NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • India emerges as global leader in child immunization: zero-dose rate halves in one year

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has recorded a significant milestone in its national immunization efforts, with the percentage of zero-dose children—those who have not received a single vaccine—falling from 0.11% in 2023 to 0.06% in 2024. The achievement has been acknowledged in the 2024 report by the United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME), positioning India as a global leader in child health and immunization.

    The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in a statement issued on Saturday, attributed the progress to India’s robust Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), which provides free vaccines to 2.9 crore pregnant women and 2.6 crore infants annually. More than 1.3 crore immunization sessions are conducted across the country by healthcare workers, including ASHAs and ANMs, ensuring widespread vaccine outreach.

    This progress has drawn global recognition, with India being awarded the prestigious *Measles and Rubella Champion Award* by The Measles and Rubella Partnership in March 2024 at a ceremony held in Washington, D.C. The award recognizes India’s sustained commitment to eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases.

    In addition to reductions in zero-dose prevalence, India has also seen significant improvements in broader health outcomes. According to the United Nations Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (UN-MMEIG), India’s Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) declined to 80 per lakh live births in 2023—an 86% reduction since 1990, far outpacing the global decline of 48%. The country has also achieved a 78% decline in Under-Five Mortality Rate and a 70% decline in Neonatal Mortality Rate during the 1990–2023 period, compared to global reductions of 61% and 54%, respectively.

    India’s UIP has undergone considerable expansion in the past decade. From just six vaccines in 2013, the program now covers 12 vaccine-preventable diseases, including the addition of Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV), Rotavirus Vaccine, Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine, and Measles-Rubella Vaccine, among others.

    The government’s intensified initiatives, such as *Mission Indradhanush*, have played a key role in reaching underserved populations. Since its launch in 2014—and with significant intensification in 2017—the campaign has vaccinated over 5.46 crore children and 1.32 crore pregnant women who were previously unreached or under-immunized.

    A targeted *Zero Dose Implementation Plan 2024* is currently underway in 143 districts across 11 states, addressing vaccine coverage gaps among migratory populations, urban slums, and regions with persistent vaccine hesitancy. India has also maintained its polio-free status since 2014 through sustained Pulse Polio campaigns, and regularly organizes Village Health and Nutrition Days (VHNDs) for community-based immunization efforts.

    Digital innovations like the *U-WIN platform* are being leveraged to track immunization data and prevent dropouts. Public engagement strategies—ranging from social media outreach to street plays—are being used to increase awareness and reduce vaccine hesitancy.

    Data from the WHO-UNICEF Estimates of National Immunization Coverage (WUENIC) 2023 report shows India outperforming global averages across all antigens. The country’s DTP-1 (Pentavalent-1) coverage stands at 93%, significantly higher than Nigeria’s 70%. The dropout rate between DTP-1 and DTP-3 has also decreased sharply from 7% in 2013 to just 2% in 2023. Measles vaccine coverage improved from 83% to 93% over the same period.

    The government emphasized that comparisons with other countries must consider India’s massive population base. While countries like Yemen (1.68%), Sudan (1.45%), and Nigeria (0.98%) continue to report high proportions of zero-dose children, India’s 0.06% rate, despite a far larger birth cohort, reflects substantial progress.

  • MNRE revises guidelines for waste-to-energy projects to boost efficiency and accelerate financial support

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in Saturday announced revised guidelines for the Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Programme under the National Bioenergy Programme, aiming to create a more efficient, transparent, and performance-driven ecosystem for bioenergy deployment in India. The updated framework simplifies processes, accelerates financial assistance, and ties support to plant performance, fostering a business-friendly environment for both private and public sector entities, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

    The revised guidelines streamline procedures by reducing paperwork and easing approval requirements, enabling enhanced production of compressed biogas (CBG), biogas, and power. These changes support improved waste management, including stubble and industrial waste, aligning with India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

    A key feature of the revised guidelines is an improved system for disbursing Central Financial Assistance (CFA). Previously, developers had to wait until their WtE projects achieved 80% generation capacity to receive funding. The new framework allows CFA to be released in two stages: 50% of the total CFA will be disbursed upon obtaining the Consent to Operate certificate from the State Pollution Control Board, backed by a bank guarantee, with the remaining amount released after the plant achieves 80% of its rated capacity or the maximum CFA-eligible capacity, whichever is lower. For plants failing to reach 80% capacity during performance inspections, a pro-rata disbursement based on output percentage is now available, though no CFA will be provided if the plant load factor falls below 50%. This flexibility acknowledges operational challenges and enhances financial viability for developersေ

    The inspection process has also been refined to ensure greater transparency and accountability. Joint inspections will now be conducted by the National Institute of Bio-Energy (SSS-NIBE), an autonomous MNRE institute, alongside a representative from State Nodal Agencies, Biogas Technology Development Centers, or an MNRE-empaneled agency. For developers not opting for advance CFA, only one performance inspection is required, minimizing procedural delays.

    Additionally, the guidelines provide developers with flexibility to claim CFA within 18 months from either the date of commissioning or the date of in-principle CFA approval, whichever is later.

    These revisions mark a significant step toward supporting India’s clean energy sector. By aligning financial support with actual performance, simplifying compliance, and improving access to funding, MNRE is fostering a conducive environment for WtE projects. This initiative not only aids private players in the sector but also advances India’s goals of sustainable waste management and renewable energy development.

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Aadhaar Enabled Payment System – Due Diligence of AePS Touchpoint Operators

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    RBI/2025-26/63
    CO.DPSS.POLC.No.S339/02-01-001/2025-2026

    June 27, 2025

    The Chairman / Managing Director / Chief Executive
    All Scheduled Commercial Banks including RRBs /
    Urban Cooperative Banks / State Cooperative Banks / District Central Cooperative Banks / National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)

    Madam / Dear Sir,

    Aadhaar Enabled Payment System – Due Diligence of AePS Touchpoint Operators

    Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) is a payment system operated by National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) that facilitates interoperable transactions using Aadhaar enabled authentication. AePS plays a prominent role in enabling financial inclusion.

    2. In recent times, there have been reports of frauds perpetuated through AePS due to identity theft or compromise of customer credentials. To protect bank customers from such frauds, and to maintain trust and confidence in the safety and security of the system, a need is felt to enhance the robustness of AePS. Accordingly, as announced in Statement on Developmental and Regulatory Policies dated February 08, 2024, it has been decided to issue directions for streamlining the process for onboarding of AePS touchpoint operators and strengthening fraud risk management. Detailed instructions are placed in the Annex.

    3. These directions are issued under Section 18 read with Section 10(2) of the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act, 2007 (Act 51 of 2007) and shall come into effect from January 01, 2026.

    Yours faithfully,

    (Gunveer Singh)
    Chief General Manager-in-Charge

    Encl.: Annex

    Annex

    CO.DPSS.POLC.No.S339/02-01-001/2025-2026

    June 27, 2025

    Aadhaar Enabled Payment System –
    Due Diligence of AePS Touchpoint Operators

    1. Definitions

    I. In these directions, the terms herein shall bear the meanings assigned to them below:

    1. Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS): It is a Payment System in which transactions are enabled through Aadhaar number and biometrics or OTP authentication providing financial services such as cash withdrawal, cash deposit, fund transfer, and non-financial services such as mini statement and balance enquiry. etc.

    2. Acquiring bank: The bank which onboards the AePS touchpoint operators.

    3. AePS Touchpoint: The terminal deployed by acquirer banks to facilitate AePS transactions, which shall include both mobile and fixed points.

    4. AePS Touchpoint Operator (ATO): The individual onboarded by the acquiring bank who operates the AePS touchpoint.

    II. Terms pertaining to Aadhaar, Aadhaar biometric authentication, etc., shall have the same meaning as assigned to them in the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016 (18 of 2016), and the rules made thereunder.

    III. Words and expressions used but not defined in I and II above and defined in the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 shall have the meanings assigned to them in that Act.

