan O’Neil (then a McGill University doctoral student) — proposed that rocks of this ancient crust had been preserved in northern Québec and were the only known vestige of the Hadean.

    Since then, the age of those rocks — found in the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt — has been controversial and the subject of ongoing scientific debate.

    The Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt in northern Québec.
    (H. Rizo), CC BY

    ‘Big, old solid rock’

    The Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt is located in the northernmost region of Québec, in the Nunavik region above the 55th parallel. Most of the rocks there are metamorphosed volcanic rocks, rich in magnesium and iron. The most common rocks in the belt are called the Ujaraaluk rocks, meaning “big old solid rock” in Inuktitut.

    The age of 4.3 billion years was proposed after variations in neodymium-142 were detected, an isotope produced exclusively during the Hadean through the radioactive decay of samarium-146. The relationship between samarium and neodymium isotope abundances had been previously used to date meteorites and lunar rocks, but before 2008 had never been applied to Earth rocks.

    This interpretation, however, was challenged by several research groups, some of whom studied zircons within the belt and proposed a younger age of at most 3.78 billion years, placing the rocks in the Archean Eon instead.

    Confirming the Hadean Age

    In the summer of 2017, we returned to the Nuvvuagittuq belt to take a closer look at the ancient rocks. This time, we collected intrusive rocks — called metagabbros — that cut across the Ujaraaluk rock formation, hoping to obtain independent age constraints. The fact that these newly studied metagabbros are in intrusion in the Ujaraaluk rocks implies that the latter must be older.

    The project was led by masters student Chris Sole at the University of Ottawa, who joined us in the field. Back in the laboratory, we collaborated with French geochronologist Jean-Louis Paquette. Additionally, two undergraduate students — David Benn (University of Ottawa) and Joeli Plakholm (Carleton University) participated to the project.

    We combined our field observations with petrology, geochemistry, geochronology and applied two independent samarium-neodymium age dating methods, dating techniques used to assess the absolute ages of magmatic rocks, before they became metamorphic rocks. Both assessments yielded the same result: the intrusive rocks are 4.16 billion years old.

    Sunset at the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt.
    (H. Rizo), CC BY

    The oldest rocks

    Since these metagabbros cut across the Ujaraaluk formation, the Ujaraaluk rocks must be even older, placing them firmly in the Hadean Eon.

    Studying the Nuvvuagittuq rocks, the only preserved rocks from the Hadean, provides a unique opportunity to learn about the earliest history of our planet. They can help us understand how the first continents formed, and how and when Earth’s environment evolved to become habitable.

    Hanika Rizo receives funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).

    Jonathan O’Neil receives funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. The oldest rocks on Earth are more than four billion years old – https://theconversation.com/the-oldest-rocks-on-earth-are-more-than-four-billion-years-old-259657

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI: A New Round of Wealth Storm Is Coming—BTC Miner Equips You to Seize the Next Crypto Boom

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Los Angeles, CA, July 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the price of Bitcoin (BTC) breaks through $110,000, mainstream digital currency markets such as Ripple (XRP) and Ethereum (ETH) continue to be active. As an important part of the crypto market, cloud mining has attracted much attention around the world in recent years.

    Traditional cryptocurrency mining usually requires expensive hardware equipment, high electricity bills and complex technical support, which discourages many potential investors. However, the emergence of BTCMiner cloud mining breaks this barrier. Users do not need to purchase or maintain any mining machines, just choose a suitable contract plan, and they can easily obtain stable passive income through cloud mining.

    BTCminer, a British cloud mining platform, announced that it will use environmentally friendly solar and wind energy, covering more than 110 data centers in Europe, North America and Asia, emphasizing efficient NVIDIA and AMD GPUs. Users do not need to manage hardware, just choose contracts on the platform.

    Advantages of BTCMiner platform:

    Low threshold for participation, no hardware investment required, and $500 will be given for registering an account

    Users do not need to buy mining machines, nor do they need to bear high electricity bills and equipment maintenance costs, completely eliminating the complexity of traditional mining. Just choose a suitable contract to easily start cloud mining and get stable income.

    Multi-currency support
    BTCMiner supports a variety of mainstream digital currencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ripple (XRP), Ethereum (ETH), etc. Users can freely choose the currency for recharge and withdrawal according to personal needs, which is convenient and fast.

    Transparent income model
    All mining income is clear and transparent, and users can view real-time income at any time. The platform’s income calculation is fair and transparent, ensuring that every investor can clearly understand their own financial situation.

    Flexible contract selection
    Provide a variety of flexible mining contract plans, users can choose the contract that suits them, whether it is a short-term contract or a long-term contract, they can get a stable return

    Joining BTCMiner is very simple

    1: Visit the official website to fill in the email address to register →https://btcminer.net

    2: After registration, you can purchase a $500 free contract, and the income will be automatically settled 24 hours a day

    3: Users can choose one contract or multiple contracts at the same time, and each contract is settled independently

    4: Enter the dashboard to view income and transaction records and withdrawals at any time

    BTCMiner partial contract display

    BTCMiner referral reward plan, invite new users to register and invest, you can get up to 7% reward, and get an additional 2% reward from the second-level referral, and earn income easily.