    2. Due diligence of AePS Touchpoint Operators

    2.1 The acquiring bank shall carry out due diligence of all ATOs before onboarding them, adopting the same process as indicated in the Customer Due Diligence procedure for individuals, stipulated in paragraph 16 of Part-I, Chapter-VI of the Master Direction – Know Your Customer Direction, 2016 (as updated from time to time), issued by the Reserve Bank. However, if the due diligence of ATOs has already been done in their capacity as Business Correspondent / sub-agent, then the same may be adopted. The acquiring bank shall also carry out periodic updation of KYC of ATOs.

    2.2 In cases where an ATO has remained inactive, i.e. has not performed any financial / non-financial transaction for a customer for a continuous period of three months, acquiring bank shall carry out KYC of ATO before enabling him / her to transact further.

    3. Risk Management

    3.1 The acquiring bank shall monitor the activities of ATOs through their transaction monitoring systems on an ongoing basis and set operational parameters, based on business risk profile of the ATOs. Aspects such as location and type of the ATO, volume and velocity of transactions, etc. shall form part of bank’s fraud risk management framework.

    3.2 The operational parameters regarding ATOs shall be reviewed on a periodic basis, reflecting emerging fraud trends.

    3.3 The acquiring bank shall put in place adequate system level controls to ensure that any technological integrations like APIs are used only for enabling AePS operations.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected cocaine and suspected crack cocaine worth about $8.8 million (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs yesterday (June 27) cracked down on a suspected drug storage centre in San Tin, Yuen Long and seized about 4.7 kilograms of suspected cocaine and about 4.3 kg of suspected crack cocaine with a total estimated market value of about $8.8 million. A 27-year-old man was arrested.

    During an anti-narcotics operation conducted in San Tin last night, Customs officers intercepted a suspicious man and seized about 1.1kg of suspected crack cocaine inside a thermal bag carried by him. The man was subsequently arrested. Customs officers later escorted him to a village house unit nearby for a search and further seized about 4.7kg of suspected cocaine, about 3.2kg of suspected crack cocaine and a batch of suspected drug packaging paraphernalia.

    The arrestee, who claimed to be unemployed, has been charged with two counts of trafficking in dangerous drug and will appear at the Fanling Magistrates’ Courts on June 30.

    Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.

    Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002). 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Eugene Doyle: Why Asia-Pacific should be cheering for Iran and not US bomb-based statecraft

    ANALYSIS: By Eugene Doyle

    Setting aside any thoughts I may have about theocratic rulers (whether they be in Tel Aviv or Tehran), I am personally glad that Iran was able to hold out against the US-Israeli attacks this month.

    The ceasefire, however, will only be a pause in the long-running campaign to destabilise, weaken and isolate Iran. Regime change or pariah status are both acceptable outcomes for the US-Israeli dyad.

    The good news for my region is that Iran’s resilience pushes back what could be a looming calamity: the US pivot to Asia and a heightened risk of a war on China.

    There are three major pillars to the Eurasian order that is going through a slow, painful and violent birth.  Iran is the weakest.  If Iran falls, war in our region — intended or unintended – becomes vastly more likely.

    Mainstream New Zealanders and Australians suffer from an understandable complacency: war is what happens to other, mainly darker people or Slavs.

    “Tomorrow”, people in this part of the world naively think, “will always be like yesterday”.

    That could change, particularly for the Australians, in the kind of unfamiliar flash-boom Israelis experienced this month following their attack on Iran. And here’s why.

    US chooses war to re-shape Middle East
     Back in 2001, as many will recall, retired General Wesley Clark, former Supreme Commander of NATO forces in Europe, was visiting buddies in the Pentagon. He learnt something he wasn’t supposed to: the Bush administration had made plans in the febrile post 9/11 environment to attack seven Muslim countries.

    In the firing line were: Saddam Hussein’s Iraq, the Assad regime in Syria, Hezbollah-dominated Lebanon, Gaddafi’s Libya, Somalia, Sudan and the biggest prize of all — the Islamic Republic of Iran.

    One would have to say that the project, pursued by successive presidents, both Democrat and Republican, has been a great success — if you discount the fact that a couple of million human beings, most of them civilians, many of them women and children, nearly all of them innocents, were slaughtered, starved to death or otherwise disposed of.

    With the exception of Iran, those countries have endured chaos and civil strife for long painful years.  A triumph of American bomb-based statecraft.

    Now — with Muammar Gaddafi raped and murdered (“We came, we saw, he died”, Hillary Clinton chuckled on camera the same day), Saddam Hussein hanged, Hezbollah decapitated, Assad in Moscow, the genocide in full swing in Palestine — the US and Israel were finally able to turn their guns — or, rather, bombs — on the great prize: Iran.

    Iran’s missiles have checked US-Israel for time being
     Things did not go to plan. Former US ambassador to Saudi Arabia Chas Freeman pointed out this week that for the first time Israel got a taste of the medicine it likes to dispense to its neighbours.

    Iran’s missiles successfully turned the much-vaunted Iron Dome into an Iron Sieve and, perhaps momentarily, has achieved deterrence. If Iran falls, the US will be able to do what Barack Obama and Joe Biden only salivated over — a serious pivot to Asia.

    Could great power rivalry turn Asia-Pacific into powderkeg?
     For us in Asia-Pacific a major US pivot to Asia will mean soaring defence budgets to support militarisation, aggressive containment of China, provocative naval deployments, more sanctions, muscling smaller states, increased numbers of bases, new missile systems, info wars, threats and the ratcheting up rhetoric — all of which will bring us ever-closer to the powderkeg.

    Sounds utterly mad? Sounds devoid of rationality? Lacking commonsense? Welcome to our world — bellum Americanum — as we gormlessly march flame in hand towards the tinderbox. War is not written in the stars, we can change tack and rediscover diplomacy, restraint, and peaceful coexistence. Or is that too much to ask?

    Back in the days of George W Bush, radical American thinkers like Robert Kagan, Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld created the Project for a New American Century and developed the policy, adopted by succeeding presidents, that promotes “the belief that America should seek to preserve and extend its position of global leadership by maintaining the preeminence of US military forces”.

    It reconfirmed the neoconservative American dogma that no power should be allowed to rise in any region to become a regional hegemon; anything and everything necessary should be done to ensure continued American primacy, including the resort to war.

    What has changed since those days are two crucial, epoch-making events: the re-emergence of Russia as a great power, albeit the weakest of the three, and the emergence of China as a genuine peer competitor to the USA. Professor  John Mearsheimer’s insights are well worth studying on this topic.

    The three pillars of multipolarity
     A new world order really is being born. As geopolitical thinkers like Professor Glenn Diesen point out, it will, if it is not killed in the cradle, replace the US unipolar world order that has existed since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.

    Many countries are involved in its birthing, including major players like India and Brazil and all the countries that are part of BRICS.  Three countries, however, are central to the project: Iran, Russia and, most importantly, China.  All three are in the crosshairs of the Western empire.

    If Iran, Russia and China survive as independent entities, they will partially fulfill Halford MacKinder’s early 20th century heartland theory that whoever dominates Eurasia will rule the world. I don’t think MacKinder, however, foresaw cooperative multipolarity on the Eurasian landmass — which is one of the goals of the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) – as an option.

    That, increasingly, appears to be the most likely trajectory with multiple powerful states that will not accept domination, be that from China or the US.  That alone should give us cause for hope.

    Drunk on power since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the US has launched war after war and brought us to the current abandonment of economic sanity (the sanctions-and-tariff global pandemic) and diplomatic normalcy (kill any peace negotiators you see) — and an anything-goes foreign policy (including massive crimes against humanity).

    We have also reached — thanks in large part to these same policies — what a former US national security advisor warned must be avoided at all costs. Back in the 1990s, Zbigniew Brzezinski said, “The most dangerous scenario would be a grand coalition of China, Russia, and perhaps Iran.”

    Belligerent and devoid of sound strategy, the Biden and Trump administrations have achieved just that.

    Can Asia-Pacific avoid being dragged into an American war on China?
     Turning to our region, New Zealand and Australia’s governments cleave to yesterday: a white-dominated world led by the USA.  We have shown ourselves indifferent to massacres, ethnic cleansing and wars of aggression launched by our team.

    To avoid war — or a permanent fear of looming war — in our own backyards, we need to encourage sanity and diplomacy; we need to stay close to the US but step away from the military alliances they are forming, such as AUKUS which is aimed squarely at China.

    Above all, our defence and foreign affairs elites need to grow new neural pathways and start to think with vision and not place ourselves on the losing side of history. Independent foreign policy settings based around peace, defence not aggression, diplomacy not militarisation, would take us in the right direction.

    Personally I look forward to the day the US and its increasingly belligerent vassals are pushed back into the ranks of ordinary humanity. I fear the US far more than I do China.

    Despite the reflexive adherence to the US that our leaders are stuck on, we should not, if we value our lives and our cultures, allow ourselves to be part of this mad, doomed project.

    The US empire is heading into a blood-drenched sunset; their project will fail and the 500-year empire of the White West will end — starting and finishing with genocide.

    Every day I atheistically pray that leaders or a movement will emerge to guide our antipodean countries out of the clutches of a violent and increasingly incoherent USA.

    America is not our friend. China is not our enemy. Tomorrow gives birth to a world that we should look forward to and do the little we can to help shape.

    Eugene Doyle is a writer based in Wellington. He has written extensively on the Middle East, as well as peace and security issues in the Asia Pacific region. He contributes to Asia Pacific Report and Café Pacific, and hosts the public policy platform solidarity.co.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Winnie Ho meets officials in Beijing

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho called on the State Council Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office and the Ministry of Housing & Urban-Rural Development on the last day of her visit to Beijing.

    Ms Ho first met State Council Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office Deputy Director Nong Rong and reported the work of the Housing Bureau.

    She told Mr Nong that to combat tenancy abuse, around 8,700 public rental housing units have been recovered so far.

    Meanwhile, the bureau has been making good progress on constructing about 30,000 units Light Public Housing (LPH) by 2027. The intake of the first LPH project with some 2,100 units on Yau Pok Road in Yuen Long has been completed smoothly, whilst the project on Choi Hing Road in Ngau Tau Kok, with about 2,300 units, will commence intake in phases by the end of this month. The remaining projects are also pressing ahead at full speed.

    She added that the Housing Bureau will introduce the Basic Housing Units Bill into the Legislative Council for the first and second readings in July, and strive to complete the legislative work within this year.

    Ms Ho then called on Minister of Housing & Urban-Rural Development Ni Hong to introduce the bureau’s work, as well as share the adoption of advanced construction technologies from the Mainland in Hong Kong and the outcomes.

    She highlighted that the bureau will organise a series of activities and visits this year, including an international symposium to be held in Hong Kong in November, to showcase the latest developments of construction technologies in the Mainland and Hong Kong. She also stressed that the bureau will fully capitalise on Hong Kong’s advantages of connecting with both the Mainland and the rest of the world, and play the role of a “super connector” and a “super value-adder”.

    Concluding the visit, Ms Ho said: “The visit not only provided an opportunity to showcase the achievements of the collaborative development of Hong Kong and the Mainland construction industries to experts and scholars from different regions at the Asia-Pacific Network for Housing Research 2025 Conference, it also strengthened exchanges between Hong Kong and the Mainland on smart construction, smart property management, community building and housing policies.

    “In addition, echoing the Housing•I&T initiative of the Housing Bureau this year, this trip enabled us to gain a better understanding of the latest developments of advanced technologies on the Mainland.”

    Furthermore, she encouraged the industry to use public housing as a testing ground for trials of new technologies, and to research and develop innovative construction technologies and smart management technologies that are locally applicable and globally accepted, in order to provide a better living environment for the people.

    Ms Ho returned to Hong Kong last night.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Yellow alert for two days in Delhi-NCR, rain likely to bring relief from heat

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Delhi and the adjoining National Capital Region (NCR) for the next two days, forecasting light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.

    According to the IMD bulletin, the weather is expected to remain unstable on June 28 and June 29, with rain and thunder likely to occur both during the day and at night. A dip in temperature is also expected, offering some respite from the persistent heat.

    On Saturday (June 28), the maximum temperature in Delhi is likely to hover around 36 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may settle at 27 degrees Celsius.

    Light to moderate showers are predicted, especially in the evening and night, along with thunderstorms and lightning. Humidity levels will remain high, ranging between 55 and 70 per cent.

    The weather activity is expected to intensify on Sunday (June 29), with rainfall likely to occur throughout the day — in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

    The maximum temperature may drop to 33 degrees Celsius, and the minimum to around 26 degrees C, offering a noticeable relief from the current heatwave conditions.

    Looking ahead, the IMD has not issued any alert for June 30, although cloudy skies and moderate rain are likely. Similarly, July 1 may witness thunderstorms, but no warning has been issued so far.

    Intermittent rain and thunder may continue on July 2 and 3, but again, no weather warnings have been issued for these days. Daytime temperatures during this period are expected to remain between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures will likely hover around 26-27 degrees Celsius.

    The IMD expects a slight but steady decline in temperature over the coming days, which may bring much-needed relief from the heat and improve air quality levels in the region.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Significant influx of Chinese tourists to boost Malaysia’s tourism growth

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    KUALA LUMPUR, June 28 (Xinhua) — Despite the gloomy economic outlook, Hong Leong Investment Bank predicts that Malaysia’s tourism growth will remain unchanged, driven by a significant influx of Chinese tourists.

    The research house said in a report released on Thursday that Malaysia’s tourism performance in the first quarter was strong. Tourist arrivals and revenues rose 10 percent and 24 percent year-on-year to RM6.4 million and RM27.5 billion (US$6.5 billion), respectively, while average expenditure per tourist rose to RM4,300.

    “This may be due to the sharp increase in the number of Chinese tourists in the first three months of this year (up 27 percent year-on-year),” the report said.

    Malaysia has set an ambitious tourism target for 2025: to welcome 31.3 million tourists and generate RM125.5 billion in revenue, which would translate into year-on-year growth of 25 percent and 23 percent, respectively.

    In its report, Hong Leong Investment Bank highlighted that Chinese tourists tend to stay longer in Malaysia and spend more. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 4 giant pandas at western Japan zoo depart for China

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

    Four giant pandas in the western Japanese prefecture of Wakayama departed for China on Saturday.

    The giant pandas, 24-year-old Rauhin and her three daughters, eight-year-old Yuihin, six-year-old Saihin and four-year-old Fuhin, left Adventure World amusement park in the town of Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture, for the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in China’s Sichuan Province.

    Early in the morning, park staff waved flags to bid farewell to the giant pandas, while many fans, wearing T-shirts with pictures of the four giant pandas on them, waited at the intersection outside the park to wave goodbye when the pandas’ transport truck passed by.

    The zoo’s director Koji Imazu said in an interview with the media that although the giant pandas have left, the amusement park still hopes to retain the panda element as an important part of attracting visitors.

    “I hope the giant pandas will continue to live a healthy and long life after returning to China and present themselves in good condition to the Chinese people and those who visit them from Japan in the future,” he said.

    The zoo’s panda breeding team said the four pandas are currently in good condition and that the team has fully communicated with the staff who will take over their care in China about the characteristics and traits of each panda.

    Adventure World began a joint breeding program with the Chinese panda research base in 1994.

    According to the zoo operator, since the joint conservation project is set to expire in August this year, in order to reduce the physical burden on the giant pandas during transportation, the two sides have agreed to complete the transfer in June when the temperature is relatively cool.

    Rauhin has entered old age and will enjoy her later years in a more well-equipped medical environment after returning to China. The young ones, meanwhile, are expected to take on the mission of breeding new lives. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • India to celebrate 19th Statistics Day on June 29, highlighting 75 years of National Sample Survey

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) will mark the 19th Statistics Day on June 29, at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. This annual event commemorates the birth anniversary of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, a pioneer in statistics and economic planning, and aims to raise public awareness, particularly among the younger generation, about the role of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation for national development.