    The prospects and future of cloud mining:

    With the continuous development of the cryptocurrency market, the prospects of cloud mining are very broad. More and more investors are beginning to realize that cloud mining can not only reduce hardware costs, but also provide a more convenient and flexible investment channel. In the future, with the advancement of technology and the improvement of the blockchain ecosystem, cloud mining will become more intelligent, support more types of digital assets, and improve mining efficiency and revenue.

    Get $500 now and start earning high returns

    Official website: https://btcminer.net

    Email: info@btcminer.net

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: A New Round of Wealth Storm Is Coming—BTC Miner Equips You to Seize the Next Crypto Boom

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Los Angeles, CA, July 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the price of Bitcoin (BTC) breaks through $110,000, mainstream digital currency markets such as Ripple (XRP) and Ethereum (ETH) continue to be active. As an important part of the crypto market, cloud mining has attracted much attention around the world in recent years.

    Traditional cryptocurrency mining usually requires expensive hardware equipment, high electricity bills and complex technical support, which discourages many potential investors. However, the emergence of BTCMiner cloud mining breaks this barrier. Users do not need to purchase or maintain any mining machines, just choose a suitable contract plan, and they can easily obtain stable passive income through cloud mining.

    BTCminer, a British cloud mining platform, announced that it will use environmentally friendly solar and wind energy, covering more than 110 data centers in Europe, North America and Asia, emphasizing efficient NVIDIA and AMD GPUs. Users do not need to manage hardware, just choose contracts on the platform.

    Advantages of BTCMiner platform:

    Low threshold for participation, no hardware investment required, and $500 will be given for registering an account

    Users do not need to buy mining machines, nor do they need to bear high electricity bills and equipment maintenance costs, completely eliminating the complexity of traditional mining. Just choose a suitable contract to easily start cloud mining and get stable income.

    Multi-currency support
    BTCMiner supports a variety of mainstream digital currencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ripple (XRP), Ethereum (ETH), etc. Users can freely choose the currency for recharge and withdrawal according to personal needs, which is convenient and fast.

    Transparent income model
    All mining income is clear and transparent, and users can view real-time income at any time. The platform’s income calculation is fair and transparent, ensuring that every investor can clearly understand their own financial situation.

    Flexible contract selection
    Provide a variety of flexible mining contract plans, users can choose the contract that suits them, whether it is a short-term contract or a long-term contract, they can get a stable return

    Joining BTCMiner is very simple

    1: Visit the official website to fill in the email address to register →https://btcminer.net

    2: After registration, you can purchase a $500 free contract, and the income will be automatically settled 24 hours a day

    3: Users can choose one contract or multiple contracts at the same time, and each contract is settled independently

    4: Enter the dashboard to view income and transaction records and withdrawals at any time

    BTCMiner partial contract display

    BTCMiner referral reward plan, invite new users to register and invest, you can get up to 7% reward, and get an additional 2% reward from the second-level referral, and earn income easily.

    The prospects and future of cloud mining:

    With the continuous development of the cryptocurrency market, the prospects of cloud mining are very broad. More and more investors are beginning to realize that cloud mining can not only reduce hardware costs, but also provide a more convenient and flexible investment channel. In the future, with the advancement of technology and the improvement of the blockchain ecosystem, cloud mining will become more intelligent, support more types of digital assets, and improve mining efficiency and revenue.

    Get $500 now and start earning high returns

    Official website: https://btcminer.net

    Email: info@btcminer.net

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • India has never faced fuel shortage, says Hardeep Puri

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Sunday said India has never faced a shortage of petroleum products, even during the Covid pandemic or global conflicts, crediting the government’s foresight for ensuring uninterrupted supplies.

    “Whether it was the period of the global Covid pandemic or geopolitical tensions, there has never been a shortage of petroleum products in India. This has been possible due to the foresight of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Puri said.

    Referring to the recent tensions in the Middle East, including the Israeli attack on Iran that disrupted shipping and threatened closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Puri said India has gradually reduced its dependence on the critical passage.

    “Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, we have diversified our supplies in recent years, and a large share of our imports no longer passes through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.

    India meets about 85 per cent of its crude oil needs through imports. A spike in global oil prices directly raises its import bill and fuels inflation, impacting economic growth. To cushion this, India has expanded its oil sources, ramping up imports from Russia and the US, and building strategic reserves.

    The minister said India now has 23 operational refineries with a combined capacity of 257 million metric tonnes per annum. He also highlighted the setting up of strategic petroleum reserves to ensure supply security during disruptions.

    The country’s storage capacity includes 2.25 million metric tonnes at Pudur, 1.33 MMT at Visakhapatnam, and 1.5 MMT at Mangalore.

    Puri also pointed to the government’s push for green fuels, noting that India has met its target of 20 per cent ethanol blending with petrol six years ahead of schedule. E20 petrol is now available at outlets of Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum across the country.

    “This achievement not only cuts carbon emissions but also saves huge amounts of money. We have saved over Rs 1 lakh crore domestically and Rs 1.5 lakh crore in foreign exchange by reducing our import bill, and this money has gone to our farmers,” he said.