    The theme for this year’s celebration, “75 Years of National Sample Survey,” underscores the critical role of the National Sample Survey (NSS) in providing reliable and timely statistical data that supports evidence-based decision-making and governance in India. Since 2007, Statistics Day has been celebrated annually with a theme of national significance.

    The event will be inaugurated by Rao Inderjit Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for MoSPI, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Planning, and Minister of State for the Ministry of Culture, who will serve as the Chief Guest. The inaugural session will feature addresses by Prof. Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar, Chairman of the National Statistical Commission, and Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary of MoSPI.

    To mark the 75th anniversary of the NSS, MoSPI will release a Commemorative Coin and a Customized My Stamp. Several key statistical publications, including the Sustainable Development Goals – National Indicator Framework Progress Report 2025 and Nutritional Intake in India 2022-23 & 2023-24, will also be launched. Additionally, MoSPI will introduce the GoIStat mobile application, designed to provide user-friendly access to official statistics. The prestigious Prof. C.R. Rao National Award in Statistics will be conferred, and winners of MoSPI’s Data Visualization Hackathon will be felicitated. The vote of thanks will be delivered by P.R. Meshram, Director General of MoSPI.

    Following the inauguration, a technical session will feature a short film showcasing 75 years of the NSS, followed by a panel discussion on “Impact of Frontier Technologies on Official Statistics.” Moderated by Dr. Shamika Ravi, Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, the panel will include Dr. Debasisa Mohanty, Director of the National Institute of Immunology; Prakash Kumar, CEO of the Wadhwani Centre for Government Digital Transformation; and Amitabha Tripathi, SVP and Head of Analytics Consulting and Solution at Aditya Birla Management Corporation Pvt. Ltd.

    Approximately 700 participants, including officials from Central Ministries, NITI Aayog, state governments, Union Territory administrations, representatives from international and national organizations, domain experts, and research institutions, are expected to attend. The event’s highlights will be shared on MoSPI’s social media platforms.

  • India rejects ‘Supplemental Award’ by Illegal Court of Arbitration under Indus Waters Treaty

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India on Friday firmly rejected a so-called “supplemental award” issued by an illegally constituted Court of Arbitration, purportedly formed under the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, concerning the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the award, along with all prior pronouncements by this body, as illegal and void, citing the tribunal’s formation as a serious violation of the treaty itself.

    The MEA emphasized that India has never recognized the legal existence of this arbitral body, describing its constitution as a breach of the Indus Waters Treaty. Following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, India, exercising its sovereign rights under international law, has placed the treaty in abeyance until Pakistan demonstrably ceases its support for cross-border terrorism. During this period, India is not obligated to comply with the treaty’s provisions, rendering any arbitration proceedings or decisions by this body without jurisdiction or legal standing.

    The ministry condemned the arbitration as a maneuver by Pakistan to evade accountability for its role as a global hub of terrorism. The MEA described Pakistan’s pursuit of this “fabricated arbitration mechanism” as part of a long-standing pattern of deception and manipulation of international forums.

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: New wealth of top 1% surges by over $33.9 trillion since 2015 – enough to end poverty 22 times over, as Oxfam warns global development “abysmally off track” ahead of crunch talks

    Source: Oxfam –

    • Oxfam condemns “private finance takeover” of development efforts, as over 3.7 billion people remain in poverty ten years after the Sustainable Development Goals were agreed. 
       
    • New Oxfam analysis unveils “astronomical rise in private wealth”. Between 1995 and 2023, global private wealth grew by $342 trillion – 8 times more than public wealth.  
       
    • Oxfam analysis also shows governments are making the largest cuts to life-saving aid since aid records began. Aid cuts could cause 2.9 million more children and adults to die by 2030, from HIV/AIDS causes alone. 
    • Results of a new global survey show 9 out of 10 people support paying for public services and climate action through taxing the super-rich. 
    • Oxfam urges new strategic alliances to address inequality; urgently revitalize aid and tax the super-rich; and assert new “public-first” approach over private finance. 

    The world’s richest 1% increased their wealth by more than $33.9 trillion in real terms since 2015, reveals new Oxfam analysis ahead of the world’s largest development financing talks in a decade, in Seville, Spain. This is more than enough to eliminate annual poverty 22 times over at the World Bank’s highest poverty line of $8.30 a day. The wealth of just 3,000 billionaires has surged $6.5 trillion in real terms since 2015, and now comprises the equivalent of 14.6% of global GDP.

    Oxfam’s new briefing paper, “From Private Profit to Public Power: Financing Development, Not Oligarchy”, launches today ahead of the June 30 fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, hosted by Spain and joined by over 190 countries.  

    Wealthy governments are making the largest cuts to life-saving development aid since aid records began in 1960. Oxfam analysis finds that G7 countries alone, who account for around three-quarters of all official aid, are cutting aid by 28% for 2026 compared to 2024. Whilst critical aid is cut, the debt crisis is bankrupting governments – 60% of low-income countries are at the edge of a debt crisis – with the poorest countries paying out far more to repay their rich creditors than they are able to spend on classrooms or clinics. Only 16% of the targets for the Global Goals are on track for 2030. 

    Oxfam’s new analysis examines the failures of a private investor-focused approach to funding development. A decade-long effort by major development actors to recast their mission as one of supporting powerful Global North financial actors has led in fact to a host of harms and at the same time only mobilized paltry sums. The analysis also looks at the role of private creditors, who now outpace bilateral lenders by five times and account for more than half the debt owed by low- and middle-income countries, in exacerbating the debt crisis with their refusal to negotiate and their punitive terms. 

    “Seville is the first major gathering of countries worldwide at a time that life-saving aid is being decimated, a trade war has started, and multilateralism being fractured – all in the backdrop of the second Trump administration. There is glaring evidence that global development is desperately failing because – as the last decade shows – the interests of a very wealthy few are put over those of everyone else,” said Amitabh Behar, Executive Director of Oxfam International. 

    What the World Bank described as a “billions to trillions” paradigm shift has been a boon for wealthy investors – the richest 1% own 43% of global assets – but now faces overwhelming evidence of failure, even according to former champions. Alarmingly, there is new momentum behind the idea of diverting the little aid that remains to private financial actors. 

    “Rich countries have put Wall Street in the driver’s seat of global development. It’s a global private finance takeover which has overrun the evidence-backed ways to tackle poverty through public investments and fair taxation. It is no wonder governments are abysmally off track, be it on fostering decent jobs, gender equality, or ending hunger. This much wealth concentration is choking efforts to end poverty”, said Behar. 

    New Oxfam analysis shows that between 1995 and 2023, global private wealth grew by $342 trillion – 8 times more than global public wealth, which grew by just $44 trillion. Global public wealth – as a share of total wealth – actually fell between 1995 and 2023.  

    Oxfam is urging governments to rally behind policy and political proposals that offer a change in course by tackling extreme inequality and transforming the development financing system:  

    • New strategic alliances against inequality. Governments must band together in new coalitions to oppose extreme inequality. Countries such as Brazil, South Africa and Spain are offering leadership to do so internationally. A new ‘Global Alliance Against Inequality’ supported by Germany, Norway, Sierra Leone and others sets an example for nations to back.  
    • Public-first approach – reject the Wall Street Consensus. Governments should reject private finance as the silver bullet to funding development. Instead, governments should invest in state-led development – to ensure universal high-quality healthcare, education and care services, and explore publicly-delivered goods in sectors from energy to transportation.  
    • Total rethink of development financing – tax the ultra-rich, revitalize aid, reform debt architecture, and move beyond GDP indicators. Global North donors must urgently reverse catastrophic cuts to lifesaving aid and meet the 0.7% ODA target as minimum. Governments must back efforts for a new UN debt convention, and support the UN tax convention, building on Brazil’s G20 effort to tax high-net-worth-individuals.   

    “Trillions of dollars exist to meet the global goals, but they’re locked away in private accounts of the ultra-wealthy. It’s time we rejected the Wall Street Consensus and instead put the public in the driving seat. Governments should heed widespread demands to tax the rich – and match it with a vision to build public goods from healthcare to energy. It’s a hopeful sign that some governments are banding together to fight inequality – more should follow their lead, starting in Seville”, said Behar. 

    Oxfam’s media briefing note, “From Private Profit to Public Power: Financing Development, Not Oligarchy” can be downloaded here.  

    Oxfam’s analysis of the historic cuts to development aid and their impact on the poorest can be found here. The modelling on HIV/AIDS deaths was published in the Lancet HIV. 

    The study that surveyed global opinion on taxing the super-rich was commissioned by Greenpeace and Oxfam International. The research was conducted by first party data company Dynata in May-June 2025, in Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Kenya, Italy, India, Mexico, the Philippines, South Africa, Spain, the UK and the US. The survey had approximately 1200 respondents per country, with a margin of error of +-2.83%. Together, these countries represent close to half the world’s population. See the results here. 

    The cost of ending poverty is based on the annual cost of ending poverty in 2024 for one year, for the over 3.7 billion people living below the $8.30 a day poverty line, according to World Bank data. The increase in wealth of the 1% since 2015 would be more than enough to meet this cost 22 times over. Another way of expressing this is that the total amount is more than enough to completely end poverty for 22 years. This is only indicative, as the cost of ending poverty would likely fall over the next 22 years anyway as the numbers living in poverty reduce, and the value of the wealth would increase as it would not be spent all at once. But nevertheless this comparison indicates the extent to which more wealth, which is being greatly concentrated in the hands of a few, could be directed to ending poverty instead of further inflating the fortunes of the richest. For further information on the calculations see the media briefing paper. 

    Oxfam will be hosting a major high-level event together with Club de Madrid, at 7pm on July 1, 2025, in Seville, joined by high-level government representatives on the media briefing note. Journalists are invited to attend and will be prioritized for questions. Please register here. 

    Moreover, an official side event on inequality and tax reform will take place at 2.30pm on July 1, 2025, at the FIBES Exhibition Centre room 20 joined by high-level government representatives from Brazil, Spain and South Africa, international organizations and global experts. See note here. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Awards presented for Water Safety Campaign slogan and graphic design competitions (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         To enhance public awareness of water safety, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the Hong Kong China Life Saving Society (HKLSS) jointly organised the Water Safety Campaign 2025. The prize presentation ceremony for its slogan and graphic design competitions for primary and secondary school students was held at the Kowloon Park Arcade today (June 28). Game stalls were also set up at the entrance lobby of the Kowloon Park Swimming Pool’s spectator stands to promote water safety.
     
         Addressing the ceremony, LCSD Assistant Director (Leisure Services) Ms Fung Miu-ling said that beaches are one of Hong Kong’s precious natural resources, and oceans are also rich in animal and plant species. To raise the public’s safety awareness, the theme of this year’s two competitions is “Some marine organisms may be hazardous to humans. Be vigilant when encountering them”.
     
         The response to both competitions was enthusiastic. The standard of entries was high, fully demonstrating the creativity and artistic talents of the students. The organisers have used the winning slogans (in Chinese) and graphic designs from both sections to produce two posters for the campaign.
     
         Last year, the attendance at public beaches and swimming pools under the LCSD was more than 21 million. Ms Fung appealed to members of the public to take heed of water safety advice while enjoying swimming. She reminded the public that before participating in water sports activities, they should pay attention to their physical conditions and check the weather forecast to determine whether everything is suitable for such activities. If they choose to swim at beaches, they should go to the gazetted public ones managed by the LCSD and swim when lifesaving services are provided. People should not conduct any water sports activities during inclement weather.
     
         The LCSD also thanked the HKLSS for its continued efforts over the years in promoting and organising lifesaving training courses, examinations and competitions, as well as nurturing lifeguards. These efforts have enabled lifesaving services to be maintained at aquatic venues across the city to keep swimmers safe.
     
         The winning entries of the two competitions are now on display at the entrance lobby of Kowloon Park Swimming Pool’s spectator stands until July 10. They can also be viewed on the LCSD’s webpages at
    www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/swimhandbook/poster/index.html (graphic design competition) and
    www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/swimhandbook/slogan/index.html (Chinese slogan competition).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Missing woman in Tsing Yi located

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    A woman who went missing in Tsing Yi has been located.

    Chan Fung-yau, aged 85, went missing after she left her residence in Cheung Fat Estate yesterday (June 27) morning. Her family then made a report to Police.

    The woman was located in a shopping mall on Un Chau Street, Cheung Sha Wan this morning (June 28). She sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 37 schools win Greening School Project Award (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    37 schools win Greening School Project Award Immaculate Heart of Mary CollegeKwong Ming SchoolTang Shiu Kin Victoria Government Secondary SchoolBonham Road Government Primary SchoolTWGHs Liu Yan Tak Memorial KindergartenSai Kung Central Lee Siu Yam Memorial SchoolHong Kong Red Swastika Society Tai Po Secondary SchoolLok Sin Tong Stephen Leung KindergartenIssued at HKT 13:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort 20th Anniversary Party – The Most Magical Party of All (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort 20th Anniversary Party – The Most Magical Party of All today (June 28): 

    Jill (President and Managing Director, Disney Parks International, Ms Jill Estorino), everyone,
     
    Good morning. What a pleasure it is to join you all today to kick off the party celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort!

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Early months of FY26 indicate resilient economy, outlook remains positive: Centre

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    High-frequency indicators for the first two months of FY26 indicate resilient performance of the domestic economy amid the heightened geopolitical situation, Finance Ministry’s ‘Monthly Economic Review for May 2025’ said on Friday, adding that overall, the outlook for the Indian economy remains positive.

    The economy demonstrates resilience amid a turbulent global environment, supported by robust domestic demand, easing inflationary pressures, a resilient external sector, and a steady employment situation.

    “The positive trajectory appears to be continuing in FY26, with initial high-frequency indicators (HFI) indicating that economic activity has remained resilient. HFIs such as e-way bill generation, fuel consumption, and PMI indices point to continued resilience,” the Economic Review noted.

    Rural demand has strengthened further, supported by a healthy rabi harvest and a positive monsoon outlook. Urban consumption is being supported by increased leisure and business travel, as seen in the rise of air passenger traffic and hotel occupancy.

    “However, there are signs of softening in areas like construction inputs and vehicle sales. Retail and food price inflation registered a sustained and broad-based decline in May 2025, driven by robust agricultural production and effective government interventions,” the Economic Review emphasised.

    While domestic indicators have remained largely positive, financial markets experienced volatility as a result of external developments. The significant escalation of trade tensions in early 2025, followed by a partial de-escalation in the second quarter, contributed to considerable volatility in the financial markets.

    However, the Indian government bond market exhibited stability and certainty in May, driven by factors such as the announcement of a record surplus dividend by the RBI and a robust growth reading of Q4 FY25. Consequently, the risk premium on India’s government bonds decreased to 182 basis points as of May 30.

    On the external front, India’s total exports (merchandise and services) recorded a YoY growth rate of 2.8 per cent in May 2025, reflecting the resilience of our exports amid tariff uncertainties and subdued global economic conditions, said the Review.

    As of June 13, foreign exchange reserves remain strong, standing at $699 billion, which provides an import cover of 11.5 months. Additionally, the Indian rupee has experienced moderate volatility, in contrast to the more pronounced adjustments observed in other economies.

    The labour market indicators show signs of stability. White-collar hiring witnessed a rise in hiring with core sectors such as AI/ML professionals, Insurance, Real Estate, BPO/ITES, and Hospitality leading the hiring growth.

    “The employment sub-indices of the PMI indicate strong employment growth, with the employment sub-indices reaching a high. Formal job creation is also on the rise, as indicated by the growing net payroll additions under the Employee Provident Fund Organisation,” the Review noted.

    Steady economic performance in FY25 underscores the resilience of domestic growth drivers amid a challenging global environment. Robust private consumption and resilient services sector activity were key contributors to overall economic expansion.