    — IANS

  • India has never faced fuel shortage, says Hardeep Puri

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Sunday said India has never faced a shortage of petroleum products, even during the Covid pandemic or global conflicts, crediting the government’s foresight for ensuring uninterrupted supplies.

    “Whether it was the period of the global Covid pandemic or geopolitical tensions, there has never been a shortage of petroleum products in India. This has been possible due to the foresight of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Puri said.

    Referring to the recent tensions in the Middle East, including the Israeli attack on Iran that disrupted shipping and threatened closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Puri said India has gradually reduced its dependence on the critical passage.

    “Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, we have diversified our supplies in recent years, and a large share of our imports no longer passes through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.

    India meets about 85 per cent of its crude oil needs through imports. A spike in global oil prices directly raises its import bill and fuels inflation, impacting economic growth. To cushion this, India has expanded its oil sources, ramping up imports from Russia and the US, and building strategic reserves.

    The minister said India now has 23 operational refineries with a combined capacity of 257 million metric tonnes per annum. He also highlighted the setting up of strategic petroleum reserves to ensure supply security during disruptions.

    The country’s storage capacity includes 2.25 million metric tonnes at Pudur, 1.33 MMT at Visakhapatnam, and 1.5 MMT at Mangalore.

    Puri also pointed to the government’s push for green fuels, noting that India has met its target of 20 per cent ethanol blending with petrol six years ahead of schedule. E20 petrol is now available at outlets of Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum across the country.

    “This achievement not only cuts carbon emissions but also saves huge amounts of money. We have saved over Rs 1 lakh crore domestically and Rs 1.5 lakh crore in foreign exchange by reducing our import bill, and this money has gone to our farmers,” he said.

    — IANS

  • India has never faced fuel shortage, says Hardeep Puri

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Sunday said India has never faced a shortage of petroleum products, even during the Covid pandemic or global conflicts, crediting the government’s foresight for ensuring uninterrupted supplies.

    “Whether it was the period of the global Covid pandemic or geopolitical tensions, there has never been a shortage of petroleum products in India. This has been possible due to the foresight of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Puri said.

    Referring to the recent tensions in the Middle East, including the Israeli attack on Iran that disrupted shipping and threatened closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Puri said India has gradually reduced its dependence on the critical passage.

    “Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, we have diversified our supplies in recent years, and a large share of our imports no longer passes through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.

    India meets about 85 per cent of its crude oil needs through imports. A spike in global oil prices directly raises its import bill and fuels inflation, impacting economic growth. To cushion this, India has expanded its oil sources, ramping up imports from Russia and the US, and building strategic reserves.

    The minister said India now has 23 operational refineries with a combined capacity of 257 million metric tonnes per annum. He also highlighted the setting up of strategic petroleum reserves to ensure supply security during disruptions.

    The country’s storage capacity includes 2.25 million metric tonnes at Pudur, 1.33 MMT at Visakhapatnam, and 1.5 MMT at Mangalore.

    Puri also pointed to the government’s push for green fuels, noting that India has met its target of 20 per cent ethanol blending with petrol six years ahead of schedule. E20 petrol is now available at outlets of Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum across the country.

    “This achievement not only cuts carbon emissions but also saves huge amounts of money. We have saved over Rs 1 lakh crore domestically and Rs 1.5 lakh crore in foreign exchange by reducing our import bill, and this money has gone to our farmers,” he said.

    — IANS

  • India has never faced fuel shortage, says Hardeep Puri

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Sunday said India has never faced a shortage of petroleum products, even during the Covid pandemic or global conflicts, crediting the government’s foresight for ensuring uninterrupted supplies.

    “Whether it was the period of the global Covid pandemic or geopolitical tensions, there has never been a shortage of petroleum products in India. This has been possible due to the foresight of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Puri said.

    Referring to the recent tensions in the Middle East, including the Israeli attack on Iran that disrupted shipping and threatened closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Puri said India has gradually reduced its dependence on the critical passage.

    “Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, we have diversified our supplies in recent years, and a large share of our imports no longer passes through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.

    India meets about 85 per cent of its crude oil needs through imports. A spike in global oil prices directly raises its import bill and fuels inflation, impacting economic growth. To cushion this, India has expanded its oil sources, ramping up imports from Russia and the US, and building strategic reserves.

    The minister said India now has 23 operational refineries with a combined capacity of 257 million metric tonnes per annum. He also highlighted the setting up of strategic petroleum reserves to ensure supply security during disruptions.

    The country’s storage capacity includes 2.25 million metric tonnes at Pudur, 1.33 MMT at Visakhapatnam, and 1.5 MMT at Mangalore.

    Puri also pointed to the government’s push for green fuels, noting that India has met its target of 20 per cent ethanol blending with petrol six years ahead of schedule. E20 petrol is now available at outlets of Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum across the country.

    “This achievement not only cuts carbon emissions but also saves huge amounts of money. We have saved over Rs 1 lakh crore domestically and Rs 1.5 lakh crore in foreign exchange by reducing our import bill, and this money has gone to our farmers,” he said.

    — IANS