    “The positive momentum has been extended into the early months of FY26, as reflected in the performance of high-frequency indicators such as e-way bill generation, fuel consumption and PMI indices among others,” according to the Economic Review.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI China: China sacks coach Branko Ivankovic after World Cup qualifying failure

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

    The Chinese Football Association (CFA) announced on Friday the dismissal of national team head coach Branko Ivankovic following China’s failure to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    The CFA confirmed in an official statement that its contract with Ivankovic has been automatically terminated after China failed to advance into the playoff stage of the World Cup Asian qualifiers.

    “The Chinese Football Association expresses gratitude to Mr. Branko Ivankovic and his coaching staff for their dedicated efforts during their tenure with the men’s national team and their contributions to Chinese football. We wish Mr. Ivankovic all the best in his future work and life,” the statement said.

    The CFA also announced that Dejan Djurdjevic as caretaker manager of the men’s national team, and the Serbian will lead China’s campaign at the East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Football Championship.

    In February, Djurdjevic led China’s U-20 national team to the quarterfinals of the AFC U-20 Asian Cup. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Spain women warm up for Euros with win over Japan

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

    The Spanish women’s football team warmed up for its challenge for the forthcoming European Championship with a solid 3-1 home win over Japan on Friday night.

    The match was played in difficult conditions at Leganes’ Butarque Stadium with temperatures at 35 degrees centigrade at kick-off.

    Unsurprisingly, things didn’t get off to a flying start as both sides looked to be trying to conserve some energy in the extreme heat, with Spain’s Cata Coll being the first of the two goalkeepers called into action to cut out a cross ahead of Manaka Matsukubo.

    The Japanese team suffered an early injury setback when left back Hikaru Kitagawa seemed to twist her knee on the dry playing surface and was replaced by Saori Takarada.

    Japan took the lead in the 30th minute when Laia Aleixandri inexplicably gave the ball away to Mina Tanaka, who put the ball out wide, before receiving the cross, turning Maria Mendez and scoring with a smart shot that sent Coll the wrong way.

    Claudia Pina came close to leveling with a shot that curled just wide of the post and the Barcelona forward was on hand to continue her excellent recent form when she made it 1-1 on the stroke of halftime.

    Mariona Caldentey threaded a precise pass to Ona Batlle and her low ball was met by the onrushing Pina to score in the bottom corner.

    Spain dominated the start of the second half with Pina and Vicky Lopez going close as the home team had Japan pinned deep into its own half.

    Despite Spain’s control, it took a bad defensive error for them to take the lead as Momoko Tanikawa misplayed the ball while trying to build from the back, giving it to Vicky Lopez, who made no mistake from eight meters out.

    At the other end, Cata Coll made a good block as Tanaka received the ball in space, but shot too close to the Spain goalkeeper, while Mariona was unlucky to see her free kick bounce back off the Japan crossbar.

    Mariona then got the assists as Spain made it 3-1 in the 88th minute, breaking the offside trap to pull the ball back for Athenea Del Castillo to score with her left foot.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Statement on Iran War Powers Resolution Vote

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s Subcommittee on the Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement following her vote on the War Powers Resolution related to future offensive attacks on Iran:
    “As a strong pro-Israel Democrat, I remain hopeful that the mission U.S. servicemembers carried out last weekend will ultimately lead to the full dissolution of Iran’s nuclear facilities. I remain eternally grateful for our servicemembers’ bravery and service, and I’m particularly proud that most of the pilots involved in this mission are graduates of the Air Force Weapons School at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.
    “A nuclear Iran is a threat to the United States, Israel, and the entire world, which is why we must ensure they can never acquire or develop a nuclear weapon. While I am thankful Israel was able to reach a ceasefire with Iran and am hopeful that we are able to proceed with a diplomatic solution, I will continue to back Israel should it need to respond to a break in the agreement. Similarly, if there are any attacks on U.S. personnel in the region, the United States will always defend itself.
    “At the same time, the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war and authorize any offensive attacks on other sovereign nations. The decision to go to war and put our troops in harm’s way is one that cannot be made lightly, and must be made by Congress, which is why I voted today to advance the War Powers Resolution. Let’s be clear: nothing in this resolution would prevent the U.S. from defending our servicemembers or from continuing to provide Israel with the critical support and intelligence it needs. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure Israel has the necessary resources to defend itself.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Statement on Iran War Powers Resolution Vote

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s Subcommittee on the Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement following her vote on the War Powers Resolution related to future offensive attacks on Iran:
    “As a strong pro-Israel Democrat, I remain hopeful that the mission U.S. servicemembers carried out last weekend will ultimately lead to the full dissolution of Iran’s nuclear facilities. I remain eternally grateful for our servicemembers’ bravery and service, and I’m particularly proud that most of the pilots involved in this mission are graduates of the Air Force Weapons School at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.
    “A nuclear Iran is a threat to the United States, Israel, and the entire world, which is why we must ensure they can never acquire or develop a nuclear weapon. While I am thankful Israel was able to reach a ceasefire with Iran and am hopeful that we are able to proceed with a diplomatic solution, I will continue to back Israel should it need to respond to a break in the agreement. Similarly, if there are any attacks on U.S. personnel in the region, the United States will always defend itself.
    “At the same time, the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war and authorize any offensive attacks on other sovereign nations. The decision to go to war and put our troops in harm’s way is one that cannot be made lightly, and must be made by Congress, which is why I voted today to advance the War Powers Resolution. Let’s be clear: nothing in this resolution would prevent the U.S. from defending our servicemembers or from continuing to provide Israel with the critical support and intelligence it needs. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure Israel has the necessary resources to defend itself.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Statement on Iran War Powers Resolution Vote

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s Subcommittee on the Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement following her vote on the War Powers Resolution related to future offensive attacks on Iran:
    “As a strong pro-Israel Democrat, I remain hopeful that the mission U.S. servicemembers carried out last weekend will ultimately lead to the full dissolution of Iran’s nuclear facilities. I remain eternally grateful for our servicemembers’ bravery and service, and I’m particularly proud that most of the pilots involved in this mission are graduates of the Air Force Weapons School at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.
    “A nuclear Iran is a threat to the United States, Israel, and the entire world, which is why we must ensure they can never acquire or develop a nuclear weapon. While I am thankful Israel was able to reach a ceasefire with Iran and am hopeful that we are able to proceed with a diplomatic solution, I will continue to back Israel should it need to respond to a break in the agreement. Similarly, if there are any attacks on U.S. personnel in the region, the United States will always defend itself.
    “At the same time, the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war and authorize any offensive attacks on other sovereign nations. The decision to go to war and put our troops in harm’s way is one that cannot be made lightly, and must be made by Congress, which is why I voted today to advance the War Powers Resolution. Let’s be clear: nothing in this resolution would prevent the U.S. from defending our servicemembers or from continuing to provide Israel with the critical support and intelligence it needs. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure Israel has the necessary resources to defend itself.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace activists rebrand NZ bottom trawler ‘ocean killer’ on Chatham Rise

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Aotearoa – Greenpeace Aotearoa activists have confronted a bottom trawler off the East Coast of New Zealand, writing “ocean  killer” on the side of the ship, after bearing witness to it hauling in a net straining with marine life.

    Launching from the Greenpeace vessel the Rainbow Warrior, activists came alongside the New Zealand-flagged vessel, Talley’s Amaltal Atlantis, on the Chatham Rise[1], an area of ocean floor to the east of New Zealand, and painted the message on its side using non-toxic paint. The vessel is owned by seafood group Talley’s.

    Speaking from onboard the Rainbow Warrior, Greenpeace Aotearoa oceans campaigner Juan Parada says:

    “Activists rebranded this Talley’s vessel today to expose the bottom trawling industry for what they are: ocean killers. When Talley’s drag their heavy trawl nets across the seafloor and over seamounts, they bulldoze everything in their path, including killing precious coral.

    “Faced with a fishing industry that profits from trashing the ocean, and a government that condones bottom trawling, ocean defenders have taken peaceful action today to call out this destruction and demand that bottom trawling stop.

    “The Amaltal Atlantis trawls extensively in the waters of Aotearoa and has previously received permits to trawl in the High Seas of the South Pacific. Their trail of destruction is wide and long-lasting,” says Parada.

    Talley’s has a long history of carrying out bottom trawling destruction.  In 2018, the Amaltal Apollo trawled in a protected area on the Lord Howe Rise, in the international waters of the Tasman Sea. The Amaltal Mariner was convicted of trawling in a marine reserve off Kaikōura in 2019. 

    The at-sea action comes just months after a deep sea expedition led by Greenpeace Aotearoa documented whole swathes of destroyed coral in areas of the Tasman Sea that have been intensively trawled by New Zealand bottom trawlers. This area has been earmarked for one of the first high seas ocean sanctuaries, using the Global Ocean Treaty.

    New Zealand is the only country still bottom trawling in the High Seas of Tasman. 

    Parada says, “As the rest of the world moves towards more comprehensive ocean protection for international waters, New Zealand is standing in the way of progress by continuing to advocate for the bottom trawling industry.” 

    “From depleted fish numbers to smashed coral, dead sharks and seabirds, the cost of bottom trawling is too high. To protect the ocean for the future and safeguard the ocean we all love, bottom trawling must stop.”

    In response to the activist’s painting activity, Talley’s responded saying they would seek legal action which “may include the arrest of the Rainbow Warrior.”

    ENDS

    Photos and videos from the at-sea action are available in the Greenpeace Media Library.

    Notes:

    [1] The action took place in the Chatham Rise area, where it was recently revealed a New Zealand vessel dragged up six tonnes of coral in a single trawl.

    Contacts:

    Nick Young, Greenpace Aoteaora, Head of Communications, +64-21-707727, [email protected]

    Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Death at Mt Eden Corrections Facility being treated as homicide

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attribute to acting Detective Inspector Greg Brand:

    Police can confirm the death of a man at Mt Eden Corrections Facility is being treated as a homicide.

    Police were made aware at about 4pm yesterday of a man who had died at the prison following an incident.

    Officers continue to follow positive lines of enquiry.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: ReadyPaydayLoans.com Launches “Ready Pay” App to Help Americans Access the Best Personal Loans by State with Same Day Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Apply now at ReadyPaydayLoans.com to get matched with a lender offering fast personal loans, no credit check loans, or payday loans — anytime, anywhere in the U.S.

    LONG BEACH, Calif., June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In response to rising demand for faster, simpler personal financing, ReadyPaydayLoans.com has launched its latest innovation: the Ready Pay App. This new tool connects users across all 50 states with same day results on a variety of loan types — including payday loans, bad credit loans, and no credit check loans — using an ultra-fast, mobile-friendly experience.

    “The Ready Pay App is something we all have been excited about for months. We are glad it is finally here and ready for the public to use,” said Randy Murrie, VP at Ready Payday Loans.

    Unlike traditional lenders, ReadyPaydayLoans.com is not a direct lender. Instead, the company acts as a lead generation platform, instantly matching users with reputable third-party lenders based on their location, preferences, and financial profile — without requiring a minimum credit score.

    Why Ready Pay Is a Game-Changer

    With so many Americans facing unexpected expenses — medical bills, car repairs, rent payments — fast access to emergency funds is more critical than ever.

    Key Benefits of the Ready Pay App:

    • Same day results for qualified users
    • No credit score required to apply
    • 24/7 availability, even on weekends and holidays
    • 100% free to use — no fees to get matched
    • Private and secure application process
    • Compatible with desktop and mobile devices

    Whether you’re in a major city or small town, ReadyPaydayLoans.com helps users find the best personal loan options in their local area.

    How It Works

    Getting started with the Ready Pay App takes less than 3 minutes:

    1. Fill out a short form on ReadyPaydayLoans.com
    2. Get matched with a lender based on your location and needs
    3. Review and accept offers (or decline without obligation)
    4. Get same day results from a verified third-party lender


    Local Loan Options for All 50 States

    Ready Payday Loans now connects users to tailored solutions nationwide. Here’s how they’re serving borrowers with localized, and varied loan options.  Users of the Reay Pay App can find their city or state below, along with their varied loan option. 

    Best Personal Loans in Miami, Florida, Same-Day Payday Loans in Chicago, Illinois, No Credit Check Loans in Las Vegas, Nevada, Bad Credit Loans in Atlanta, Georgia, Emergency Loans in Los Angeles, California, Installment Loans in Dallas, Texas, Quick Cash Loans in Phoenix, Arizona, Best Personal Loans in New York City, New York, Fast Payday Loans in Charlotte, North Carolina, Best Personal Loans in Seattle, Washington, Instant Personal Loans in Denver, Colorado, Low Credit Personal Loans in Detroit, Michigan, Online Loans in Boston, Massachusetts, Best Personal Loans in Indianapolis, Indiana, Emergency Payday Loans in Columbus, Ohio, Best Personal Loans in Nashville, Tennessee, Bad Credit Personal Loans in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, No Credit Check Loans in Baltimore, Maryland, Best Personal Loans in Portland, Oregon, Same Day Loans in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Quick Personal Loans in Louisville, Kentucky, Fast Cash Loans in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Best Personal Loans in Kansas City, Missouri, Best Personal Loans in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Online Payday Loans in Omaha, Nebraska, Best Personal Loans in Jacksonville, Florida, Bad Credit Loans in Salt Lake City, Utah, Best Personal Loans in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, No Credit Check Loans in Boise, Idaho, Emergency Loans in Honolulu, Hawaii, Best Personal Loans in Charleston, South Carolina, Quick Personal Loans in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Fast Loans in Des Moines, Iowa, Best Personal Loans in Fargo, North Dakota, Instant Loans in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Best Personal Loans in Anchorage, Alaska, Bad Credit Loans in Wilmington, Delaware, Best Personal Loans in Manchester, New Hampshire, Same Day Payday Loans in Burlington, Vermont, Online Loans in Billings, Montana, Best Personal Loans in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Emergency Loans in Little Rock, Arkansas, Best Personal Loans in Providence, Rhode Island, Fast Online Loans in Hartford, Connecticut, Best Personal Loans in Richmond, Virginia, Payday Loans in Birmingham, Alabama, No Credit Check Loans in Jackson, Mississippi, Best Personal Loans in Columbia, South Carolina, Installment Loans in Augusta, Maine, Quick Personal Loans in Topeka, Kansas.

    And there you have it.  Ready Pay App users have access to varied loan options in all 50 states as outlined above.

    Important Note

    ReadyPaydayLoans.com is not a direct lender. It is a lead generation platform that connects users with third-party lenders across the United States. Loan terms, eligibility, and availability vary by state and provider.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Ready Pay App?

    The Ready Pay App is a new digital tool by ReadyPaydayLoans.com that connects users with lenders offering personal loans, payday loans, and emergency loans with same day results.

    Is there a credit score requirement?

    No. Users can apply with any credit score, including bad or no credit.

    Is Ready Payday Loans a direct lender?

    No. Ready Payday Loans is a lead generation service that helps users get matched with licensed third-party lenders in their area.

    Does it cost anything to use the service?

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    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b33aa85a-1fe7-4846-9f42-0e1db83b3e32

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Person dies while clearing floodwaters, Wai-iti

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attributable to Senior Sergeant Martin Tunley, Acting Nelson Bays Area Commander:

    One person has died following an incident in Wai-iti, south-east of Wakefield, this morning.

    At around 9.40am, emergency services were called to a property on State Highway 6 after a person was reportedly hit by a tree while clearing flood damage.

    Sadly, despite best efforts by emergency services, the person died at the scene.

    Police extend our condolences to their family at this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the incident remain ongoing and the death will be referred to the Coroner.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Rosen Announce Critical Funding for Nevada’s Vital Airports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) announced that the Department of Transportation (DOT) awarded $50,611,106 in grants to international, regional, rural, and Tribal airports in the State of Nevada. This funding will allow airports to make necessary infrastructure improvements and support Nevada’s travel and tourism economy.

    “I’m pleased to see this funding come into the Silver State to upgrade critical infrastructure of our airports.” said Senator Cortez Masto. “These improvements will protect the comfort and safety of all travelers, whether they’re coming to visit or returning home. I will continue to work in the Senate to support Nevada’s travel and tourism economy, and our aviation infrastructure, everywhere from Las Vegas to Elko.”

    “Nevada’s airports are essential to our state’s tourism economy,” said Senator Rosen. “This funding will help modernize infrastructure, improve safety, and support the continued growth of communities across our state. I’ll keep working to bring federal investments back to Nevada and ensure our airports have the resources they need to thrive.”

    A full breakdown of the funding can be found below:

    • $41,618,872 for the Harry Reid International Airport for runway, baggage handling, and drainage system improvements.
    • $7,625,625 for the Reno/Tahoe International Airport for their ongoing expansion.
    • $337,375 for the Winnemucca Municipal Airport for wind cone and signage installation and precision approach path indicator systems.
    • $305,000 for the Carson City Airport for repavement projects.
    • $219,621 for the Jackpot/Hayden Field/County of Elko Airport for runway rehabilitation.
    • $114,762 for the Mesquite Airport for service road reconstruction.
    • $109,830 for the Owyhee, NV/Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation Airport for construction of a new terminal.
    • $109,772 for the Battle Mountain/County of Lander Airport for construction of a new airport hangar.
    • $107,882 for the Minden-Tahoe/County of Douglas Airport for installation of new lighting to enhance safety.
    • $62,367 for the Hawthorne Industrial Airport to infrastructure for snow removal.

    Senators Cortez Masto and Rosen have consistently worked to ensure Nevada receives its fair share of federal funding for its airports. They have secured millions in funding for clean transportation and improvements at Harry Reid International Airport and at Reno-Tahoe International Airport. Both Senators prioritized important airport terminal funding in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and also pushed to secure funds through the American Rescue Plan to support Nevada’s airports and airline workers through the pandemic’s economic crisis to the industry. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • PM Modi to embark on multi-nation visit to Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a significant multi-nation tour from July 2 to July 9,  visiting Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia to strengthen India’s bilateral ties and global partnerships.

    The tour begins in Ghana from July 2-3, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in three decades. During his stay, PM Modi will engage in discussions with the President of Ghana to review and enhance the robust bilateral partnership, focusing on economic cooperation, energy, defense, and development initiatives. This visit underscores India’s commitment to deepening ties with Ghana, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the African Union.

    From Ghana, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Trinidad & Tobago from July 3-4, at the invitation of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. This marks his first visit to the country as Prime Minister and the first such bilateral visit since 1999. In Trinidad & Tobago, he will hold talks with President Christine Carla Kangaloo and Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar to further strengthen historical and deep-rooted ties. Additionally, he is expected to address a Joint Session of the Parliament of Trinidad & Tobago, giving fresh impetus to India’s relationship with the Caribbean nation.

    The third leg of the tour takes Prime Minister Modi to Argentina from July 4-5, at the invitation of President H.E. Javier Milei. The visit aims to deepen the multifaceted Strategic Partnership between India and Argentina through discussions on defense, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, trade, investment, and people-to-people connections.

    From Argentina, the Prime Minister will proceed to Brazil from July 5-8 to attend the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro and undertake a State Visit. During the Summit, he will exchange views on critical global issues, including global governance reform, peace and security, multilateralism, responsible artificial intelligence use, climate action, global health, and economic matters. Several bilateral meetings are also anticipated on the sidelines. In Brasilia, PM Modi will hold discussions with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to expand the Strategic Partnership in areas such as trade, defense, energy, space, technology, agriculture, health, and cultural linkages.

    The final stop of the tour is Namibia on July 9, at the invitation of President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. This visit, the third by an Indian Prime Minister to Namibia, will include bilateral talks with President Nandi-Ndaitwah and a tribute to Namibia’s Founding Father, Late Dr. Sam Nujoma. Prime Minister Modi is also expected to address the Namibian Parliament, reinforcing India’s deep historical ties with the nation.

  • PM Modi to embark on multi-nation visit to Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a significant multi-nation tour from July 2 to July 9,  visiting Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia to strengthen India’s bilateral ties and global partnerships.

    The tour begins in Ghana from July 2-3, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in three decades. During his stay, PM Modi will engage in discussions with the President of Ghana to review and enhance the robust bilateral partnership, focusing on economic cooperation, energy, defense, and development initiatives. This visit underscores India’s commitment to deepening ties with Ghana, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the African Union.

    From Ghana, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Trinidad & Tobago from July 3-4, at the invitation of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. This marks his first visit to the country as Prime Minister and the first such bilateral visit since 1999. In Trinidad & Tobago, he will hold talks with President Christine Carla Kangaloo and Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar to further strengthen historical and deep-rooted ties. Additionally, he is expected to address a Joint Session of the Parliament of Trinidad & Tobago, giving fresh impetus to India’s relationship with the Caribbean nation.

    The third leg of the tour takes Prime Minister Modi to Argentina from July 4-5, at the invitation of President H.E. Javier Milei. The visit aims to deepen the multifaceted Strategic Partnership between India and Argentina through discussions on defense, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, trade, investment, and people-to-people connections.

    From Argentina, the Prime Minister will proceed to Brazil from July 5-8 to attend the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro and undertake a State Visit. During the Summit, he will exchange views on critical global issues, including global governance reform, peace and security, multilateralism, responsible artificial intelligence use, climate action, global health, and economic matters. Several bilateral meetings are also anticipated on the sidelines. In Brasilia, PM Modi will hold discussions with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to expand the Strategic Partnership in areas such as trade, defense, energy, space, technology, agriculture, health, and cultural linkages.

    The final stop of the tour is Namibia on July 9, at the invitation of President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. This visit, the third by an Indian Prime Minister to Namibia, will include bilateral talks with President Nandi-Ndaitwah and a tribute to Namibia’s Founding Father, Late Dr. Sam Nujoma. Prime Minister Modi is also expected to address the Namibian Parliament, reinforcing India’s deep historical ties with the nation.

  • PM Modi to embark on multi-nation visit to Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a significant multi-nation tour from July 2 to July 9,  visiting Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia to strengthen India’s bilateral ties and global partnerships.

    The tour begins in Ghana from July 2-3, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in three decades. During his stay, PM Modi will engage in discussions with the President of Ghana to review and enhance the robust bilateral partnership, focusing on economic cooperation, energy, defense, and development initiatives. This visit underscores India’s commitment to deepening ties with Ghana, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the African Union.

    From Ghana, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Trinidad & Tobago from July 3-4, at the invitation of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. This marks his first visit to the country as Prime Minister and the first such bilateral visit since 1999. In Trinidad & Tobago, he will hold talks with President Christine Carla Kangaloo and Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar to further strengthen historical and deep-rooted ties. Additionally, he is expected to address a Joint Session of the Parliament of Trinidad & Tobago, giving fresh impetus to India’s relationship with the Caribbean nation.

    The third leg of the tour takes Prime Minister Modi to Argentina from July 4-5, at the invitation of President H.E. Javier Milei. The visit aims to deepen the multifaceted Strategic Partnership between India and Argentina through discussions on defense, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, trade, investment, and people-to-people connections.

    From Argentina, the Prime Minister will proceed to Brazil from July 5-8 to attend the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro and undertake a State Visit. During the Summit, he will exchange views on critical global issues, including global governance reform, peace and security, multilateralism, responsible artificial intelligence use, climate action, global health, and economic matters. Several bilateral meetings are also anticipated on the sidelines. In Brasilia, PM Modi will hold discussions with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to expand the Strategic Partnership in areas such as trade, defense, energy, space, technology, agriculture, health, and cultural linkages.

    The final stop of the tour is Namibia on July 9, at the invitation of President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. This visit, the third by an Indian Prime Minister to Namibia, will include bilateral talks with President Nandi-Ndaitwah and a tribute to Namibia’s Founding Father, Late Dr. Sam Nujoma. Prime Minister Modi is also expected to address the Namibian Parliament, reinforcing India’s deep historical ties with the nation.